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The Gift Saga #3

Chasing Petalouthes

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The Gift Saga concludes with the next generation coming into the forefront of the story during their tumultuous years between adolescence and adulthood.

Evvie has lived through more tragedy than a young girl should ever endure, having lost both her father and a most beloved grandmother at a young age. Her rebellious ways are her only defense to mask the ever-present pain in her heart. Closing herself off emotionally, Evvie vows to never let anyone into her heart. But will her determination to keep everyone out see her lose the only person who could heal her broken soul?

Over-achieving, focused, talented, determined to succeed. Those are the traits Stella envies in her siblings and cousins. Her insecurities and lack of confidence stunts her ability to realize her own worth. When an older, handsome young man claims her as his own, Stella believes she has finally found who she has been looking for—someone to love her enough to mold her into the best version of herself. But has she fallen in love too quickly for a man she barely knows anything about?

Chasing Petalouthes (Chasing Butterflies) is the coming of age story of two flawed, young women who push their way out from the confines of the cocoons they’d built around themselves and discover how to soar.

464 pages, Paperback

Published June 1, 2018

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About the author

Effie Kammenou

8 books640 followers
Effie Kammenou believes it's never too late to chase your dreams, follow your heart, or change your career. She is proof of that. At one time, long ago, she'd hoped that by her age, she would have had an Oscar in her hand after a successful career as an actor. But instead, she worked in the optical field for forty years while raising her two daughters.

In 2015, three years after her mother died from pancreatic cancer, she published her debut novel, Evanthia's Gift, the first book in a women's fiction, multigenerational love story, and family saga, inspired by her mother and her Greek heritage. Kammenou continued to pick her father's brain for stories of his family's life in Lesvos, Greece, and their journey to America until his recent death in November 2022 at 100. Her interview with him was published in the nationally circulated magazine Reminisce.

Evanthia's Gift: Book One in The Gift Saga was a 2016 finalist in the Readers Favorite Book Awards. Book two, Waiting for Aegina, was awarded finalist status in the 2019 International Book Awards. Chasing Petalouthes, the last book in the trilogy, also placed in the Readers Favorite Book Awards for the 2018 contest.
Most recently, Love is Worth Fighting for won silver, second place for contemporary romance, in The Readers Favorite Book Awards.

Kammenou's latest project is The Meraki Series. Love is What You Bake of it, Love by Design, and Love is Worth Fighting for are available. Book four: Love in Plain Sight, will finish the series. Each book focuses on a sibling and their quest for love and professional success despite their sometimes stifling and meddling family. But it would only be a Kammenou novel with delving into the past or references to mouth-watering foods. A mystery shadowed by a historical event in Greek history is slowly uncovered throughout the series.

As a bonus, each book contains traditional Greek recipes; many passed down from her Athenian mother.

Effie Kammenou is a first-generation Greek-American who lives on Long Island. When she's not writing or posting recipes on her food blog, aptly named Cheffie's Kitchen, you can find her entertaining family and friends or traveling for 'research.' She recently returned to her roots by occasionally working as a background actor in film and television productions.

She holds a Bachelor's Degree in Theater Arts from Hofstra University.

For updates on promotions, events, and new releases, follow Effie on Social media or log onto her website to sign up for her newsletter.
Website - http://effiekammenou.com
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https://twitter.com/EffieKammenou
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5 stars
97 (70%)
4 stars
36 (26%)
3 stars
2 (1%)
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1 (<1%)
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1 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
January 17, 2023
I have really enjoyed this family saga set of audiobooks!
The characters are well developed by the time we get here, to the third book in the series, and with each chapter my favourite character changed! To me, that's the sign of a good writer!
It is a fairly lengthy installment (464 pages, and just over 13 hours on audio), but it is worth investing time into.
There is lots of drama to keep the readers and listeners engaged, and I looked forward to listening to it every day. The narrator is Emily Lawrence, and she is superb at evoking the emotion and suspense needed for a trilogy like this one. I was hanging on to her every word.
A fantastic series that I would highly recommend.
Profile Image for The Book Junkie Reads . . ..
4,956 reviews141 followers
November 25, 2018
Coming of age is complicated . . .

Overall 5 out of 5 stars
Performance 5 out of 5 stars
Story 5 out of 5 stars

Just from my aspect of things you really don't have to have the previous stories to fall in love here, but it will most certainly give you a broader picture of all the characters, place, and various references. You get like a lifetime of understand with this saga. You find a family that through time and place have made more of the life given to them. Then we come to this generation, Evvie and Stella both have surrounding themselves with shields. Shields for different reasons and as they two grown and become women and more they find that the shield they placed around them-self may be more of a hindrance than anything else. Watching these two young women grow in to more comes at a cost. Life hands them much, pain, sorrow, understanding, confusion, joy, love, self-awareness, and then some.

