My Books At Powell's Famous Book Store In Portland by BJ Neblett

 My Books At Powell's Famous Book Store In Portland by BJ Neblett

It is true that Covid has taken its toll on the many book and sci-fi/fantasy conventions. I really miss meeting with readers one on one, usually making as many conventions each year as possible. A couple of my favorite stops happen in Portland, Oregon each year. I am never disappointed at the warm and friendly reception my books and I receive. And while visiting the City of Roses, one of my favorite stops is always Powell's Book Store.

While surfing the net recently, I was pleasantly surprised to see a listing for my latest book, Planet Alt-Sete-Nine Book Two: Princess Haylee at none other than Powell's famous shop. For those of you in the Portland area, you can stop in and ask for a copy of Princess Haylee. The rest of us can score copies via Powell's very neat website. Here is the link: Powell's Books, and the direct link to their listing of Planet Alt-Sete-Nine Book Two: Princess Haylee.

If you are lucky enough to be able to stop by the store, be sure to leave plenty of time for browsing. You could literally spend all day wandering through their seemingly endless rows of new, used, and vintage books. And be sure to tell them BJ sent you!

Hopefully, we'll be back at the conventions soon! Keep an eye here for updates!

Peace,

BJ

New Book And An Intro To The Author by BJ Neblett

 New Book And An Intro To The Author by BJ Neblett

I have just finished my final proofing of the final manuscript for my new book Planet Alt-Sete-Nine Book Two: Princess Haylee. Interesting note: in the old days this final stage of publication was called the galleys or proof galleys, a large representation of what the final book will look like, with several

pages appearing on each large sheet. The term also refers to Advance Reading Copies, or ARCs sent out to book sellers, bloggers, and reviewers. Today, of course, it is simply a Word .doc or a .pdf representation of the finished work. Finalization of the book cover should be in a week or two (which is why I don't have a picture of the cover for you yet) and then it is off to the printers and the booksellers. Keep watching here for updates on a release date, but I expect you can look for Planet Alt-Sete-Nine Book Two: Princess Haylee in your favorite book store and on Amazon and other online retailers by April's end.

I was asked an interesting question the other day: Do your blog readers know you? Good question. As you are aware, most all books contain a short author's bio. But how many blogs do? My web page, bjneblett.com naturally includes the usual 'About Me' page. But in a hurry to get their message to their readers, bloggers often omit this step. To remedy the situation, and in response to all of the inquiries over the years, here is my bio, as it appears at the end of the forthcoming Planet Alt-Sete-Nine Book Two: Princess Haylee. Enjoy and don't be shy about commenting or asking questions. My life is an... open book!

A

t an early age, BJ Neblett discovered irony, an irony that seemed to escape those around him. And so, BJ wrote. Trying to make some sense of the world, BJ wrote. Starting with simple compositions in grade school, he quickly moved on to short stories. With Ray Bradbury and the Twilight Zone and Saturday afternoon matinees as his mentors, BJ wrote about space and friendly aliens and not-so-friendly things that go bump in the night. Upon discovering the opposite sex, BJ did what any smitten young man would do, he began to write ironic love stories and poetry, his work appearing in the national anthology, Encounter: An Anthology of Modern Poetry while he was still in high school. Be it poetry or short stories; fantasy or sci-fi; gritty fiction or touching reality, irony and thought-provoking themes soon became the hallmark of BJ’s work.

Following service in the army, BJ fulfilled his childhood dream. Embarking on an exciting and eye-opening odyssey, he built a career across the US as popular radio DJ Billy James. With pen firmly in hand, and a keen eye to the ever-changing world around him, BJ honed his writing skills on radio scripts and commercial copy. During this time, BJ’s stories began finding readers in several magazines and fiction anthologies.

