The French Effect

by Patricia Sands

From the bestselling author of the LOVE IN PROVENCE series, comes a hopeful and heartwarming journey that reminds us it’s never too late for a second chance.

France has a way of changing your mind ... and your heart ...

Novelist Nora Bennett is living her fifties with more doubts than dreams. Once content with her quiet life, she’s recently found herself battling writer’s block, a growing restlessness—and resistance to a holiday season she’s long stopped celebrating. So, when her daughter Chloe, an artist living in Paris, asks her to dog-sit an intimidating Doberman named Atticus, Nora surprises
them both by saying yes.

Delicious meals, long walks through the storied streets of Montmartre, and a chance to rediscover a spark of joy in the glittering holiday lights of Six weeks in the City of Light might be just the escape Nora needs.

Except Paris has other plans. Nora agrees to ghostwrite a memoir for 93-year-old Marie-Louise, who reveals haunting memories of surviving the Occupation as a child of the Resistance. A charming younger tango partner with secrets of his own introduces Nora to the French art of pleasure. All the while, the city’s irresistible festive spirit envelops her gently.

Chloe invites Nora to spend Christmas at her husband Olivier’s centuries-old ancestral farm in Provence. There, Nora is embraced by the warmth of family and treasured traditions. She’s also unexpectedly drawn to Pierre, her son-in-law’s moody and magnetic father. Their connection is undeniable, even as he seems intent on keeping his distance.

But when Atticus suddenly goes missing, Pierre joins Nora in searching for him. Soon a winding road trip returning to Paris softens their defenses ... and reveals complicated truths behind their guarded hearts.

Yet as Nora’s time in France begins to wind down, she must Return to the comfort of the life she knew – or leap into a bold new chapter she never imagined beyond the pages of her novels.

Genres: Romance, France, Womens Fiction, Fiction

330 pages, Paperback

Published November 16, 2025

About the author

Bestselling author Patricia Sands lives two hours north of Toronto, Canada, in The Blue Mountains, when she isn't somewhere else, and calls the south of France her second home. An admitted travel fanatic, she can pack a bag in a flash and be ready to go anywhere … particularly the south of France. With a focus on travel, women’s issues and aging, her stories celebrate the feminine spirit and the power of friendship.

Her award-winning 2010 debut novel, The Bridge Club, is a book-group favorite, and The Promise of Provence, which launched her three-part Love in Provence series (followed by Promises to Keep and I Promise You This), was a finalist for a 2013 USA Best Book Award and a 2014 National Indie Excellence Award, an Amazon Hot New Release in April 2013, and a 2015 nominee for a #RBRT Golden Rose award in the category of romance. Her fifth novel, Drawing Lessons, was released by Lake Union Publishing on October 1, 2017.
Lavender, Loss & Love, ~A Season of Surprises ~and The First Noel make up the the Villa de Violettes series, based on the Love in Provence characters.
The Bridge Club ~ Tenth Anniversary edition ~ was released in September 2021 and is now in Kindle Unlimited.

On August 25, 2022, her novel THE SECRETS WE HIDE will be released.

Sands also contributes to such Francophile websites as The Good Life France and Perfectly Provence and loves to visit Book Clubs either live or on ZOOM! Info on her website.

Find out more at Patricia’s Facebook Author Page, Amazon Author Page or her website. There are links to her books, social media, and a monthly newsletter that has special giveaways, photography from France, and sneak peeks at her next book. She loves hearing from readers.

Patricia has led six 10-day tours of the French Riviera and the countryside of Provence. She will be co-hosting another 'Sold Out' women's tour of Provence in September 2021 with her good friend Deborah Bine aka The Barefoot Blogger.

Find out more at Patricia’s Facebook Author Page, Amazon Author Page, Goodreads or her blog where you will find links to her books, social media, and monthly newsletter. She loves hearing from readers, so don’t hesitate to email her.

Follow her on Instagram @psands.stories

Reviews

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Welcome to ‘the French effect’ where if you haven’t found a love for Paris…yet, you will definitely experience it between these pages. And, certainly through the many quotes highlighted within the story. (Some are shared below.)

The author invites us in from her dedication page when she shares…

“To all those seeking a pause from the real world – may this story be your quiet escape and carry you far away.”

Indeed.

