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The Empire

'Wonderful. A lifelong love letter to the theatre' Reverend Richard Coles

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The Empire

By: Michael Ball
Narrated by: Michael Ball
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Welcome to The Empire theatre

1922. When Jack Treadwell arrives at The Empire, in the middle of a rehearsal, he is instantly mesmerised. But amid the glitz and glamour, he soon learns that the true magic of the theatre lies in its cast of characters - both on stage and behind the scenes.

There's stunning starlet Stella Stanmore and Hollywood heartthrob Lancelot Drake; and Ruby Rowntree, who keeps the music playing, while Lady Lillian Lassiter, theatre owner and former showgirl, is determined to take on a bigger role. And then there's cool, competent Grace Hawkins, without whom the show would never go on . . . could she be the leading lady Jack is looking for?

When long-held rivalries threaten The Empire's future, tensions rise along with the curtain. There is treachery at the heart of the company and a shocking secret waiting in the wings. Can Jack discover the truth before it's too late, and the theatre he loves goes dark?

Musical theatre legend Michael Ball brings his trademark warmth, wit and glamour to this, his debut novel.

Enjoy the show!

Real readers love The Empire


'A charming, captivating, majestic, electrifying, exciting and dazzling masterpiece'

'This book was perfect'

'The Empire is fantastic read, and one of my favourites of this year!'

'A real razzmatazz of a read'

'What a wonderful book, as full of warmth and wit as Michael himself . . . absolute magic!' 20th Century Action & Adventure Clean & Wholesome Historical Historical Fiction Military Protector Romance Theatre Heartfelt
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A Backstage Betrayal cover art
A Backstage Betrayal By: Michael Ball
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Thank you I LOVED it and can’t wait for the next one. Bonus that it was read by Michael 😀

Loved it

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Have just finished listening to this truly great story never wanting to switch off.

A Truly fantastic first book

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Amazing as I expected, beautifully read by Michael himself in his dulcet tones, can't wait for the next one

Excellent

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I loved everything about it apart from one thing ...... I didn't want it to end

Absolutely loved this book.

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What an uplifting book to read! Michael Ball’s love of the theatre and the experiences and characters he has encountered throughout his career really shine through the story. He has created a cast of characters who are vibrant and incredibly human with love and a great deal of humour. Michael’s portrayal of them all really makes them live long in the mind. Loved it and can’t wait for the next one.

Magical!

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