Tag: Real Hub of the Universe

Let’s Head On Over to the Real Hub Universe!

The Real Hub of the Universe came about because of a rather specific thought experiment.

I brought together two things I really love — science fiction and historical fiction. And then it got me to thinking. Can a woman fight off an alien if she’s wearing a corset and a long skirt?

The idea coalesced even more when I got a name stuck in my head – Ceilidh O’Malley. An Irish woman of the time, if she came to America, would be in service.

And so, I originally had the opening scene being her washing dishes to try to get a position. After all, NINA (No Irish Need Apply) was still very much in force then.

But washing dishes is not that exciting, let’s face it. I needed a better opening scene.

The Case of the Early Opening Scene

My next thought was of the first day of her landing in America. I hit upon the idea of making it the day of the Centennial. This was not just for patriotic or sentimental reasons.

It was also to get her into this country easily and without worrying about customs or immigration or the like.

But it did not feel early enough.

So, my next thought was to start with a storm at sea. But that idea was scotched because I would have to get her on the boat somehow.

The next idea was for her getting on the boat. And then, naturally, I had to get her to the boat.

But why was she leaving?

This was 1876. Women, particularly younger ones, would not have the wherewithal to travel or even know much beyond their front stoops.

And so, I changed the opening scene again.