Gods, Gangsters and Honour PDF Download

Author: Steven Machat
Publisher:
ISBN: 9781905636839
Category : Lawyers
Languages : en
Pages : 0

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Book Description
From Frank Sinatra to Michael Jackson, an insider's account of the deals and the dodges inside the music and entertainment business over the last 30 years As the son of the legendary showbiz lawyer Marty Machat, Steven Machat grew up among such names as Frank Sinatra, James Brown, Frankie Valli, and Sam Cooke. Following in his father's footsteps, by the time he was in his late 20s he was proud to see his name alongside his father's on the brass plaque outside their Broadway offices. But there was a price--Steven discovered from a young age that the glitter and the glamour too often disguises a crude and cruel reality, and that those who are publicly perceived as gods can just as easily be seen as gangsters. He found himself wondering how to live with such contradictions, and whether it is possible to maintain any sense of honor inside such a world. This beautifully constructed memoir of a life inside a fascinating world of celebrity includes appearances by Frank Sinatra, Leonard Cohen, Michael Jackson, David Copperfield, Sharon Osbourne, George Bush, Phil Collins, Suge Knight, Tupac, Biggie, Gianni Versace, Phil Spector, Joan Collins, Donny Osmond, Bobby Brown, and many more.

Author: Steven Machat
Publisher: McNae, Marlin and MacKenzie
ISBN: 9781684541003
Category : Biography & Autobiography
Languages : en
Pages : 428

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Book Description
From Frank Sinatra to Michael Jackson, an insider's account of the deals and the dodges inside the music and entertainment business over the last 30 years As the son of the legendary showbiz lawyer Marty Machat, Steven Machat grew up among such names as Frank Sinatra, James Brown, Frankie Valli, and Sam Cooke. Following in his father's footsteps, by the time he was in his late 20s he was proud to see his name alongside his father's on the brass plaque outside their Broadway offices. But there was a price--Steven discovered from a young age that the glitter and the glamour too often disguises a crude and cruel reality, and that those who are publicly perceived as gods can just as easily be seen as gangsters. He found himself wondering how to live with such contradictions, and whether it is possible to maintain any sense of honor inside such a world. This beautifully constructed memoir of a life inside a fascinating world of celebrity includes appearances by Frank Sinatra, Leonard Cohen, Freddie Mercury, Michael Jackson, David Copperfield, Sharon Osbourne, George Bush, Phil Collins, Suge Knight, Tupac, Biggie, Gianni Versace, Phil Spector, Joan Collins, Donny Osmond, Bobby Brown, and many more.

Author: Avron Boretz
Publisher: University of Hawaii Press
ISBN: 0824860713
Category : History
Languages : en
Pages : 289

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Book Description
Demon warrior puppets, sword-wielding Taoist priests, spirit mediums lacerating their bodies with spikes and blades—these are among the most dramatic images in Chinese religion. Usually linked to the propitiation of plague gods and the worship of popular military deities, such ritual practices have an obvious but previously unexamined kinship with the traditional Chinese martial arts. The long and durable history of martial arts iconography and ritual in Chinese religion suggests something far deeper than mere historical coincidence. Avron Boretz argues that martial arts gestures and movements are so deeply embedded in the ritual repertoire in part because they iconify masculine qualities of violence, aggressivity, and physical prowess, the implicit core of Chinese patriliny and patriarchy. At the same time, for actors and audience alike, martial arts gestures evoke the mythos of the jianghu, a shadowy, often violent realm of vagabonds, outlaws, and masters of martial and magic arts. Through the direct bodily practice of martial arts movement and creative rendering of jianghu narratives, martial ritual practitioners are able to identify and represent themselves, however briefly and incompletely, as men of prowess, a reward otherwise denied those confined to the lower limits of this deeply patriarchal society. Based on fieldwork in China and Taiwan spanning nearly two decades, Gods, Ghosts, and Gangsters offers a thorough and original account of violent ritual and ritual violence in Chinese religion and society. Close-up, sensitive portrayals and the voices of ritual actors themselves—mostly working-class men, many of them members of sworn brotherhoods and gangs—convincingly link martial ritual practice to the lives and desires of men on the margins of Chinese society. This work is a significant contribution to the study of Chinese ritual and religion, the history and sociology of Chinese underworld, the history and anthropology of the martial arts, and the anthropology of masculinity.

Author: SLMN
Publisher: Kingston Imperial
ISBN: 0998767441
Category : Fiction
Languages : en
Pages : 275

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Book Description
A strong...tale of operatic moral corrosion.-Kirkus Reviews- The son of a hustler, it’s no surprise that Power has followed in his family’s footsteps and made a name for himself as one of the most respected hustlers on the streets of QueensBoro. Along with his best friend and partner Kane, the duo create a super group that sets out to take the streets and hip-hop world by storm. But soon Power finds himself in the middle of a love triangle gone-wrong with a label owner and his lead singer, Egypt, which threatens the freedom and livelihood of everyone involved.

