It’s been a long time since I’ve gotten to the end of a book and thought thank god I’ve finally finished it. The book just seemed to go on forever and the only saving grace for it was the twists that kept you intrigued through lots of boring bits. While it’s not an awful book, it’s not one I’d really recommend.

I wasn’t sure what I was really expecting from this book as there have been a host of celebrities releasing books this year but it was the premise that hooked me into giving it a go - theatre based in the 1920s, which is my favourite era for historical novels! I was extremely surprised to find a book that was filled with warmth, fun, brilliant characters and a plot that kept you engaged! For a debut novel this was a great start to Michael Ball’s writing career and he has used his experience from his amazing theatre life to aplomb. I also read the whole book with his voice and I can see why he also narrated the audiobook as I can’t imagine anyone else doing it. It’s clear that Michael has taken his passion and love from the theatre and thrust it into this story and it works exceedingly well!

When Jack returns from his war experience, his parents having died with the Spanish flu he finds himself at a loss. He is directed to ask at The Empire theatre for work as his late mother once worked with the owner Lady Lassiter. Jack arrives during a rehearsal and is instantly mesmerised by it. Not just with the acting but the people behind the scenes and the life in general! There are the stars Stella and Lance but it seems that it is Grace who basically runs the show who has stolen Jack’s heart. However, the Empire is struggling since Sir Lassiter died and it rivals are hitting where it hurts. Will Jack and Grace save the day and more importantly admit their feelings…

Who couldn’t love the characters in this book?! We have a mix of social strata’s ranging from the Lassiter’s down to Jack and Grace. There are a lot of them, there is a handy guide at the start of the book, but once you grasp onto them you don’t let go! But it was the way that the social issues of the day were weaved into the stories of the characters that I loved. We have the spunky flapper types - independent, fun and fierce in their ambitions, the lasting affects of the war on Jack and Danny and we even have nods to the increase of machinery in factories leading to the lose of jobs. It’s clear someone has done their research!

I flew through this book and it can only be a testimony to how much I enjoyed it! I’m hoping that this may turn out to be a series but even if it doesn’t I enjoyed my time at the Empire.

Thoroughly enjoyable, light-hearted romp set in a theatre in the 1920s.

Jack Treadwell returns from WW1 and goes back to the town he was raised in. His parents died in the flu pandemic, but his mother left him a message to look up Lady Lassiter. Seeking her out, he ends up working in The Empire theatre.

The plot sees the theatre struggling through several challenges, but what are the challenges facing Jack?

A fun read.

This was such a good book. I love historical fiction, especially when it is about eras/ situations that I previously knew nothing about and this was definitely one of those books. It was so well researched and so compelling in its narrative that not only did I love reading it but I felt that I learned too. A really enjoyable read and perfect for any fans of historical fiction. This is a first for me by the author and one I enjoyed and would read more of their work. The book cover is eye-catching and appealing and would spark my interest if in a bookshop. Thank you very much to the author, publisher and Netgalley for this ARC.

The E-Book could be improved and more user-friendly, such as links to the chapters, no large gaps between words some text written has been typed in red and a cover for the book would be better. It is very document-like instead of a book therefore a star is lost for this.

Jack Treadwell arrives at the Empire theatre looking for work but discovers friendship, romance and so much more! He works with different social classes, famous actors and starlets, musicians and stage hands in a wonderful theatrical atmosphere. But there are people who want the Empire to fail and this threatens all Jack holds dear...
The Empire is the debut novel from renowned performer (dare I say musical legend?!) Michael Ball. It was an utter delight to read. I was immediately swept into the 1920s era and felt that the social and cultural situation, impacted by the recent First World War, felt authentic.
The characters are effectively brought to life through descriptions and dialogue. Don't be put off by the character guide at the start which felt a little overwhelming. I skipped it but found the relationships easy to understand. There is a fine mix of the flamboyant, honourable, devious, wholesome and eccentric. Perhaps a little melodramatic with characters we love to hate but I was totally hooked.
The plot itself centres around the Empire being inherited by a man with poor business sense and dubious morals. He needs to convince his step-grandmother to part with her shares whilst the business itself is struggling against a rival theatre. On the personal side, Jack is dealing with his return from France after the war, finding himself an orphan and needing a career. There is a big twist which I guessed but this did not affect my enjoyment at all.
The Empire is a captivating and richly written historical novel.

