| Patty Apostolides - Author and Poet...... |
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Dear reader,
Thank you for visiting Patty Apostolides' official website. There are a variety of topics to entertain you, from excerpts of her latest novel, to articles about writing, as well as links to Greek sites and Greek authors.
Patty has already begun researching and writing her new novel. We know this much - that it'll be a historical romance novel, set during the time of the Greek War of Independence. It will involve a Greek girl and a British Lord. There is so much to learn when it comes to historical novels. Finding out what people wore and ate in the 1800s is quite a novel experience for the author.
Here is an excerpt from the first chapter:
September 1831
The square in the French city of Caen was crowded with the locals as well as visitors from England and other parts of France. Bells from the nearby Saint-Sauveur le Vieux church chimed, while musicians sang and performed juggling acts. Vendors shouted, bargained, and sold their goods in the square. Their carpets were spread before them, laden with an assortment of items, such as textiles from Lyon, handcrafted goods, and tools. Vendors with dogcarts sold food, including French cheeses, sausages, and brioches. The hotels in the vicinity catered to the English visitor, offering the famous apple cider calvados drinks or English tea for the women. By late afternoon, the festival was deemed a success, as crowds upon crowds of people had joined the revelry.
If one wanted their fortune told, they would visit Mirela, the famous gypsy fortune-teller located at the outskirts of the square. Once there, one would find a line of people outside her tent. Mirela had organized her services well. A dark-haired gypsy boy stood in front of the entrance ready to usher the next person inside, while a gypsy girl was in the back to lead them away.
The gypsy girl happened to be sixteen-year old Lily, Mirela’s granddaughter. She sat on a rock, reading a French novel and waiting for Mirela’s cue to usher the next customer out the back. Her brows furrowed as she tried to understand the meaning of some of the more difficult French words. Her thick blonde braids brushed the pages as she leaned forward, laboring with the words. Although she was thankful that her grandmother had taught her to speak and read French and English, and even a little Greek, she realized she had a long way to go. Next to her lay the old black hair piece that was used when making a public appearance. Her grandmother insisted she wear it so that she wouldn’t stand out from the other gypsies. It was getting ragged and today several chunks of hair were missing, thanks to their horse Tsingana who had taken bites out of it. Lily never liked wearing it if she didn’t have to, so she had removed it for now until it was needed.
The conversation in the tent come to a close, alerting Lily. She carefully placed her wig on and stuck the book in her skirt pocket.
“Aurevoir,” Mirella announced loudly.
In one fluid movement Lily jumped up and opened the flap of the tent. “S’il vous plait, Madame, suivez moi,” she said melodiously to the stout matron, bowing, then taking her gloved hand. She led the well-dressed woman away from the tent and around the stone building to the cobbled alley. She pointed to the left, towards the general direction of the milling crowds, then promptly returned to her reading, waiting for the next cue.
As it got darker, she lit a tallow candle that she had brought with her.
That evening, an English woman entered Mirela’s tent. She was dressed in the latest fashion. Her blue walking dress with its lacy trim hugged her narrow waist and blossomed out into full hips. Her large gigot sleeves tapered elegantly at the wrist. Her wide hat was trimmed with feathers and loops of blue ribbons. Dark brown curls framed her face. She was not considered a beauty by normal standards, her nose was too long, her lips too thin, and her eyes were a mousy brown, but her smart-looking attire and a smile that transformed her face, made her appear attractive.
Mirela sat in front of a small table, with two lit candles and a crystal ball in the middle of it. She was a plump, middle-aged woman, with dark, heavy-lidded eyes, dressed in colorful clothes. Her head was covered with a purple turban with gold trim. Her large, round gold earrings glistened under the nearby candlelight. She was a well-traveled woman, having seen countless places, people, and cultures.
Mirela had witnessed many facets of life, both in reality and through her visions, so that nothing seemed to surprise her anymore. But today was different. The vision she saw last night hit a nerve deep inside of her, and the woman standing before her was going to take the thing she cherished the most away from her. She steeled herself for the inevitable.
The English woman removed her white gloves. “I’m so glad I found you here, Mirela! So much has happened since the last time you read my future in Paris.” She proudly showed her the ring on her hand. “I’m Mrs. Carleton now.”
Mirela smiled knowingly. “Welcome, and congratulations, Mrs. Carleton. I have been expecting you.” She spoke in perfect English, her voice calm and dusky. “Please sit down.”
