BJ Neblett - Author: quotes

Showing posts with label quotes. Show all posts

Wednesday, March 24, 2021

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!

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.

Sunday, February 21, 2021

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

Monday, January 18, 2021

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

Wednesday, December 23, 2020

Year-End Wrap Up, More Quotes, and More by BJ Neblett

Looks like we made it, sort of speak, to the end of another year. And who isn't glad to see this one end? As usual, here is a bit of a wrap-up of what I've been up to while forced to hunker down for the duration.

If nothing else, this forced lockdown has been good for the creative process. Much to my publisher's delight, I finished Planet-Alt-Sete-Nine Book Two: Princess Haylee. It should be hitting bookstores and online sellers in February. I'll keep you posted. Also, I have a good head start on book three, tentatively titled War of the Wizards. Finger's crossed for a late 2021 release. Also, later in the year, look for the paperback release of my New Millennialism contemporary fantasy collection of short stories, Wouldn't It Be Funny If.. to be released. And speaking of which, from now until January 1st, Wouldn't It Be Funny If... is available in all ebook formats for only .99 through Smashwords.

With Covid-19, it would seem that writing is about all I have to report for 2020. But that writing has produced a number of quotes which are already being talked about and gaining in popularity. So below is the yearly addendum to my growing list of popular quotes, a list of my available books, and a list of sites where you can learn more about me than you probably care to know.

Click the links below, and as always, like, link and comment!

Have a great, happy, and safe holiday. C 'ya on the other side!

Peace,

Quotes: (note, Princess Haylee will be released February 2021, and look for War Of The Wizards late 2021)

(On fate)

“Fate does seem to have a way of bringing unlikely things together.”

The Wizard Inhodu from Planet Alt-Sete-Nine: War of the Wizards by BJ Neblett

(On change)

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

The Wizard Illume Planet Alt-Sete-Nine: War of the Wizards by BJ Neblett

(On belief)

“There are more things in nature, then are found in your nightmares.”

The Evil Wizardess Morgan Train from Planet Alt-Sete-Nine: War of the Wizards by BJ Neblett

(On life)

“We are all just players in some grand game, moved about at will, on the whims of those greater than us.”

The Wizard Inhodu from Planet Alt-Sete-Nine: War of the Wizards by BJ Neblett

(On learning)

“The lessons we learn on our own, are those that have the most impact.”

The Wizard Inhodu from Planet Alt-Sete-Nine: War of the Wizards by BJ Neblett

(On being afraid)

“If we have the courage to understand and embrace the darkness, we will find that all things are possible.”

Nyx from Planet Alt-Sete-Nine: War of the Wizards by BJ Neblett

(On life)

“Always start the week with a pair of socks that have no holes.”

BJ Neblett

(On destiny and purpose)

“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 continue. Destiny will win out.”

The Wizard Inhodu from Planet Alt-Sete-Nine: War of the Wizards by BJ Neblett

(On love and feelings)

“Love is the most private of feelings, obvious to everyone but our own selves.”

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

(On life)

“It is the unknown that makes life a mystery. And it is the mystery that moves us towards the unknown.”

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

(On the future and the past)

“The future is a drifting cloud, the past but fading sunlight.”

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

(On war and peace)

“Not all accords are struck in the open, just as not all battles are fought on the field.”

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

(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

Books: (click the title for the link)

Planet Alt-Sete-Nine Book Two: Princess Haylee (to be released 2/2021)

Planet Alt-Sete-Nine Book One: The Lost Princess

Wouldn't It Be Funny If...