Author: Reverend Lawrence L. Blankenship
Publisher: iUniverse
ISBN: 1475946333
Category : Religion
Languages : en
Pages : 342

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Book Description
Reverend Lawrence L. Blankenship has created a new book offering a fresh look at one of the most imnportant, and controversial works for men and women to study. The Laws of God and The Laws of The State Vol. 2. NOTE: “If We Obey The Laws of God, We’ll Not Dis-obey The Laws of The State.” The Laws of God and The Laws of The State Vol. 2., is a Christian work that attempts to reconcile con-temporary secular law with ancient laws of the Bible. This volume is divided into two sections: one outlines the statutes of God’s laws, and Scriptural laws, and the other studies The Laws of The State. Within the first section you learn the basis of biblical laws. In the second section you learn how these laws may be applied to contemporary law. This volume also includes the Civil and Criminal laws of God’s and Statutes of the State, for easy reference. The Laws of God and The Laws of The State Vol. 2., seeks to provide an informed perspective on the biblical references to legal matters. This approach may be appropriate for students of the Bible or students of jurisprudence. The author hopes the public will obtain an understanding of the entire process, while developing skills neccessary to understand both laws.

Author: SLMN
Publisher: Kingston Imperial
ISBN: 1954220391
Category : Fiction
Languages : en
Pages : 239

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Book Description
A continuation of the Gods & Gangsters series, Part Three brings heroine Egypt on a whole new job, fulling of catching cases...and bodies. On the mean streets where dog eats dog there is always one that has sharper claws and bigger teeth, and in New York her name is Egypt. Never an ordinary girl, Egypt learned the hard way that life, even when it is being kind, is a bastard. A survivor, she did what she needed to make it from day-to-day. And it turned out she was good at it. Better than good. Egypt grew into an extraordinary woman, cold, ruthless, a killer at heart, and New York witnessed her metamorphosis from that innocent child to the most feared assassin of the age. Gods & Gangsters 3 is a continuation of the series, placing Egypt in the driver's seat for a wild ride.

Author: George Anastasia
Publisher: Running Press Adult
ISBN: 0762443707
Category : Performing Arts
Languages : en
Pages : 354

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Book Description
The gangster movie is one of the most popular genres in film. From the Italian, Irish, and Russian "families" in America to similarly sinister groups in Europe, Japan, and beyond, the cinema has never shied away from portraying the evil exploits of these brutal outfits. In this highly entertaining and informative book, two accomplished and apropos authors put the genre in perspective like no other author or documentarian has done before. The Ultimate Book of Gangster Movies provides extensive reviews of the Top 100 gangster films of all time, including sidebars like "Reality Check," "Hit and Miss," "I Know That Guy," "Body Count," and other fun and informative features. Also included are over a dozen stand-alone chapters such as Sleeper "Hits," "Fugazi" Flops, Guilty Pleasures, Lost Treasures, Q&A Interviews with top actors and directors (including Chazz Palinteri, Michael Madsen, Joe Mantagna, and more), plus over 50 compelling photographs. Foreword by Joe Pistone, the FBI agent and mob infiltrator who wrote the bestselling book and acclaimed movie, Donnie Brasco.

Author: Charles Bronson
Publisher: Kings Road Publishing
ISBN: 178219245X
Category : True Crime
Languages : en
Pages : 191

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Book Description
Two names reigned supreme in London's underworld in the sixties - Ronnie and Reggie Kray; and it wasn't until 1969 that the twins went down at Brixton Prison for murder. I was only seventeen, on remand up in Risley, Warrington, for nicking a furniture lorry. Most of the lads in there had newspaper photos of the Krays stuck up on their cell walls. They were the cream of the criminal crop, and that's why I took such an interest in 'em. Once I was put away, it wasn't long before I got to meet them, and over the next 29 years I got closer to the Krays than any self-proclaimed henchman, any autograph hunter. As their trusted friend they let me in on it all - no holds barred behind bars! Since Ronnie and Reggie died, all I've heard is a load of bollocks! 'Reggie shot my cat; Ronnie stabbed my uncle Bert 75 times; Reggie ran over my hamster; I'm Ronnie's son, I'm Reggie's daughter.' Gutless maggots spreading rumours with their sham stories for sale. The shameless rats. Well now the twins are gone and I can talk. And let me tell you, I've got a lot to say and all the time in the world to say it. No bollocks. No silly stories. Just the facts about the time I spent doing porridge with the Krays.