Henrietta sat daintily on the small stool. “There is so much to tell you.”
“Yes?” Mirela prompted.
“After you told me about Mr. Penbroke, I checked up on him. You were right! He gambled, and was in terrible debt, and I decided not to marry him. If I had, he would have run through my inheritance money in no time! I’m sure of it! So I married Mr. Carleton after all.”
Mirela’s eyes flashed in approval. “Ah. You were wise to stay away from this Penbroke.”
“With help from you, of course! I’ll always be indebted to you.”
“I am glad for you. I do not make your future. I just tell you what I see. It is you that made the decision and acted upon it.”
“But it was you who opened my eyes!” Mrs. Carleton insisted. “If there is ever a need for assistance in anything…”
Mirela appeared pleased. “Let us begin.” She closed her eyes, then opened them and stared a few minutes at the crystal ball on the table. “You are visiting France with your husband, Mrs. Carleton? This is a short stay…hmmm….for a business trip? You will leave soon for England?”
“Yes, we were in Lyon for several days. We’ll be leaving tomorrow afternoon for England. We came here on my husband’s packet ship and will return that way.” She looked down, twisting her gloves nervously in her hands. “When my husband left the navy, he entered the cotton business. It’s not that he needs the money…he inherited quite a bit from his late father, and I also brought money into the marriage.” She looked up. “He just likes to make more of it, that’s all. Although trade is not quite accepted by the ton.” She appeared guilty. “He has been thinking about tapping into silk textiles as well. In Lyon, he met with Jacques, a French businessman, who supplies the silk fabric.”
“You want to know if this is the right course to take?” Mirela gazed at the ball after receiving the affirmative nod from the young woman. She shrugged her shoulders. “I do not see any hindrance with his choice. But I do see machines, many machines.” She looked up. “They are his future and will help his business grow.”
Mrs. Carleton thanked her. Then a shadow passed over her face. “Mr. Carleton’s uncle is very ill. The doctor said he doesn’t have much time.”
“I’m sorry to hear that.”
“His wish is to see his son married before it is too late.”
Outside, Lily held the candle in the dark, trying to read her book but was not able to concentrate after two drops of candle wax landed on the page. Disgusted, she set the book aside, not wanting to mar the pages. Even more importantly, she had been listening in on the conversation inside the tent and it had gotten more interesting.
“So you want to know if his son will propose to your sister?”
Mrs. Carleton’s eyes flew open. “Why yes. She just turned twenty-one, and recently confided in me that she’s been in love with him. I wasn’t surprised. He is quite handsome. Even I had a crush on him, but that was so long ago.” She tittered nervously.
“Hmm, and you want to know if she is the right woman for him.” Mirela’s eyes narrowed as her hands hovered above the ball. “Yes, I sense a woman next to him.”
“You do? What does she look like?”
“Attractive…and brightly clothed, like a butterfly.”
“That sounds like her. She loves to dress up in style.”
“She appears to be important in his life. They are holding hands. I also see a shadow. It is coming over her.”
Lily saw Mirela’s large shadow lean forward, her head close to the lady’s head. They were whispering and taking a long time.
“Mirela, thank you so much! If only I could repay you for all the good you’ve done me!”
“Please, put your money back in your purse, for I do plan to take you up on your offer.”
Lily moved closer towards the tent, trying to listen. Just then, the sound of a carriage clattering by caught her attention. She looked out into the darkness. It was unusual to hear carriages come by here. This was a narrow road and besides, carriages were quite expensive. Only the rich rode in them. The clattering sound stopped nearby.
Curiosity got the better of her. Carrying her candle, Lily swiftly crossed the back of the tent and went to the other side of the building. She peered down the alley. There was a large, dark shadow to her left. She moved the sputtering candle forward to see better with. A horse snorted, confirming her suspicion it was a carriage. Someone must be waiting for a customer. She was about to turn back when she smelled the smoke. She looked down and gasped at the sight of her braid. It was ablaze with flames.
What came next happened so quickly, she didn’t know how to react. It would remain a blur in her memory. Dropping the candle, she blindly stomped it out. At the same time, her arms flailed around her, trying to stamp out the fire in her hair. She tried to shout for help, but her throat felt constricted. No sound came out. In a state of panic, she fell to the ground, rolling in the dirt, trying to stop the flames. Somewhere in the haze, she felt someone’s arms hold her. Something covered her head.