Emily Lawrence has been there from the start. She helps you to make that connection with each of the characters but in a different way. You could feel the pull of her vocals. The visual allure brings you deeper in. You find a greater desire to see what life holds for this new generation. The diction clear, the audio smooth, the emotional connection cemented.
Profile Image for Angela.
5,495 reviews67 followers
July 8, 2018
5 Stars


Chasing Petalouthes (Chasing Butterflies) is the third and final book in The Gift Saga by Effie Kammenou. What a great series this has been, and what a way to bring this saga some closure. There is tragedy, flawed characters, heart ache, trying to find your place in the world- all wrapped up in this ‘next generation’ coming of age story.
The story was every bit as good as the other two, but seemed to manage to etch itself just a little deeper into my heart. This book/series has been so lovingly crafted by Ms. Kammenou. She has a really wonderful way with words, and a style that lends itself to stories that will evoke emotion in the reader.
Ms. Kammenou’s vivid imagery paints a ‘landscape’ using words, bringing this beautiful story/series to ‘life’- the story becomes so visual. The story had me so tied up in knots, emotionally, right from the beginning. I really felt for these characters and what they were, and had been though. I did wonder quite a lot through the story about what the end would have in store for them. This story/ series is wonderful, but the characters are really what makes it so special- and I have enjoyed every step of the way- heartache, happiness and all.
I think this book is my favourite of the series, Ms. Kammenou leaving the best till last! It is a little sad to think this journey is over, but I am also intrigued by what Ms. Kammenou will do next.

Thank you, Ms. Kammenou!
Profile Image for Toula.
2,342 reviews
August 8, 2019
Audio book review
Book 3 and final one in the family telling. While this probably could be listen to as a standalone you’ll get the whole picture of this listen if you listen to the first 2 . This one tells about the next generation of the Honey Hill Girls . It tells about the struggles and heartaches of what the families will go through. There is a struggle between the American way and trying to keep true to the Greek routes . I personally would know since I’m Canadian Greek and I know what the 5th Generation was going through. One almost marriage between Evvie to Ryan happened , even though they were not right for each other . When the people that Evvie to Ryan were meant for they knew they had to move on and let each other go . This story takes you to Greece a lovely country. There are lots of heartache , and layers . It’s one not to miss
Profile Image for Liz.
1,327 reviews19 followers
July 8, 2018
In Chasing Petalouthes we get the finale to The Gift Saga series from Effie Kammenou. I would highly recommend that you go and read the previous two books in the series before you devour this one. I think it is necessary to truly enjoy the journey and the storyline of these characters. They go from the difficult world of adolescence to adulthood and this is the telling of what gets them from one to the other.

Petalouthes means butterflies. This is a perfect way to describe the book’s point where, Evvie and Stella are transforming from the cocoon of adolescence and into adulthood, or becoming a beautiful butterfly after overcoming the obstacles that life has handed each one.

I truly enjoyed the ups and downs the characters found themselves feeling. Each obstacle that they are to overcome creates the strong personas that they ultimately become having.

With Evvie we see a girl who has suffered immensely. When she was just a young child she faced the loss of her grandmother and father. This caused her to build up walls around herself and her heart. That is all about to change when she meets a man that will make her feel things she cannot deny. She is also working toward fulfilling her dreams and following a career that makes her happy to go to work every day.

Stella is unsure of where her life will go next. She is in search for that path to follow in life. While she is trying to find that she meets a man that she is sure will be integral on the path to happiness.
Can Stella and Evvie find happiness and transition from the awkward world of their adolescence to move on and enjoy adulthood?

I loved how many emotions this book made me feel as I was reading it. I was brought into the story even more with the recipes that Effie Kammenou has shared intermittently throughout the novel. I will definitely be trying some and I loved how this was such an interactive way to read this book.
I look forward to seeing what will come next form Effie Kammenou and will be sure to read them as well.

“Nature’s message was always there and fro us to see. It was written on the wings of butterflies.” ~Kjell Block Sandved
Profile Image for Grass monster.
534 reviews17 followers
October 5, 2018
The Blurb :
Evvie has lived through more tragedy than a young girl should ever endure, having lost both her father and a most beloved grandmother at a young age. Her rebellious ways are her only defense to mask the ever-present pain in her heart. Closing herself off emotionally, Evvie vows to never let anyone into her heart. But will her determination to keep everyone out see her lose the only person who could heal her broken soul?
Over-achieving, focused, talented, determined to succeed. Those are the traits Stella envies in her siblings and cousins. Her insecurities and lack of confidence stunts her ability to realize her own worth. When an older, handsome young man claims her as his own, Stella believes she has finally found who she has been looking for—someone to love her enough to mold her into the best version of herself. But has she fallen in love too quickly for a man she barely knows anything about?