The Empire, a theatre that has experienced grander times and now desperately needs rejuvenating, is probably the most relatable character in this novel, which is packed with a large cast of luvvies and greedy profiteers. Intrigues, plot twists and schemes abound and backstage antics are well developed. However, the characters are somewhat superficial, it’s all too clear who the ‘goodies’ and the ‘baddies’ are, and any attempts at humour felt a bit weak. Truthfully, as a theatre lover I was a bit disappointed by this novel which, although quite entertaining, was overly simplistic.

A really lovely read by the amazingly multitalented Michael Ball.

This theatre based story of love, kindness, and ruthlessness is based post war in a small theatre struggling to compete with its larger rivals.

The story is complex and the characters are many but soon the reader is drawn into their lives and lives and the way these are bound together.

Well written and with characters that make you root for them or plot against them, this is an accomplished first book.

Thanks to Netgalley, the author and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.

This novel showcases Michael Ball’s passion and knowledge of the theatre giving it depth and soul that wouldn’t have been replicated without his theatrical background.

By following Jack Treadwell’s discovery of the Empire, I saw the atmospheric building through his eyes and as his love for the theatre and the larger than life cast grew so did mine. There were many characters to love and hate who drove story forward while I was immersed in the atmospheric setting and era.

Behind the glamour of showbiz, lingered the shadows cast from the first world war and the murkier aspects of the time. These rose the tension and making me turn the page to discover how all the subplots concluded.

WOULD I RECOMMEND?
Yes, I’m currently in hospital and The Empire provided an entertaining, escape into my favourite era. The strong sense of place immersed me into the characters’ lives which was quite a feat when battling with the distraction of a busy ward. With a full cast of characters and glamorous location it could easily be adapted into a tv series.

Michael Ball, a family favourite, a personality, someone full of charm and with a twinkle in his eye who entertains millions, and now an author. I was intrigued when I heard that he was writing a novel and more so when I knew more about it’s setting. I hoped that Michael’s personality would lend itself to producing an entertaining read. I was not disappointed in the slightest, far from it, I was enchanted.
The book is well structured, sections aptly named in theatre terms i.e overture, various acts, finale etc. There are many, many characters though (you do get a long list of who is who at the start) and it takes a little while to get them straight in your head but once you do it’s fine; having such a huge cast of characters allows you to have favourites as well as those you love to hate; smaller storylines intertwine and create strands within the main plot very well.
I don’t want to give away much of the storyline but there is a lot going on, not in a chaotic way but a lot does happen so it’s great that it’s been written in such a captivating way. I didn’t want to put it down as I was completely in the moment and there alongside the characters.
The Empire encapsulates the theatre and musical world, from backstage to performance, cast to writers to owners; the love of theatre shines through Michaels words. Through his vivid descriptions and story you can imagine being both behind the scenes as well as out in the audience watching a smash hit show.
With glitz, glamour, and romance as well as drama, heart break and scandal, The Empire is a warm and entertaining read that will captivate and transport you to London old West End.
I was very impressed by this debut and I genuinely hope it is the start of a series or we, at least, have another set in The Empire. Highly recommended!

The Empire by Michael Ball

I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Blurb

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, 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?

My Opinion

When I learned that Michael Ball had written a book, I was eager to find out just how good it would - I am always sceptical when I see a great review for a book written by a celebrity as you never know how genuine the review is.