“N’enquietez pas, ma petite,” Edward Carleton said, his voice deep and soothing.
Lily stilled her struggling, breathing hard. The smell of sandalwood and spice replaced the scent of smoke. Her mouth opened. She wanted to thank the man but nothing came out except a croaking sound. What was wrong with her? Why couldn’t she talk?
“Sshh,” he said softly.
Lily felt protected in the warm embrace of his strong arms, yet something inside her protested at this closeness. “You are not a child,” she told herself. She was already fifteen, of marriageable age, and this was very improper! Fiercely aware of a new fear forming, she strove to get up. The man must have sensed her intentions, for he moved back, taking the warmth with him. She shivered, the coldness of the evening pressing upon her, as she got up.
It was dark and what little she could see was that he was much taller and held a powerful presence. He kept a respectful distance as she swiped at her face and clothes, afraid to look at him. She felt stronger by the minute. “Thank you. You came just in time,” she said hoarsely in English. Her throat still felt raw from the smoke.
Edward spoke in a low soothing voice. “Ah, so you speak English.”
Lily was silent, unsure as to how to reply to this man’s gentle probing. If he found out she was a gypsy, who spoke several languages, he would turn his heel quickly, checking his pockets to make sure she did not steal something.
“You poor child, you must still be in shock. I was in that carriage when I saw your head glowing like a ball of fire in the night. I used my coat to put it out. You should be careful with fire in the future, little one.” His tone was gentle.
Lily was touched by his words. He spoke endearingly, like a father to a child. She was captivated by the revelation that he thought she was a child. A gadgo speaking in such a manner was rare to witness indeed.
“Good-bye!” Mirela announced from inside the tent.
Lily’s head swiveled towards the tent. Her grandmother’s call could not be ignored. “I must go now.” She ran shakily around the building, thankful for the candlelight inside the tent guiding her way to the back. She donned the wig and pulled the flap open to reveal the petite frame of Mrs. Carleton standing there, as if waiting for her.
Lily curtsied, her head low. “Please follow me,” she whispered. She grabbed Mrs. Carleton’s gloved arm and pulled her towards the direction of the street.
“That’s quite all right. Someone will be waiting for me,” Mrs. Carleton said.
Lily dropped her arm and watched the lady glide forward. She wondered if the man would still be there. Maybe he was the lady’s coachman. As if reading her mind, the man’s tall shape materialized.
Mrs. Carleton clung to him as they walked away, muttering about unwashed gypsies and that he smelled of smoke. Lily stared at their retreating shadows, unsure of the man’s identity. At first she thought he was Mrs. Carleton’s coachman, but the familiar way in which Mrs. Carleton clung to him suggested he might even be her husband! Lily scratched her head in puzzlement and sighed. No matter what he was, he had saved her life.
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A World To Live In
What would it be like
When peace replaces fear -
People living peacefully
In unison and in love with life!
What would it be like
When all children are given a chance to be born
And raised by mothers and not by strangers
To have a home to come to.
What would it be like
If sickness vanished and health reigned-
And smiles came easily on our faces
During times of distress.
What would it be like
If we all loved our neighbors
And there were no wars
But a healing, quiet peace
That saturated all our beings
So much so, that we would
Never want to leave
This world we live in.
- by Patty Apostolides
January 2008
"The Lion and the Nurse" is a story that takes place on the beautiful Greek island of Kos, where Hippocrates, the famous physician, was known to teach and heal people. This romance is about a nurse who returns to the island to help her ailing mother and finds love in the process. Her healing powers are able to save others, but not herself. When she experiences her own mortality, she witnesses the breathtaking power of love. .