In this joy-filled adventure, readers get to meet Nora, a 50-something widow living in Canada, whose daughter, Chloe has met a Frenchman and is now married to him and living in France. Chloe has a proposition for Nora which she cannot refuse. His name is Atticus. A Doberman pinscher, whose human Mom needs a pet sitter. What better way to be with her daughter and be a part of a place she once visited with her late husband.

What adventures await Nora, and Atticus once she arrives?

This lovely story with an enjoyable cast of characters is about friendship, family, and second chances. It is warm and inviting, delightful, engaging, romantic, and beautifully scenic in every way – i.e., sights, sounds, and tastes. Readers will enjoy finding ‘the French effect’ radiating through these pages. Paris anyone?

I want to thank the author for this complimentary book for our Little Free Library Shed. I am providing an honest review.

[Angie Miale · Rating 5 out of 5]

Widowed 17 years ago, Nora has a quiet, writerly life in snowy Ontario Canada. She has good friends, although many of them are dealing with life issues. And lately she has writers block. Her daughter Chloe lives in Paris with her French husband Olivier. Chloe offers her mom the chance to house sit and dog sit for a neighbor going abroad. Soon she is on a plane to France and about to bond with a dog named Atticus. Romance is the last thing on her mind.

This book is an immersive French experience- it is rare to find the kind of sweeping descriptions that hit on every single sensory experience. The author even includes a playlist. The setting and descriptions are really the star of the show. I came for the story but I stayed for the sights, the sounds, the smells and the tastes of Provence. Nora is a relatable character and Atticus is a great best friend. The story is both sweet and uplifting.

Thanks to BookedWithTheEmilys and the author Patricia Sands for including me on this book tour. Book to be published November 15, 2025.

[Elizabeth of Silver's Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

A charming lady heads to Paris to watch the dog of her daughter’s neighbor, but it turns out to be more than just dog sitting.

Nora has been having writer's block, and what could be a better cure than Paris and seeing her daughter.

Along with all the sites and beauty of France, Nora is asked to write a memoir for a woman who had survived The Occupation and tells how it affected her life and all the lives of those who lived through it.

This part of the book was meticulously researched and marvelously added into the story.

Will Nora want to go home after six weeks? Can you go to Paris and not fall in love?

THE FRENCH EFFECT is a delightful, emotional read with wonderful characters that will take you away and have you enjoying a virtual vacation in France.

Will you get pulled in? I guarantee you will.

Don’t miss this wonderful, beautiful gem with hints of Patrica that make it extra special.

If you need an uplifting read, this one fits the bill!! 5/5

Thank you to Patricia for a copy of her book. All opinions are my own.

[Heather~ Nature.books.and.coffee · Rating 4 out of 5]

 My first book by Patricia Sands and I absolutely loved it! It was exactly what I needed. Nora Bennett is a writer in her 50s and is dealing with writer's block. Her daughter, Chloe, who lives in Paris, asks her if she'd like to dog sit her neighbors dog, and visit over the holidays. She accepts. She hopes to find some new writing inspiration and make memories. While there, some unexpected things happen, including starting to ghost write for a 93 yr old daughter of the resistance who wants to share her life story, and finding unexpected romance. I loved following Nora as she explored Paris during the holiday season. The descriptions are beautiful and I could picture everything so vividly. Such a beautiful story. 

[Christine Nolfi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love multigenerational stories; add a second-chance romance, and I’m all in. No one brings France to life like Patricia Sands, and her charming story of widowed Nora Bennett—who takes a leap in middle age that most us only dream about—will have you lifting a glass of wine in celebration.

[Yoly · Rating 5 out of 5]

The French Effect in my honest opinion:

Grab this book, wander through Paris alongside Nora and Atticus, and let the French Effect wrap you in its magic — from charming streets to late-night tango and champagne under the lights.

Beautifully written, heartfelt, and inspiring, this story speaks to the soul. It reminds us that adventure doesn’t have an age limit, that healing takes time, and that grief does not define the future. Treasure the memories, embrace new joy, and allow yourself to live fully — at any moment life offers you the chance.

Thank you very very much dear Patricia for my copy, I enjoyed it and my words cannot describe how good it felt reading it.

Merci!

[Lainey Cameron · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nora Bennett doesn’t make impulsive decisions but at her daughter’s request, she’s heading to France to live, in a gorgeous light-filled apartment in Paris, for a six-week dog sit. She discovers that life and travel in France both seduces and surprises!

This novel has all the wonderful French vibes including Paris in December, a family holiday in Provence, delicious tastes of French food, holiday markets, and one very lovable dog!

