Effie Kammenou is a first-generation Greek American author, best known for her work in the women's fiction and contemporary romance genres. She spent over forty years working in the optical field before deciding to pursue her long-held dream of becoming a writer. Kammenou's debut novel, Evanthia's Gift, was published in 2015 and marked the beginning of The Gift Saga series, a multigenerational love story and family saga inspired by her mother and Greek heritage.
Kammenou's writing is deeply rooted in her heritage, and she often includes elements of her Greek culture in her stories. Her work is inspired by her family, particularly her mother and father, who she would interview to learn more about their lives in Lesvos, Greece, and their journey to America. Her father's stories were so compelling that they were featured in a nationally circulated magazine, Reminisce. The Gift Saga series, consisting of Evanthia's Gift, Waiting for Aegina, and Chasing Petalouthes, has been well-received, with each book placing in various awards and contests.
In addition to her work on The Gift Saga series, Kammenou has also started a new project, The Meraki Series. This contemporary romance series follows three sisters and their quest for love and professional success despite their sometimes stifling and meddling family. The series also delves into the past and references mouth-watering foods, as well as traditional Greek recipes passed down from Kammenou's Athenian mother. The first three books in the series, Love is What You Bake of it, Love by Design, and Love is Worth Fighting for, are currently available, with the fourth book, Love in Plain Sight, set to finish the series.
Kammenou is a first-generation Greek American who lives on Long Island. When she's not writing, she enjoys entertaining family and friends, traveling for research, and occasionally working as a background actor in film and television productions. She holds a Bachelor's Degree in Theater Arts from Hofstra University. To stay up-to-date on promotions, events, and new releases, follow Effie on social media or sign up for her newsletter through her website.