A popular instructor at Seattle’s famed Hugo House for Writers, BJ Neblett has authored numerous speculative fiction fantasy and sci-fi short stories and books including his latest contemporary sci-fi novel, Planet Alt-Sete-Nine, The Lost Princess, a finalist for the prestigious Endeavor Award. With Planet Alt-Sete-Nine, Princess Haylee, BJ continues the exciting saga of Haylee and Jake. His short stories can be found in many of the numerous online and print sci-fi/fantasy magazines. He recently coined the new genre term New Millennialism to describe his own work and what he sees as contemporary writers, "Thrusting cutting edge technology, concepts, and ideas into the very core of classic human situations."

One of BJ’s most popular books, Ice Cream Camelot is a memoir of his growing up in the 1960s, and has been called, “The 50s and 60s version of the Catcher in The Rye.” Most recently, BJ has been honored with two of his most beloved quotes from his writings being included in the compilation book, Magic of Motivational Poetry and Quotes. Presently, BJ is settled into his cozy apartment, busily working on book three of the Planet Alt-Sete-Nine series: War of The Wizards.

When not teaching writing classes, BJ can be found speaking on the writing process at the library; signing books and meeting fans at any of the Northwest's numerous book and Sci-fi/Fantasy Conventions; signing books and hosting readings in local bookstores; on the mound pitching softball or relaxing with his ever-growing collection of records and vintage guitars.

Late 2021 will see the paperback release of Wouldn't It Be Funny If ...his collection of New Millennialism speculative fiction short stories, presently available in all eBook formats. Also, look for Never Let A Vegetarian Pack Your Lunch, BJ’s humorous and touching collection of love story shorts.

Exploring Mars And Its Secretes Revealed by BJ Neblett

 Exploring Mars And Its Secretes Revealed by BJ Neblett

Sojourner, Spirit, Opportunity, Curiosity, and Perseverance. If these names aren't familiar to you, just ask any school kid. They will tell you these are the names of the robotic surveyors running around Mars, sending back images and information on our enigmatic neighbor. Since June of 1976, when Viking 1 touched down on the Chryse Planitia, NASA has been studying millions of images and bits of information returned from the numerous probes, orbiters, and rovers. Some scientists say our knowledge of the red planet (it's the rusty iron in the dry dusty soil combined with the thin atmosphere that gives Mars its color) in many ways now surpasses what we know about our own oceans. And what they are finding is re-writing our knowledge and understanding of the planet and its history.

There is, however, another source of information on Mars that has been available to anyone for a decade. In 2011, I wrote Elysian Dreams, a speculative literary fiction book dealing in part with some of Mars' mysteries. And, it would seem, the more information we glean from our little robotic friends, the more my theories and ideas on Mars' past are being validated. I will stop here, for fear of spoilers. But if you enjoy good science fiction, sci-fi/fantasy based on fact and serious scientific principles, or are just curious about mankind's next stopover in space, pick up a copy of Elysian Dreams. Not only is it an enjoyable read, but my humble little novel is quickly becoming a preview of what is yet to be discovered!

Elysian Dreams is available in paperback and ebook from Amazon and other online sellers, as well as your favorite local bookstore.

Never Fear Never Give Up by BJ Neblett

 Never Fear Never Give Up by BJ Neblett

I have often quipped that "The trouble with writers is they aren't as smart as their characters." Cleaver saying notwithstanding, I have come to believe in my own words. Many of you already know of my writing habits and how I listen to my characters tell their tale. I believe that many great writers produce works in much the same manner. And I am constantly amazed at the wisdom of my characters when I read over what I have just written... or better put, what I have just transcribed. You can read many of these bits of wisdom right here, as from time to time I post some of my character's quotes.

While working on chapter four of Planet Alt-Sete-Nine: War Of The Wizards, the third book in my contemporary speculative fiction series Planet Alt-Sete-Nine, I was privy to some sage advice administered by a pair of wizards. The advice they shared with me has great importance and impact on the world we live in today, a world marked with frustrations at nearly every turn. Yes, there is a light at the end of the long dark tunnel, and we will emerge a bit worse for the wear but better for it. Yet, we sometimes spend so much time concerned about the why, that we often stumble trying to get through the what.