The novel is now available! Look for it in the books section of this site and/or in your favorite bookstore! Read an Excerpt from Chapter 1
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“Patty Apostolides’ novel, which takes place on a “typical” Greek Island, Kos, is truly a proper follow-up to “My Big Fat Greek Wedding” although it comes from a different direction – Americans experiencing the Greek culture in Greece.” - Michael Bilirakis, former Congressman
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“What impressionism achieved on the canvass, Patty Apostolides seems to accomplish on the printed page – and her psychological insights are remarkable. A stunning achievement!” – Nicholas D. Kokonis, Ph.D., Author of the award-winning novel Arcadia, My Arcadia
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“Patty Apostolides has done it again! Just as in Lipsi’s Daughter, The Lion and the Nurse captures the beauty and charm of a Greek island in a love story that is more than a love story. This romance about Cassiani, a nurse who returns to Kos to help her ailing mother, is also about the triumph of eternal values, such as truth and caring, over materialism and deception. It is also about the loneliness and the struggles of two widows and about how love transcends all planes, even in modern times. This book is a real page-turner. I couldn’t put it down!” - Aphrodite Matsakis, Ph.D., Author of Growing Up Greek in St. Louis
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“The Lion and the Nurse is a wonderful story of love amidst the beautiful island of Kos. It can take you back to your Greek roots or let you fly through a new entertaining adventure. It’s a “feel good” story!” – Katherine Lambros Matrakas, MS, RN, CAPT, USPHS
"Lipsi's Daughter" is a unique Greek romance that takes place both in Greece and in America. It embraces Greek orthodox beliefs, as well as Greek traditions. It is the first of its kind. There is nothing like it out there. This novel depicts the Greek American and Greek cultures in a romantic Greek island setting, titled “Lipsi’s Daughter.”
Lipsi is a Greek island situated in the Dodecanese Islands of Greece. It is located next to Patmos and Leros islands. Patmos Island is the island where St. John was exiled and experienced the revelations that were written up in the Bible. For five hundred years, the monastery of Patmos ruled over Lipsi Island and the monks used the land. Later, when people migrated to the island, the monastery sold land to them on the condition that they build a church on their property. At least thirty, if not forty churches exist on the island today. Lipsi has a miracle that occurs there every year. In the 1940s, a maiden was praying to the "Panagia tou Harou" icon (The Virgin Mary of Haron). Her prayers were met, so she placed a simple bouquet of lilies on the icon. The lilies withered and remained on the icon. The following year, the lilies blossomed and gave off a fragrance on August 23rd, the anniversary date. Since then, every year on this day, the lilies blossom and give off a fragrance.
This miracle is included in the novel, as well as other interesting descriptions of island life, like vivid scenes of milking a goat in the early morning, and the strong sense of community feeling depicting people caring about each other.
"Lipsi's Daughter" is a Cinderella-style story set in the 1980s, where Ipatia, a 17 year old orphan, lives on Lipsi Island with her grandfather. She leaves for Piraeus with high hopes of obtaining a college education there. In the process, she finds love in the way of a handsome shipowner's son. Tony. Their love blossoms, but obstacles get in the way, and a car accident separates the couple. Ipatia finds herself in Chicago, where she eventually gets her degree. Tony has amnesia from the accident and doesn't remember anything or anyone, including Ipatia. Will they get together again? Read the book!
This sweet romance, which follows a young Greek woman’s journey from
a Greek island to mainland Greece to America, was a delight to read, with plenty of action and suspense. The Greek culture and its intricate variations are cleverly woven into the novel’s tapestry of human relations." - Marilyn Rouvelas, author of the bestseller "A Guide to Greek Traditions and Customs in America"
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Lipsi's Daughter brings forth a fresh voice in an age-old world. The Greek characters spring to life with their hopes, dreams, and fears. Filled with important family values, educational ideals, and an underlying religious foundation, this story is sure to please young and old alike."-Constantine Papadakis, Ph.D., President, Drexel University
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This superbly charactered and richly endowed bitter-sweet romance has all the right messages and morals that will warm the cockles of every Greek mother's heart. This is a story of an independent, strong willed young lady who challenges conventional norms, while maintaining her values. How relevant the message is for these turbulent times!- Joseph C. Keane, Hellenic Cultural Commission, AHEPAN Magazine Jan 2006
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Many letters from satisfied readers who expressed their sincere feelings after reading the book can be seen here "Lipsi's Daughter."
For those of you who like poetry, Patty Apostolides has penned an inspirational poetry book titled “Candlelit Journey: Poetry from the Heart"
The poetry book is a wonderful pick-me-upper book that has nuggets of wisdom laced through each poem. The book is a result of several years of poetry, including poems written for the online yahoo poetry group Ipatiaspoems. It's a great book to give as a gift to a patient in the hospital, or for reading in a doctor's office.
Again, feel free to browse the many interesting sites, including articles written by the author, her poetry, links to Greek sites (Greek names, recipes, news, organizations, authors,.. etc.), and more.
Please bookmark this site before you click on a link below.
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It is good to be informed of the news on the economy, particularly the international scene. We are all interconnected through global partnerships. The news listed below on this site has been solely chosen by the news agency. In the future, I plan to add more news on other topics.
International News
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