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Elvis and Ginger: Elvis Presley's Fiancée and Last Love Finally Tells Her Story
ELVIS PRESLEY’S FIANCÉE AND LAST LOVE FINALLY TELLS HER STORY
“Elvis, you and I know the truth and unfortunately you’re not here to set the record straight. With this book, I will try to...”
Elvis Presley and Graceland were fixtures in the life of Ginger Alden, having been born and raised in Memphis, Tennessee. But she had no idea that she would play a part in that enduring legacy—as Elvis Presley’s fiancée, and his last great love. For over three decades Ginger has held the truth of their relationship close to her heart. Now she shares her unique story, and while a lot has been written about the King, the Elvis we meet in this long-anticipated memoir is a revelation.
In her own words Ginger details their whirlwind romance—from first kiss to his stunning proposal of marriage. She details his exploration of Eastern religions, his perception of being a “legend,” his devotion to family and friends, and her attempt to know the insular group surrounding Elvis. And for the very first time she talks about the devastating end of it all, and the 50,000 mourners and reporters who descended on Graceland in 1977, exposing Ginger to the reality of living in the spotlight of a short, yet immortal, life.
Above it all, Alden rescues Elvis from the hearsay, rumors, and tabloid speculations of his final year by shedding a frank yet personal light on a very public legend. From a unique and intimate perspective, she reveals the man—complicated, romantic, fallible, and human—behind the enduring myth, a superstar worshipped by millions, and loved by Ginger Alden.
INCLUDES PHOTOS
“Elvis, you and I know the truth and unfortunately you’re not here to set the record straight. With this book, I will try to...”
Elvis Presley and Graceland were fixtures in the life of Ginger Alden, having been born and raised in Memphis, Tennessee. But she had no idea that she would play a part in that enduring legacy—as Elvis Presley’s fiancée, and his last great love. For over three decades Ginger has held the truth of their relationship close to her heart. Now she shares her unique story, and while a lot has been written about the King, the Elvis we meet in this long-anticipated memoir is a revelation.
In her own words Ginger details their whirlwind romance—from first kiss to his stunning proposal of marriage. She details his exploration of Eastern religions, his perception of being a “legend,” his devotion to family and friends, and her attempt to know the insular group surrounding Elvis. And for the very first time she talks about the devastating end of it all, and the 50,000 mourners and reporters who descended on Graceland in 1977, exposing Ginger to the reality of living in the spotlight of a short, yet immortal, life.
Above it all, Alden rescues Elvis from the hearsay, rumors, and tabloid speculations of his final year by shedding a frank yet personal light on a very public legend. From a unique and intimate perspective, she reveals the man—complicated, romantic, fallible, and human—behind the enduring myth, a superstar worshipped by millions, and loved by Ginger Alden.
INCLUDES PHOTOS
400 pages, Hardcover
First published September 2, 2014
309 people are currently reading
1582 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 230 reviews
September 1, 2019
I've read many biographies about Elvis through the decades, but this one definitely filled a void of information regarding Elvis's final girlfriend and fiancee, Ginger Alden. She was just twenty when she was introduced to Elvis, and their relationship spanned only 9 months because of his sudden death on August 16, 1977. Ginger was the one who discovered Elvis dead in the bathroom off his bedroom. Before reading this book, the one resounding remark I recall from a book by Elvis's step-brother was that he regarded Ginger Alden as much less sophisticated than Elvis's ex-wife Priscilla Presley.
This was a very tragic story since according to Ginger, they had just discussed her wedding gown (which Elvis had a design idea of in his head and planned to have custom made in Los Angeles), decided upon a pyramid shaped church, who would marry them, and the date of the wedding (Christmas 1977). As I've read numerous times in other books, this man was generous to a fault, buying Ginger and her family members Cadillacs, taking them on vacations on his planes, giving them diamond rings, offering to buy homes, etc. No wonder the estate of Elvis Presley was in a precarious state at the time of his death! It also covered Elvis's upside down schedule of sleeping during the day and staying up most of the night. And the sleep medication packets that greatly disturbed Ginger, as well as some of his poor eating habits. Ginger had hoped to help change some of those dangerous health choices, but whenever she would mention something it would inspire a rage. She also witnessed occasions of Elvis shooting up televisions and even the toilet when he got angry. As I had read in Priscilla Presley's memoir, the role of anyone who lasted with Elvis was one of subjugation to his rules and needs. Ginger was only 20 when she got engaged to Elvis, so who knows what would have happened if they had actually gotten married? She might have become disenchanted with his unorthodox way of living, just like Priscilla did.