Here we are reminded by the Grand Mage Illume of the greater powers over which we have no control: 

"Change, sired by the unexpected and spawned by chance, remains nature's single greatest mystery, its secrets jealously guarded."

Change is inevitable. Be it good or bad or indifferent; deliberate or accidental or unaccountable, change is the single biggest driving force in our lives. We fight it, but in the end, we must surrender to its capricious whims.

But fear not. There is a grand purpose to the universe. And though we may wander at times, we are all on the proper track. In the words of the Great Wizard Inhodu: 

"Our destinies were set in the heavens long before the suns and stars were born. You must remember that everything has its purpose, and everything happens for a reason. I am here for a reason. As are you, and you and you. Each person’s purpose is as different as the individual pursuing it. Yet they all point to a single grand reason. Every occurrence is a link in a chain of events, constantly moving towards the grand purpose. It is a purpose much greater than any of us.  Sometimes an occurrence causes a break in the chain. You may alter your future, choose a different path. But your destiny is set and cannot be changed. It is the nature of things to right themselves and to continue. Destiny will win out.”

So fear not my friend. Choose your future and keep your eye on your destiny. You are on the right path, though it may not seem so at times. Never fear and never give up. We will all get through this together.

Peace

BJ

New Book, New Book Update And A Thank You by BJ Neblett

New Book, New Book Update And A Thank You by BJ Neblett

Well, this year probably isn't starting out exactly like we had hoped. But never fear. I believe it will get a lot better fast. But if you are having trouble believing that, there is a new book out from my friends at Wingless Dreamer that should help.

The Magic Of Motivational Poetry And Quotes as the title suggests isn't just for lovers of poetry. Inside the covers of this beautifully bound volume, you will find some of the most inspirational quotes by some of today's best writers. Use it for daily inspiration, keep it on the nightstand for quiet time comfort before bed, or just curl up with it for company on those rainy days. Along with great quotes, including a couple of my most popular, you'll find wonderful poetry for strength, comfort, inspiration, and food for thought. Click the link above to order yours or for more information. The Magic Of Motivational Poetry And Quotes is also available through Amazon.

Speaking of new books, Planet Alt-Sete-Nine Book Two: Princess Haylee is still on track for a late February early March release. This is the follow up to my popular dimension bending take on video gaming, alternate universe, and otherworldly New Millennialism contemporary fantasy Planet Alt-Sete-Nine: The Lost Princess. Check my January 9, 2021 blog post for a look at the cover and a sneak preview. Both books, along with all of my books are available through Amazon as well as your favorite bookseller. And keep checking back here just after release to purchase a signed copy of Planet Alt-Sete-Nine Book Two: Princess Haylee along with signed copies of my other books!

What you are looking at are some incredible numbers for a humble little blog site, namely this one! For me to be able to score these kinds of numbers among the literally millions and millions of blogs out there in the ether is due to one simple factor: You, my wonderful, loyal readers. And I humbly thank you! Thanks for your continued support. And as always, be sure to like, link and comment.

Till next time, 

Peace

BJ

Who Said That Redux by BJ Neblett

Who Said That Redux by BJ Neblett

This post is way overdue. Years ago, answering many requests, I posted a list of what had become the most popular quotes, from my books, stories, poems, and musings. That post quickly became, and remains one of my most popular blogs. Thank you!

Since that time I have had two more books, with two more on the way soon, and several short stories published. And as always, am often asked by readers where a certain line they saw or hear originated. So, here you are, better late than never I guess. Enjoy and feel free to share... with the proper attribution of course!

Thanks!

Peace,

BJ

(On theory)

“Sometimes you need to change the equation to fit the conclusion.”

                        From Planet Alt-Sete-Nine: Princess Haylee by BJ Neblett

 

(On memories)

“Do not deny your memories and they will come about on their own, as you need them.”

                        The Oracle Lekly from Planet Alt-Sete-Nine: Princess Haylee by BJ Neblett

 

(On education and learning)

“Sometimes we are not fully prepared for the lessons we learn or the answers we so eagerly seek.”

