Jefferson Hotel Staircase Makes Dramatic Statement

 Anyone who has ever seen the staircase at the Jefferson Hotel in Richmond, Virginia knows it makes a dramatic statement. For a long time, many people believed it was the staircase where a segment from Gone with the Wind was filmed. It wasn't, but that staircase was modeled after the one at the Jefferson.

Ever since I was a child visiting the Jefferson with my parents, I've been fascinated by that long, wide staircase. It's such an amazing attraction that it eventually became part of the storyline in my new book, Dangerous Hearts. Here are some of my thoughts as the story developed:

What if a pretty young woman in the early 1900s meets a charming young prince while visiting the Jefferson? 

What if he is forbidden to marry her but gives her a gorgeous diamond and emerald necklace as a symbol of their forever love?

What if my heroine inherits the priceless necklace that once belonged to a European royal family?

Suppose two murders are committed that may be connected to a quest for the necklace.

Suppose my heroine is the intended victim in the latest murder.

Suppose she is on the run and fears for her life.

Suppose the man she is depending on is after the necklace as well.

 

Who can she trust?

These thoughts eventually grew into the plot of my mystery/suspense novella.

And my story is linked to the awesome staircase at the Jefferson.