A lot of these issues were covered before in a multitude of other books, but this one is from his fiancee Ginger who never got to marry him. Very poignant. They were just four months away from their wedding when he suddenly died. She committed her memories to paper shortly after he died, trying to remember statements exactly the way he had said them. However, she didn't get around to writing her memoir until several years ago. After an intense mourning period, Ginger dabbled in acting, modelling, commercials, etc. While living in NYC she met her husband and had a son. She quit working to raise him. Once he was off to college, she focused on writing this book. She did a great job capturing the essence of Elvis. When she quotes Elvis, it really does sound like the way he would talk. I am really blown away by his extreme generosity as documented by Ginger. The amount of jewelry, fur coats, cars, etc. that he was splurging on during a relationship lasting just 9 months was absolutely mind boggling. When you read a lot of books covering a certain topic, it's a joy when you can find kernels of new information in the next book. I really enjoyed Ginger's account of her rather short but intense relationship with Elvis, to dispel the mystery of Elvis's fiancee who never got to marry him.
This was a very tragic story since according to Ginger, they had just discussed her wedding gown (which Elvis had a design idea of in his head and planned to have custom made in Los Angeles), decided upon a pyramid shaped church, who would marry them, and the date of the wedding (Christmas 1977). As I've read numerous times in other books, this man was generous to a fault, buying Ginger and her family members Cadillacs, taking them on vacations on his planes, giving them diamond rings, offering to buy homes, etc. No wonder the estate of Elvis Presley was in a precarious state at the time of his death! It also covered Elvis's upside down schedule of sleeping during the day and staying up most of the night. And the sleep medication packets that greatly disturbed Ginger, as well as some of his poor eating habits. Ginger had hoped to help change some of those dangerous health choices, but whenever she would mention something it would inspire a rage. She also witnessed occasions of Elvis shooting up televisions and even the toilet when he got angry. As I had read in Priscilla Presley's memoir, the role of anyone who lasted with Elvis was one of subjugation to his rules and needs. Ginger was only 20 when she got engaged to Elvis, so who knows what would have happened if they had actually gotten married? She might have become disenchanted with his unorthodox way of living, just like Priscilla did.
A lot of these issues were covered before in a multitude of other books, but this one is from his fiancee Ginger who never got to marry him. Very poignant. They were just four months away from their wedding when he suddenly died. She committed her memories to paper shortly after he died, trying to remember statements exactly the way he had said them. However, she didn't get around to writing her memoir until several years ago. After an intense mourning period, Ginger dabbled in acting, modelling, commercials, etc. While living in NYC she met her husband and had a son. She quit working to raise him. Once he was off to college, she focused on writing this book. She did a great job capturing the essence of Elvis. When she quotes Elvis, it really does sound like the way he would talk. I am really blown away by his extreme generosity as documented by Ginger. The amount of jewelry, fur coats, cars, etc. that he was splurging on during a relationship lasting just 9 months was absolutely mind boggling. When you read a lot of books covering a certain topic, it's a joy when you can find kernels of new information in the next book. I really enjoyed Ginger's account of her rather short but intense relationship with Elvis, to dispel the mystery of Elvis's fiancee who never got to marry him.
October 1, 2014
Am I the only one who did NOT find Ginger & Elvis’ story sweet or romantic? Let’s get real here folks – how about creepy and sleazy? She was barely out of her teens and apparently incredibly naïve and this 42 year old guy who just happens to be unbelievably rich and famous swoops in and takes over her life. He manipulated her from the beginning in ways you can’t even begin to count; emotionally, financially, and in some cases physically. Her memoir presents these situations as signs of his great love for her. Surely now, as an adult, she would realize how unhealthy her relationship with him was? If she is cognizant of that she doesn’t go there in this book.
January 31, 2016
It's like a run down of events in the life of Ginger Alden. She meets Elvis Presley, he buys her stuff, he buys her family stuff. She goes to concerts and he died.
If this was an attempt to reverse the years of being called a gold digger, it didn't work. Did she feel weird about this older guy being possessive and buying her attention? She never explains her feelings at the time.
For better or worse Elvis wasn't in the prime of his life in this story, but she says he is. There's mentions of drugs and runaway diets, but she doesn't dwell on it.
The chronological history between them would be interesting enough if was written by someone else, but it missed analysis. As an older woman, did she feel like a trophy? Did she feel possessed? She says she really fell in love with him. Why? He was much older, they didn't share much musical tastes, there's very little sex. I don't see the attraction.
If she was worried about her current husband's feelings, than she shouldn't have bothered with this book.
In the end, this is boring. Maybe she wasn't a gold digger. Maybe she truly loved him. This book lacks any emotion to sway me on any of it.
If this was an attempt to reverse the years of being called a gold digger, it didn't work. Did she feel weird about this older guy being possessive and buying her attention? She never explains her feelings at the time.
For better or worse Elvis wasn't in the prime of his life in this story, but she says he is. There's mentions of drugs and runaway diets, but she doesn't dwell on it.