                        Princess Haylee from Planet Alt-Sete-Nine: Princess Haylee by BJ Neblett

 

(On history)

“When all of our history is removed, there will be no history from which to learn.”

                        Wizard Inhodu from Planet Alt-Sete-Nine: Princess Haylee by BJ Neblett

(On writers)

“The trouble with writers is they aren’t as smart as their characters.”

                        BJ Neblett

 

(On confidence)

“Women always say they want a man who is confident. Confidence isn’t knowing what you want for the rest of your life. Confidence is knowing what you want for lunch.”

                        BJ Neblett

 

(About time travel and man’s dreams)

“Man is a malcontent; a disaffected sojourner, seeking Elysium. Someday, when we can freely move in time, through space, even into the other dimensions, I’m afraid we will be disappointed. Like Alice, man, too, will discover life isn’t any better – or worse – through the looking glass, only different.”

                        Collin Crowly from Elysian Dreams by BJ Neblett (12-2011)

 

“The things we keep hidden deepest inside are often those that need most to be released.”

                        Princess Haylee from Princess Haylee by BJ Neblett (9-2016)

 

“I am just a roadside attraction on your journey down life’s highway, a place you stop briefly before moving on. Years from now, in a long-forgotten box of memories, you’ll come across one of my souvenirs and think of me. And maybe you’ll smile.”

                        BJ Neblett (8-2016)

 

“Every journey must proceed at its own pace, each step following the other in its proper order. For that is the way of life.”

                        Planet Alt-Sete-Nine by BJ Neblett (7-2016)

 

“It’s not what you see, but what you believe. It’s not what you fear, but what you trust. It’s not what you love, but the love you give.”

                        Princess Haylee from Princess Haylee by BJ Neblett (7-2016)

 

“It’s not what is said, it’s how it is spoken; it’s not what you write, it’s how it is written; it’s not what’s implied, it’s what’s inferred.”

                        BJ Neblett (from the essay Flash Fiction 12-2015)

 

“You’ve got to have ice cream to write good romance.”

                        BJ Neblett

 

“The half empty container of warm beer in my hand was the perfect metaphor for our relationship.”

                        From Beer And Broken Dreams (short story in Never Let A Vegetarian Pack Your                                     Lunch And Other Lover Stories) by BJ Neblett

 

“Some of my best writing has come at the hands of heartache and frustration. Being totally crazy about someone you cannot have is great food for inspiration.”

                        From Beer And Broken Dreams (short story in Never Let A Vegetarian Pack Your                                     Lunch And Other Lover Stories) by BJ Neblett

 

“The two greatest assets we are afforded in life are observation and experience. Observation is knowledge, the building blocks of understanding. Experience is power, the sturdy foundation on which we build our lives.”

                        From the essay “To The Class Of 2020” by BJ Neblett © 2020

 

“The two greatest assets a writer can have are an unbridled imagination and to have lived an unabashed life.”

                        From All The Wrong Places (short story in Never Let A Vegetarian Pack Your                                           Lunch And Other Lover Stories) by BJ Neblett

 

“Where exactly lays that fine line between hopeless romantic and helpless fool?”

                        From Beer And Broken Dreams (short story in Never Let A Vegetarian Pack Your                                     Lunch And Other Lover Stories) by BJ Neblett

 

“Fantasies… who needs fantasies? I have memories.”

                        From No Boundaries (short story in Never Let A Vegetarian Pack Your                                                      Lunch And Other Lover Stories) by BJ Neblett

 

“Love knows no boundaries, seeks no guidance; obeys no rules.”

                        From No Boundaries (short story in Never Let A Vegetarian Pack Your                                                      Lunch And Other Lover Stories) by BJ Neblett

 

“Nothing is as wonderful and wondering as love’s first awakenings.”

                        From No Boundaries (short story in Never Let A Vegetarian Pack Your                                                      Lunch And Other Lover Stories) by BJ Neblett

 

“There are as many things to love about someone as there are some ones to love.”

                        From No Boundaries (short story in Never Let A Vegetarian Pack Your                                                      Lunch And Other Lover Stories) by BJ Neblett

 

“Can anyone ever really know another?”

