InD'Introduces: Effie Kammenou

I am a believer that it is never too late to chase your dreams, follow your heart or change your career. And, I’m  proof of that. At one time, long ago, I thought that, by the age I am now, I would have had an Oscar in my hand after a successful career as an actor. Instead, I have worked in the optical field for 40 years and am the proud mother of two accomplished young women.
My debut novel, “Evanthia’s Gift,” is a women’s fiction multigenerational love story and family saga, influenced by my Greek heritage and the many real-life accounts that have been passed down.  I still continue to pick my father’s brain for stories of his family’s life in Lesvos, Greece, and their journey to America. My interview with him was published in a nationally circulated magazine.
“Evanthia’s Gift”: Book One in The Gift Saga was a 2016 award finalist in the Readers Favorite Awards in the Women’s Fiction category.  “Waiting for Aegina” is Book Two in The Gift Saga and “Chasing Petalouthes” is my latest release, completing the series.
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 entertaining family and friends or traveling for ‘research.’
As an avid cook and baker, a skill I learned from watching my Athenian mother, I’ve incorporated traditional Greek family recipes throughout the books I write. 
I also hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Theater Arts from Hofstra University.