Daddy's Christmas Angel

Monday, October 4, 2010

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.

9 comments:

KK Brees said...

"What if?"is the first question a writer asks. Loved the post and glad to be a follower.

Notes Along the Way with Mary Montague Sikes said...

Thanks, KK! Happy to have you!

Enid Wilson said...

The plot sounds intriguing. I'm looking for more.

My Darcy Mutates…

Anonymous said...

Hi Monti,

Nice to meet you! I love all the story questions you raise!

Annabelle Ambrosio said...

Sounds like a very good story. I'll look into that one soon.

Notes Along the Way with Mary Montague Sikes said...

Thanks, Enid, Liz, and Anne for your comments and for visiting my blog!

Enid Wilson said...

You're welcome, Monti. I've messed up with my book link in the comment. Now it's fixed. Looking forward to seeing more of your blog post.

My Darcy Mutates

cncbooks said...

Monti, have you ever seen the Jefferson decorated for Christmas? Fairyland!

Lelia

Notes Along the Way with Mary Montague Sikes said...

Yes, Lelia, I have seen it decorated for Christmas, and it's really lovely!