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A Backstage Betrayal

The Empire, Book 2

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A Backstage Betrayal

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

 THE THEATRE MAY SEEM GLAMOROUS, BUT SECRETS WAIT BEHIND THE CURTAIN

1926. Running a theatre may appear to be all about the showbiz, but times are hard at The Empire. Following a turbulent period Jack Treadwell, erstwhile proprietor, his mother Lillian, and his playwright wife Grace, know they need to get things back on track - and how better than with the annual pantomime, a new venture, and an all-singing all-dancing talent contest, showcasing the best performers around.

But could Lillian's new admirer, Grand Duke Nikolai Kuznetsov, be bringing disaster in his wake? Will The Empire be caught up in the scandal surrounding West End star, Stella Stanmore? And what are their enemies in Highbridge planning?

While Jack and Grace fight to ensure the show does go on, a royal visitor raises the stakes and a young widow, Sally Blow, dares to dream that the talent contest might be her big break.

As the talent contest draws closer, tragedy strikes. Amid the glitz and glamour there are strange goings on and a plot afoot. Is everything Jack and Grace have worked so hard for about to come crashing down? And could this be curtains for The Empire?

Musical theatre legend Michael Ball brings his trademark warmth, wit and glamour to this sparkling new Empire Theatre novel.

'A wonderful book. A love letter to the theatre' Rev. Richard Coles

'A fantastic book. Brilliant' Don Black OBE

'A wonderful read' Jeffrey Archer

'A golden debut - charming, funny and romantic' Cameron Mackintosh

'Takes you to the magical world of theatre' Rosie Goodwin©2023 Michael Ball (P)2023 Bonnier Books UK 20th Century Action & Adventure Clean & Wholesome Historical Historical Fiction Military Theatre Funny
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The information and readers insight to the theatre and Michael’s performance and enthusiasm in telling you the story

Attention to detail

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Fabulous, fun and moving. A love letter to theatre and theatre people. Wonderful that it is set in the north.

The acting was excellent

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Wonderful. Thank you for a lovely listen. I adore the fact that Michael reads this with such passion and care. Every character brought to life with super acting and vocal skills. How lovely in this troubled world we are allowed to escape for a little while. Thank you Mr Ball.

Backstage Betrayal

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The world of the Empire Theatre.. I hope the door will open again and I can take my place both backstage and in the audience! Fabulous reading Michael!

Absolutely gorgeous!

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The story of the little theatre in the north continues with the same light hearted humour and interesting plot lines. Michael is a wonderful performer who narrates each character with ease making it an easy listen/read. Fingers crossed for a third book!

Fantastic fun

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