Joel Gross

Maura's Dream Joel Gross

She hungered and hoped, sinned and struggled, until she found her way. Maura O'Connell, young, lovely, innocent, an Irish immigrant left widowed in turn-of-the-century New York, was forced to battle for happiness against fearful odds. This is her story of the men she gave herself to in her desperate search, first for survival, then for fulfillment of her courageous break for freedom from crushing sexual bondage and brutal working conditions. This powerful novel is a vivid recreation of a time when a woman could become easy prey to men's desires and a slave of a factory system that ruthlessly exploited not only immigrant labor but especially famale labor. Maura's Story is a poignant portrayal of one woman's unbreakable courage and unshakable determination-it will make you weep, make you cheer, and bring hope to your heart Maura's Dream". A story of extraordinary courage and magnificent dignity, the ultimate victory of self-worth told by a writer of rare talent". -Cynthia Freeman