Patricia Sands: The Inspirational Journey of a Bestselling Author

Patricia Sands, an author whose novels have captured the hearts of readers worldwide, embarked on her writing journey later in life. At 65, she published her debut novel, The Bridge Club, and has since written thirteen novels, all of which are set in the beautiful South of France, a place she calls her second home. Patricia’s story is one of transformation, resilience, and the belief that it’s never too late to pursue your dreams.

A Late Blooming Author: From Life’s Challenges to Literary Triumphs

Born and raised in Canada, Patricia has always been an avid traveler, with the South of France drawing her in year after year. Her deep connection to the region is not only reflected in her writing but has also inspired the settings of her novels. While she spent years working in various fields, including education and photography, it wasn’t until later in life that Patricia began her writing career.

“I was widowed at 43, and it was a life-altering experience,” Patricia recalls. “But I didn’t let that stop me. I returned to university at 45 and became a teacher. I remarried five years later and embraced a new chapter of my life. At 63, I found myself unexpectedly pursuing becoming an author.”

A Rising Star in Women’s Fiction

Patricia’s debut novel, The Bridge Club, published in 2010, immediately resonated with readers. A heartfelt story about friendship, life’s challenges, and the joys of womanhood, it became a book club favorite. Her next novel, The Promise of Provence, launched her Love in Provence series, which would later become a trilogy. This book was a finalist for the 2013 USA Best Book Award and earned Patricia the 2014 National Indie Excellence Award. The books continued to flow, each one set against the backdrop of the stunning French Riviera, where the characters not only confront personal struggles but also embrace second chances at love and life.

Her writing journey wasn’t without its challenges, though. Patricia faced the typical obstacles of any aspiring writer: rejection letters, self-doubt, and the uncertainty of whether her work would ever be noticed. But her persistence paid off. Lake Union Publishing, Amazon’s women’s fiction imprint, purchased the rights to her Love in Provence trilogy and her fourth novel, Drawing Lessons, was released by them in 2017.  The trilogy garnered awards and Drawing Lessons was a finalist in the Somerset Literary Book Award in 2019, further cementing her place in the literary world.

Embracing the Freedom of Indie Publishing

While those early works were traditionally published, Patricia eventually made the decision to indie-publish many of her later novels. This shift allowed her the freedom to control her deadlines and release dates, a luxury she valued as an established author.

Her novels, featuring female protagonists over the age of 50, center on themes of self-discovery, starting over, and the power of taking risks. Through her writing, Patricia has encouraged women to embrace life’s challenges with confidence and to never give up on their dreams, no matter their age.

A Legacy of Awards and Recognition

As Patricia’s writing continued to evolve, so did the recognition she received. In 2022, The Secrets We Hide won the 2023 Book Excellence Award for Women’s Fiction, a prestigious accolade that added to her growing list of honors. The novel also earned her the Women’s Literary Fiction – International Impact Book Award in 2024, showcasing her ability to touch hearts across the globe. Her book The French Effect, published in 2025, further cemented her status as an award-winning author with a dedicated international following.

Patricia’s books have not only garnered critical acclaim but also made an impact on her readers, many of whom have shared their personal stories of how her novels have inspired them to pursue their own passions or face life’s difficulties with renewed strength. It is this deep connection with her audience that drives Patricia to keep writing, even after celebrating her 80th birthday.

A Lifelong Passion for Photography and Travel

Beyond her writing, Patricia has always had a love for photography. Her Instagram account, @psands.stories, showcases her stunning photos of the South of France and her travels, giving her followers a glimpse into her life and the beauty that inspires her work.

“Photography and writing go hand in hand for me,” Patricia says. “I’m always capturing moments, whether it’s a quiet scene in a French village or a vibrant sunset over the Mediterranean. These moments inspire my stories and bring my books to life.”

Travel has also played a crucial role in Patricia’s creative process. Spending time in the South of France each year, she draws inspiration from the landscapes, culture, and people she encounters. This connection to the region is evident in every page of her novels, where the settings become characters in their own right.

A Rich Family Life and Involvement in the Writing Community

Despite her successful career as a writer, Patricia’s life is also rich with family. She has a blended family with seven adult children and nine grandchildren. Family is a cornerstone of Patricia’s life, and she often draws on her own experiences to shape the relationships in her novels.

Patricia is also deeply involved in the global writing community, where she actively supports fellow authors and engages with readers. She has led a women’s tour based on her books for ten years, providing fans with an immersive experience in the South of France, where they can walk in the footsteps of her beloved characters.

A Life Full of Passion and Purpose

At 80 years old, Patricia Sands shows no signs of slowing down. Her writing continues to inspire, and her books are proof that it’s never too late to start something new. Her journey as an author has been one of constant growth, both personally and professionally. From her early days of self-publishing to becoming an award-winning novelist, Patricia’s story is a testament to the power of persistence, passion, and following one’s dreams.

As she reflects on her career, Patricia shares her advice for aspiring writers: “It’s never too late to start. Be a possibilitarian. Life may throw challenges your way, but you have the power to reinvent yourself. Keep writing, keep dreaming, and most importantly, keep going.”

Join Patricia on Her Continuing Journey

For those who haven’t yet discovered Patricia Sands’ work, now is the perfect time to dive into her novels. Whether you’re drawn to the beauty of the South of France or the empowering stories of women navigating life’s twists and turns, Patricia’s books offer something for everyone.

To learn more about Patricia, explore her books, and stay up to date with her latest releases, visit her official website or follow her on Instagram and Facebook. Be sure to check out her Amazon Author Page for reviews and more information on her acclaimed novels.