The Empire cover art

The Empire

The Empire, Book 1

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The Empire

By: Michael Ball
Narrated by: Michael Ball
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About this listen

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 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 theatre 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!

©2022 Michael Ball (P)2022 Bonnier Books UK
20th Century Action & Adventure Clean & Wholesome Historical Fiction Military Protector Romance Heartfelt
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What listeners say about The Empire

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Loved this book

Michael is fabulous at bringing the characters to life! His accents are brilliant and made it easy for the listener to discern each character, a jolly good read!

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5 people found this helpful

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brilliant listen

was not sure what to expect but really good story if a little predictable in places and wonderful narration by Michael. really enjoyed this and look forward to the next installment.

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4 people found this helpful

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Loved it

Thank you I LOVED it and can’t wait for the next one. Bonus that it was read by Michael 😀

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4 people found this helpful

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The first book that I have really enjoyed!

As someone who has not enjoyed reading since being a young child, I decided to listen to this book on Audible. I have enjoyed it so much that I haven't wanted to stop liatening. The plot was exciting & Michael, the perfect narrator. I look forward to sequel & would love to see 'Riviera Nights' performed on stage with Michael cast as Bill (or even Stella 😉), Alfie Boe as Lance, Bradley Jaden as Jack & Cassidy Janson as Grace. Thank you Michael for renewing my interest in fictional stories xx

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1 person found this helpful

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    4 out of 5 stars
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A good read, liked insight to theatre life.

Nothing in particular, story was enjoyable and enjoyed in insight to theatre life and how a show comes together.

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  • Overall
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A triumph of a first novel

As an avid reader it is always a pleasure to discover a new book. The Empire by Michael Ball is a triumph for anyone interested in the theatre. The story is well told with an abundance of drama and humour. The characters are expertly drawn and believable. Typical of the period. I found it quite the page turner from the first chapter.

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Really enjoyed this audiobook

Great book and really enjoyed listening to Michael Ball reading it . It shows his knowledge of theatre and people

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Brilliant

Took a little while to get to grips with all the characters arriving non stop but once involved could not put it down.
Twists and turns, unexpected happenings, some you could guess and others arrived from nowhere. The story covered every genre. I loved it.

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Compelling

Loved this story with all its characters including The Empire!
Couldn’t stop listening once I got started.
Looking forward to the next in the series of The Empire.
Highly recommend.

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Phenonminal story and story my MB !

For a first time book this is an incredible story of fiction set in the 20s London, Micheal clearly wrote from his own experiences in the theatre industry and made a one of a kinf story about theatr, love, treachury and more. having the book read by him too only adds to the performace and passion put into each character, not that other audio performers don't. But Micheal naturaly adds more. a must listen or read if you love the Post ww1 period and life and for those who have worked in theatre themselves.

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