                        From No Boundaries (short story in Never Let A Vegetarian Pack Your                                                      Lunch And Other Lover Stories) by BJ Neblett

 

“We’re all victims of our rearing, carrying the sins of our fathers like so much baggage; fearful of the demons inside escaping.”

                        From No Boundaries (short story in Never Let A Vegetarian Pack Your                                                      Lunch And Other Lover Stories) by BJ Neblett

 

“Never having done something is the best reason to be doing it.”

                        From No Boundaries (short story in Never Let A Vegetarian Pack Your                                                      Lunch And Other Lover Stories) by BJ Neblett

 

“Summer is for lovers, dreamers and fools.”

                        From No Boundaries (short story in Never Let A Vegetarian Pack Your                                                      Lunch And Other Lover Stories) by BJ Neblett

 

“Memories are reality’s ghosts”

                        From Three Of A Kind (short story in Never Let A Vegetarian Pack Your                                                    Lunch And Other Lover Stories) by BJ Neblett

 

Goldfish
by BJ Neblett
© 2013

Let me be your goldfish…

         Goldfish are fun;
         They keep you company;
         Goldfish are entertaining;
         They can be educational;
         Goldfish are loyal;
         They are always there for you;
         Goldfish are good listeners;
         They don’t interrupt;
         Goldfish are low maintenance;
         They don’t ask for much;
         Goldfish are giving;
         They never question;
         Goldfish are loving;
         They don’t nag;
         Goldfish are sensible;
         They never complain;
         Goldfish don’t judge;
         They never criticize;
         
And best of all:
         Long before you tire of him he dies.

Let me be your goldfish!

 

“Love doesn’t ask much… simple things, like a gentle touch.”

                        BJ Neblett

 

“…As tender as a kiss

My empty arms enfold you,

And as strong as a tear

My empty heart longs for you…”

                        From: Mi Amor Es Tuyo by BJ Neblett

 

“See with your mind, speak with your heart, touch with your eyes, and love with your entire being.”

                        From: Elysian Dreams by BJ Neblett

 

“Yesterday’s faults become today’s lessons. Today’s dreams become tomorrow’s reality.” (photo quote)

                        BJ Neblett

                        http://www.flickr.com/photos/david_baer/8430711101/

 

“Loving you is like walking between rain drops.”

                        From Never Let A Vegetarian Pack Your Lunch (short story in Never Let A                                                Vegetarian Pack Your Lunch And Other Lover Stories) by BJ Neblett

 

“Where does one run to escape from feelings?”

                        From Rain (short story in Never Let A Vegetarian Pack Your                                                                       Lunch And Other Lover Stories) by BJ Neblett

 

“Remembering the past is one thing; living in it is another. If you don’t enjoy today, you won’t have any memories of it tomorrow.”

                        From Static (short story from Wouldn’t It Be Funny If…) by BJ Neblett

 

            “We are the sum total of our experiences. Those experiences – be they positive or negative – make us the person we are, at any given point in our lives. And, like a flowing river, those same experiences, and those yet to come, continue to influence and reshape the person we are, and the person we become. None of us are the same as we were yesterday, nor will be tomorrow.”

                        From George (short story in Never Let A Vegetarian Pack Your Lunch And Other                                     Lover   Stories) by BJ Neblett

                                http://southwestdesertlover.wordpress.com/category/fine-art-photograph-2/page/2/

 

“Providence has its price.”

                        From The Man Who Wouldn’t Die (short story from Wouldn’t It Be Funny If…)

                        by BJ Neblett

 

“I’ve been told I am a great catch. Trouble is I keep getting thrown back.”

                        BJ Neblett

 

“All the women of the world have two things in common: one, they are beautiful… all women are beautiful. Two, none of them want to have anything to do with me.”

                        BJ Neblett

 

 Learn from the past 

 Live for the present

 Look to the future.

                          BJ Neblett

 

“Education is what happens as you learn to live life.”

