My Greek Books
Welcome back to My Greek Books! This month, come along to various parts of Greece and Asia Minor. Find out what I’ve been reading!
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Song of Memory by Karen Batshaw
Independently published (July 22, 2024)
About the author
Karen Batshaw was born in Chicago but lives in Washington, DC and Williamsburg, VA.
When she was in college, she went on a group tour of Europe. Greece was not on the itinerary, but she went there anyway—and fell in love with the country. There, she became fascinated by all things Greek.
She’s the author of and Love’s Journey (2012) and Kate’s Journey (2013), both set in the American West following the Civil War. She’s also published several other historical novels that have allowed her to explore her passion for Greece and its history, including Echoes in the Mist (2016); Hidden in Plain Sight (2016); and Light and Shadows (2019). All of her books are independently published.
Karen has been invited to give presentations on the history of Greece during the 20th century of which she writes, at Greek Orthodox Churches, Synagogues, book groups, and adult education programs.
About the book
The story opens in 1922 in Smyrna, as the catastrophe begins in the cosmopolitan city. A 12-year-old Greek Orthodox girl, Maria’s life is changed forever when Turks come to seize her family home, then kill her father for his refusal. She and the rest of the family flee, but as the city is destroyed, they head to the quay to await rescue. There, Maria witnesses what she believes is the murder of the rest of her family. Then she narrowly escapes a brutal rape by a soldier. Only with the help of a Jewish doctor does she survive and get out of the country.
Adopted by a American couple, she spends the rest of her childhood in New York. Though haunted by her past, she doesn’t share it. It only strengthens her resolve, and she grows up to be a strong, independent-minded woman—and a prominent archaeologist. She speaks many languages and with her adopted American last name, she conceals her identity and her past.
As Germany invades Greece in 1941, she refuses to return to the States. She falls for Rob, who turns out to be a British spy. Unbeknownst to him, she is recruited to work undercover for British intelligence. The story leads them through the Battle of Crete, to Cairo, and through the brutal Nazi occupation of Greece—and the almost total annihilation of Greek Jews. Since Maria knows what it means to fight for your life and lose everything, she is determined to fight Nazi savagery. Will Maria and Rob be discovered? Will they fulfill their mission? And will Maria’s past be revealed? You’ll have to read it to find out!
My Greek Books review*
I’ve enjoyed all of Karen’s books, and this one is no exception. This is the long-awaited sequel to Light and Shadows, and it was worth the wait. Karen Batshaw’s meticulous research and love for Greece are evident. Based on true historic events, Song of Memory is a story of Nazi barbarism and genocide, but it’s also one of triumph. You won’t be able to put it down.
*I read an advanced review copy
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The Magic of Miramare by Soulla Christodoulou
Kingsley Publishers (November 8, 2024)
About the author
Greek-Cypriot Author Soulla Christodoulou was born and raised in the UK. She writes contemporary romance, often set between the UK and her beloved Cyprus. Her novels include Broken Pieces of Tomorrow (independently published, 2016); The Summer Will Come (Kingsley Publishers, 2022); The Village House (Kingsley Publishers, 2022); A Palette of Magpies (Kingsley Publishers, 2023); and Alexander & Maria (Kingsley Publishers, 2023). In 2017, she released a poetry collection, Sunshine After the Rain; and in 2019, she published a book of short stories called Unbroken (both independently published).
Soulla is so passionate about her craft that she also coaches writers and works as an editor. And she’s always supportive of other writers—online and off.
About the book
Three women meet at the gorgeous Miramare Resort on the Greek island of Kefalonia. Two have arrived with their spouses for what is hoped to be a relaxing and restorative holiday. But each woman holds an inner turmoil. Life isn’t going the way they’d hoped, and each finds themselves at a crossroads.
Guided by the island’s magic, they develop a friendship and slowly share their secrets. Stella grapples with her long affair with Anton that’s going nowhere. Melody forgot why she fell in love with Luke. Eliana’s relationship with Dean is complicated. But before they can move forward, they will need to look inward and nurture themselves first. Are the magic and beauty of the island enough to show them the way?
My Greek Books review*
Once again, Soulla Christodoulou shares her magic. If you’ve read any of her books, you know she writes brilliant and vivid descriptions. This one is no exception, as we’re transported right to the island. You can feel the magic, too, in this a heartwarming and enchanting tale that reminds us that learning to love ourselves and embracing our true worth is vital—before we can love and be loved by someone else. Sometimes it takes a little magic to help us see what’s right before us. A quick read, let The Magic Of Miramare whisk you away to a virtual island escape.
*I read an advanced review copy
My Greek Books—November 2024 Edition
As I’ve also been reading books on writing and editing, that’s it for this month. You’ve got two more great reads to add to your list—or your holiday wish list! Check back next month for more My Greek Books!
Read more:
My Greek Books—November 2023 Reads
My Greek Books—November 2022 Reads