My Thoughts :
Having enjoyed books one and two in The Gift Saga Series, I knew Chasing Petalouthes was going to be a winner.
In this book we focus on Stella and Evvie, who grow from children into adults. Life has not been easy for them both, with Evvie losing her grandfather and father at a young age and this having an effect on her later years. Stella doesnt really know where her life is taking her and things take an interesting turn when she meets a man. We go on a beautiful journey of love, loss, emotions and many ups and downs and in the end we are filled with some delightful recipes that I cant wait to try out.
Effie Kammenou has such a way of drawing the reader in and this continued throughout the whole series. Charactors were brought to life, which made us connect to them easily and the vivid descriptions just put us bang right in the middle of the story set in Greece. I am sad to see the series end but once again brilliant writing from this Author and one to look out for in the future.



Profile Image for Ashleigh.
418 reviews18 followers
July 8, 2018
Chasing Petalouthes by Effie Kammenou is the third book in her Gift Saga and this series just keeps getting better and better. Following the journey of two young women, Evvie and Stella, the emotions from this story just pour off of the pages and make it so you just can’t put this one down. Evvie knows what she wants from her life and is not afraid to jump in with both feet to pursue her career, and her passion. Evvie is still a woman though, and has had her share of heartbreak and loss, so she guards her heart with all that she has. That is until she meets a young man who makes everything make sense. Stella on the other hand is a woman who follows her own beat and isn’t afraid to take the path less traveled. She is a romantic at heart, and lives life just one moment at a time, but when she meets this man who changes her entire outlook on life will he be all he says that he is? Will both of these women find the men of their dreams? Getting to experience this journey for both of these women was a treat for sure, and one that really showcased the cultural and traditional differences between the reader and writer. Kammenou is a newer to me author, having only found her with this series and so far I have loved every one of her books. If you are looking for a heartwarming story that will show you the true meaning of friendship, the ideas of family and the traditions of a culture than this is a series that you need to pick up today!
Profile Image for Kaitlynn Taylor.
773 reviews6 followers
July 8, 2018
Chasing Petalouthes- Effie Kammenou

5-star review

“Choose me because my soul has chosen you and I can’t accept that you don’t feel what I do.”


Chasing Petalouthes by Effie Kammenou is a must read! This is the beautiful conclusion to The Gift Saga, a series unlike any other. I would strongly suggest reading the first two books as they are not intended to be read as standalones. This book and the series hold a very special place in my heart, which may seem silly as I’m not Greek, overly religious or even traditional. Yet this series spoke to me on such a deep level. This storyline is at times overwhelmingly emotional but in the best way possible, Effie Kammenou is one of my all-time favorite authors and I can’t wait to see what she comes up with next!


It has been a very long time since I’ve read a series like this one that had such a strong impact on me. Effie’s writing is so beautiful that it’s impossible not to be captivated and swept in to the story. The amount of detail is simply incredible which makes it so easy to picture everything playing out in my head. I felt so invested in this beautiful generational storyline that I honestly shed so many tears when I reached the end, this is a series I know I will continue to read and re read time and time again. I will forever recommend this book and series to anyone looking for their next read, this is one that will take you on a beautiful and unforgettable journey, it’s a story you won’t want to miss!!!
Profile Image for Michele Howell.
205 reviews
July 8, 2019
Heartwarming, Incredible Generations of Greek history & traditions

This series has drawn me in, like one of those close, loyal friends. The lessons handed down from each generations as well as traditions, love stories and sooo many life lessons has been enlightening. The love this group of people who are so fiercly protective and love with all their hearts are not all connected by blood but a strong sense of family as they have all grown up and raised their children together. The life lessons their grandparents and great grandparents have taught them are priceless. The girls have.dreams of things their grandmother had taught them through analagies. At this time in their lives those time when their grand!other come to them through their dreams gives them profound info they currently were in need of at that time in their life. This direction helped the.girls immensely on the next course of their lives. I don't know if there is more to come in this series but I know I would be.excited.to continue the journey. Thank you Effie for putting your history into these books along with the wonderful analogies! You are a wonderful writer who keeps the reader captivated and always.wanting for more!!
Profile Image for pawsreadrepeat.
543 reviews26 followers
January 24, 2023
Thank you @effiekammenou_author and @lovebookstours for my #giftedbook and spot on the tour. I am thankful to have had the opportunity to read and review this series.

Chasing Petalouthes is the third and final book of the series which makes me a bit sad. While I know I will find another series, there is always that sense of loss when an era ends. I thoroughly enjoyed this series. The characters are brilliant and the interconnections add depth to the story. The descriptions have me envisioning what it's like to live this life.

In book 3, we continue to focus on Sophia and Demi's families. In this book Evie and Stella are coming of age as young adults. Sophia and Demi are supporting characters in this book with the majority of character development focusing on the children - going to college, their first jobs, love interests - and who they are.

