Book Review: False Justice

Tilly Rivers
Entertainment & Lifestyle Editor: Immediate Release Media
“The World of Books”
http://immediatereleasemedia.blogspot.com/
http://entertainmementbytillyrivers.blogspot.com/


Monday, July 28, 2008

Review: Book; False Justice
Author: Mack Beasley
ISBN: 9781604744354
Publish America, Baltimore
$9.00
Pages: 146

Review Rating: 0 Stars

Every author, even if they do not realize it, creates a footprint- an archive in which they will be remembered, loved and yes, even hated.

I began reading “False Justice” by Mack Beasley, and like a trooper, I really wanted to look past the bad editing, run-on sentences, and try and keep up with the stories jumpy plot. There has to be a good story in here- even if the writing was horrible, maybe just maybe the story line was good.

Let me lay the theme of the story- the main character, Mike Blackman was a bad guy- trying to make a new start, he found God in prison and wanted to make amends for some of his past sins by helping his cell mate for ten plus years. (I can not give an exact number because the time changed at least twice within the first twenty pages.)

His cell mate was accused of killing someone that he says he didn’t do. And Mike was going to set out to prove, at the cost of maybe going back to prison himself- that he was innocent. The story jumps continuously, there is absolutely no flow of facts or time lines. Still, I really wanted to have something positive to say, maybe with some rewrites this could be great.

Mack Beasley the author and Mike Blackman the main character have some pretty coincidental parallels- Mike was a former alcoholic-so is Mack- Mike is in his sixties- so is Mack- Mike is a Christian- so is Mack- Mike lives in the South- Mack is from Alabama, and now lives in Georgia.

And than it happened, on page 23- these words were written,; “I get a cab and give the driver Sue Wilson’s address, I think he can understand English, but I’m not sure. We sure got a mix of people even in the south these days.” My throat filled with bile and horror- did I read that right? The book was about a “Christian” in whom has found God, wanted to make amends for his past sins, was willing to risk his own life, possibly go back to prison, all for the sake of redemption- I guess “racism” isn’t a sin according to his God? However I have very different believes- and with a quick snap of the book could no longer read another word.

Do I recommend this? No- in the Christian theme in which it was written, the sentence above left me disillusioned, and angry.- Did I finish the book? No. Will I? No again. Sorry Mack, I have no tolerance for racism.

Tilly

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Tilly Rivers is a best selling celebrity author, radio host for “Features” and Entertainment & Lifestyle Editor for IRM Magazine.
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Up Coming Interview with Chef Alain Irvine

I am featuring some top Ontario Chefs in the August/September/October issues of the IRM Ezine, (one chef per week for 8 to 10 weeks)-


Week One: Friday August 1 2008. Interview with Chef Alain Irvine

Born in Scotland, Irvine apprenticed at the Chewten Glen Hotel, the three-time recipient of the Best Small Hotel In The World Award and at the Royal Bath Hotel, both situated in Northern England. In 1976, his passion for travel and food brought him to Canada where he took up the Sous Chef position at the renowned Jasper Park Lodge in Alberta.

After completing his first Executive Chef position with Delta Hotels (Toronto/Ottawa) in 1981, Alain further expanded his knowledge of international cuisine by accepting chef positions in Jamaica (Wyndham Rose Hall) and Bermuda (Elbow Beach Resort)

Returning to Canada in 1989, Alain accepted the position of Restaurant Chef at Truffles, the exclusive restaurant at the Four Seasons Toronto in Yorkville. In 1990, he transferred with Four Seasons to their resort property, Minaki Lodge, in Northern Ontario. In the spring of 2004, Alain joined the Taboo team from the Rimrock Resort in Banff National Park to become the Executive Chef.

Since Taboo Alain has opened his own restaurant, North Restaurant and Lounge as well as a Retail, Wholesale and Catering company with his wife and sons, Irvine & Sons Fine Foods. Alain’s passion for food and his love of cooking have given his business discerning clientele, a dining experience that truly embodies the best of Canadian and international cuisine.

Irvine & Sons Fine Foods specializes in small to medium size functions. From rehearsal parties to anniversaries and intimate dinner parties, let Irvine & Sons Fine Foods create a menu for you that is personalized. See below for sample menus, or call us to talk about designing a meal for your special function.Let us cater your special function, and we will deliver unforgettable food with outstanding service.

The Power of the Lone Voice

Word of Mouth Marketing
By Tilly Rivers
Sometimes you can get lucky and someone of major influence will love your book so much that they tell the world about it, sometimes it is only one person who knows a lot of people, but most of the time, word of mouth marketing starts with your closest associates, friends and family.