The chronological history between them would be interesting enough if was written by someone else, but it missed analysis. As an older woman, did she feel like a trophy? Did she feel possessed? She says she really fell in love with him. Why? He was much older, they didn't share much musical tastes, there's very little sex. I don't see the attraction.
If she was worried about her current husband's feelings, than she shouldn't have bothered with this book.
In the end, this is boring. Maybe she wasn't a gold digger. Maybe she truly loved him. This book lacks any emotion to sway me on any of it.
September 16, 2014
HI ,
I am over half through this book & have been waiting so patiently for HER SIDE of the story for over 35 years .
Ginger is about the only person in Elvis' life who has NOT cashed in on his "life & death ".
She remained silent & I believe is on helluva classy lady .
Just think ~ All his bodyguards right to Pricilla even wrote tell all books after his death & cashed in .
Mind you , I guess all the Caddys & jewelry he bought them , while alive didn't count ?
Sorry but , I just think "they" were a bunch of leaches & Ginger deserves a HUGE pat on the back & I will be happy to give her one
She rocks !
Back to reading with Mz Alden
Happy Weekend All
EDIT: BOOK GETS BETTER & BETTER AS I GET NEAR END.
LITTLE BIT TOO MUCH THOUGH ON ELVIS' LOVE OF SPIRITUAL & NUMEROLOGY "STUFF"...THAT PART IS REPITISIOUS
I am over half through this book & have been waiting so patiently for HER SIDE of the story for over 35 years .
Ginger is about the only person in Elvis' life who has NOT cashed in on his "life & death ".
She remained silent & I believe is on helluva classy lady .
Just think ~ All his bodyguards right to Pricilla even wrote tell all books after his death & cashed in .
Mind you , I guess all the Caddys & jewelry he bought them , while alive didn't count ?
Sorry but , I just think "they" were a bunch of leaches & Ginger deserves a HUGE pat on the back & I will be happy to give her one
She rocks !
Back to reading with Mz Alden
Happy Weekend All
EDIT: BOOK GETS BETTER & BETTER AS I GET NEAR END.
LITTLE BIT TOO MUCH THOUGH ON ELVIS' LOVE OF SPIRITUAL & NUMEROLOGY "STUFF"...THAT PART IS REPITISIOUS
July 5, 2019
Ginger Alden might be beautiful but she sure was boring. This book was written like some sort of engagement diary for example:
Wed. July 3th Flew to Vegas with Elvis, ate hamburgers for dinner then we went to sleep - and more of the same YAWN!
No juicy details in this one and we already know that Elvis was a great guy in real life.
Wed. July 3th Flew to Vegas with Elvis, ate hamburgers for dinner then we went to sleep - and more of the same YAWN!
No juicy details in this one and we already know that Elvis was a great guy in real life.
February 4, 2015
What a lousy book! Couldn't even finish it I got so bored. I've read them all and was looking forward to reading an honest account of where Elvis' head was at leading up to his death. But this book is so badly written I couldn't bear to get even half way through it. It reads like a pre-teen crush diary. Ugh! Not recommended.
October 22, 2014
Elvis Presley fans have waited a long time to hear this incredible personal story: "Elvis and Ginger: Elvis Presley's Fiancee and Last Love Finally Tells Her Story" authored by Ginger Alden. Alden relates the inside story of the last year of life with Elvis with love, grace, compassion, and charm of a true Southern belle.
When Alden was asked to meet Elvis Presley as an alternative to "Miss Tennessee", she could have never believed Elvis would take her aside to talk to her, though this is exactly what happened. Before she knew it, she was being whisked off to Graceland to spend time with Elvis. Alden would become a part of Elvis personal intimate circle, staying up with him all night, watching TV, reading with him, (books on numerology and spiritually). Quickly, she learned Elvis did not ever like being alone, and expected all his desires, wishes, needs to be met without question. It seemed unusual to her to stay somewhat isolated on the second floor of Graceland, as Elvis entourage remained mostly downstairs, though she adapted to Elvis routine accepted living by his terms.
Alden's story reads nearly like an enchanting fairy tale, and in part it was. Elvis took Alden and her family on tours with him, and also on a luxury vacation to Hawaii along with his entire entourage and their guests. Elvis, always known for his incredible generosity, gave Alden and her family jewelry, beautiful clothing, fur coats, and cars. There is a photo in the book of her stunning diamond engagement ring. Alden reveals Elvis darker side in a loving understanding manner, and the things he did that shocked her to the core, and caused fear for her safety. There is no doubt of her true love and devotion for Elvis, or his love for her. Alden's youth, inexperience, and innocence obviously appealed to Elvis greatly.
