Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I am a first generation Greek-American who lives on Long Island with my husband and two daughters. When I’m not writing, or posting recipes on my food blog, cheffieskitchen.wordpress.com, you can find me cooking for her family and friends.
My debut novel, EVANTHIA’S GIFT, is a multigenerational love story and family saga, influenced by my Greek heritage, and the many real life accounts that have been passed down. I continue to pick my father’s brain for stories of his family’s life in Lesvos, Greece, and their journey to America. My recent interview with him was published in a nationally circulated magazine.
As an avid cook and baker, a skill I learned from watching my Athenian mother, I incorporated traditional Greek family recipes throughout the book.
I hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Theater Arts from Hofstra University.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
EVANTHIA’S GIFT : BOOK ONE IN THE GIFT SAGA
Many of my ideas came from real life events, and stories I’ve heard all my life. I’ve also incorporated my own experiences and people I’ve met or observed into my stories, using them in different contexts, or combining the characteristics of several people to create a character.
The true inspiration for writing this book was my mother. Writing helped me through my grief after her death three years ago. The character of Anastacia is inspired by her and my mother’s Greek heritage.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Other than staying up until two or three in the morning, even when I have to be at work the next day, not really.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
My tastes vary. You can catch me reading my favorite classics, East of Eden, or Pride and Pejudice or Nora Roberts latest books. My favorite contemporary Author is Sylvain Reynard, who wrote The Gabriel Trilogy. His use of language is breathtaking.
I love interesting characters where good and evil are at odds. East Of Eden is a perfect example. But I’m taken by the true romance of Austen’s characters. as a theater major in college, I’ve read plays from every era. from Medea to Moliere. From Shakespeare to Ibsen, and on to Williams and O’neil. each one has influenced me in some way.
What are you working on now?
Book Two in The Gift Saga
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I am very new at this. My book was released days ago. I write a food blog and my book contains some greek recipes within the novel. I’ve been reposting those recipes with quotes from the book pertaining to that food. I use facebook, twitter, instagram and pinterest. I am also on Goodreads and I am a member of The Romance Writers of America.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
I was lucky enough to have two mentors who were seasoned authors to help me with the technical aspects of publishing. It can be very overwhelming if you don’t have guidance.
Other than that, follow your dream. we only go around once.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
Don’t let anyone tell you something is impossible.
What are you reading now?
The Raven by Sylvain Reynard
What’s next for you as a writer?
I will concentrate on writing the second book in the trilogy, and promoting the first book.
If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
East Of Eden
The Bible(both testaments)
Gabriel’s Inferno
Romeo & Juliet
Author Websites and Profiles
Effie Kammenou Amazon Profile
Effie Kammenou’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Facebook Profile
Twitter Account
Pinterest Account