Examples of luck are the bookseller in San Francisco who practically hand-sold over a thousand copies of one of the books there because she loved it so much. How did this happen? Because the author took the time to get to know the customer service people at the registers- the woman loved the book- and loved the author- so to recommend it to buyers who came in store was no hardship- her passion was genuine. She was not the store owner, nor did she have an influence over the buying or commission process, but she did have a major influence where it counted- the general public!

One woman was so passionate about the environment she purchased the book "50 Simple Ways to Save the Earth", for everyone in her community- all thirty thousand of them.

Ultimately however, there is only one person who is responsible for the success or failure of your book, and that person is you. By targeting your promotions, being consistent, building a network, and doing something everyday to promote yourself, you will achieve success.

The problem most authors have is patience- they want international attention- and they want it now. Realistically, unless you land a spot of Oprah, that will not happen. It will take time.
When you are networking it is not good enough to place a thousand plus names in a database – this is not networking, it is record keeping!

Your friends, your family, your community, your close associates are your level one contacts that will help you build word-of mouth sales and awareness. This is your core network. Ask them for help. Create & print flyers, postcards, or bookmarks and give a stack to each of them- simply say- “hey would you mind keeping these in your car, if someone asks about my book- you could pass them along.”

Next, build relationships, don’t put a name in a database and think they would be a good contact- and than never contact them! Remember- no one wants to be ‘sold’ to- like the used car salesman in the corner lot- you know the place- the one you avoid at all costs!-

Pressure should never be applied, the power of one voice, your voice, spoken with passionate awe and conviction will lead the way, and maybe, just maybe you too will find that one person in whom will tip the scales in your favor and become your greatest advocate.

Posted at: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/promoteyourwriting/

Restaurant Review: The Olive Press. Oakville Ontario

Tilly Rivers
Food Critic: Immediate Release Media Magazine / E-Zine
“For Immediate Release”
Ezine Posting: http://immediatereleasemedia.blogspot.com/
Contact: for_immediaterelease[@]yahoo.com

Friday July 4, 2008

Review: The Olive Press
Location: 2322 Dundas Street West, Oakville ON


Review Rating: N/A

The Olive Press had only been open for a few days when I stopped by for dinner. I have made it a habit of not reviewing a restaurant on opening night, or within the first few weeks, as there are always ‘bugs’ to be worked out, and I feel this is not a far evaluation- a point that other food critics may argue.

The Olive Press however impressed me with their fare. It is run by the Daicos brothers Steven and Constantine, and while this is not a full review, it is definitely worth recommending.

I was happy to see a wonderful selection of wines including some Ontario greats such as Trius Merlot and Riesling. Of course no Italian restaurant would be complete without Italian wine, and I recommend the Ripassa, a wonderful red for a reasonable $42.95 per bottle.

The portions are large, and the food full of layered flavours—Rating: 5 out-of 5 stars!

The Olive Press is very reasonable priced, has a great atmosphere for families or couples. I have however chosen not to give The Olive Press a full rating- as the service needs to be smoother- and this will come with more practice.

I will be back soon- so stay tuned for a full upcoming review of The Olive Press- in the meantime I encourage you to give it a try, and I am looking forward to receiving your feedback.

Bon Appetite—Tilly!
Food Critic and Entertainment Editor for IRM Magazine

Book Review: Demon by Peter Mark May

Tilly Rivers
Entertainment & Lifestyle Editor: Immediate Release Media
“The World of Books”
http://immediatereleasemedia.blogspot.com/


Tuesday July 22, 2008

Review: Book; Demon
Author: Peter Mark May
ISBN: 9781843863984
http://www.pegasuspublishing.com/
£9.99
Pages: 349

Review Rating: 4 Stars!

Peter Mark May’s “Demon” is listed as Science Fiction / General Fiction/ Occult. They forgot however “Paranormal / Romance / Adventure.

The truth is, my personal reading choices do not run towards the Science Fiction categories, it is just not my thing. That being said however, I thoroughly enjoyed “Demon.”

Peter Mark May introduces us to Dela, Nathaniel, and Cerberus. The heroes battle against the forces of evil, and in particular; Ashmadi, which according to the book is the Hebrew word for the Demon Lord Ashmodaios. One of Satan’s three Arch-Lords or anti-Angels.

If scary books aren’t your thing- don’t worry- “Demon” as sinister as the title sounds is filled with romantic twists, hot sex scenes, humor and “Indiana Jones” like clues.