Just delightful – I loved it! An absorbing, immersive read that whisks us away into a whirlwind of French traditions, scents, and scrumptious tastes.

[Andrea Stoeckel · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Time will tell… Give yourself permission to feel the full French Effect."

Nora, living in Canada, has an opportunity to go to Paris to dogsit for her daughter Chloe's across the hall neighbor. Six weeks in Paris around the holidays? Yes please even if the dog, Atticus, is larger than her old dog, it's an opportunity to be spontaneous.

And in this time frame Nora learns a great deal. Between Atticus, and learning more about her daughter's relationship with her in- laws, and her own long distance work, Nora begins to have fun: Chloe calls it The French Effect. She makes friends with Luc and learns to tango. She's working with an elderly resistance fighter who wants to tell her story. She's falling in love with the City of Lights even with its challenges. But what does that mean?

I am a gushing fan of everything Patricia Sands writes. I am always eager to be transported to wherever she takes me. Her work runs the gamet of emotions that don't feel artificial or cruel. it's obvious how much she loves storytelling and sharing her love with her audience. Highly Recommended 5/5

[ Disclaimer: I received this book from the author.However this review in no way was affected by that. These words and opinions are my own]

[Jenna · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a love letter to Paris. “The French Effect is a” Lettre d’amour à Paris avec des chiens, la famille, des nouveautés et l'inspiration.
And a heartwarming one at that.

For readers who love books by Rachel Linden, Heather Webber, Rebecca Raisin or even Maeve Binchy, it’s the story of Nora Bennett finding a new chapter in her life by stepping into the streets of Paris alongside a mix of side characters (including her daughter).

Nora is in a writers block of ideas. She loves her small town living in rural Ontario but with her daughter now living in Paris, the quiet has become all that and more. When it’s suggested that she house sit for an intimidating Doberman Atticus in the apartment above her daughter Chloe, it becomes the next step that she clearly needs to take. Six weeks in the Paris sounds like paradise during the holidays and a chance for Chloe and Nora to have more time together.
Except Paris doesn’t want Nora to go.

There’s layers to this story by the author . Spotlight themes of ghostwriting for a 93 yr old Child of the Resistance. Quirky characters. A moody, grumpy man who sneaks into her heart. And a warm mother-daughter relationship that is refreshing to read. But above all else… it’s that love letter to Paris. And this travel within the book is making me want to book my ticket back.

[Amelia · Rating 4 out of 5]

The French Effect is a hopeful, heartwarming journey of stepping into something new and letting dreams take you where they will. Nora Bennett is a novelist who takes a trip to Paris to dogsit for her daughter's neighbor. She overcomes her writer's block while interviewing and writing a memoir for a 93 year old woman who was a child of the Resistance during the Occupation. Nora explores Paris and Provence during Christmas, all while dogsitting a super sweet Doberman named Atticus. She also gets to know her son-in-law's father, Pierre (such a sweet romance!).

This book made me feel like I was in France (even though I've never been there). The author did a wonderful job of immersing the reader in the story, setting, and emotion. The French Effect was a great read with Christmas approaching. I do wish that the romance part took up a bit more of the book, but it was also nice to read about the rest of Nora's journey.

Thank you to Booked With The Emilys and Patricia Sands for the gifted copy.

[Holly · Rating 5 out of 5]

I quickly devoured The French Effect word for word. I could not put it down! It was captivating, and the story balanced sweetness and sadness perfectly, making me smirk, smile, and shed sweet tears for the protagonist. The author’s skill in weaving French culture into the story made me feel as though I were walking alongside the main character, Nora, down the cobblestone streets of France. And let's not forget Atticus, le chien! A reminder not to judge a dog by its size, and that the power of a furry friend in storytelling is always a favourite. Each chapter painted a vivid picture, and the mentions of French cuisine delighted my taste buds. I hope Nora, the protagonist, embarks on another adventure soon.

[Kayla - kaylasbooklist · Rating 4 out of 5]

The French Effect by Patricia Sands was SO charming! Canadian writer and widow, Nora, heads to Paris to dog sit and apartment sit her daughter’s neighbor. There was something to love at every turn in this story. Nora is in her 50s with real feelings and emotions. She’s a writer that works on various and interesting projects throughout this book, including interviewing a woman who was part of the Resistance during the Nazi occupation in WWII. Nora’s relationship with her daughter is delightful to read and I loved their day trips. Nora explored with her daughter but also experiences every day explorations around Paris with Atticus, the doberman she’s watching. The food descriptions were also a highlight in The French Effect. Nora goes through aspects of self discovery in the story that were also intriguing to see unfold. I enjoyed my time reading The French Effect and would recommend to romance and contemporary readers!

