The Gilded Staircase

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?