Jessica Michelle Johansson

The Gilded Staircase Jessica Michelle Johansson

The depression of the 1860s was harsh, unforgiving and cruel. Anna's family, like so many others, had fallen on hard times. Despite being a woman, she plied her trade as a violinist. One day, after rebuking her employer's unwanted advances, she is fired; maliciously ostracized and unable to find work. Her disabled Father can do little to help. Eventually, the entire family is evicted, but they find refuge in a homeless community near the river. When the despair and starvation reach a breaking point, Anna is hired by a wealthy household. She is instructed to play uplifting music for a mentally and emotionally damaged young war veteran; who never leaves his shadowy enclosure. Despite being a recluse, he is also the heir to one of the largest fortunes in New York City. As he slowly begins to heal, they grow close; eventually falling in love. The couple attempts to keep their relationship a secret, but their affections cannot be hidden. Will Anna and Thomas be torn apart by the hierarchy that lies between them; or can their love transcend the barriers of social class?