Author: Hash Blink
Publisher: Hash Blink & Rebellious Rebels LLC
ISBN:
Category : Young Adult Fiction
Languages : en
Pages : 254

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Book Description
In this suspenseful novel, Tissidy, a former gangster, finds himself in a dangerous situation when he is confronted by men he owes money to. Just as he is about to meet his demise, a blinding light fills the room and a mysterious man appears, offering Tissidy a chance at redemption. Tissidy takes the man's hand and leaves his old life behind, joining a group of former criminals who have found their way to God's path. Tissidy's faith is tested when his old gang targets him, but with the support of his new friends and his unwavering faith, he is able to escape unharmed. Tissidy dedicates his life to spreading the word of God and helping others find their way to redemption. Along the way, he encounters challenges and threats, but with God's protection, he continues on his path, even helping a former gang member who seeks his help. Tissidy's story inspires others and he finds joy in seeing the transformation of those he has helped. However, his past catches up with him once again when he is attacked and left for dead. Through his struggle to survive, Tissidy's faith is tested, but he ultimately chooses to trust in God's plan. As he heals, he becomes even more committed to spreading the word of God and helping others find their way. Tissidy's journey is filled with danger, redemption, and the power of faith. Tissidy, a former gang member who found faith in God, is confronted by his former gang leader who wants him back in the gang. Tissidy refuses and is held at gunpoint, but the police arrive just in time to save him. Despite this victory, Tissidy continues to face threats from his former gang and is kidnapped and tortured. However, he is saved by the police once again. Tissidy then teams up with his bodyguard and a mysterious man named Dr. Lawrence to gather evidence against his former gang leader and the larger criminal organization. They discover a hidden underground lab and Dr. Lawrence offers to help Tissidy take down the organization. Tissidy is both fearful and excited about the opportunity to fight crime and make a difference. Tissidy and Marcus, former gangsters turned heroes, continue their mission to protect their community from the dark entity that threatens it. They face a brutal battle against cultists and their allies, but are saved by a mysterious man. Father Johnson, Tissidy's childhood acquaintance, asks for their help in rescuing his kidnapped niece and retrieving ancient artifacts. Tissidy and Marcus embark on a dangerous mission, fighting their way through armed men in a warehouse. Tissidy finds the artifact and fights valiantly, realizing his purpose as a warrior for God. Father Johnson gives Tissidy a new mission to find more artifacts, and Tissidy embraces his role as a protector. Along the way, Tissidy finds moments of joy and laughter, reminding him of the importance of balance in his mission. He rescues hostages from a warehouse and continues his journey to save his community. Tissidy's mission to bring redemption to gangsters and lead a revolution was gaining momentum. His speeches were attracting a diverse crowd, and he was able to help many people leave the gang life behind. Despite facing death threats and danger, Tissidy remained committed to spreading his message of faith and forgiveness. He knew that his mission was bigger than himself and that he needed the support of others to bring about lasting change. With a renewed sense of purpose, Tissidy continued to inspire and guide those who were lost in the darkness, determined to make a positive impact on the world. Tissidy is a former gang member who has turned his life around and is now working for the FBI. However, he is constantly haunted by his past and the threats from his former gang leader. When the pastor who helped him find redemption is kidnapped, Tissidy gathers a team to rescue him. They successfully save the pastor, but discover that the gang has stolen important files containing evidence of their illegal activities. Tissidy is shocked to find out that his friend Marcus is the one who took the files. Feeling betrayed, Tissidy must now figure out how to keep himself and his loved ones safe while dealing with the consequences of Marcus' actions. Tissidy, a former gang member turned good Samaritan, embarks on a journey to confront his past and seek justice. After discovering that his friend Marcus had taken important files, Tissidy finds Marcus beaten and bloodied in his house. Despite his efforts to save Marcus, he tragically passes away. Tissidy receives a call from his former gang leader, who threatens to release the files unless Tissidy meets him at an abandoned warehouse. Tissidy, determined to put an end to his past, agrees to the meeting, aware of the risks involved. At the warehouse, Tissidy strikes a deal with his former gang leader, exchanging the files for the release of a pastor. Tissidy's past continues to haunt him as he faces threats from his former gang members. However, with the support of his newfound faith and a group of trusted friends, Tissidy overcomes these challenges. He discovers his purpose in helping others, rescuing a woman from an abusive relationship and later uncovering a human trafficking operation. With the help of law enforcement, Tissidy and Marcus successfully rescue the victims and bring the criminals to justice. Tissidy, a man on a journey to redemption, is approached by a man named Elijah who offers him protection in exchange for his help in fighting a new threat in the city. Tissidy agrees and joins Elijah's team to take down a ruthless gang led by The Ghost. They spend weeks planning and training before launching an operation on The Ghost's compound. However, Tissidy is captured by a mysterious figure and finds himself tied to a chair. Just as all hope seems lost, a kind-eyed man named Joshua appears and saves Tissidy. Joshua reveals that Tissidy has been chosen for a special mission and offers him a chance at redemption. Tissidy agrees and together with