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  • The Empire

  • The Empire, Book 1
  • By: Michael Ball
  • Narrated by: Michael Ball
  • Length: 11 hrs and 3 mins
  • 4.8 out of 5 stars (178 ratings)

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The Empire cover art

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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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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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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Brilliant, I loved Michael Ball’s reading

I loved Michael Ball’s reading, his characterisation, accents and he has a great audio voice. Mostly I listen before I go to sleep and he has a great voice to fall asleep to.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book.

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Excellent

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

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A big surprise

Very surprised with this book. To be honest I read it because Michael was reading it. By the first chapter I just forgot it was him and enjoyed a good narrator. The book surprised me well written a few twists I was not expecting and characters were believable. Really enjoyed it good ending but possible room for a sequel. Well I say yes please bring it on a really good read.

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Great Story

As I first started listening to this audiobook I thought Michael's narration didn't really suit the book but the more I listened I slowly changed my mind. I found myself pulled into an exciting story with brilliant characters and am really looking forward to the next instalment.

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Enjoyable hours of listening

It isn't often that the author narrates their own book, but Michael Ball has done just that. The book is easy to listen to and I've thoroughly enjoyed listening to Michael on my solitary walks, he brought everything to life and his narration was superb. Excellent all round. More please !!

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Captivating

I really enjoyed this book, great performance by Michael Ball and got me hooked straight away.

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