I love that this book has 4 generations and the flashbacks allowed us to learn more about Evie's great grandmother, Sophia. I love her story and am glad the author chose to include it. I look forward to reading more from this author!
Profile Image for Kristi McChurin.
161 reviews5 followers
July 1, 2018

Exquisite is all I can say about Chasing Petalouthes by Effie Kammenou. This is the third and final book in The Gift Saga. I am so unbelievably sad if this series ending, but we've come full circle.
My heart was already breaking the first pages in for this younger generation. I thought how much more heartbreak can they take, there is more heartbreak coming their way. It was such a beautifully written story wrapping all three books together in this book. My emotions were all over the place especially for Evie. The characters of this book were magical and so was their bond with each other The women are so strong especially with their men standing there beside them. The youth of this dynamic group finding their place in the world.
Effie is a painter of words. I can see the vineyards, picture where the family vacations, and the businesses they own. One of my favorite parts of the book are the recipes. My family can always tell when I'm reading an Effie Kammenou book. I could go on and on about this book, but you need to experience it yourself. I have left my heart with this series.
Profile Image for Sara Oxton.
3,463 reviews17 followers
July 6, 2018
Chasing Petalouthes by Effie Kammenou a four-star read you will want to chase down. This is the third book in the Gift saga it can be read as stand-alone but like most series you get the most out of the book if you have read the first two previously as you will get the whole picture and background to the characters. This was a coming of age book that all ages can enjoy, they story will take you on a journey and have you feeling the soft breeze and Greek sunshine on your face. This book will grow wings and take a place in your heart but be warned you may need some tissues as not everything is happy with the girls lives, but they are strong women and you will adore their story and struggles. Overall a very well written story, but something was amiss, but It could be me as I just kept wanting to run away to the sea and couldn’t concentrate on reading.
Profile Image for Janis Rich.
383 reviews7 followers
March 8, 2020
An excellent finish to the trilogy about three generations of a Greek family and friends. This installment spans the aging of some elder characters and focuses on the youngest characters finding their way with the help of their families. The characters are, as in the first two books, beautifully written and complex and the scenery descriptions make you feel like you are there with them. As with the first two, you could read this as a stand alone, but I don’t know why anyone would want to miss out on the whole story. The story in all three is so enjoyable, I breezed through it, loving every minute.
Profile Image for Kayla.
818 reviews36 followers
December 3, 2018
This book allowed for an ending to the series saga. The narration was smooth and clear. I recommend reading the books in order so you may get the true feeling behind the stories. An easy listen for your next cross-country drive.
4 reviews
April 25, 2020
Is It Really Over?

I write the title I did because I’m in denial that this trilogy is over. You can’t live (and die some) with a large Greek family over three books and as many or more generations and not feel like your heart is broken from the loss when it’s over. I know I will be thinking about the characters when I cook supper tonight and will probably still be thinking about them for the next few days. I’ll be thinking about book one and the first two generations and how by book three I felt surrounded and included by this wonderful family, even feeling a bit Greek myself!! I’ll be wondering how the characters are and what the world has in store for the next generation. Effie knows her characters well and allows them to develop in their own “time”. Tragedy and some angst thread through this tale, but love and togetherness prevail. Maybe Effie will write another book in this series, but whatever she writes next, I’m positive that I will buy it!
Profile Image for Bobbi Wagner.
4,311 reviews41 followers
June 7, 2018
This is the third and final book in this series but a great last book. I enjoyed this book just as much as the previous two. I enjoy how the characters are able to pull me into the story with ease. They took me on a roller coaster ride of various emotions. I enjoy how this book is about a group of young adults that show you what life growing up means to many. I had a hard time putting this book down, it is that fast reading. I suggest reading the whole series to get the full enrichment.
Profile Image for Nicole Dunton.
1,311 reviews34 followers
September 22, 2019
This is the third and final book in this trilogy. I'm sad to have completed this trilogy. This trilogy follows a beautiful Greek family that honors their loved ones and cherishes traditions. It's beautiful and refreshing. It not only highlights romantic love, but it also highlights love for family and friends. It also shows how friends can grow into family as well. This trilogy is hard to get through without feeling emotions.

How can you not fall in love with all these characters? We have the beautiful Anastacia. She survived the heartache of finding her husband cheating on her. She accepted the help and love of a friend. She also found love again. She found a way to help everybody who's life she impacted. Then we have Sophia, the daughter. She was strong-willed and fought for what she believed in. I could list every single character, but I'd write a book. There are just so many great ones.

The narrator did a fantastic job with all of the books. I really felt like I was a part of the story. I feel like she's definitely a big reason for this. There are very few narrators who can actually sound like they have BECOME the character. This is one of those narrators. She's brilliant. I'll definitely listen to other audiobooks by her.

This is a beautiful story. I do not feel it can be fully enjoyed without reading the first two books first. I personally felt like I became a part of this family. I loved when they loved. I was happy when they were happy. I was angry and outraged when they were. I also can't stress enough how genius having recipes littered through all the books are! I'm definitely getting paperbacks when I can!
Profile Image for Andy.
12 reviews
January 25, 2023
Chasing Pentalouthes is the last installment in the Gift Saga written by Effie Kammenou. Although this book is the conclusion of the saga, it feels more like a standalone. Chasing Pentalouthes follows the emotional and personal growth of Evvie and her cousin Stella in the flashy new 2000s.