Elvis last hours, his death and aftermath, her heartbreak and grief over her loss, Elvis family members: his father, aunt, and Lisa Marie are covered in a loving respectful way. Alden also explains her mother's lawsuit against Elvis estate. There are pages of great photographs.
When Alden was asked to meet Elvis Presley as an alternative to "Miss Tennessee", she could have never believed Elvis would take her aside to talk to her, though this is exactly what happened. Before she knew it, she was being whisked off to Graceland to spend time with Elvis. Alden would become a part of Elvis personal intimate circle, staying up with him all night, watching TV, reading with him, (books on numerology and spiritually). Quickly, she learned Elvis did not ever like being alone, and expected all his desires, wishes, needs to be met without question. It seemed unusual to her to stay somewhat isolated on the second floor of Graceland, as Elvis entourage remained mostly downstairs, though she adapted to Elvis routine accepted living by his terms.
Alden's story reads nearly like an enchanting fairy tale, and in part it was. Elvis took Alden and her family on tours with him, and also on a luxury vacation to Hawaii along with his entire entourage and their guests. Elvis, always known for his incredible generosity, gave Alden and her family jewelry, beautiful clothing, fur coats, and cars. There is a photo in the book of her stunning diamond engagement ring. Alden reveals Elvis darker side in a loving understanding manner, and the things he did that shocked her to the core, and caused fear for her safety. There is no doubt of her true love and devotion for Elvis, or his love for her. Alden's youth, inexperience, and innocence obviously appealed to Elvis greatly.
Elvis last hours, his death and aftermath, her heartbreak and grief over her loss, Elvis family members: his father, aunt, and Lisa Marie are covered in a loving respectful way. Alden also explains her mother's lawsuit against Elvis estate. There are pages of great photographs.
September 7, 2014
Great book, could not put it down.
I have all the books on Elvis and this one is by far one of the best.
Ginger had a lot of class then and now.
I have all the books on Elvis and this one is by far one of the best.
Ginger had a lot of class then and now.
December 21, 2014
This feels like a highly sanitised version of Gingers life with Elvis. It becomes highly repetitive, as she talks about how shy she is, how generous Elvis was, how unsure she was of how to speak to him regarding his substance abuse and erratic behaviour.
I can't say that I was at all sympathetic towards Ginger, and there's certainly an element of this book that feels like she's only telling the boring bits - there's a feeling that she's not being entirely truthful when she speaks about her naivety and her expectations from Elvis and his family.
The main thing that you get out of reading this is an interesting view into what her life was like with Elvis in those last few months of his life. Isolated and worn down, Ginger's Elvis spends most of his time in his PJ's, in his room, with guns by his side, books on his bedside table, and pills in mysterious packages being doled out to him at odd hours of the day.
An interesting glimpse into a side of Elvis that hasn't been documented from the horses mouth before - but its not as convincing as she might have wanted it to be.
I can't say that I was at all sympathetic towards Ginger, and there's certainly an element of this book that feels like she's only telling the boring bits - there's a feeling that she's not being entirely truthful when she speaks about her naivety and her expectations from Elvis and his family.
The main thing that you get out of reading this is an interesting view into what her life was like with Elvis in those last few months of his life. Isolated and worn down, Ginger's Elvis spends most of his time in his PJ's, in his room, with guns by his side, books on his bedside table, and pills in mysterious packages being doled out to him at odd hours of the day.
An interesting glimpse into a side of Elvis that hasn't been documented from the horses mouth before - but its not as convincing as she might have wanted it to be.
June 18, 2017
I came away from this thinking that there wasn't an attraction there on her part. It seemed like he was trying to make a connection with her, and she was saying whatever he wanted to hear so she could benefit from his celebrity and wealth. She's so eager to come across in a positive way to the reader that I never got to know the real Ginger. The writing is trite, and every detail of every event in those last nine months is told. I usually give up when the writing is this bad, but I enjoyed the Elvis anecdotes, the believable ones at least.
May 15, 2021
Sweet, Sad, Weird
Ginger Alden was engaged to marry Elvis before he tragically passed away. She tells her story of their brief time together with a lot of grace, dignity, and even humor. Elvis comes across as a lonely man in many respects and quite a reckless one at times. Lamar Fike, one of Elvis’s close friends, probably summed it up best when he once said: “Elvis was not a normal human being. Elvis was just bizarre.” Ginger corroborates many of the odd stories passed down through the years about Elvis. My favorite is when he was irritated that his toilet at Graceland wasn’t working properly so he shot it to pieces with a machine gun. Also, who proposes to a girl in his bathroom? Eww, Elvis. His legendary temper flare-ups were extreme also. Who freaks out that they can’t have any more yogurt or papaya juice? Elvis, that’s who! Apparently, he could be a real jerk if he didn’t get his way. Must be a celebrity thing.
