It is 1936 and The Empire is struggling to keep going. A pantomime is planned but Jack Lassiter’s wife,Grace, is struggling with writing the script. Jack’’s mother, Lady Lilian Lassiter (the owner of the theatre) arrives unexpectedly with her new lover, Grand Duke Nikolai Kuznetsov, who unexpectedly takes control of the pantomime to great success.

Meanwhile Sally Blow, a young widow with a small poorly son, struggling to make ends meet, is singing in The Bricklayers Arms several times a week and is spotted one night by Ruby (who composes a lot of music and songs for the theatre) and Tom, another close friend of Jack. Sally ends up doing odd jobs at The Empire but not for long as her feelings for Tom cause her anguish when she realises that his family own the company that caused her husband’s death. Jack, who always works amongst a muddle of everything offers employment to Miss Chisholm who turns up unexpectedly and proves to be a superb organiser.

They eventually learn that the Prince of Wales and the younger brother of Nikolai who is heir to the throne of his country will be visiting Highbridge and also the theatre. A talent contest is organised and Sally is finally persuaded to sing. Will the evening go smoothly or not.? Look out for the unexpected sting in the tail!

I received Michael Ball’s previous novel last Christmas nd enjoyed it so I was excited to be given an advance copy of this latest one. Thanks to net galley and the publisher.

The story continues at the same theatre and with some of the same characters a previously.. it’s set in the 1920s and we exoerience staging of a pantomime and a talent contest. There’s also a new Russian character who plays a vital role. It’s an entertaining read and would make a good Christmas present as it’s published in time.

This is a cracking good read with characters that you care about.
Michael Ball’s A Backstage Betrayal is the second in this series and it’s worth reading the books in order as they follow Jack, Grace and a host of characters all of whom find their lives interwoven with the Empire theatre.
This series does a great job in combining vintage cosy crime with theatre and a north of England setting. It all adds up to a great read.

The Empire Theatre series continues to dazzle with A Backstage Betrayal, the second novel by Michael Ball set in a small English town in 1926. The story centers on Jack Treadwell, his mother Lillian, and his playwright wife Grace as they try to revive The Empire theatre through a pantomime, a new venture, and a talent contest. But the arrival of Lillian’s admirer, Grand Duke Nikolai Kuznetsov, and the involvement of West End star Stella Stanmore threaten to unravel their plans.

Michael Ball's love for theatre is evident throughout the story, as he brings his insider knowledge to every scene. His passion and deep understanding of the theatrical world shine through, making the setting feel vibrant and authentic. The narrative is rich and engaging, weaving in historical details like the transition to "talkie" films, veterans of World War I, and even a fictional small Soviet country to add depth to the era.

While the story is exciting and filled with intrigue, there are moments where the many plot threads and characters can feel a bit overwhelming. However, this complexity might be perfectly suited to an adaptation—this book would make an excellent mini-series, blending real-life theatre history with a touch of fictional drama.

Michael Ball's blend of historical elements and imaginative storytelling makes this a captivating read. His knowledge of theatre and his creativity come together beautifully, and I can't wait to see where he takes the series next.

Recommendations: If you enjoyed A Backstage Betrayal, I recommend The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid, which also delves into the glitz of show business with complex characters and a historical backdrop. For a cozy mystery set in a similar environment, check out The Theatre Ghost by Isabella Grey. And if you’re in the mood for a captivating period drama, the series or films of Downton Abbey provide rich character drama and historical intrigue.

Loved it
It was good going back to the empire and joining in with characters old and new.
This was slightly more thrilling then Michael Balls first book, and really had me turning the pages!

1926
We return to The Empire theatre and times are hard.
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.

Young widow, Sally Blow is down on her luck, with a child to look after, she needs work. She attends the glittering opening of the newly built Empire Theatre; from the outside. She sees all the glamorous stars and longs to join them. But makes do with a job offer to sing for tips at the pub, she dares to dream that the talent contest could be her big break.

As the talent contest draws closer, tragedy strikes. Amid the glitz and glamour there is scandal and plots afoot, could this be curtains for The Empire?

I felt real joy returning to The Empire and its cast of characters. It was like catching up with old friends at a party and meeting a new cast to add to them too. I adored Harry the theatre rat and of course Ollie the stage door dog. I love the fact that there are villains as well as heroes to root for and new adventures and challenges for them to embark on.

The book is just glorious, Downton Abbey in theatreland, with royalty, plenty of love, laughs, song, shenanigans, plotting and a pantomime dame. It’s packed to the gunnels with storylines, I feel like it should be a Sunday evening drama!

You can really feel the love that Michael has for the theatre and all its ups and downs, the characters walk off the page to delight you!

It just left me with a big smile on my face

‘There are always more tunes, more songs, more stories.’

As always Mr Michael Ball, you are absolutely right!