This time, the author gives us a youthful approach to these two characters; the reader gets to relate to their insecurities, challenges, friendships, love affairs, how society and family tend to pressure the younger ones, and the sensitive process of finding their calling in life.
As it is understood, there are two plots intertwined to keep in mind; both storylines have unexpected twists that can make you feel powerless and thankful, yes, at the same time.
The general plot (that at some point it combines) is heartwarming, empowering, and courageous for those who are still in the process of learning how to be what they are supposed to be and feel hopeful for a bright future.

For me, this book is worth reading a second time. The book is well-written, fast-paced, and shocking at times. I missed old characters and the time jumps. However, I still loved it. It feels fresh and well-placed in this new era. One of the main love interests is now one of my most recent additions to my book boyfriends list. I highly recommend this book, no matter if you haven't read the previous two. Don't miss it!
February 22, 2021
Chasing Petalouthes book tour
(book three in the gift saga)The final instalment.
All the wonderful characters we know and love are back but this time the focus is on the youngest generation of the Evanthia family.
Evvie has faced more than her fair share of heartache due to losing two very special people in her life, her Dad and her Grandma. This has made her a little rebellious and guarded with letting people in.
Stella lacks the drive, determination and ambition of her siblings and cousins. She has low self esteem and cannot see what an amazing girl she is, her confidence is at rock bottom.
We follow Evvie and Stella, cousins and best friends as they learn through their individual life lessons and experiences to become the best that they can be.
I seriously struggle to put into words how much I adore this series. It’s the most heart-warming, uplifting, endearing story and I can’t get enough of it. Its so easy to lose yourself in their cosy loved up world where family is everything. I feel sad that the saga has come to an end but I will definitely revisit these books again in the future. They’ve had a lasting effect on me and I feel all the better for reading them.
I want to say a big thank you to Effie Kammenou for writing this magnificent series!
33 reviews1 follower
February 26, 2021
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Chasing Petalouthes is an exceptional ending to a fantastic series!! As with books one and two in the series, the writing style and storytelling in book three is wonderful. This book describes the coming of age experiences of the next generation and how they find their way in life, guided by family, live, pain, tragedy, tradition and the wisdom of the older generations. Chasing Petalouthes highlights the importance of family and tradition and how they help to shape the characters and relationships of the younger generation. By the end of the book and series I was genuinely invested in the characters and their lives. I wish there were further books in the series as I have thoroughly enjoyed all 3 books
Profile Image for Debbi.
711 reviews3 followers
March 27, 2022
I just completed reading the final book in The Gift Saga trilogy. This one completes the story as it follows the children of the Honey Hill girls through their teenage into adulthood. It continues to include multiple generations of a couple Greek American families, along with the extended family made up of close friends. Stella and Evvie each go through some rough patches, but family, friends and their heritage helps them overcome it all. They both find themselves and the loves of their lives. It’s a wonderful series about second chances in love and the strong family ties. Effie Kammenou’s descriptive writing kept me immersed in the story and really tugged at my heart in so many ways. Keeping tradition alive! I love it.
13 reviews
February 22, 2021
Effie Kammenou's brilliant writing takes you on the journey of feeling and witnessing the full range of human emotions. I laughed...I cried....I was in shock....In fear....In joy... The weaving of the spiritual-religous and ancestral beliefs weaves the magic carpet that carries you through the continued unfolding story of this multigenerational family with more focus on the second generation children and their journeys. This amazing love story comes to a close of sorts in Book Three. I truly did not want to see the story end and was left wanting more. I hope that Ms. Kammenou writes more about the unfolding journey of these characters and family.
August 17, 2020
Ditto

Same as my reviews of the first two books in this saga....I love the family and friends dynamics...I love the traditions handed down from generation to generation...I so wish I could have a family like this...
Profile Image for Michael Wells.
760 reviews3 followers
September 28, 2020
From Caterpillar to butterfly

What a beautiful story of a Greek family. But not only Greek but the weather face also. As we follow the story of this Greek family is just a wonderful wonderful book. I Recommend this is a wonderful love story.
45 reviews
May 26, 2020
Soul satisfying!


I couldn't possibly ask for more than I got from these three books. Please keep your wonderful books coming for a long time to come.

Profile Image for ClaireMS.
56 reviews2 followers
October 9, 2018
Chasing Petalouthes – butterflies – is the final book in this wonderful family saga following the generations of Greek families as they settle in New York. In this chapter, the younger generation – third generation – are followed through teens, adolescence and young adulthood.

Evvie, daughter of Sophia, has experienced more tragedy than a young girl should ever endure, having lost both her father and a most beloved grandmother at a young age. Her rebellious ways are her only defense to mask the ever-present pain in her heart. Closing herself off emotionally, Evvie enters college life with a determination to follow her chosen path alone. She might be a talented young dancer, like her mother, but her love for the family vineyard is strong and she discovers just how much she wants this life on a visit to France. Her determination to work and grow her family business is tested over these tender years as relationships develop and difficult choices must be made. She also begins to understand her Greek routes, the legacy of the soil and vines that is within her blood, during a visit to her great grandmother, Yiayia Sophia in Athens.

