The Gift Saga Trilogy by Effie Kammenou
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Gift Saga Trilogy by Effie Kammenou is now available in one great package, all three books in this fantastic box set. I had previously read all three book and adored them, it really is such a superb series. So, when I saw this box set was now available, it was a great excuse to dive into the series and experience it all over again. And I have to say that I enjoyed it just as much as I did the first time, only this time there was no wait between books. #WINNING.
The series contains theses three books:

Evanthia’s Gift: The Gift Saga Series Book #1:
4 Stars
Evanthia’s Gift is the first book in the Gift Saga by Effie Kammenou.
This story kept coming up on my book feed and I kept looking at it, but never took the plunge as I wasn’t really sure of what to expect. But after reading a few reviews and then having it recommended by a friend, I finally decided to jump in.
We watch the story unfold, meeting Anastasia Fotopoulos- and follow her journey, meeting her friends and family and the complexities that come along the way. The story spans about 50 years, so it is definitely a saga. This book did take me by surprise, because I ended up loving it so much more than I thought I would.
This book is about betrayal, heartache, single parenthood, friendship, bonds, struggles, love, secrets, acceptance, cultural divides, blending of families, family pressure, heritage, responsibility, expectation, romance, and overall- a wonderful multigenerational love story.
A story that tugged at my heartstrings.

Waiting for Aegina: The Gift Saga Series Book #2:
4 Stars
Waiting for Aegina is the second book in The Gift Saga by Effie Kammenou.
We pick up right where the Evanthia’s Gift finished off. And again, we are treated to a beautiful story that tugged on my heartstrings. The author writes beautifully, painting vivid images with her words. The details and descriptions transported me into the story and I followed along as the story transpired. This journey of friendship, connections, and love is a fitting sequel to the first book. I loved catching up with characters from the first book, as well as meeting some new ones. The characters really make this story special.
I think this book is a little more complex and dramatic than the first one. But every bit as enjoyable. The Greek culture and heritage depicted in the story adds an honest, fascinating and enlightening element to the book.
The story has a great pace, a smooth flow and is easy to read. I am looking forward to reading the next book in this awesome saga.

Chasing Petalouthes: The Gift Saga Series Book #3
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.

This series is incredibly good- full of Greek culture, family traditions, love, friendship, heartache, happiness, determination, emotion, and sooo much more all wrapped up in this captivating saga.
I really recommend this series to everyone who loves a great sweeping saga with a wonderful story, interesting and endearing characters who pull you into their tale/s, and a truly unforgettable read! You won’t be disappointed!!

Thank you, Ms. Kammenou!

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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