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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 Fiction Military Funny
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What listeners say about A Backstage Betrayal

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A One Man Play

Michael Ball, acting all of the characters in his own novel is a joy to listen to, and to read. 'A Backstage Betrayal', like 'The Empire' before it, brings fun, intrigue, well-drawn characters and period detail, with a great story line, offering twists and turns to the end.

It is an added pleasure, in an audio book, to have an actor who knows all the characters so very well, and can provide a voice for each, all distinctly their own.

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the characters and different voices portrayed by the author Mr Ball

it was enjoyable re-engaging with the familiar characters and learning of new ones too. The voice interpretation seem to fit so well they almost jumped off the page. so much so that I couldn't stop listening. congratulations on a successful book. what will come in the 30's more mayhem & intrigue. Thank you.

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Michael Ball simply the best

love this book and everything about it. story, characters but best of all Michael reading it brought everything to life and the characters

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Perfect

I loved this book and Michael’s narration. It had lots of twists and lots of humour too - what’s not to like. Thank you Michael and I hope there is to be a book 3 xx

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Fantastic

Well that a fantastic, beautiful written second book. loved the story line and all the characters. just simply brilliant!!

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what is not to love about this book

I just love listening to Michael's voice. Be it his spoken words or in song. Great story telling is a rare gift but Michael has fabulous way of making the characters come to life... he so obviously loves his theatrical life and it is a treat to be immersed in a bygone era, with tales of love, loss, intrigue and a few giggles too. For me... this was the whole package... love, love, loved it ... Thank you Michael xx

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Backstage Betrayal

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.

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Brilliant

Another great book from Michael only took me 3 days to listen to it can’t. Wait for the next

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Great

I loved this book well read by Michael its a must to have and can't wait for the next one so Michael get writing 🤗

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Pure escapism to a more glamorous world

I loved The Empire audiobook, and I think I loved Backstage Betrayal even more. Even Henry the rat has a great personality and Michael's reading is so warm and lovely. Listening to it on my commutes home from work was the escapism I needed from a particularly stressful month at work, and shone light into the gloomy evenings. Thankyou MB.

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