During this time Evvie remains resolute that she will not allow her emotions to sway her – she will not allow her heart to open up to love. Even when a trip to the Greek island Cephalonia, with Yiayia Sophia, seems to show her where her true happiness and future could lie, she denies herself and a certain young man who she has known since college.

Stella, Demi’s daughter, is two years Evvie’s junior and struggling at high school to “fit in”. She has a crush on a fellow student, and whilst he is happy to take her to Prom and will stand up for her honour, he makes it clear that Stella is not the girl for him whilst they are growing up. She is the sort of girl who needs a steady relationship – a happy ever after – he tells her, and he is not ready for this. Whilst Stella appreciates his honesty, at 16 this is a harsh truth to hear and she experiences betrayal from a friend during this time. Meanwhile it feels to Stella that her siblings and cousins are all talented and achieving their dreams, whilst she enters college and drifts from one course to another with no real puprose.

She is insecure, a little naive and has no idea just how attractive she is. Stella is smitten when an older, handsome, worldly young man shows interest in her and she believes that she has found love. But as his behaviour becomes more and more controlling, Stella’s family and friends become concerned that Stella has fallen into an abusive relationship. Will she accept the situation and the help on offer before something terrible happens?

“Chasing Petalouthes (Chasing Butterflies) is the coming of age story of two flawed, young women who push their way out from the confines of the cocoons they’d built around themselves and discover how to soar.”

I am going to start by saying what I always do…..please read the first two books in the series and set on a journey with these characters. You might have read my reviews for Evanthia’s Gift and Waiting for Aegina and will already know how much I have enjoyed this series. In fact I will go so far as to say that I feel emotionally invested in the characters.

My greatest enjoyment from the trilogy has been the continuing story of the generations of women from two families and friends that become one : Anastacia, her daughter Sophia and granddaughter Evvie; Soula, her daughter Demi and grandaughter Stella; close friends, the Honeyhill girls, and their children. The roles of these strong leading women has been quite inspirational and I see the driving force of the family in the strong Greek woman, who loves to feed her family in my own great friend Evi.

This chapter of the story examines the adolescent years of the younger generation and the author shares the highs and the lows with brutal honesty. Emotions run high as a teen/early twenty something and we have all experienced the intense joy and sadness that come with the smallest of experiences. The young ladies in this tale are no different to any others and they feel intensely. As a palliative care nurse in my previous life, I was particularly interested in Evvie and how the author dealt with her grief. Something I learnt early in my nurse training (whilst losing many young men in our London taching hospital to Aids in the late 80s) is that there is no “right” way for grief, no timeline, no “one fit for all”. Yes, there is the Kubler Ross stages of grief, but everyone is so different and Ms Kammenou depicts this beautifully with Evvie.

By the time she is a teen, this young lady has experienced major loss and in order to deal with this she has built an emotional wall around herself. To the outside world her moods and strange wardrobe choices might seem like those of a “difficult, hormonal” teen, but they are so much more than this. I applaud the author for her handling and eventual breakdown of Evvie’s grief, the way in which she slowly realises that she cannot protect herself from the possibility of pain and loss – and in fact in the process may be denying herself love and joy.

Difficult topics are once again tackled in this family saga – suicide, depression and mental health, domestic abuse, death, bereavement. Perhaps this list should also include falling in love, sexuality & sexual relationships, and the complexities of family life. Both Stella and Evvie are great role models as they experience the highs and some extreme lows of growing up (no spoilers!), and both come out the other side as mature, more confident and happy young women. I am not going to say that they have grown up – I’m not sure that we ever finish growing up and I believe that Yiayia Sophia shows us this in her observations of her life.

I could write so much more here, but I think the important thing is to say that I loved it just as much as the first tow books, and I really didn’t want it to end…..surely there must be another chapter waiting in the wings about young Cia, Ms Kammenou? There are delicious recipes peppered throughout the book, including some French treats when Evvie is dancing in Paris – there is even a recipe for the delicious lemon chicken and potatoes that my own dear Evi makes. But my kids say that I could never compete!

Five stars for this engrossing, beautifully written contemporary family saga.