                        BJ Neblett

Elysian Dreams Novel by BJ Neblett available in paperback and ebook

Ice Cream Camelot Novel by BJ Neblett available in paperback and ebook

Planet Alt-Sete-Nine The Lost Princess Novel by BJ Neblett available in paperback and ebook

Planet Alt-Sete-Nine Princess Haylee Novel by BJ Neblett available January 2021

Wouldn't It Be Funny If... Short story collection available in ebook. Paperback available January 2021

Never Let A Vegetarian Pack Your Lunch And Other Love Stories Short story collection available 2021

BJ's Library (So Far) by BJ Neblett

BJ's Library (So Far) by BJ Neblett

While we are all hunkering down like good little soldiers, waiting for the inevitable (don't ask, despite by last post I try not to get political here) many of us have re-discovered the joy of reading. Some of you have even held a real book for the first time in a very long time... or maybe even the first time! Good for you! Proof once again that positive things can come from even the.... never mind.
Anyway, I've been busy working on book two of my Planet Alt-Sete-Nine series. Hopefully Planet Alt-Sete-Nine: Princess Haylee will be on the shelves early 2021, and you'll be able to actually go to the book store (remember those?) without fear of being harassed the Mask Police.
So here it is, my irregularly published list of all of my current publications. Click on the titles for a quick link to purchase!
Peace,
BJ

Planet Alt-Sete-Nine: The Lost Princess is my latest offering. Ever wonder while playing a video game what it would be like to live in that game? Nope, this ain't no Tron clone. There are plenty of creatures, weapons, aliens, humans, lovers, fighters, saboteurs, and plot twists to keep you coming back for more. And luck for you, more is on the way via Book Two: Princess Haylee. If you enjoy video games, action adventures, sci-fi/fantasy, creatures, beautiful sexy heroins (who doesn't?) and good old fashion who-done-its, this one is for you.
Click the title above for a link to purchase.
Click here for more info: Planet Alt-Sete-Nine Web Page

Elysian Dreams is one of my earlier works and was received with praise and accolades (always wanted to receive praise and accolades, problem is they are intangible commodities) As the sub-title suggest, Dreams takes the read on a wild time traveling trip, ricocheting between 1929 and 1989 as three disparate people's lives continue to intersect as each searches their dreams while seeking their destiny. Literary fiction at its sci-fi/fantasy best. I promise you won't see the plot twists coming!
Click the title above for a link to purchase.
Click here for more info on this and all my books: BJ Neblett Web Page

Wouldn't It Be Funny If... Enjoy short stories? Who doesn't? Enjoy short stories that make you go, "Hummm...?" This compilation is for you. After writing these gems my publisher asked, "What genre is this?" Good question. So I coined the term New Millenalism to describe these and other great new stories with tech at its core. Kinda of a Twilight Zone for the 21st century.
Right now Wouldn't It Be Funny If... is available in all popular ebook formats including PDF and plain text. Look for a paperback edition coming in 2021.
Click the title above for a link to purchase. (Tip: it's on sale for just a buck, $1 until the end of July!)
Click here for more info on all my books: BJ Neblett Web Page

Beyond The Hedge As if all of the other quality stories from great new authors was enough reason to pick up this gem, it also contains one of my favorite and most popular short stories, Rain at The Intersection Of Tomorrow. Within lies some fantastic contemporary sci-fi and fantasy tales.
Check on line and local bookstores to secure your copy.
If you have trouble finding a copy of Beyond The Hedge, drop me a line. I have some tucked away for conventions and book signings. I might just sign a copy for you!
Click here for more info on all my books: BJ Neblett Web Page

Something a little different, Ice Cream Camelot is a memoir... my own memoir of growing up in early 60's Philadelphia. But be warned! This isn't the Wonder Years and I wasn't your typical suburban transplant. Come to think of it, my family wasn't your typical suburbanite family either. You'll laugh, you'll cry, you'll wonder how I ever made it adulthood. Sometimes I wonder myself.
"A fun read. The 60's version of The Catcher In The Rye."
                       Review of Ice Cream Camelot
Click the title above for a link to purchase.
Click here for more info on all my books: BJ Neblett Web Page



Ok, there you have it, my books so far (at least the ones I admit to publicly). JK! If you do a quick search on the internet you'll find many more of my short stories sprinkled about among on line and paper publications including: Creative Nonfiction Magazine, eFiction and Romance Magazine.
Also, Summer 2021 is a target date for the release of my collection of romance stories, Never Let A Vegetarian Pack Your Lunch And Other Love Stories. You won't want to miss this one!