Ginger Alden was engaged to marry Elvis before he tragically passed away. She tells her story of their brief time together with a lot of grace, dignity, and even humor. Elvis comes across as a lonely man in many respects and quite a reckless one at times. Lamar Fike, one of Elvis’s close friends, probably summed it up best when he once said: “Elvis was not a normal human being. Elvis was just bizarre.” Ginger corroborates many of the odd stories passed down through the years about Elvis. My favorite is when he was irritated that his toilet at Graceland wasn’t working properly so he shot it to pieces with a machine gun. Also, who proposes to a girl in his bathroom? Eww, Elvis. His legendary temper flare-ups were extreme also. Who freaks out that they can’t have any more yogurt or papaya juice? Elvis, that’s who! Apparently, he could be a real jerk if he didn’t get his way. Must be a celebrity thing.
September 18, 2014
This is the only book I have read on Elvis Presley and I would think it is a must read for anyone interested in how he spent his last year. Sad story for both Elvis and his 20 year old girlfriend, Ginger. Simply written and easily understood, this is 20 year old Gingers perspective and mostly details the things they did together. This is a good read on Elvis's daily routine, what he ate, his sleeping habits, touring and so forth. Well written by Ginger Alden. Thank you Ginger for sharing.
September 28, 2014
As big a fiction as Priscilla's autobiography Elvis and Me. As to why someone would want to portray themselves as such a doormat you'd have to read more than this book.
August 21, 2017
Because my Mom was such a huge Elvis fan, he is a big part of my childhood memories. When we only had one car and my Dad used it for work, we would watch Elvis movies on the weekends. Decorating the Christmas tree or cleaning the house, our Mom would be playing his albums. When we drove across the United States in the summer of 1985, my Mom's only request was to see Graceland. I knew a lot of things about Elvis, but this book was the first time reading about the man that Ginger Alden was engaged to and knew the last year of his life. There were aspects of Elvis that she mentioned that I already knew......his generosity to others, the love for his daughter Lisa Marie, shooting at a television set when he did not care for what was on the screen, renting out a movie theater or amusement park so he and his friends & family could enjoy without fans bothering him and his untimely death at the age of 42. Ginger's book revealed an Elvis who was surrounded by friends and family constantly, but still seemed lonely at times and did not know who he could trust. A man who had the world at his fingertips, but couldn't enjoy it. A spiritual man who enjoyed studying about religions in the many books he kept by his bed. A man who loved deeply, but was very insecure at times. This book is very sad to think of all that Elvis could have yet been had he not died at such a young age. Reading about his plans for his future and the plans he shared with Ginger, really makes you wonder what may have been.
April 6, 2018
I found myself puzzled by this book, to be honest. While Alden is telling her stories as she remembers them (that's the whole point of memoir), some of her recollections did not square with other, more objective biographical coverage of Elvis Presley that I have read.
I kind of sympathized with her; she was a naive 20-year-old when she met Presley, and her head was easily turned by what she saw as his glamorous lifestyle. Other books have left me with the distinct impression that her mother basically shoved Alden at Presley, and she kind of glosses over that in this volume.
I thought she had an engaging authorial voice, and it was interesting to see events from her perspective. However, I really got sick of her snarking about Linda Thompson (another of Elvis' girlfriends) and making herself out to be the aggrieved party when she was actually "the other woman" for quite a while. I don't care what consenting adults get up to in their relationships, but this particular tactic got up my nose quite a bit.
I would have hoped that the ensuing years would have caused Alden to have a more adult perspective on the matter (she has a grown son), but that doesn't really seem to be the case. Unfortunate.
I kind of sympathized with her; she was a naive 20-year-old when she met Presley, and her head was easily turned by what she saw as his glamorous lifestyle. Other books have left me with the distinct impression that her mother basically shoved Alden at Presley, and she kind of glosses over that in this volume.
I thought she had an engaging authorial voice, and it was interesting to see events from her perspective. However, I really got sick of her snarking about Linda Thompson (another of Elvis' girlfriends) and making herself out to be the aggrieved party when she was actually "the other woman" for quite a while. I don't care what consenting adults get up to in their relationships, but this particular tactic got up my nose quite a bit.
I would have hoped that the ensuing years would have caused Alden to have a more adult perspective on the matter (she has a grown son), but that doesn't really seem to be the case. Unfortunate.
December 31, 2014
Tetrible writing about a terrible relationship. Also boring as hell.
