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INTERVIEW: Effie Kammenou's Writing Developed from Grief
CHRISTINA: I first started following Effie Kammenou on social media a few years back, so I was absolutely thrilled when she agreed to this interview. Effie writes emotionally rich women’s fiction and contemporary romance infused with Greek heritage, close-knit families, historical elements, and second chances at love. I’m delighted to share a little more about Effie and her writing journey.
When did you first think you had a book to write, and how did you start?
EFFIE: That isn’t an easy question to answer. I run into people all the time who say they have a great book idea and ask me, “Do I have any tips on how to go about it?” That was me once, thinking I had a story I could write. But I never expressed it out loud. I was always a daydreamer, my mind drifting off when I was bored as a kid, mainly on long drives or sleepless nights. That habit continued as I got older. I’d never thought of it as story creation. When my mother passed away from pancreatic cancer, I began writing as a way to work through my grief. I created a character inspired by my mother’s spirit, grace, and love for family and heritage. I never expected it to become the multigenerational saga it is, much less the first book in a trilogy.
CHRISTINA: What a beautiful reminder how many stories emerge from emotions and the people who leave a lasting mark on our lives.
What’s more difficult to write? A love scene or a love letter or something else?
EFFIE: The love scenes are the most difficult for me. I will read a book on any ‘heat level.’ I love a super-hot, extra spicy book. I’m not offended by language or blush at the goings-on, but writing it is another story. For me, I like the love/sex scenes to remain tasteful. That works best for my diverse audience. I have readers that are sixteen and some that are eighty-five. It’s a difficult balancing act to enrapture the reader without being overly graphic. That being said, I also chose not to write completely closed-door scenes.
CHRISTINA: Finding that balance is definitely an art!
What comes first: plot or characters?
EFFIE: Most definitely characters. I come from a theater background. I develop characters the way I would approach a role. My characters have histories, family backgrounds, and pasts that reveal who and why they are who they are. I know where I want the story to begin and how it will end, but the middle evolves as my characters do, and they often surprise me.
CHRISTINA: I love how your theater background shapes your writing.
Do you put people you know, or their characteristics, in your book?
EFFIE: I think every author would admit there are tiny pieces of themselves in almost every character. As I shared above, I created a character based on my mother, but my characters also carry traits, habits, and characteristics from friends and family. Waiting for Aegina is the story of five lifelong friends, inspired by my own. As teens, I had an ideal of how their careers and lives would unfold, and I ran with it. None of it was true. So much so that I don’t believe anyone recognized themselves in the story.
CHRISTINA: Lovelovelove how real-life inspiration can spark a story.
If you weren’t a writer, what would you be?
EFFIE: At one time I would have answered actor. That was the original plan. But that time has long passed, though I have dabbled in background acting in the last few years. It satisfied my thrill of being part of the creative process in film and television. But if I wasn’t a writer, I would be an event planner. I love throwing elaborate parties, and recently, I’ve been organizing multi-author book events.
CHRISTINA: Sounds like event planning allows you to bring that same creativity and passion for storytelling to the writing community.
Have you gone on an author pilgrimage or research trip? Where and what was the most memorable moment?
EFFIE: I have! Chasing Petalouthes takes place mainly on Long Island and in Greece, but part of the story is set in Paris and Champagne. I’d done extensive research on the Champagne region and the authentic method of making champagne. I believe you need to experience a place to write about the smells, sounds, the people, and the earth under your feet. I met with a 6th-generation owner of a boutique champagne house similar in size to the one in my story. She generously gave me a full tour of the wine caves, fermentation and barrel rooms, grape press, and bottling room. Everything about that trip was memorable¾the private tour and visiting the famous champagne houses on the Avenue de Champagne.
CHRISTINA: Greece and Paris. Two places on my bucket list! (And the wine caves and the catacombs are on my Paris must-do list.)
What are you reading now? Who’s your favorite contemporary author:
EFFIE: I just finished Mad Mabel. I wouldn't have picked it up based on the title and cover, but so many readers were talking about it. I’m so glad I did. It was such a wonderful, thought-provoking book.
Favorite author? Do I really need to choose one? I adore Adriana Trigiani. I’ve read every one of her books. My favorite was The Shoemaker’s Wife. For historical fiction, I’m partial to Fiona Davis. She writes novels set around NYC landmarks, and as a New Yorker, I devour her stories about places so familiar to me. Listing my favorite romance authors would take too long for this interview. Since I just had the pleasure of meeting her at a book festival, I will say Lucy Score. Her books are gripping, emotional, spicy, and addictive.
CHRISTINA: My favorite genres!
EFFIE: Thank you so much for your interest in interviewing me. I’m honored to be in the company of your past subjects, highly acclaimed and accomplished authors. It was lovely chatting with you.
CHRISTINA: Thank you so much for your time, honesty, and thoughtful answers. It’s been a pleasure getting to know you and learning more about your writing journey. Wishing you continued success with your books!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Effie Kammenou writes emotionally rich women’s fiction and contemporary romance with historical elements inspired by Greek heritage, close-knit families, and second chances at love.
A first-generation Greek American, Effie’s stories feature layered relationships, forced proximity, slow-burn romance, and heartfelt journeys of self-discovery—often unfolding against vivid Greek settings. Her award-winning novels celebrate passion, resilience, and the courage to follow your heart, no matter where life begins.
Many of her books include authentic Greek recipes passed down from her Athenian mother, adding warmth and tradition to stories that linger long after the final page. When she’s not writing, Effie enjoys cooking, traveling for “research,” and occasionally returning to her theatrical roots as a background actor in film and television.
Kammenou’s titles include The Gift Saga Trilogy, The Meraki Series, and the newly released standalone novel, The Magic of Robola. You can connect with Effie Kammenou via:
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Fascinating interview of an author I'm excited to check out! Thank you!