Thank you to the author, Patricia Sands, and Booked with the Emilys for my gifted e-arc!

[Jenn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you for the #gifted book, @bookedwiththeemilys and Patricia Sands, in exchange for my honest thoughts.

Overall I did really love this story! And, like promised by the author, I felt absolutely transported to France. Even though I haven’t been there, I could see it and taste it through her words. What an accomplishment! I also enjoyed all of the characters. Particularly, I liked Nora’s sort of second act journey. I felt like her wrestles with grief and pursuing her dreams in her current life stage and being open to change and spontaneity felt very authentic. And the Tangoooooo - how could I not like the tangoing!! Additionally, I appreciated being taken along with Nora’s writing project while in Paris - the reader gets a mini-story within the book about a child growing up in German-occupied France during WWI.

What I struggled with, and ultimately what made me lower my rating, was the writing style. I found the dialogue to be pretty formal and stilted and it often took me out of the story, unfortunately. Additionally, the ending felt quite rushed. I liked the romance, but felt like it needed a little bit more time.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

‘Tango teaches us that joy isn’t always loud-sometimes, it’s found in balance, trust, and the beauty of surrender.’

“Time will tell…Give yourself permission to feel the full French Effect.”

“A girls’ night out in any language is such a good time!”

Nora, a widow living in Canada is asked to go dog sit for her daughter Chloe’s neighbor across the hall in Paris. Six weeks in Paris and getting to spend the Christmas holidays and New Year’s Eve with her daughter and son in law.
Nora is in for the journey she never expected. Meeting her son in laws family, making new friends, learning to Tango and rediscovering love, new beginnings.
Atticus the dog she is taking care of senses when someone needs comfort.
Wonderful characters, emotional read as Nora works with Marie-Louise who was a resistance fighter in her youth and wants her story to be told.
Power of healing, resilience, embracing change, choosing her own future.
Has Nora found the French Effect?
Patricia Sands totally transported me to France and had me feeling like I was with Nora as she discovered the magic of the season, exploring new places and learning new traditions.
I want to go to Antibes and experience it for myself.

I received an ARC prior to publication and decided to voluntarily review it.

[Laurel Becker]

DNF at 30%

I loved the concept of this book and wanted to love it, but the writing style was not for me. It leaned heavily into telling over showing and just felt clunky in a way that kept taking me out of the story.

The premise of this story was delightful, but this just wasn’t the book for me.

[Karen Komarinski · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nora Bennett life was turned upside down when her soul mate best friend, love of her life was suddenly taken away from her and their daughter Chloe by a brain aneurysm. Jeremy has made sure they would be well taken care of if anything ever happened; they were and over the years Nora and Chloe continued their family traditions alive to keep Jeremy close to them especially Nora. It's been 17 years, Chloe has grown and followed her passion for art to Paris; a place Nora and Jeremy loved and spent their honeymoon. Chloe found her love and future with fellow artist Oli; and Chloe has been pushing Nora to find love and happiness again. Chloe called to invite her mom to spend Christmas in Paris with her and Oli, plus ask her for a favor to dog sit for their neighbor she will be away for six weeks and she can stay in Madame Tremblay "Giselle" flat. With some hesitation a call to her friend Cynthia who restarted her life after her divorce in another country; Cynthia says"just do it my friend its only six weeks, not forever!" Nora takes the leap, hoping this will inspire her to write again, make new memories while keeping Jeremy close to her heart. I hope you enjoy Nora Bennetts Adventure, I sure did! Once again Patricia Sands takes you along with the Characters and makes you feel you are right beside them enjoying Paris and all the fun.

[Marie Girulat · Rating 4 out of 5]

I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to @psands.stories and @bookedwiththeemilys for the wonderful #gifted book.

This enchanting story explores the themes of self-discovery and second chances at love during mid-life. Nora’s decision to dog-sit for her daughter’s neighbor, Giselle, in picturesque France is both courageous and transformative. The bond between Nora and her daughter, Chloe, is beautifully depicted, with Chloe inspiring her mother to embrace new opportunities. As Chloe says, "... the French Effect. It’s all about séduction et plaisir … seduction and pleasure.” This resonates deeply with Nora as she challenges herself to embody this very spirit.