August 19, 2016
Ginger tries to set the record straight in her memoir about her and Elvis. While I'm sure lots of the things shared in here are true, there are other things that make me scratch my head and wonder. After I read the book, I joined her forum on Facebook, and instead of using it to talk about her time with Elvis, she and her sister Rosemary mostly just use it as a platform to say what liars other people are. She loves to use the word 'untruth(s)'. The fact that she spends most of her time trying to expose others as being liars makes me think she has her defenses up for a reason. In fact, one of her largest targets on her forum is Shirley Dieu, who is mentioned in this book in an unflattering light. Why does Alden still feel the need to engage in drama with Dieu, nearly 40 years after the fact?
Ginger was 20 when she was with Elvis, 22 years his junior, and sometimes the writing is a little juvenile. It also skates over many of his issues: his prescription abuse, his tendency to compulsion, the other women he might have been seeing, or his tendency toward violence and anger, for example. She does give some illustrations of his temper, and even goes so far as to mention a time he slaps her on her torso, but that is the grand extent. It's clear that she is still threatened by Linda Thompson as well, as she portrays Linda as a gold-digger always trying to get something from Elvis. What she fails to take into account is the fact that Linda put up with a LOT from Elvis the four years before Ginger was ever in the picture and so felt that she was entitled to the things he had promised he would give her, once she made the decision to leave him. I was trying to discuss the realities of Elvis' drug abuse and depression on her forum, where it was brought up by another member, and instead of chiming in since she actually lived with him, she redirected the conversation and asked we only talk about her. Her book is written in the same manner. She does talk about Elvis and reveals secrets she has held for years, but the picture she paints is clearly sugar coated and sometimes catty, which leads the reader to question how much is fact and how much is fiction.
Ginger was 20 when she was with Elvis, 22 years his junior, and sometimes the writing is a little juvenile. It also skates over many of his issues: his prescription abuse, his tendency to compulsion, the other women he might have been seeing, or his tendency toward violence and anger, for example. She does give some illustrations of his temper, and even goes so far as to mention a time he slaps her on her torso, but that is the grand extent. It's clear that she is still threatened by Linda Thompson as well, as she portrays Linda as a gold-digger always trying to get something from Elvis. What she fails to take into account is the fact that Linda put up with a LOT from Elvis the four years before Ginger was ever in the picture and so felt that she was entitled to the things he had promised he would give her, once she made the decision to leave him. I was trying to discuss the realities of Elvis' drug abuse and depression on her forum, where it was brought up by another member, and instead of chiming in since she actually lived with him, she redirected the conversation and asked we only talk about her. Her book is written in the same manner. She does talk about Elvis and reveals secrets she has held for years, but the picture she paints is clearly sugar coated and sometimes catty, which leads the reader to question how much is fact and how much is fiction.
November 5, 2022
"I felt a sharp pang of sympathy for him. Elvis seemed to have everything, except the ability to do what most of us take for granted: just close his eyes and peacefully fall asleep."
Another heartbreaking story about Elvis told from someone with whom he shared his exquisite life with. Ginger Alden was twenty when she first met Elvis. She recounts the first time she stepped through the doors of Graceland and met "The King." The last thing she expected when she met Elvis was to eventually end up being engaged to him just a few short months later. Rather than being overwhelmed and fearful of his lifestyle that involved sleepless nights, erratic trips around the country, and unpredictable behavior, Ginger met Elvis's demands head on and got to know the complex man that was found beneath the rock 'n roll exterior. Additionally, this book also recounts Elvis's immense generosity he showed towards her family and his close friendship he formed with Ginger's mother and sisters. At one point, he even offered to buy them a new house, pool, and landscaping so they could live closer to Graceland. As charismatic and generous as Elvis was, he also had troubling tendencies that Ginger got to witness first hand. His mood swings, binge eating, dependency on his medications, and his collection of guns that he would fire in a moments notice did not go under Ginger's radar. In fact, Ginger would try to coax Elvis into better habits throughout their relationship. Ultimately, Elvis was his own worst enemy...He needed to help himself before others eventually could.
Another heartbreaking story about Elvis told from someone with whom he shared his exquisite life with. Ginger Alden was twenty when she first met Elvis. She recounts the first time she stepped through the doors of Graceland and met "The King." The last thing she expected when she met Elvis was to eventually end up being engaged to him just a few short months later. Rather than being overwhelmed and fearful of his lifestyle that involved sleepless nights, erratic trips around the country, and unpredictable behavior, Ginger met Elvis's demands head on and got to know the complex man that was found beneath the rock 'n roll exterior. Additionally, this book also recounts Elvis's immense generosity he showed towards her family and his close friendship he formed with Ginger's mother and sisters. At one point, he even offered to buy them a new house, pool, and landscaping so they could live closer to Graceland. As charismatic and generous as Elvis was, he also had troubling tendencies that Ginger got to witness first hand. His mood swings, binge eating, dependency on his medications, and his collection of guns that he would fire in a moments notice did not go under Ginger's radar. In fact, Ginger would try to coax Elvis into better habits throughout their relationship. Ultimately, Elvis was his own worst enemy...He needed to help himself before others eventually could.
