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  • The Empire

  • The Empire, Book 1
  • By: Michael Ball
  • Narrated by: Michael Ball
  • Length: 11 hrs and 14 mins
  • 4.8 out of 5 stars (192 ratings)

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The Empire

By: Michael Ball
Narrated by: Michael Ball
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Summary

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

What listeners say about The Empire

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  • Overall
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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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  • Overall
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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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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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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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Pleasantly surprised

Very rarely read books but thoroughly enjoyed taking Michael Ball to bed with me 😂.

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3 people found this helpful

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    5 out of 5 stars
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The Empire by Michael Ball

I have only just started to listen but.....what a wonderful story. As I no longer am able to see clearly audio books are vital to me. Mr Ball reads this brilliantly. He is not just reading but acting out performances of all the character. A fantastic listen.

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Thoroughly enjoyed!

Great story. Brilliant narration by Michael he brought each character to life. I can't wait for the second book!

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What a delight !

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and was transported to the wonderful characters both big and small who are part of the wonderful world of the stage , but I also found a softness and humility in the writing which was full of love for the stage
Thank you

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Loved this book! Loved listening to Michael read it, I almost felt like I was in the Theatre and he was chatting the story to me

A wonderful read, so well written, description and language were amazing. I could smell his words, if your body does this in a good read you know what I mean! Thank you Michael!

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A really good book

Throughly enjoyed this book. Great cast of characters and an excellent plot. Well Done Michael.

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