Til next time, keep reading and keep thinking for yourself. You'll be surprised what you find!
Peace,
BJ

Bobble BJ In Miniature by BJ Neblett

Bobble BJ In Miniature by BJ Neblett

This is going to be short and to the point. Last time I made a passing reference to my 'bobble head'. This simple, off the wall mention sparked a host of email requests ranging from, "What bobble head," to "Let's see the bobble head," to "What are you talking about?" Well, one of my ambitions in life has always been to have my own bobble head image. I know, my goals are sad... anyway... A couple of Christmases ago, a girlfriend of mine fulfilled my desire with a very cool and unexpected gift. Then, about a month ago, as my alter ego sat nodding up at my from my desk, I realized that he represents only one part of my complex life. So, calling on my modeling and origami skills, with help from a couple of computer programs, I fashioned perfectly scaled copies of my published novels. (I'm still working on Beyond The Hedge and Wouldn't It Be Funny If...) Make sure you get your full size copies of Planet Alt-Sete-Nine, Elysian Dreams, and Ice Cream Camelot from your favorite book seller or Amazon! (I know, shameless self promotion).
Anyway, for all of you who requested, and the rest of you who probably are wondering, "Why the heck am I reading this?" here he is! Drum roll please!

Now I'm wanting one of these guys of me in my softball attire!

Peace,

BJ

More Neat Stuff by BJ Neblett

More Neat Stuff by BJ Neblett

Last time I answered several requests that I had received to show a few of the guitars you see in some of my photos. While my collection is cool, space and budget limitations tend to dictate what I can and can't collect. If you saw my apartment you'd understand. And while I'm a sucker for a vintage photo, poster or autographed album or book, I don't think I could find a bare spot left on my walls hang a tiny 5x7 postcard. That being said, yes I'm still collecting. And for those who also have space and monetary considerations, here are a few neat items that take up much less real estate.

   

                           

Guitar pick guards are a less expensive and very cool way to collect and display your rock memorabilia. They can be framed separate or in a collage, or just hung as is, which is how I like to show them off. Here we have autographed pick guards from surf guitarist great Dick Dale (top left) whom I met at a local club several years ago. I've since removed the guard from the cheap Strat knock-off. Dion (top right) the early doo-wop singer I worked with many times back in the day. All four of the original Ventures (bottom left) the PNW band that made instrumentals cool in the 60s, including the theme from Hawaii Five-O. Again, removed from the Telecaster. And the crazy scribbling of Frankie Valli (bottom right) of Four Seasons fame. I also have a very cool and unusual Les Paul pick guard signed by both Eric Clapton and Les Paul!
Signed artists book bios in my collection include: Johnny Cash, the Drifters, Carole King, Darlene Love, Scotty Moore, and a few others. From guitar picks to guitars, pictures to posters, rock memorabilia makes for fun collecting and great wall art. Next time maybe we'll check out some of my vintage posters and signed records. But right now I've got to get back to writing. I promised my publisher Planet-Alt-Sete-Nine Princess Haylee by the end of the year. Look for it and the paperback edition of my collection of New Millennialism short stories, Wouldn't It Be Funny It... (available now as an ebook) around Christmas time or so.
Peace,
BJ

Riddle Answered And A Peek Inside Princess Haylee: Planet Alt-Sete-Nine Book Two by BJ Neblett

Ok, I planned to let you ponder a bit longer, but my email box is flooded and I'm afraid the good folks at gmail might shut me down. Thank you for all the replies and answers. A couple of you actually got it right...I assume it is because you too have found true love!
So here is the answer to the riddle, taken directly from my writing notes for my next book, Princess Haylee: Planet Alt-Sete-Nine Book Two. I am presently looking at a late fall 2020 publishing date.
Peace,
BJ

copyright 2020, BJ Neblett

Crossing the Royal Forest, Cailey, Haylee and Azami come to a river. The bridge is guarded by an ogre. He says they must answer a riddle to gain the right to pass.