“Dela” the female hero in the story is sassy, beautiful and “Caribbean”- while Nathaniel, the intelligent, straight laced, King’s Paladin, is “Caucasian”. Few stories mix races, and I gave Peter an extra star for doing so!

Cerberus, is the King Paladin’s ‘Demon hunting dog” or is he?

“Demon” tells the tale of what might happen if Human DNA is scientifically mixed with Demon DNA- this book kept you engaged throughout with an interesting ending that by know means was predictable.

If you enjoy an exciting read- “Demon” is definitely for you!

Tilly

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Tilly Rivers is a best selling celebrity author, radio host for “Features” and Entertainment & Lifestyle Editor for IRM Magazine.
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The World of Music: CD: unknown soldier

Tilly Rivers
Entertainment & Lifestyle Editor: Immediate Release Media
“The World of Music”
http://immediatereleasemedia.blogspot.com


Friday July 18, 2008

Review: CD: Unknown Soldier
Musician: Jon Amor
Boma Records
www.jonamor.com

Review Rating: 4 Stars!

I find myself at a lose for words (A first for me ~giggles!~) Jon has a unique style, his voice is husky and smooth, the kind of voice that gives girls shivers up her spine…but to put a ‘label’ on it so others can relate? I do not think me can- it is a mix of blues, rock and well…Jon!

I loved “In the Devil’s Back Yard” but was not crazy about “Ball and Chain” only to love “Unknown Soldier.” There are twelve songs on the CD- and 11 I either liked or loved—very good indeed, there is nothing I hate worse than buying a CD and discover there are only one or two songs on it I enjoyed- I could have downloaded those at a fraction of the cost!

Over all the CD is not only one that I will upload to my iPod- (okay minus Ball and Chain `smiles~) but will place in the “keep” pile!

My final recommendation: It is worth buying- yes the entire CD- and not just downloading a few songs off the internet!

PS- A nice surprise was the song “If you were me, and I were you”- check it out for yourself!

Can’t wait to hear your feedback regarding “Jon Amor’s Unknown Soldier”

Tilly

Press Release: Entertainment Editor

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Thursday, June 19, 2008

Announcing the new entertainment and lifestyle editor for immediate release media
new york city, ny: With the rapid growth of Immediate Release Media’s new Ezine version of the IRM magazine, the company found itself in need of an Entertainment and Lifestyles Editor.

IRM is pleased to announce the appointment of Tilly Rivers to the position of Editor of the entertainment and lifestyle sectors of the magazine. Ms. Rivers comes to us with an impressive pedigree regarding the entertainment arena. Her experience and knowledge will be an asset to the organization.

Ms. Rivers’ responsibilities at IRM will relate directly to the functions of the Entertainment and Lifestyle way of life, offering news and products that cater to the whole person. Bringing readers event calendars, news on music and entertainment, as well as book reviews.

Everyone likes entertainment, and entertainment and lifestyle so often go hand-in-hand. Therefore, it makes sense to get your entertainment news in the same place you get lifestyle gossip.

I know you will join me in welcoming Tilly to IRM (Immediate Release Media) and will continue to give her your support by reading her contributions to the magazine. Tilly is continuing her role as the food critic for IRM.

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Review: Marty's of Bracebridge Ontario

Tilly Rivers
Food Critic: Immediate Release Media
“For Immediate Release”
http://immediatereleasemedia.blogspot.com

Thursday, May 29, 2008

Review: Marty's
Location: Main Street Bracebridge, ON


Review Rating: ½ Star!

Butter Tarts are a weakness for me I will admit- and what better place to sneak a bite than at the famous Marty’s in Bracebridge- I was however very quickly disappointed—not only for the outrageous price of $6.75 for two pastry tarts but for the quality of the tart itself.

When I arrived the tarts, I had been told, had just come out of the oven only hours before. Yummy, I invisibly rubbed my hands- indulgences such as these were not everyday occurrences after all—when they rang up the two tarts and told me the price I will admit I was a bit shocked—it seemed over the top for two medium sized tarts- but a believer of the saying ‘you get what you pay for’ I forged on with the two tarts safely tucked in the plastic container-- my taste buds greedy to discover heaven- it has been so long- they screamed!

Opening the plastic container in the car, for I could not wait another second- yes I know patience is not my thing- and yes it is a virtue and all that- but for the moment I wanted what I wanted- and I wanted it NOW! Tongue ready, teeth in place, and…wait a minute…WTF?