Atticus, the charming dog, adds a special touch, brilliantly sensing Nora’s emotions and offering her unconditional support. Through Nora’s journey, she cultivates meaningful relationships with Giselle, her aunt Marie-Louise, her young tango partner Luc, and Pierre, her son-in-law’s father. The beautiful descriptions of the Christmas customs in France were breathtaking.

Marie-Louise’s story, in particular, is compelling and could easily stand alone as a powerful story. Her experiences of surviving the occupation in France and becoming part of the Resistance were deeply moving, making it challenging to transition back to the main storyline after her account.

The vivid descriptions of the streets, towns, markets, and delectable food of France are absolutely captivating. It’s clear that the author possesses a genuine love and profound knowledge of this beautiful country.

If you enjoy tales of second chances in romance, mid-life transformations, and delightful characters set against the stunning backdrop of France, then this book is an absolute must-read!

[Danielle B · Rating 4 out of 5]

THE FRENCH EFFECT was a very nice story that I thoroughly enjoyed! The setting is one of my favorite cities in the world, Paris! Patricia Sands transported me to Paris and kept me entertained for hours!

Many thanks to Patricia Sands for my gifted copy.

This review will be shared to my Instagram account (@coffee.break.book.reviews) in the future.

[Faye North · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the sparkling Christmas festivities in Paris, to the rustic traditions of Provence and a romantic sojourn on the Côte d’Azur, I loved every moment of Nora’s journey. The holiday season shines a little brighter with the French Effect!

[Rachel Lipko · Rating 5 out of 5]

Patricia Sands has done it again. The French Effect is one of those rare novels that wraps you in warmth from the very first page and carries you all the way to France in the most vivid, heartfelt way. Sands’ gift for sensory detail — the food, the winter light, the cobblestones, the soft hum of cafés — made me feel like I was right beside Nora, experiencing each new moment for the first time.
Nora’s journey is especially moving. As a Canadian widow settling into a new season of her life, she arrives in Paris simply hoping to help her daughter and dog-sit Atticus, the unforgettable Doberman who quickly steals the show. What she ends up finding is so much deeper: unexpected friendships, a spark of romance, creative inspiration, and a connection to history through a courageous former member of the French Resistance. Watching Nora step into new experiences with both hesitation and hope felt incredibly real and relatable.
What I loved most is how Sands beautifully captures the idea that it’s never too late to rediscover yourself. The tango lessons, the budding companionship with Luc, the hauntingly powerful memoir project, and the rich holiday atmosphere all weave together into a story that celebrates second chances — not just in love, but in life.
Tender, uplifting, and brimming with the magic of France, The French Effect is exactly the kind of book you reach for when you want to feel transported. It made me smile, tear up, and believe in reinvention all over again. Highly recommended to anyone who loves France, heartfelt storytelling, or a story about finding joy when you least expect it.

[Lisa Albright · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a charming novel of grief, love, family, life, and the healing beauty of Paris. I fell in love with each of the characters and moved Paris up on my bucket list. I love the vignettes of stories that all tie together to create a delightful reading experience. I was transported to each location as I read and could visualize everything as the author painted pictures with words. And Atticus? How could I not fall in love? This is a book that will stay with me.

I received a gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Christina McComiskie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely adored this book. Patricia Sands has done it again. Her writing is out of this world amazing. It transports you and makes you feel like the author herself is giving you a warm, comforting hug. I fell in love with the characters and even got to practice my oh so rusty french. C'est magnifique!

[Charlie Sandino · Rating 5 out of 5]

An amazingly good read, swept away over the pond from Canada to France, Nora needs a change in her daily life. The story is Set mainly in Paris with a touch of art, meeting interesting people, and dog-sitting. Nora is finding a new purpose in her life, diving into adventure, delicious meals, plenty of champagne and making new friends. Nora's life is now filled with days full of activities thanks to Atticus the doberman she's taking care of. Atticus is her new room mate and is with her everywhere companion. Her new friends and also with the opportunity to learn dancing Tango. This story is so heartfelt and certainly gives the feeling of déjà vu, places already visited the next piece of art to discover. Nora's encounter with Marie-Louise and her memories. There is also festivity in Provence, oh so sweet! The author takes us on a stay of wonder in Paris. I was captured by the French Effect!
I can certainly recommend this lovely book, one you would't want to miss out on.
I'm grateful for the opportunity to have read this story.
Charlotte N

[McKenna Johnson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book Review⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thank you to the author @psands.stories and @bookedwiththeemilys for the #gifted book.