March 26, 2015
Elvis
The Man
The Myths
The Legend
This is the first book I have read about Elvis that I think is actually about The Man. I think it is because it was actually written by someone who loved the man very much and took him seriously.
I'm not too sure why I felt compelled to read this book, because I the things I have read about it and about Ginger are not too flattering. And I don't know why, unless people with an agenda have been circulating lies. Ginger faded away after Elvis died and quietly got on with her life. If she wanted money and 'fame' on the back of her relationship she could most likely have had it. In my life time I haven't been aware of her, other than reading she was his last girlfriend. So I think her choosing to open up now must be more for the genuine reasons stated in th book, than a desire for notoriety.
I found it very hard to put this book down, as it was so easy to read. I got swept up with a whirl wind romance, astounded by Elvis' generosity, fascinated by his spiritual side, saddened by his low points and felt a lot of respect for Ginger. I think she was the right woman for him at that point in his life and I'm heart broken that they didn't get to see what life could have been like together for longer. Had Elvis have lived I think she would have been a postitve influence on him as she is a grounded normal person.
Thank you for sharing your story with the world.
The Man
The Myths
The Legend
This is the first book I have read about Elvis that I think is actually about The Man. I think it is because it was actually written by someone who loved the man very much and took him seriously.
I'm not too sure why I felt compelled to read this book, because I the things I have read about it and about Ginger are not too flattering. And I don't know why, unless people with an agenda have been circulating lies. Ginger faded away after Elvis died and quietly got on with her life. If she wanted money and 'fame' on the back of her relationship she could most likely have had it. In my life time I haven't been aware of her, other than reading she was his last girlfriend. So I think her choosing to open up now must be more for the genuine reasons stated in th book, than a desire for notoriety.
I found it very hard to put this book down, as it was so easy to read. I got swept up with a whirl wind romance, astounded by Elvis' generosity, fascinated by his spiritual side, saddened by his low points and felt a lot of respect for Ginger. I think she was the right woman for him at that point in his life and I'm heart broken that they didn't get to see what life could have been like together for longer. Had Elvis have lived I think she would have been a postitve influence on him as she is a grounded normal person.
Thank you for sharing your story with the world.
July 17, 2022
Not sure what to think of this book. In some ways I found it a little bizarre and thought that perhaps some of the things disclosed here should maybe have been kept private but then again I can be open minded enough to accept that these are Ginger's memories and her perspective. Also I have to keep telling myself that she was only 20 years old at the time she was with Elvis and that is quite a young age to be and to handle everything that came with being with Elvis Presley. People tell me Ginger is a lovely lady and I am sure she is so I can only say that I will give her the benefit of the doubt on this one. I enjoyed many aspects of this story and others I will just take with a "grain of salt". I guess those that knew Elvis personally and feel that they have to set the record straight must write these kinds of books but it saddens me that Elvis will never be able to write his own book and tell his own story and possibly refute or clarify much that has been written about him.
April 29, 2018
This book caught my attention since my grandmother loved this man and I can still remember her walking a couple of miles each way to see his movies. Some she even went to two or 3 times. My folks made me leave the room when he performed on TV as they didn't want me to see his gyrations, if you can believe that. Ginger Alden was with him the last 9 months of his life and she's actually the one who found him dead in his bathroom. She was only 20 so there was a good 20 year age difference between the two of them. I felt it was a nice memoir that was well presented and gave the reader an insight into what the man was like besides being a dynamic performer.
February 2, 2015
Really enjoyed this book.
Ginger Alden has left a respectable time before releasing her memoirs and it is well worth the wait.
This isn't a kiss and tell story but a love story and you can certainly feel the authors love for the exceptional man. The end is tragic and even though one knows it's coming, one can't help wishing for a different outcome.
It must have been a very difficult book to write but beautifully shared.
Ginger Alden has left a respectable time before releasing her memoirs and it is well worth the wait.
This isn't a kiss and tell story but a love story and you can certainly feel the authors love for the exceptional man. The end is tragic and even though one knows it's coming, one can't help wishing for a different outcome.
It must have been a very difficult book to write but beautifully shared.
October 24, 2017
Thank you Ginger for sharing your story. I could feel your pain, but at the same time, you got to share your life, even though it was a short period of time, with the King. I feel your mom got screwed in the end. Regardless of what others state, Elvis’ wishes were not respected. I listened to the audio version, and the book was well written, and I’m glad you narrated it. I could feel your emotions throughout it.
December 1, 2014
Blah. This could have been a short story. Pretty much the same as Priscilla's story, Elvis woos naive, young girl, controls girl etc. Wondering if a love of 9 months would last years is like guessing if Jack and Rose on fictional Titanic would have lasted. Elvis and Michael Jackson cut from the same mold, gifted, generous but oh so many issues.