Inside this pasty shell was syrup. That’s it…runny…overly sweet…gooey syrup! This is not what a butter tart was suppose to be, a little runny yes, but this…I could literally tip the tart over to the side and let the brown liquid pour from the shell to plastic container in a stream…well so much for that!

Am I still a believer of- you get what you pay for? Yes. This time it seems I paid for a very bad tart!

Marty’s has a cook book coming out- I hope the tart recipe isn’t in it!

Featuring Jon Amor

From Illuminating to Soul-Destroying, Returning to Intoxicating.
It must be Rock and Roll!

Featuring: Jon Amor

By: Tilly Rivers, IRM Magazine Entertainment & Lifestyle Editor

July 1, 2008


Jon Amor, former member of the UK band “The Hoax” stepped out on his own, surprising everyone with how quickly he was a success. Including himself. In a recent interview Jon said that the only person he’s proved wrong consistently in his career was himself. That self doubt was his biggest career battle.

“Just before my first ever solo show in 2005 - a truly scary experience when you're used to having loud amps and drums behind you – I was pretty nervous-and the most recent nervous experience was last November (2007) just before my first solo show in Canada. I was opening for David Gogo in a beautiful theatre just outside Edmonton, Alberta, it was a sold-out show, and as I stood in the wings preparing to go on, my heart was pounding and my good old self-doubt was nagging away... "Can I really do this?" But the audience was fantastically welcoming and gave me a standing ovation at the end - it's a gig I will never forget.”

Fans of this Devizes UK resident however would never know that from time to time Jon battles within himself. At the age of 15 he picked up his brothers acoustic guitar. At first it was a love / hate relationship until he found his passion. “My first big influence as a guitarist was Mark Knopfler from Dire Straits. I bought the Brothers In Arms album first, then worked my way back through their catalogue and found myself far more drawn to the early stuff, which was much more rootsy and bluesy. From there I got into people like JJ Cale, Eric Clapton, and through them I got into the old blues greats like Buddy Guy and BB King. My guitar style is a mix of all those guys, with a healthy helping of Stevie Ray and Jimmie Vaughan.”

When asked if he has any special ladies in his life, he teases ‘My mum of course,” but with those startling blue eyes of his, and soft raspy voice the women are swarming. I asked him if the saying “sex, drugs and rock and roll” was true? He commented “I spent all my twenties touring around the UK, Europe and the USA with The Hoax, but to be perfectly honest we were a pretty clean living band! We barely drank, were far too focused, busy or tired to spend that much time chasing girls, and drugs have never been a part of my life. However, when that band broke up I resolved to have a bit more fun on the road, and I have to say, as a result of that decision, my thirties have been the best years of my life! So, drugs? - Not for me. Sex and rock and roll? Most definitely! Bring them on in equal measures!”

I asked Jon if the business aspect of his career has influenced him at all and he states “There's a lot of bullshit you have to wade through, but eventually you wise up to it and realize that when someone in the industry comes to a gig and says "Hey, you guys ROCK! I LOVE your music!" it doesn't mean he's going to sign you for a million pounds, and when someone at your label says "We are right behind you guys with this album!" they're probably lying. Once you figure that out, and just keep trying to enjoy your music regardless, it gets a lot easier.”

Jon writes his own music, and is currently working on his 4th release. His music has a raspy blues feel to it, and he has toured all over the UK, and most recently made his way ‘over the pond’ to perform in Canada.

For the thousands of people attending the Ottawa Bluesfest and Thunder Bay Blues Festival this July, you will have an opportunity to see Jon perform. If you can’t wait, you can go to his My Space page and listen to four of his tracks, including “The Devil’s Backyard.” (www.myspace.com/jonamormusic)

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For more information about Jon Amor, or to purchase his CD’s, visit http://www.jonamor.com/ - or www.myspace.com/jonamormusic

Review: Russell Williams Family Restaurant

Tilly Rivers
Food Critic: Immediate Release Media
“For Immediate Release”
http://immediatereleasemedia.blogspot.com
for_immediaterelease[@]yahoo.com

Thursday, June 12, 2008

Review: Russell Williams Family Restaurant
Location: Plains Road, Burlington ON


Review Rating: 5 Stars!


Russell Williams has the reputation for the ‘best breakfast’ in Burlington. After my last experience of ‘best of’ I went with a jaded eye.

Upon entering the casual restaurant what immediately caught my attention was that 95% of the seats were taken. Good sign- a full house usually means good fare.