If you’re craving a warm, atmospheric read that feels like a getaway to the South of France, The French Effect delivers it all—sun-washed villages, Parisian charm, and descriptions of food so vivid you can practically taste them. This second-chance, mid-life romance is tender, thoughtful, and filled with the kind of emotional depth that only comes with life’s messy, beautiful middle chapters.

Between dog-sitting escapades, tango dancing, and navigating layered family drama, the heart of the story shines through its women’s friendships and a moving mother–daughter dynamic. The romance is sweet, slow-building, and kissing-only—perfect for readers who love a cozy, heartwarming love story without spice. And the Christmas scenes in both Paris and Provence? Pure magic.

A gorgeous, feel-good read with charm, culture, and the perfect dose of holiday sparkle.

[Linda Zagon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Patricia Sands, the Author of “The French Effect” has written a memorable, heartfelt, and captivating novel. In this well written and well-told story, the author vividly captures the readers and transports them to France, by vividly describing the amazing sunsets and sunrises, the settings, the plot, the food, and the colorful and dramatic characters. There is also is a lovable dog named Atticus. Nora is a writer that is having a writer’s block that lives in Canada, and is asked by her daughter Chloe, an artist, to visit for the Christmas holidays. Chloe’s friend and neighbor needs a dog sitter for Atticus, her Doberman. Nora has been widowed for years from her beloved husband, and agrees to go to France for what Chloe calls “The French Effect”.

Nora meets new friends and has amazing adventures. She learns to “tango” and looks forward to dancing with her male companion. She also enjoys visiting with Chloe’s husband’s family. Nora is also asked by a 93 year old French woman of the Resistance to write down her story. Wow! Patricia Sands certainly has enticed me with “The French Effect”. I appreciate how the author believes one is never to old for new adventures, or to explore new love. I enjoyed and highly recommend this dazzling and thought-provoking novel.

[Booksandcoffeemx · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is one of those stories that grabbed my attention from the very first chapters, and the moment they introduced a dog, I was a goner. It has such a feel-good vibe. I’m all about second chances, fresh starts, and travel, and getting to experience it all in France made it even better. I loved following Nora’s journey, and of course I fell head over heels for Atticus, the adorable Doberman she ends up dog-sitting. It’s uplifting, beautifully written, and completely irresistible.

[Kristine · Rating 4 out of 5]

✨🇫🇷✨

Thanks to Booked with the Emily’s and the author or the gifted advanced reader copy of this book.

This book is a true love letter to France. The reader is able to explore the magic of France along with the main character as she travels in south France with the dog she is tasked with dog-sitting. The descriptions of the food, scenery, and culture make the reader feel like they are experiencing France too.

This was a touching story about taking chances and a reminder that it is never too late to start over. I really enjoyed it and recommend to those who enjoy women’s fiction, especially to those who love a French setting.

Trigger Warnings & Content Notes:
Divorce
Widow
Grief
Illness (ovarian cancer in secondary character)
No spice (Kissing only)

[Cait's Reading Nook · Rating 5 out of 5]

In The French Effect by Patricia Sands, we meet Nora, a novelist in her fifties facing writers block. She receives an invitation from her daughter Chloe to visit her Paris and to also help dog-sit over the holidays. In Paris, she finds a renewed energy when she begins ghost writing the memoir for a survivor of the Occupation in France during the Second World War. She also meets a tango instructor who encourages her to savor the moment. During a visit to the country over Christmas she also meets Pierre, her son-in-law’s father and a potential new romance blossoms.

This books celebrates relationships and community that we experience in life in multiple ways: friends, neighbors, family, partners. It reminds us of the power of community and support systems.
France opens Nora’s eyes about possibilities and reminding her to be present. She is a widow, facing grief and memories of the past. She is experiencing many emotions. Her family, friends from home, and the new friends she finds in Paris support her and encourage her throughout her journey.

The prose in describing France both past and present are vivid and powerful. It’s reflective as Nora considers the memories she has from her marriage, being a writer, a mother and where she wants to go for the future.

I thought the descriptions of her being in the same places and towns and thinking about the people who lived there during the Occupation were powerful. The novel flows well between the scenes of Nora’s character growth and journey in writing with the scenes where Marie-Louise is telling her story, recounting the memories, fears, and anxieties that she and others faced during the war.