Ball’s second book returns to Highbridge and the reopened Empire Theatre, run by Jack Treadwell, in 1926. We experience the day to day running of the Empire, which must face some not insignificant challenges, but with an extensive cast of characters (thank goodness for the helpful list at the beginning of the book!), there are several other threads beside. Jack’s mother Lillian is in a new relationship with Grand Duke Nikolai Kuznetsov, a gentleman from Marakovia with an interesting past; local widow Sally Blow is scraping a living for her and her young son but dreams of stardom as a singer; starlet Stella Stanmore has escaped to Highbridge from London following the death of a friend in London. And there is a rat called Harry who steals the show!

Ball uses his knowledge of the theatre to great effect painting a vivid picture of theatrical life of the time. There is no shortage of goings on with plenty of intrigue and some truly entertaining characters, all of which makes for a thoroughly enjoyable read.

An enjoyable story, however at times there seemed to be too much going on.
The characters are likeable where required and dislikeable where due
The starts of the show however are furry.

An absolutely brilliant read.
This is the second visit to the Empire Theatre with a mixture of old and new characters.
Great story line with a lot of intrigue and love developing throughout the book.
I would rate it as good as the first in the series and just hope there is more to come.

I read the first instalment of the ‘Empire’ and really enjoyed it. I started ‘The Backstahe Betrayal’ with Edgar anticipation, but somehow it did not keep my attention. I tried twice to start it and on the third attempt I did manage to finish it, although I confess I skipped a few pages.
I wonder if it was the huge list of characters or the change in story base with each chapter. Just as I was getting interested in a character the focus changed to someone else.
All was not doom and gloom . The story moved quickly and some of the characters warranted a cheer for their endeavours.
Would I try another book by Michael? Yes probably

Musical theatre legend Michael Ball has turned his hand to writing novels. Backstage Betrayal is his second book. It’s an enjoyable read and has clearly been written by someone who loves the theatre and understands the world in which it’s set.
For me, there were some negatives. There’s a huge cast and it takes some time to work out who everyone is, how they’re connected, and what they’re up to. Perhaps this is easier for people who have read the first book in the series. The other issue is that the book also felt a little old-fashioned in style, and somewhat clichéd with the choice and portrayal of the baddies.
But for people looking for a light, unchallenging and entertaining glimpse at the backstage world of theatre and theatre folk in the 1920s, this book will be a lot of fun.
I would have given it 3.5 if that were possible.
With thanks to the publishers and NetGalley for an ARC

After reading the first book in this series, I have been eagerly awaiting the second. The Empire Theatre is in Highbridge, outside London and is run by the Treadwell family.

Jack Treadwell is the manager, wife Grace is currently at home convalescing and supposedly writing but has lost her mojo. Lillian, his Mother has returned with a new man in tow, this is unexpected but Nikolai makes her happy. Tom, a cousin, is a little enamoured when he sees a local woman singing, the singer is a single mum, Sally Blow and her son is Dougie. Then there are quite a few more of the cast to get acquainted with, but don't worry there is a cast list at the front of the book. I didn't bother with this as I was already aware of some of the characters from the beginning of the book. The introductions are gradually made as the story begins so you will soon get up to speed.

Drama is supposed to be on the stage, and while there certainly is that, the best of the drama is definitely backstage and behind the scenes in this story. Several threads are brought to this story: family betrayal and mistrust, some dodgy gang characters, some well-meaning, and some there because they are part of the furniture as such.

The Empire is having problems, things are not running as smoothly as they should, and things need to change and they certainly do, from the beginning to the end, the author weaves a tale that captured my attention. I do like the way the scenes are described so you do get a great image as you read, there are drama entrances and exits, some mystery, a murder and some unruly shenanigans. All the things that you would expect to see on the stage, but are actually taking place away from it and in the lives of the characters of the story.

There is an interesting author notes at the end where you are given some brief facts about the theatre in the 20s, and the changes and this does add to the story.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book, as it has so much happening in it, but it is done well, so I didn't feel lost or feel I had missed something. As the book gets towards the end, it becomes very dramatic indeed, with the various threads suddenly coming together. At times, it was a little fast for me, and it felt like the pacing had been taken up just a tad too fast, but what is a finale without something to keep you on your toes?

This is a story that has romance, humour, plenty of mystery and misdirection and I thoroughly enjoyed being back with the characters from the previous book. If you are a fan of historical fiction with a dash of romance and all the other things I have mentioned then give this one a look. I would happily recommend it.

A Backstage Betrayal is the gorgeous new novel by musical theatre superstar Michael Ball. I must admit that when I read The Empire, the first book in the series, back in 2022, I did feel a little bit of trepidation going in as I was very aware that just because Michael is an amazing entertainer and all round nice guy, it didn’t mean he would be able to put pen to paper and write a novel I would want to read.

But thankfully I needn’t have worried as The Empire was everything I hoped it would be and more, the story mesmerising as Michael brought the glitz, glamour and romance of the theatre vividly to life.

And I must say, in A Backstage Betrayal, Michael Ball has written a story every bit as enjoyable as the first book in the series. An enchanting historical novel that is the perfect book to lose yourself in, A Backstage Betrayal has everything you could possibly need from a glitzy historical romance. With a large and varied cast (some I remember from The Empire) of memorable characters you can’t help but fall in love with, A Backstage Betrayal is a moving and uplifting read that once started you do not want to put down.

