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This year for the Blogging from A to Z Challenge, I’m writing about the 1800s in celebration of Nellie Bly and Elizabeth Bisland’s race around the world in 1889, the subject of my new novel based on this adventure: Liz and Nellie.

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nellie 1890When Nellie Bly and Elizabeth Bisland raced around the world in 1889, they began in November, right when it was turning wet and cold in New York City. They would begin and end the trip braving winter storms on sea and snowstorms on land. In between, they would enjoy a nice tropical vacation sailing through the Indian Ocean. To stay warm in the winter climates, Nellie bought her famous black and white checked Ulster coat. An Ulster is simply an overcoat  popular in Victorian times. It was an every-day coat made of durable material.