The waitress greeted our table quickly, with the menu and coffee ready. Coffee is definitely a morning staple in my life. Okay- so a morning and afternoon staple. Giggles!

Russell Williams’s breakfast is reported to be so good that they serve it “all day long.” I chose the Breakfast Classic- with Ham, rye toast, no butter. Eggs over easy. Ham is trickier to cook in my opinion then bacon or sausage. This selection was only $5.50

The plate arrived quickly, over flowing with home fries, two large slices of ham and eggs cooked to perfection. And the toast, exactly as I asked, no butter. Might seem like a simple request to most. You would be surprised how many times I ask for no butter on my toast, only to have it covered in it.

So far, so good! As I ate I watched the waitress attend to the many customers easily, coffee ready for refills- as the plates came in and out the kitchen with ease. Service and attention to detail- 5 stars! Great service though can only go so far, if the food does not measure up.

I am happy to report that Russell Williams Family Restaurant lives up to its reputation. Their breakfast was cooked perfectly. I left with food on my plate, (sorry Mom!) however there was just no way I could finish the large portion served.
This is a great place to just kick back and enjoy a great meal. When you arrive the sign says “Please Seat Yourself.” Russell Williams is exactly what it proclaims to be-- a relaxed casual family restaurant- with fair prices, great service and wonderful food.

The Ham? Perfect!

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Schedule: Tilly Rivers Postings

The following schedule has been agreed upon between Entertainment and Lifestyle Editor Tilly Rivers and Immediate Release Media;

1) The last Friday of every month: New Book Review
2) The second last Friday of every month: New Independent Film, or Movie Review
3) The first Friday of every month: CD and/ or Musician Review
4) The second Friday of every month: Food Review / Chef Review

Each month there will be a special “Feature” of the choice- this could be anything from fashion to an executive chef, to a celebrity.

Additionally, articles and comments on fashion and lifestyle will be added throughout the month.

The articles and reviews will be called “Featuring” tying into Tilly’s Radio Show “Features”

First Feature: Musician; Jon Amor to be posted Friday July 4 2008

Please contact Tilly directly if you are interested in being considered for any of the above.

IRM Magazine


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Press Release: New Food Critic

For Immediate Release
Immediate Release Media
Maud Rivers
http://immediatereleasemedia.blogspot.com
for_immediaterelease (@) yahoo.com

Author Tilly Rivers is Immediate Release Media’s New Dining Out Food Critic.

Having an author and radio host as the food critic might not be so crazy after all!

(NY)- May 23, 2008- Tilly Rivers just may be a new breed of restaurant critic, a maverick whose face will accompany her weekly reviews, launching today.

“When I first thought of approaching Rivers with the idea of being the food critic for Immediate Release Media” says Senior Editor, Maud Rivers, “My first reaction was that everyone would think that we are related-the surname is completely coincidental, the second thought was that everyone would think I was crazy.”

“I am obviously trying to do something fresh and interesting," says Maud Rivers, the brains behind the new Media hub Immediate Release Media- the popular press release blog of book, music and food reviews, chef profiles and business and entertainment news.

“Tilly penned a wonderful mixture of food and pleasure in her release of Erotica Café- not to mention she is internationally known. Her author rank has reached celebrity status- and New Yorkers’ have a soft spot for her, as this is where her career really took off. In the words of Malcolm Gladwell’s “Tipping Point”- a #1 National Bestseller- “What makes someone a Connector? The first- and most obvious criterion is that Connectors know lots of people.” ”

Tilly is putting her face alongside her reviews, which are based on her own personal rating scale of one to five stars- and will be posted on http://immediatereleasemedia.blogspot.com every Thursday beginning today.

“I love food” says Tilly Rivers, “ I am not sure what qualifies one as an avid foodie- but I certainly know bad food when it hits my taste buds. The choice to have a photo along the review is going to be fun. I really do not think that critics in general should dine incognito-after all a restaurant is not going to bring in a celebrity chef or whip up a fresh menu just because a critic has come to eat at their establishment.”

Maud adds “If she receives preferential service- I am confident that Tilly will write about that as well- the rules are that she doesn’t make reservations under her own name or announce herself upon arrival.

“I am just like you.” Says Tilly, “If I am going for a light lunch- or a full course dinner, I want the same things everyone does- good food, good service, and good atmosphere.”

Tilly will be focusing on food reviews in her own backyard and throughout Ontario- until her tour this fall/winter 08-09 for her new book Forbidden Fruit, at that time she will continue to add her reviews for restaurants across Canada and the USA.
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