Michael’s style of writing is delightful as he instantly transports you back into the glitz, glamour, intrigue and suspense filled world of The Empire. A must read for any lover of musical theatre, A Backstage Betrayal is a fantastic read with twists, turns, well drawn characters and sharp, witty dialogue that flows easily on the page. Theatre, romance, glitz and glamour, this is a book that has it all!

But it also has a more serious side, with gentle, poignant moments that will make your heart ache as the story propels you forward, the author’s trademark warmth, wit and charisma coming through with every word.

Michael Ball’s second novel is every bit as magical as The Empire and is a gorgeously written historical novel that I would highly recommend. I loved it!

Set in the Empire Theatre in 1920s Yorkshire, A Backstage Betrayal is the second novel by Michael Ball. Ideally you should read The Empire first, but there’s enough backstory given to start here if needed.

Four years have passed since book 1 and things are not going well at the Empire Theatre, nor does it look like they will improve anytime soon. Jack Treadwell, the manager of the Empire, his wife Grace and his mother Lillian are all back, as are an array of supporting characters. And there are a whole host of new characters to meet.

This is an enjoyable and easy read. Fans of the first book will be more than happy with this one. If you’re new to Michael Ball’s writing but are a fan of authors such as Anton Du Beke, this book is well worth a go!

Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers, Zaffre, for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

We all know that Michael Ball can sing, but it may come as a surprise that he can write too. With so many celebrity authors around at the moment, Michael Ball is the one that I would recommend reading as he writes about what he knows: the theatre.

I absolutely adored The Empire and I do think you need to have read it (if you somehow missed it) before reading A Backstage Betrayal to fully understand the history and relationships of the characters. It was so good to virtually tread the boards again and see how Jack and Grace were getting on, although they certainly seem to have a lot of challenges to overcome in this novel.

It's wonderful to step back in time to the 1920s and see behind the curtain of a busy theatre and the era is depicted beautifully. There's an awful lot going on both inside and outside of The Empire Theatre to keep the reader entertained and completely immersed in the story, although there is so much going on that I felt a little overwhelmed at times. I think I devoured each page so quickly that I will need to read it again at a slower pace to fully appreciate the multi-layered and dramatic storylines.

Entertaining and atmospheric, A Backstage Betrayal is a fabulous sequel to The Empire and one I wouldn't hesitate to recommend.

Really enjoyed this sequel to The Empire. I will admit that it took me a few pages to get into it - there certainly are a lot of characters and trying to remember who is who and in what way they are connected was a little tricky at the beginning, but I persevered as I had really enjoyed the first book. Glad I did as this really got going and was another great read. There is so much going on - with so many characters, there are lots of strands - but it all came together nicely and I didn't feel there were any loose ends by the time the story concluded. I would highly recommend this book, especially if you are into the theatrical world!

Thank to Net Galley and the publishers for allowing me to read this in exchange for an honest review, which is what I have given.

This is book two in this series and follows on after the shenanigans of book one - The Empire - so, for full enjoyment, I would really recommend reading that first.
We are now in 1926 and times are hard in theatre-land. Jack is barely keeping his head above water, and still desperately needs an assistant. His wife Grace is still suffering writers block, a situation not helped by her losing their baby. Meanwhile Lillian returns along with a new beau - Grand Duke Nikolai Kuznetsov, exiled from his native Marakovia, but feeling quite at home with Lillian!
Meanwhile, we also meet a young widow, Sally Blow, who is trying to keep the wolf from the door she shares with her young son. Juggling jobs she has struck lucky singing in a pub for board and tips and has caught the eye of Tom and Ruby.
And then there's Harry the rat... who I will leave you to get to know on, obviously, his terms!
If you have read book one, you will know what to expect from this follow up. And it delivers exactly that! Again, as with book one, we start with a fair few pages of "who's who" which I still find unhelpful and scary. I learnt though, and just ignored it!
There is an awful lot going on herein, plots and sub plots and wee little romantic asides which all sounds like it could be a bit busy and overwhelming, but the author juggles them all with aplomb, giving each its own voice and platform as they all meander around and about until the majority all comes together nicely at the end.
It's fun, it's glamorous, glitzy, and ideal for those of us who love all things theatre... But it's also gritty and hard hitting on occasion and doesn't shy from the important things. Me, I'm now hanging for book three!
My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.

An engaging enough read, though not quite as exciting as The Empire, nice to catch up with many characters from the first book and to meet some new ones.

My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book.

Back to theatrical 1920's again, with the Treadwell family. A tale of love, intrigue , and life in 1920's theatreland. An enjoyable read, perfect wet, cold day reading .

I admit I was a bit put off by the cast of characters at the beginning, but I ignored it and just read the book. It,s an easy read with multiple plot lines running simultaneously which added layers to what could havebeen a bit of cheese. It is a bit smaltzy in places and everything gets resolved with a pink bow but i liked it.