I have mixed feelings about this, there is a large cast list at the beginning of the book which was daunting, but overall it is a well-written with a good structure and some likeable characters. There is a lot of drama and a fast pace that will help you fly through the book. I feel like Michael's love of theatre really comes across in this book.

This will appeal to fans of the theatre and historical fiction.

Rating: 4/5

Going to the theatre is one of my favourite things to do, seeing Michael Ball (and Mr Boe) is another, so of course I had to sign up/stalk for a spot on this blog tour.

A fantastic debut, the author really set the scene and I really felt I was amongst the workers at The Empire. I could completely visualise the ‘busyness’ of being backstage in putting on the performance and what it entailed.

The are a lot of characters, but the cast list at the front really helps as a reminder of who’s who. The parts with Jack and Grace were my favourite and not forgetting a comedy Macbeth, that needs to be done!

I’m looking forward to get back to the Empire.

A pleasant read following the fortunes of the Empire Theatre and the family attached to it. There are a lot of characters to get to grips with but the storytelling paints them well.

Michael Ball's brings all his theatrical experience to his debut novel as we are introduced to 'The Empire', a wonderful theatre whose future is in jeopardy.

The initial list of characters is slightly daunting to the reader but once we are introduced to Jack, things gradually slot into place. As a huge theatre fan, I enjoyed watching the story unfold - the writing brings the theatre to life and the reader can almost smell the greasepaint and hear the audience cheer.

I especially warmed to Grace and lady Lilian and of course there has to be a baddie too, but the real magic lies in the theatre itself. The reader is privileged to be a part of all her ups and downs.

An amazing debut.

Great book by Michael Ball. Not surprised that it's set against a back drop of musical theatre! He clearly knows it well. Lovely story as well.

4.5*
Following a suggestion from some friends, plus something that his late mother had left him, Jack Treadwell made his way to The Empire theatre. He hadn’t been sure what to do with his life since returning from the horrors of the war and his time in France, but now at least he had an objective.

Lady Lassiter, ex showgirl, old friend of Jack’s mother and joint owner since the death of her husband, wasn’t in the country. Jack found himself searching for Grace Hawkins, assistant to the manager, and the person who seemed to keep everything ticking over. Being back stage in the midst of a dress rehearsal was an eye-opener for Jack. It awoke something in him and he was enthralled. Jack was intent on securing the position of stage doorman, or any other as long as it was in the theatre, and he would take whatever was offered regardless of the hours or wages.

'When Jack had arrived at The Empire theatre, full of pluck and hope, the young lad hanging around the foyer had taken one look at him, ushered him to this seat, and scarpered before Jack could introduce himself or state his business. Then the action on stage — a stunning young woman leading a large chorus dressed like angels — had induced Jack to sit down, be quiet and enjoy himself.'

Set in Northern England in the early 1920s, we discover The Empire is struggling. The Lassiter family don’t seem to take much interest and a rival owner of several theatres and music halls, Joe Allerdyce, is using underhand tactics to try and acquire the Empire. Jack, whose open and friendly manner has charmed most of the people he’s come into contact with, and Grace are determined to do everything they can to keep the Empire up and running.

The Empire evokes the grandeur and magic of the theatre setting, the excitement, hard work and extravagance of staging a show, especially when it’s a make or break situation. I loved the sense of camaraderie between the actors and crew, once one or two had been put in their place, but regardless of that, things don’t always run smoothly. There’s more going on behind the scenes than on the stage.

The large cast of characters is slightly overwhelming, but happily there is a (very long) list to refer to. However, I soon became caught up in the story, following the fortunes of the cast, the theatre and the shows. I did wonder while reading whether Michael Ball had based some characters on people he knows and/or has worked with. I imagine it would have been hard not to do so but regardless, his love for the theatre and its people shines through.

The characters are well developed and complex. Apart from Jack, I think my favourite character was Bill. He was so sympathetically written as he worked to overcome his struggles, but there are also a good number of others who are likeable and add to the story.

