Sarah P. Blanchard Explores Humanity’s Depths Through Award-Winning Fiction and Poetry
Bringing Landscapes to Life in Fiction and Poetry
Sarah P. Blanchard’s writing delves into moral conflict, resilience, and emotional depth. From her award-winning novel Drawn from Life to her upcoming crime novel GRABTOWN, she captivates readers with powerful storytelling.
Sarah P. Blanchard’s literary journey is one of profound exploration into human nature, moral conflict, and resilience. An acclaimed author of fiction, poetry, and short stories, her work resonates deeply with readers seeking thought-provoking narratives and emotionally rich storytelling. With her award-winning novel Drawn from Life and an upcoming crime novel, GRABTOWN, Blanchard continues to captivate audiences with her compelling storytelling and vivid characters.
Her path to literary success is as diverse as her body of work. With a background in English and Marketing, Blanchard has taught at the University of Hawai’i-Hilo, founded the Wolf Den Writers’ Group in Connecticut, and led fiction workshops across different regions. These experiences have enriched her storytelling, lending authenticity and emotional depth to her writing.
Blanchard masterfully blends thought-provoking narratives with lyrical prose, creating stories that resonate deeply, challenge perspectives, and leave a lasting impact.
A Story of Guilt, Forgiveness, and Strength
Blanchard’s debut novel, Drawn from Life, has received high praise, earning the 2025 Independent Press Award silver medal and recognition from the American Fiction Award and Readers’ Favorite. The novel follows Emma, a protagonist grappling with deep-seated guilt and seeking redemption after a life-altering tragedy. Her journey toward healing is filled with emotional complexity, making her a deeply relatable character. The novel’s title itself reflects vulnerability and courage, two central themes woven throughout the story.
Set for release in mid-2025, Blanchard’s upcoming crime novel GRABTOWN will further showcase her storytelling prowess. Exploring themes of justice and courage, the novel is anticipated to be a gripping addition to the crime fiction genre.
A Life That Shapes Her Writing
Blanchard’s experiences living in New England, Hawai’i, and North Carolina have significantly influenced her writing. She sees landscapes as more than mere settings; they become characters in their own right, shaping the lives of her protagonists. Her work spans multiple genres, from short stories and poetry to equestrian books, demonstrating her literary versatility.
Her short story collection, Playing Chess with Bulls, was a finalist for the Doris Betts Fiction Prize, while her poetry chapbook river, horse, morning showcases her ability to distill emotions into striking imagery. Her poetry serves as both a personal exploration and a complement to her fiction, highlighting her command of language and storytelling.
A Thoughtful and Engaging Voice in Contemporary Literature
Blanchard’s writing delves into the ethical dilemmas that define human experience. She explores how individuals navigate moral injury—when their ethical compass is challenged—and how they reconcile their actions with their beliefs. Through her fiction, she crafts characters who wrestle with complex emotions and difficult choices, making her stories both gripping and thought-provoking.
Her ability to balance emotional depth with compelling storytelling is what sets her apart. As she continues to create and inspire, Sarah P. Blanchard remains a literary force, drawing readers into the intricate world of human experience.
“I believe literature should challenge us, make us uncomfortable at times, and ultimately help us see the world through a different lens.” – Sarah P. Blanchard
Originally published in Reader’s House Magazine.