Profile Image for Rett Tyler.
Author 2 books8 followers
June 25, 2018
I honestly didn't think Author Effie Kammenou could top the first two books in the Epic The Gift Saga, really, they were just that damn good, but...I was wrong.
The third installment, Chasing Petalouthes is stunningly beautiful and brilliantly written. I absolutely devoured this book, no, I inhaled it, I couldn't put it down, the way the Author described those vineyards made me feel like I was there, and from that moment on I was lost in the magic of another Kammenou classic.
I want to talk about the heartbreak, oh my god, the heartbreak! My own heart cracked right through the middle with Evvie's when she was so betrayed by...wait, I'm not telling, suffice to say, I cried and cried and cried. And it felt like she would never heal. The loss of her beautiful grandmother, Anastacia, who was the main character of the first book, and also the loss of her father, well, how much hurt can one young woman survive. But like all the women author Kammenou writes, they are amazingly resilient. Their strong bonds with family and friends sees them able to weather any storm. The difference I found with this novel though, and with Evvie in particular, was that this same resilience that had saved her, was also something that potentially could hurt her. And hurt her it did, when she met Zak.
Oh Zak. I have to pause for a moment when I think of Zak, he's just so damn breathtakingly gorgeous. Out of all three novels, there have been three men I have fallen in love with. Alex in the first novel, Dean in the second, and Zak in the third. But I have to admit, I fell much harder for Zak. I don't know how the Author manages to do it, but she creates these insanely hot men, all so different, but just so unbelievably divine. There is always angst and heartache in every Kammenou novel, however Chasing Petalouthes delivers much more then its two predecessors. And the reason for this is Evvie. Or should I say, Evie's past hurt. She finds it almost impossible to live in the moment, and carries a sadness with her that honestly just breaks your heart. At times she seems so much older than she is, living a life full of regrets, and to see someone so young burdened like this is torturous. And then she meets Zak, and finally you think she might find happiness. But its not to be, and Evie hurts Zak in ways that as a reader I felt she could never be forgiven. I'm not going to say anymore about it, other than the emotional torment I felt throughout the novel between Evie and Zak was like witnessing a beautiful disaster, it was painful and gorgeous and heart wrenching and exquisite all at the same time. Well done to the Author for perfecting the balance of emotional angst and emotional satisfaction.
The other character that deserves a mention is Stella. WOW, what a surprise she turned out to be. The quiet, self conscience little girl who always felt everyone else was better than her. NO WAY!!! Stella is an absolute star in this novel, and to be honest I would have a difficult time choosing between her and Evvie as to who was my favorite. Stella faces such adversity, and when most of us would hide under the covers, she comes out shining like the star she is. I love Stella, and I think she is an inspiration and a great role model for young women today.
I could go on and on about this book, like how I love the children from book two are now the parents in book three, and how much I want to be one of The Honey Hill girls, and how I love how the author takes us all over the world with her in her books, but I won't keep going, because everyone should just read these books, all three of them.
Worth all the five stars I gave it. If I could give it ten stars, I would.
AMAZING!!!!!! LOVE IT LOVE IT LOVE IT!!!
Profile Image for The Difference Engine.
112 reviews3 followers
January 16, 2023
🇬🇧📚 Book Tour Review 📚🇬🇧

#️⃣ 2023 Tour Number: 1
#️⃣ 2022 Books Read: 1
🌟 Rating: 📓📙📘📗 (4/5⭐)
🔲 Book Title: Chasing Petalouthes
📚 Series: The Gift Saga - Book 3
🗣️ Narrated: Emily Lawrence
🖋️ Author: Effie Kammenou
🎭 Genre: Contemporary / Romance / Saga Fiction
📖 Format: 🎧
📢 Tour: @lovebookstours @lbt.crew
📅 Tour dates: 16th - 24th January 2023
📅 Review date: 16th January 2023

#LBTCrew#lovebooktours
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#bookstagram #bookblog #bookreview #ukbookblog #ukbookstagram #bookworm #readersofinstagram #booktour #lovebooks #lovereading #2022books #bookstoread #bookstoread #BookTourReview #ad #adpr #blogtour #TDEPReviews

💻📖🎧 Book format & quality 💻📖🎧
The narrator of this book, has a personable and engaging voice which is easy to follow.

🌻SpLD comments (from a dyslexic)🌻
I always love a good audiobook. My dyslexic brain definately favours them.

🎨 Artwork🎨
Heartwarming cover.

✒️ Style & Plot 📉
This book works as a stand alone or part of the saga/series, if you enjoy this book, it's definately worth going back and listening or infact reading the other books. The author has an excellent way of capturing their characters and I think readers will form a deeper connection by reading the other books.

I particular enjoy how the author explored the traumas and challenges of the family. The characters are relatable and charismatic.

📖 Read more 📖
I'm really enjoyed this series, not my preferred genre.

🤓 Author Synopsis 🤓
The Gift Saga concludes with the next generation coming into the forefront of the story during their tumultuous years between adolescence and adulthood.
*Read as a standalone or as part of the trilogy

Evvie has lived through more tragedy than a young girl should ever endure, having lost both her father and a most beloved grandmother at a young age. Her rebellious ways are her only defense to mask the ever-present pain in her heart. Closing herself off emotionally, Evvie vows to never let anyone into her heart. But will her determination to keep everyone out see her lose the only person who could heal her broken soul?

Over-achieving, focused, talented, determined to succeed. Those are the traits Stella envies in her siblings and cousins. Her insecurities and lack of confidence stunts her ability to realize her own worth. When an older, handsome young man claims her as his own, Stella believes she has finally found who she has been looking for—someone to love her enough to mold her into the best version of herself. But has she fallen in love too quickly for a man she barely knows anything about?

