Hardback: 390 pages
Genre: Historical Fiction,
There is a huge cast of characters to get to know in the storyline all of which play a role, helpfully there is list included at the beginning. It is set in the 1920’s at a time when the world of theatre is struggling to survive, The Empire is no exception. The most important characters in my opinion, amongst the many you will meet are Jack Treadwell and Grace Hawkins. Jack quickly works his way up the theatre management initially starting work there as the stage doorman and Grace, who as the assistant to the theatre manager is so important to the running of the place, that the show would not go on without her. An entertaining story where the drama that goes on backstage only transfers to successful performances thanks to the determination of those that love their theatre.
Although I found this to be a well written and informative novel about the world of theatre it sadly left me feeling unmoved, failing to hold my interest and I will not be reading the sequel. Don’t let me put you off reading this though, as if you are a fan of Michael Ball and the world of theatre, it will probably appeal to you.
Précis Courtesy of Goodreads:
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?
Musical theatre legend Michael Ball brings his trademark warmth, wit and glamour to this, his debut novel.
Enjoy the show!
Author Profile:
Michael Ashley Ball was born on 27th June 1962 in Bromsgrove, Worcestershire, to a Welsh mother and an English father. Michael is a singer, actor, presenter and now author. He's been a star of musical theatre for over three decades, winning the Laurence Olivier Award for Best Actor in a Musical twice, he's also won two BRIT awards and been nominated for a Grammy. Michael regularly sells out both his solo tours and his Ball & Boe shows with Alfie Boe and has multiple platinum albums. The Empire is his first novel.
Photographs and Biographical Information courtesy of the following sites.
No comments:
Post a Comment
I indulge my love of books with this blog and it makes it all worthwhile when you leave comments. I really am interested in what you think so do let me know. I have decided as the nature of this review blog makes for conversation in the comments, just to reply here and not individually, so please subscribe to comments or call back again to stay in the conversation. Thankyou for your continued support.