Patricia Sands Brings Friendship, France, And Fiction To Life

Photo: Patricia Sands award-winning author, invites readers to journey through friendship, inspiration, and the picturesque landscapes of Provence.

Award-Winning Canadian Author Celebrates Women, Resilience, And The Beauty Of Provence

Patricia Sands blends emotional storytelling with breathtaking Provence settings. Her novels explore transformation, resilience, friendship, and reinvention, resonating with readers and inspiring aspiring writers, especially those starting later in life.

P atricia Sands, the award-winning Canadian author, has captivated readers with her evocative novels set against the breathtaking backdrop of the south of France. Though she resides north of Toronto, Sands’ heart and imagination are firmly rooted in Provence and the Côte d’Azur, where her stories of transformation, resilience, and connection come to life. Her ability to weave the beauty of the French landscape with the emotional journeys of her characters has made her a beloved voice in contemporary women’s fiction.

Sands’ debut novel, The Bridge Club, established her as a storyteller who celebrates the enduring power of friendship and belonging. With her subsequent works, including The Promise of Provence and the Love in Provence trilogy, she deepened her connection with readers, offering not only compelling narratives but also a vivid immersion into French culture and landscapes. Her later novels, such as Drawing Lessons, the Villa des Violettes series, and the award-winning The Secrets We Hide, continue to explore themes of personal reinvention and the quiet strength of women.

Patricia Sands masterfully intertwines heartfelt storytelling and stunning French landscapes, creating powerful, transformative tales of female friendships and growth.

In an interview with Reader’s House, Sands reflected on her writing journey, her inspirations, and the themes that resonate deeply with her readers.

Exploring Secrets and Transformation
When asked about her award-winning novel The Secrets We Hide, Sands explained that the story evolved from a shorter piece she had written years earlier. The Covid-19 pandemic provided a unique emotional backdrop for the novel, as Sands channeled her feelings into the challenges faced by her characters. “It was difficult to write my typical happy stories set in France during those years,” she shared. “This story allowed me to explore deeper emotional terrain.”

“The beauty of the south of France isn’t just a backdrop
but a force guiding the characters’ inner journeys.” – Patricia Sands

Collaborative Writing and Unique Voices
Sands’ novella Lost at Sea, part of the Sail Away Series, showcased her ability to maintain her unique voice within a collaborative framework. While all stories in the series were set on a ship, Sands’ tale stood out with its focus on two twenty-nine-year-old protagonists—a departure from her usual mature leads. “It was creatively fulfilling to bring their story to life,” she said. Sands also highlighted the camaraderie among the authors, who collaborated on publishing, cover design, and promotion, emphasizing the support and encouragement that comes with working alongside fellow writers.

“It is never too late to follow a dream or try something new.” – Patricia Sands

Blending Setting and Story
Sands’ deep love for the south of France is evident in her novels, where the region serves as both a backdrop and a guiding force for her characters’ journeys. “The sensory beauty of the area and its balanced lifestyle encourage transformation,” she explained. Sands’ personal reflections often weave into her characters, creating a sense of intimacy that resonates with readers. “The greatest satisfaction,” she said, “comes from readers who feel they were there too.”

From Photography to Fiction
Sands began her writing career at 65, transitioning from photography to fiction. She acknowledged the challenges of mastering a new craft but noted how her visual storytelling skills influenced her writing. “I’ve been telling stories through my photography all my life,” she said. Her extensive collection of photos from France often serves as writing prompts, enriching her narratives and connecting with readers through her newsletters and social media.

Celebrating Female Friendships
Strong female friendships are a hallmark of Sands’ work, drawing from her own lifelong connections. The Bridge Club, inspired by her real-life bridge group, challenges stereotypes about women’s relationships. “Most women I know are non-judgmental and supportive,” Sands said. “We resolve conflicts with honesty and empathy.” Readers frequently express gratitude for seeing these authentic dynamics portrayed in her novels.

Engaging with Readers
Through her books and tours, Sands shares her passion for the south of France, creating heartfelt connections with her audience. She mused about potentially writing a novel about women on a tour, acknowledging how their real-life experiences often inspire her characters. “Watching women fall in love with France inevitably shapes my stories,” she said.

Revisiting Beloved Characters
The Villa des Violettes series was born from reader requests to revisit beloved characters. Sands embraces these stories as opportunities to further develop her characters’ arcs. “The stories evolve as the characters grow in my imagination,” she explained.

Advice for Aspiring Authors
For those embarking on a writing journey later in life, Sands offers encouraging advice: “It is never too late to follow a dream or try something new.” She paraphrased Stephen King’s wisdom: “If you have a story to tell, sit down and write it. Find your voice. Don’t worry about grammar—work with a qualified editor afterward.”

Patricia Sands’ novels are more than stories; they are invitations to explore, reflect, and connect. Her voice, infused with warmth and generosity, continues to inspire readers and aspiring authors alike, reminding us of the enduring power of storytelling and the beauty of reinvention.