Celebrating Her Debut Novel: Lanterns
It was an incredible evening at the Tea Tree Gully library as debut author Bonnie Torbet introduced her novel Lanterns to a large, enthusiastic crowd. The turnout was particularly impressive for a first-time author, with a diverse audience of both mature and younger women—and even six men, which was a lovely surprise to see!
A Local Author with a Big Dream
Bonnie, a Tea Tree Gully local, captivated the room with her story of persistence and passion. Lanterns wasn’t just a book; it was the culmination of a journey that began in 2012. After writing a first draft that spanned 500 pages, Bonnie set the manuscript aside. It wasn’t until 2019, when her husband Joe found it and encouraged her to revisit the story, that the project gained momentum.
In 2020, Bonnie submitted her manuscript to Writers SA for assessment. The positive feedback she received was a turning point, but the road to publication was still long. After facing 1.5 years of rejections, her perseverance finally paid off when the book was approved for publication.
An Eye-Catching Cover and a Personal Connection
Attendees couldn’t help but comment on the stunning cover of Lanterns. Bonnie’s pride in the visual representation of her work was clear, and it matched the beauty of the story inside. Throughout the night, she emphasized the personal nature of her writing process, explaining that if you’re too embarrassed for someone to read your work, it probably isn’t any good.
Her love for storytelling started young. At just 14 years old, Bonnie read The Pact by Jodi Picoult—her first book for pure enjoyment. That early experience sparked her lifelong passion for literature and laid the foundation for her own writing.
Highlights from Lanterns
Bonnie shared that her favourite scene in Lanterns is the ending. Without giving too much away, she hinted that it holds a special significance for both the characters and her as the author. The emotional depth and resolution make it a memorable conclusion to a story close to her heart.
The energy in the room was palpable, and it was clear that Bonnie’s story resonated with everyone present. The crowd, made up of supportive and kind individuals, reflected the warmth of the author herself.
The Future for Bonnie Torbet
As the night wrapped up, it became clear that this is just the beginning for Bonnie. With the success of Lanterns, many in the audience are eager to see what she’ll write next. Her determination, combined with her genuine love for storytelling, is sure to lead to more captivating novels in the future.
If you haven’t had a chance to pick up Lanterns yet, now’s the time to dive into the pages of a story crafted by a truly talented and local author.
Book Review: Lanterns by Bonnie Torbet
Bonnie Torbet’s Lanterns is a heartfelt and captivating debut that weaves together themes of love, loss, and self-discovery. Set against a backdrop of beautifully described landscapes, the novel takes readers on an emotional journey that explores the complexities of human relationships and the strength it takes to navigate life’s unexpected turns.
Torbet’s writing shines through her character development, with each protagonist feeling authentic and relatable. The story’s pacing keeps you engaged, with a gradual build-up to a memorable and poignant ending—Torbet’s favorite scene in the book, and it’s easy to see why.
One of the most striking elements of Lanterns is its ability to evoke emotion. Whether you’re laughing, crying, or reflecting on your own life experiences, this novel resonates deeply. It’s a story about vulnerability, resilience, and finding light in the darkest of times.
Overall, Lanterns is a promising debut that will appeal to fans of romance and women’s fiction alike. Bonnie Torbet is an author to watch, and Lanterns is a book that will linger with you long after you’ve turned the last page.
The Book Place 