Ice Cream Camelot

Elysian Dreams

Beyond The Hedge

Sites: You can also keep up with me on Instagram @ bjneblett

Saturday, November 28, 2020

Books, Books, More Books And Quotes by BJ Neblett

Hello again. I thought I'd give you a bit of diversion from clicking the refresh button on the Black Friday sale of Nintendo Switch while you try and digest your turkey. Oh, I got my Switch with a Mario Kart 8 bundle on Wednesday. It took from 4 PM until 8:30 PM but was worth the effort. Anyway, for those of you who are familiar with the yearly NaNoWriMo, I've been using it as an incentive to get a jump on Book 3 of Planet Alt-Sete-Nine. I finished Book 2 Princess Haylee and it is in the hands of my publisher. He promises a February, 2021 release. Also, my very talented writer buddy KJ McPike put the cap on her Astrilis series and has started a new series and we fell into this friendly competition, as we always seem to do. The goal of NaNoWriMo is to write 50,000 words in the 30 days of November. With two days to go, KJ and I are about neck and neck. Thing is, I'm just writing words, getting chapters fleshed out. KJ, perfectionist that she is, I'm sure is pumping out wonderful first drafts. Come December, when we start exchanging chapters as we do to critique (read: tear apart) each other's work, I'll be getting neat and orderly structure, while she'll be getting my hot mess. Serves her right... KJ's book, Paths Uncertain is the final chapter in the Souls Untethered Saga, and is available everywhere.

By the way, links to all the works sited are within the text as well as below. Just click the highlight!

As release date draws closer, I'll post a short preview of Book two Planet Alt-Sete-Nine: Princess Haylee. And hopefully, down the line I'll post some quick excerpts of Book Three Planet Alt-Sete-Nine: War Of The Wizards here for your enjoyment.

In the mean time, the book of quotes I mention a few posts back has just been released. The Motivational Book Of Poetry And Quotes is published by the good folks at Wingless Dreamer and has some stirring works of poetry and memorable quotes, including two of mine. It is beautifully hard bound and a great addition to book shelves and coffee table tops. Check it out.

Ok, back to writing. Can't let KJ get a head of me. And, since I'm planning on the paperback release of my New Millennialism collection of short stories Wouldn't It Be Funny If... to also be released in 2021, I figure maybe I can give my publisher a heart attack by sending him a third book within one year. Might be good for sales. I can see the headlines now: THE BOOK THAT KILLED A MAN!

Ha! Take care and have a great and safe holidays.

Planet Alt-Sete-Nine

Book 1: The Lost Princess

Book 2: Princess Haylee

The Motivational Book Of Poetry And Quotes

Paths Uncertain by KJ McPike

Tuesday, September 8, 2020

Quotes Publication And Princess Haylee Update by BJ Neblett

Hello again. I hope all are staying well in mind, body and soul during these crazy times. Myself, I'd been hunkered down right here behind my keyboard, which actually is the reason for today's blog.

First off, I have once again been honored by having two of my popular quotes selected for publication. The good folks at Wingless Dreamer are compiling a book of inspirational quotes, which will include two of my favorites. It should be out around October or November, and be available in paperback. Keep checking here for updates on release and where you can score a copy.

I've also been hard at work on Princess Haylee, book two in my Planet Alt-Sete-Nine series. If having to stay at home most of the time has one advantage it's the fact that I've gotten quite a bit accomplished. A couple of more chapters, some intense editing, and then it's off to my publisher. It is looking like a January or February release date, and of course you'll be able to pick up ebook or paperback copies from Amazon or your favorite book seller. Again, check back for up dates.

Finally, I know it has been a rough year for everyone. It really sucked that so many of the comic cons and sci-fi/fantasy conventions had to be canceled. No one is more disappointed than yours truly. As things change and we all are able to get back out to the real world again, you can be sure I'll be back on the road again, signing books and meeting with my fans. If you are in the greater northwest, check your area for an upcoming comic con or book convention in 2021 and I'll see you there. For those who live in other parts of the country, we are working hard on expanding our coverage! If you have a favorite convention you enjoy in your area, drop me an email via the address below and to the right and tell me about it.

Peace,

Saturday, August 1, 2020

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,

(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.”

“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.”