The Empire is an accomplished debut. The story flows well and is written with warmth, feeling and wit, along with touches of romance. There are also darker moments, dirty dealings, tensions and secrets to uncover, but despite the unexpected and dramatic finale there’s no question of giving up.

I just have to mention the gorgeous cover which depicts the era perfectly and I love how it carries on round showing the back of the building complete with stage door. A must read for anyone who enjoys the theatre.

Thank you for an inspired debut novel Michael!
Using the theatre as the central character, this story kept giving more intrigue, more suspense and more entertainment.
Set in 1922 the larger than life theatrical characters coloured the pages with their glamour and the backstage characters showed how hard is was and still is to work in theatre land.
I really enjoyed this debut novel and look forward to reading the next .story.

Set in the theatre in the 1920's. A theatrical mystery that delivers on all accounts. Wit, glamour and of course romance in abundance. A complex list of characters but this didn't distract from the great storyline. A great insight into life in the theatre.

Many thanx to NetGalley, the author and the publishers for allowing me to read and review this book.

A little confused at the begining of this book as there were so many characters all on their own mission! Also felt it a little far fetched as to how relative strangers can be promoted so quickly!!

All this said, it was a nice read, no great build up as one can guess at the outcome after reading 50% of the book. I enjoyed it but can only award 4 stars as I felt it wasn't a great holder of my attention

My thoughts

Thank you to Rachel for my invitation to the blog tour and for my copy of e book in return for a fair and honest review.

I really enjoy the theatre and I love historical fiction so when I read the blurb for this book I knew it was one to read. Written by actor, singer and performer Michael Ball, who knows theatre inside out, we are introduced to Jack who has returned from Paris after the war to a new life and new job at The Empire Theatre as a doorman.

He quickly settles in and his first day is ‘ the best day of Jack’s life ‘ as he is energised the surroundings and it’s in inhabitants. Especially Grace who works really hard for The Empire.

Lady Lassiter who owns The Empire has recently lost her husband Barnabus and is about to take a trip to New York and leave the theatre in the hands of Mr Mangrave.

This is a really enjoyable read, warm and interesting. I was invested in the story and the characters. There is plenty of drama as Grace and Jack have to fight for The Empire.

For theatre lovers everywhere !

Having enjoyed Michael Ball’s singing and presenting skills for many years, I was excited to hear he had written his first novel and I was eager to read it.
It is set in 1922 and unsurprisingly, the story revolves around a theatre – The Empire. Early on, we find out Lady Lillian Lassiter’s husband has died. Lillian owns The Empire theatre and was previously a showgirl before marrying the older Sir Barnabas Lassiter.
There are a lot of characters to get to know! (There’s a helpful list at the start of the book, but this isn’t easy to go back to on the Kindle.) There’s a lot going on and initially, it’s all rather confusing. But most of them eventually end up involved with The Empire somehow or other.
Jack Treadwell comes back to England following a time as a prisoner of war. His friend Walter suggests he apply for the job of stage doorman at The Empire.
Joseph P. Allerdyce owns many theatres, cinemas and music halls and now intends to go after The Empire, following Sir Barnabas Lassiter’s death.
Miss Grace Hawkins works at The Empire as the manager Mr Mangrave’s assistant. She soon becomes firm friends with Jack and the two of them set about trying to save the theatre. The only production they can hire is an awful musical version of Macbeth, but can they turn things around and give The Empire a chance at survival, competing against the power of Joe Allerdyce?
Once I got my head round all the characters and worked out what was happening, I really enjoyed this. I love the setting of the theatre and all the people involved in it. Jack is a great character and I loved Grace too and the funny dog Ollie. And who could fail to fall in love with Billy Barlow? Joe Allerdyce is a real boo-hiss panto villain, easy to picture and even easier to hate.
It's a really good read, especially for anyone interested in all aspects of the theatre, as you don’t only get the story of the performers, but also those of the crew and backstage.