But Cailey challenges him and they fight with swords. After a fierce fight, she has bested him and holds him on his back at sword point.

Suddenly Haylee steps forward. “By the blessed bones of old King Rhamen I command you to stop! Put your weapon away!”

“And who are you to dare call upon the name of good King Rhamen?” the ogre calls out.

“I am his daughter, Princess Haylee.”

“If you truly are the lost Princess then answer me this: When we sleep we have dreams but know not of reality. When we awaken we have reality but know not of dreams. When is it then that we have both?”

“Enough of this foolishness, my Lady; permit me to run him through that we may continue our journey and this passage be open to all.”

“No.” Haylee thinks for a moment. Images of her and Jake together fill the Princess’ mind as tears fill her eyes. She remembers… and she understands. “I have been asleep,” she answers. “And I have been awake. But only when we are in love can we know both the dreams and the reality.”

Just then a beam of sunlight shines down from Amber. It touches the ogre, surrounding him with a golden aura. It grows brighter, causing the others to turn away. A moment later it is gone and the ogre had been transformed into a young warrior.

Princess Haylee Update And A Riddle by BJ Neblett

Hope all are well and coping with the craziness all around. Hold up here I've finished up editing author KJ McPike's latest YA novel, Paths Uncertain which should be out later this year. Now it's back to writing for me, and work on Princess Haylee, the second of my Planet Alt-Sete-Nine series. Princess Haylee should hit the stores in paperback and ebook sometime later this year as well. Stop by some of the numerous sci-fi/fantasy comic cons and book shows and you might just score autographed copies of both books! Till then, stay well, and I leave you with a riddle from the Princess herself. See if you can figure it out. I'll post the answer here in a few days, but don't be afraid to venture an answer in the comment section below!
Peace,
BJ

“When we sleep, we have dreams but know not of reality.

When we awaken, we have reality but know not of dreams.

When is it then that we have both?”

BJ Neblett from Princess Haylee © 2020

2020 Conventions And Appearances by BJ Neblett

2020 Conventions And Appearances by BJ Neblett

As you probably already know, many of the major book, sci-fi/fantasy, comic and other conventions for the year have been canceled. These unfortunately include Emerald City, Norwest Con and Medford City. The fate of other popular conventions remains undecided as of this posting. Keep watch of your favorite conventions on their home page web sites, and I will continue to post updates and future appearances right here as they become available. Hopefully things will be back to normal soon, and we'll all be able to get back to celebrating the fantastic in all of us. In the meantime, I'll be here writing, with new books and adventures the next time we meet.

Peace,
BJ

New Short Story Published And $1 Sale by BJ Neblett

New Short Story Published And $1 Sale by BJ Neblett

Just a couple of quick notes to keep you up to date. First, my short non-fiction piece, The Most Dangerous Pitch has been published in this month's issue of The Write Launch Magazine. This is a free on line literary magazine with lots of great stories and poetry. Click the link and scroll down to the Creative Non-Fiction section to read my account of taking a very hard line drive to my face. Ouch! Click here: The Write Launch Magazine. Enjoy!

Also, don't forget, you have only until midnight Saturday to take advantage of Smashwords' annual Read An Ebook Week Sale. There are bargains on thousands of great reads, some even free! Here you will find my own New Millennialism short story collection Wouldn't It Be Funny If... for just $1! All of the titles are available in any ebook format including PDF and Plain Text. Click the links and search BJ Neblett to see all of my available titles. But hurry. The Smashwords Read An Ebook Sale ends Saturday, March 7, at midnight. Click here: Smashwords

Peace,
BJ