Broken Rooms

A Novel Inspired by True Events

Fiction - Literary
439 Pages
Reviewed on 09/25/2025
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    Book Review

Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite

Broken Rooms by Stef-Albert Bothma explores themes of design, love, loss, and self-discovery. Inspired by true events, the book takes readers on a journey through the life of Sebastian Cole, a talented designer whose career spans multiple continents and whose personal life is filled with moments of triumph and heartbreak. The novel is structured as a series of interconnected chapters, each exploring a different phase of Sebastian’s life. Bothma’s attention to detail is remarkable, capturing the essence of each space and its emotional significance. The narrative is rich with sensory imagery, allowing readers to feel the textures, see the colors, and hear the echoes of the rooms Sebastian transforms. The story is about pursuing beauty, not just in design, but in relationships, experiences, and the act of living. Sebastian’s journey is one of growth and transformation, as he navigates the complexities of his career, identity, and longing for connection.

Stef-Albert Bothma’s prose is poetic yet grounded, balancing introspection with moments of quiet humor and warmth. The book’s pacing allows for reflection, giving readers the space to absorb the complexities of Sebastian’s life and the lessons he learns along the way. Broken Rooms invites readers to consider the physical and emotional spaces they inhabit and the stories they hold. It is a tribute to the art of design and the human capacity to create meaning and beauty, even in the face of impermanence. Readers of character-driven stories will find much to admire, and those who enjoy travel-inspired narratives and stories set in diverse, evocative locations will appreciate the novel’s global scope.