September 29, 2016
Gives a great insight to the life Elvis lived
October 13, 2015
Worst Elvis book I've ever read. I think the author has a maturity level of a 5 year old
August 26, 2018
I loved this book about Elvis. Such a wonderful singer , actor and a true performer. Was very interesting about his life and the woman he loved. I can still remember the day he passed away.
October 8, 2021
Best Book on Elvis Presley to date. No lies, corruption, stories only about the man and the gentle soul he was. Highly reccomended for true Elvis fans.
February 1, 2015
First, I must admit that I am not an Elvis fan. I like a few of his songs, but I am not, nor haven't ever been, in the whole "Elvis" hype. I seen this book advertised through a friend's feed on Facebook, and I thought, "Why not?"
Ginger pretty much was a fan until she was invited to visit Graceland with her sister, who was then Miss Tennessee. The rest is "history". Ginger goes back through her memories, telling bits and pieces of how her relationship with Elvis was played out. She was quite young, 20, so much of the book her naiveness shown throughout. I, myself, being in a May/December relationship, can relate to much of the book. Other parts, though, makes me scratch my head. It seems as though Ginger gave up so much for her relationship with Elvis, and I feel as though Elvis didn't appreciate just what all she had given up.
It also irked me of how "giving" Elvis was towards Ginger's family. It kind of felt as though he was trying to put on airs with them. I mean, buying her mother furs, buying her sisters jewelry, as well as offering to pay her parents' mortgage in order to help them ease their financial strains and help their marriage. I mean, I guess when you're that rich, money isn't an object...but it was just so intense. Throughout the book, Ginger made it feel as though she and Elvis had been together for quite some time, when in reality, it was only a year or so. She described things that happened in Elvis' life, and business life, that many wouldn't have thought, such as having "friends" but no close friends.
Overall, I really liked the book. I still don't care for Elvis, and Ginger's book didn't change my opinion on him whatsoever. But the book did keep my attention, and it described just what she had stated in an interview when the book was released. It's "what you see is what you get", so to speak.
Ginger pretty much was a fan until she was invited to visit Graceland with her sister, who was then Miss Tennessee. The rest is "history". Ginger goes back through her memories, telling bits and pieces of how her relationship with Elvis was played out. She was quite young, 20, so much of the book her naiveness shown throughout. I, myself, being in a May/December relationship, can relate to much of the book. Other parts, though, makes me scratch my head. It seems as though Ginger gave up so much for her relationship with Elvis, and I feel as though Elvis didn't appreciate just what all she had given up.
It also irked me of how "giving" Elvis was towards Ginger's family. It kind of felt as though he was trying to put on airs with them. I mean, buying her mother furs, buying her sisters jewelry, as well as offering to pay her parents' mortgage in order to help them ease their financial strains and help their marriage. I mean, I guess when you're that rich, money isn't an object...but it was just so intense. Throughout the book, Ginger made it feel as though she and Elvis had been together for quite some time, when in reality, it was only a year or so. She described things that happened in Elvis' life, and business life, that many wouldn't have thought, such as having "friends" but no close friends.
Overall, I really liked the book. I still don't care for Elvis, and Ginger's book didn't change my opinion on him whatsoever. But the book did keep my attention, and it described just what she had stated in an interview when the book was released. It's "what you see is what you get", so to speak.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 26, 2024
I was hesitant to read Ginger's book because I really didn't think she'd include any information that I hadn't already learned from reading other people's accounts of life with Elvis. However, I was pleasantly surprised. She did a great job of telling her side of the story and answering questions about Elvis' final days. My only issue with the memoir is that Ginger's anger and resentment toward Linda Thompson and Priscilla is pretty obvious. While I understand her desire to defend herself and her relationship with Elvis, a lot of her remarks place her in a bad light - not the other women, the Memphis mafia, or members of the Presley family. Had she taken the high road and told her story without "calling them out," I think she wouldn't have come across as being petty and immature. However, I do agree with Ginger on several points. For one, whether she was using Elvis or not, he was a grown man who made his own decisions. No one forced him to buy her or her family a ridiculous number of expensive gifts. Elvis did that all on his own, and no one could have stopped him. I also agree that he would have been highly upset about how she was treated. Even if people didn't take their relationship seriously, Ginger was the last woman Elvis loved, and she should have been treated with the same kindness and consideration as Priscilla and Linda at his funeral and thereafter. I will also say that I have a slightly better opinion of Ginger after hearing her side of things. She explains where she was mentally as a 20 year old girl barely out of high school as well as the reasons why her mother ended up suing Elvis' estate. If you're a die hard Elvis fan, it's definitely worth reading.
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