Joshua, they embark on a series of missions to bring hope and help to those in need. They face challenges and obstacles along the way, but with God's guidance and the support of their team, they continue to make a difference. Despite setbacks and the loss of Joshua, Tissidy remains determined to carry on their mission and take down the gang that threatens their community. In this text, Tissidy and his team continue their mission to take down a gang that has been terrorizing their neighborhood. They spend hours studying the gang's patterns and habits, and make plans to sabotage their operations. Tissidy's team is worried about his thirst for revenge, but Tissidy is determined to bring the gang down. With the power of God on their side, they set out for the gang's stronghold. They are outnumbered and outgunned, but with a surge of energy, they fight back and emerge victorious. However, their work is not done, and they face new challenges along the way. They receive a message from a man with kind eyes, who tells Tissidy that God is proud of him and has a special purpose for him. Tissidy and his team continue their fight against gang violence, and with the help of the community, they make progress in cleaning up the neighborhood. They face a new challenge when a group of clowns offers to help them, and together they patrol the streets, bringing laughter and entertainment to the residents. However, the gang retaliates, and Tissidy and his team must defend their neighborhood once again. They emerge victorious, but Tissidy knows that the fight is not over. They continue to rebuild the community and work with a local church to create a community center. Tissidy realizes the power of faith and the impact they can make in the world. They are no longer just gangsters, but warriors for God's kingdom. Tissidy, a former gang member turned community leader, has successfully opened a community center and is dedicated to helping those in need. He encounters a young man named David who has just been released from prison and offers him support and guidance. Tissidy also meets a mysterious figure who has saved his life before and who encourages him to continue on his path of righteousness. Tissidy's team grows larger, and they work to combat gang violence in their neighborhood. They face opposition but remain determined to make a difference. The mysterious figure reappears and urges Tissidy to focus on changing people's hearts and minds rather than resorting to violence. Tissidy and his team partner with Pastor John and begin organizing events and programs to spread love and hope. They face threats and danger but remain committed to their mission. The mysterious figure proposes a new approach, targeting the root of the problem by going after the corrupt individuals responsible for the city's issues. Tissidy agrees to go undercover and gather information. However, he begins to question the risks involved and whether he is losing sight of his original goal. In this text, Tissidy, a former gangster turned god, continues his mission to fight corruption and make a difference in his community. He faces numerous challenges and setbacks, including a dangerous encounter with armed gangsters and a threatening phone call from a corrupt member. Despite these obstacles, Tissidy remains determined and gathers evidence to take down the corrupt members involved in illegal activities such as money laundering and sex trafficking. With the help of his team, Tissidy successfully dismantles the sex trafficking ring and brings the culprits to justice. However, his past catches up with him when an old acquaintance from his gangster days tries to recruit him back into a life of crime. Tissidy refuses and narrowly escapes a confrontation with the police. He remains committed to his mission and continues to fight for justice, knowing that there are still battles to be fought. Tissidy, haunted by the relentless pursuit of The Viper, remains on high alert, always protecting his team. During a community event, Tissidy encounters The Viper again, leading to a tense standoff. A fierce battle ensues, resulting in casualties on both sides. Just when it seems hopeless, a kind-eyed stranger appears, offering words of encouragement. With renewed determination, Tissidy and his team defeat The Viper. However, Tissidy's anxiety grows as he senses more danger approaching. The Viper launches another attack on the community center, but Tissidy and his team successfully defend it. Feeling responsible for the damage and injuries, Tissidy resolves to make things right. Tissidy seeks advice from his team and the police chief, and the kind-eyed stranger returns, offering a gift of protection. Tissidy and his team devise a plan to take down The Viper, but a devastating explosion occurs at the community center. Tissidy, fueled by faith, confronts The Viper in a final battle. Tissidy emerges victorious but chooses not to harm The Viper, instead offering him a chance at redemption. Together, they walk away, ready to make a difference in the world.

Author: Les Ray
Publisher: Writers of the West
ISBN:
Category : True Crime
Languages : en
Pages : 155

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Book Description
This book is the true story of a high-profile case of Leslie Raymond, who was your ordinary kid growing up in the neighborhood of Edmonton, Alberta, when he was shot repeatedly at a mall's parking lot for pissing off an infamous gangster. An infamous shooting that took Canada by storm, a boy who was shot in a friendly neighborhood yet somehow beat the odds by making it alive with the intent to avenge his honor against those who had wronged him. A story of a good man turned bad, a tale of blood and tears. A tail of injustice and justice. A story where the protagonist and the antagonist kept on one-upping each other till justice was served, but that was not without years of pain, regret and anger. This remarkable story will often seem like fiction because of the amazing experiences of the author. A book that will literally shake you to your core. This is a story of everything, a story that is bound to leave its mark on you for a lifetime.