Meet Rapheus Giannopoulos, billionaire real estate developer
How do you feel about your story finally being told?
Well, I’ve always been a public figure, but I was hesitant because there were just too many nuances about my family history that I would have preferred remained buried in a cave. But, once I rolled back the first layer of secrets, I knew I had to go the distance.
Did you ever consider ignoring your grandfather’s dying wishes?
No, my pappoús was like a father to me since I was six and lost my father. I loved him dearly and would do anything for him. I would have climbed a mountain barefoot if he’d asked me to.
What was the most difficult part of your journey to HEA?
Facing my demons—the ones that developed when I was a child and had only grown stronger as I grew into a man. As I got to know Xio, so many emotions that I had buried years and years ago came bubbling to the surface, and I was forced to decide what I really did or didn’t want out of life.
What attracts you the most about Xiomara?
Her passion. She was full of it the moment I met her and it has only intensified as I get to know her better. She’s passionate about everything—making Jewel Beach a success and restoring it to its former glory, taking care of her younger siblings, being there for her mother and great-grandmother. She’s a very independent and driven woman, and she doesn’t take crap from anyone, least of all me.
Did there ever come a time when you felt like giving up and going home?
Not really. Within the first few hours after I landed in Akilina, I learned so much about my grandparents. But there were still too many unanswered questions––things that left a sour taste in my mouth. I knew I couldn’t leave without learning the truth about us––about them. There was too much at stake. I couldn’t go back to San Francisco with the mystery and the secrets hanging over my head. I couldn’t go on with my life without knowing the truth about my family’s past.
Now that you’ve been given a tour of Akilina, will you take Xiomara to Santorini?
Of course! I’d love to show her where I was born and lived for the first six years of my life. Santorini may not have as unique a history as Akilina, but there is still magic on my island. Although, anywhere with her is pure magic…
Read Xio’s interview, and their journey to happily-ever-after in Seduced by Passion
Sounds like his journey is one of self-discovery. Will it change him? I enjoyed the interview and would love to learn more. Thanks for sharing.
Yes, the journey does change Raph in more ways than he could have anticipated. The book is now on pre-order for .99cents. The price will go up after release, so if you really want to learn more about Raph and Xio, get it now at https://anaeross.com/seduced-by-passion/ Thanks again.
It sounds like he goes through a powerful journey in his story.
He does, and what he learns changes him 380 degrees. He sees the world differently and takes nothing for granted at the end of the book.
What a wonderful name, Ana! He sounds like a complex and believable character.
Thank you, Lisabet! Yes, Raph definitely is complex.