Book info

• Title The Empire
• Author Michael Ball
• Year 2022
• Genre Historical

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?

Thoughts

I’m always annoyed at myself for getting sucked into these books that are written by already famous people, but who can resist the legendary Michael Ball? This book takes you back to the glory days of theatre and behind the scenes to uncover the mysteries and dramas behind the stage. Unique and interesting characters, plenty of storylines and threads to get stuck into, and that glorious feeling that you’re being told a story by someone who knows what they’re talking about. I’m looking forward to reading the sequel too.

Rating: 4 / 5