I recommend this novel. It explores many themes, with at its core, the theme of second chances, new beginnings, and being hopeful for the future. It’s well paced in how we see Nora grow, face natural hesitancies and fears, and be brave in writing her own story. I enjoyed reading Nora’s story and how the supporting characters were supportive of her. How she seized opportunities, faced fears, and took on her writers’ block. I liked the discussion of The French Effect - finding passion and savoring the moment. It also considers an amplification of the senses: what we see, taste, hear, smell, and touch.

Please note that this story discusses themes of grief, illness, and divorce.

Thank you Booked With The Emilys & Patricia Sands for the gifted copy of this book and the opportunity to provide a review!

I was provided a copy of this book for free and am leaving an honest review.

[Phyllis Jones Pisanelli Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Patricia Sands has once again captured my heart and taken me into a brand new world of new friends and experiences with her brand new book The Paris Effect. I will never have an experience like this in my lifetime on earth. This time we entered the world of Paris and met some wonderful people. I can't wait for you to meet them!

We first meet Nora Bennet who is from Ontario. Her daughter, Chloe was married and moved to Paris three years ago. Nora is a widow and has not celebrated the holidays in a few years. Chloe calls when Nora is experiencing restlessness and writer's block. She invites her mom to Paris to pet sit for her neighbor's dog. The dog is Atticus and is a doberman. That scares Nora a bit. Nora is not one to act impulsively but, she decides to take the opportunity to be with her daughter and we’re off on a whirlwind of experiences!

When Nora gets to Paris we meet Olivier who is Chloe’s husband and his father Pierre. We also get the story of 93 year old Marie-Louise who lived through the Occupation as a child. Nora has agreed to ghostwrite her memoir. If you have ever read anything during this time period you know it is a very moving time in history. There are many more interesting people in this book.

I learned some of the customs in France and the people there are much different than they are here. It sounds like it is a much safer environment and a healthier lifestyle. My imagination was running wild! I’m not sure I would really enjoy the tourist areas but, the neighborhoods and the way of life was something to really think about. They love their dogs in France and they are welcome in eateries and are brought water to drink while they are waiting for their people to eat. How fun is that?

This book does take place just before, during, and after the holiday season. To be able to experience that in this book was priceless. If you are looking for a unique holiday book to warm your heart, I highly recommend The Paris Effect by Patricia Sands for your bedside table. I will be living in the world of this book for a few days and it may stay with me much longer. It is that good! Until next time…Happy Reading!

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I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. The opinions I have expressed are my own and I was not required to write a review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

[Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nora is a 50ish year old author who has been a widow for 17 years. She lives in Canada and has friends who mean the world to her. Her only daughter Chloe is an artist who moved to Paris and decided to stay after she fell in love and married Oliver. Christmas was always a special holiday for her family and Nora isn't looking forward to spending the holiday alone. She also has writer's block and just can't get words on paper. Chloe calls and asks her to come to Paris and live in the apartment next door for 6 weeks to take care of a Doberman while the neighbor travels. Nora has never been real impulsive so she and Chloe were both surprised when she agreed. She hopes that Paris will help bring back her love of Christmas and bring enough joy back into her life that she can start writing again. As she walks around Paris and sees all of the decorations she begins to find happiness but her writing plans are derailed when she's asked to do a memoir for an 93 year old woman who had never shared her story of life in the Resistance during WWII. But Paris isn't all about memories as she begins to meet more people and find happiness in her new life. She learns to tango with a handsome younger man. She makes friends with various people plus she gets to spend Christmas in Provence with her son-in-law's grandparents. Will Nora find a second chance at love in Paris -- will it be her dancing partner or Oliver's grouchy father? Will she return to Canada to her comfortable life or decide to live a new and exciting life in Paris?

If you've ever been to Paris or dreamed of Paris, this book will have you packing your suitcase for a trip to the city of love. Patricia does a wonderful job of bringing Paris to life -- the sites, the food, the people but most importantly that 'joie de vivre' that exists among Parisians. I've done considerable travelling since I retired and have enjoyed all of the places that we visited - but my favorite city is Paris. The author's love of France is evident on every page and I found it wonderful to read about places that I've visited in Paris plus added a few new places for my next visit. It brought some wonderful memories back to me from my visits to Paris and convinced me that it's time for another trip!