Chasing Petalouthes (Chasing Butterflies) is the coming of age story of two flawed, young women who push their way out from the confines of the cocoons they’d built around themselves and discover how to soar.

Chasing Petalouthes can be read as a standalone novel. To understand the full emotional impact of these characters histories and lives read Evanthia's Gift & waiting for Aegina.

🛒🛍️ Buy Links 🛒🛍️
https://amzn.to/3McQ3Mw

🤓 LBT Crew on the tour 🤓
I'm looking forward reading your reviews 😍📚📖
2 reviews1 follower
October 9, 2018
Chasing Petalouthes is the 3rd in a trilogy entitled The Gift Saga, written by the very talented storyteller, Effie Kammenou. First, a little background regarding the trilogy in case you haven't read the first two books yet (but you will want to after reading this book!) All three books are replete with very engaging and realistic characters. The central characters in each of the volumes are members of the same family of Greek-Americans but each book focuses on a different generation of strong women: a grandmother, mother and daughter, surrounded by the men in their lives, and their friends. The author generously fleshes out secondary characters just as well as the main characters and places them within interesting plot lines which draw the reader in. It is easy to immerse oneself in the heartwarming stories and watch the characters as they develop, change and grow. I felt like I knew them all well and loved each one of them!
As a backdrop for these stories, vineyards are the connecting thread: the author chose three glorious places to situate her vineyards: Long Island, Greece & France. She's done her research well, for as a wine lover I have been to vineyards in each of these countries and her descriptions and details ring true!
In this 3rd book, Chasing Petalouthes, the author adds one more generation to the mix, and for me, it was my favorite story subplot. Evvie, one of the two main characters in this novel, goes back to Greece to spend time with her great grandmother, Sofia. The story line then goes back in time to explore the relationship that Sofia had with a young man called Petro to whom she had been promised - someone she truly loved, but more like a brother than a boyfriend. How this particular story line evolves after she left her village home is a brilliant plot twist that connects the distant past to the present day. The story of Sofia & Petro is full of pathos- fair warning.....keep your tissues handy!!
I recommend this book to anyone who loves families and enduring friendships amongst women as well as for anyone who is of Greek descent or who knows anyone who is of Greek descent. Even if you have no Greek blood in you, you will empathize with these wonderful characters, because their traits & personalities are universal. We all love, we all hurt, we all make mistakes, and the people in these novels are no different! You'll relate to them just as much as I did!
I found that Effie Kammenou writes in the same homey, easygoing style of the great Adriana Trigiani, (Big Stone Gap series). She quickly draws you into the story with her straightforward prose and keeps you engaged till the end, turning page after page to see what happens next!
Note to the author: Can we have a new series soon or even, dare I hope, a follow up to the Gift Saga?
62 reviews4 followers
July 27, 2018
CHASING PETALOUTHES concludes the Gift Saga Series by my present
favorite author, Effie Kammenou. It is the third in a family saga with strong Greek customs, traditions and recipes that are mouth-watering. I particularly enjoyed the Easter celebrations, the lovely locales in Greece and of course I fell in love with Zak. In the first of the series, I adored Alex; in the second, Dino stole my heart. This is Evvie and Stella's story and their journey from adolescence to adulthood will warm your heart, bring tears and in the end, bring lots of joy and smiles.

Evvie is struggling and continues to be heartbroken from the loss of her beloved grandmother and father. She decides she wants her future to be in the family vineyards and wants to create a champagne she discovered in France and has not been celebrated in America. She guards her self carefully and has sworn to never allow anyone into her heart. She has dated Paul for many years. Se feels he is safe and could never shatter her like the loss of her family members did. That is until she meets handsome Zak that she bonds easily and completely with. Zak tells Evvie he loved her at first sight and believes she was sent to him by his twin sister who died years ago. A Greek boy, he loved all the ancient customs, his close family ties and was in pursuit of his soul partner. Is it Evvie?

At 19, Stella does not know what to do with her life. She is insecure and her future path is uncertain. Working at the winery one evening, a handsome older man with sapphire eyes comes in for a tasting with his friends. His name is Cain and he immediately sets out to impress Stella. He is very wealthy and treats her like no othIer man she has ever known. Is he the man she has been waiting for? He turns out to be a liar and an abuser. Her distant cousin RJ comes to her aid.

Effie Kammenou has hit out of the park with CHASING PETALOUTHES. I read it non stop and experienced heartbreak, happiness, humor, and in the end, I experienced the happy ending I always love. Evvie and Zak listened and followed their hearts. The most romantic part of the story is their wedding on the gorgeous Greek Island, surrounded by their families. Evvie wears the pale pink wedding dress that her mother and her grandmother wore and the food and festivities following the ceremony had me tapping my feet in time to the music and dancing. CHASING PETALOUTHES (Butterflies), is delicious, a pure delight and my best recommendations to Ms. K. for another home run. Syharitiria!


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