On Loving Elvis Presley - and Songs in Between

I wanted to like this book, but all the Elvis stuff is the same stories told by many others, very little new information here! How many times she uses the same words to describe Elvis and Bruce is insane! She uses handsome and athletic over and over. This story feels whitewashed to me. Linda comes off as perfect in every way! It does however validate my opinion of David Foster!

got into reading this because, of course, I am intrigued by Elvis. I had never heard of Linda Thompson and didn't know who she was, but he's book is very hard to put down and I really enjoyed the positive, compassionate way she shared her stories with the world. Very well written and interesting read.

I live in Memphis. Linda was about about 3 years ahead of my wife and she was as described: a sweet, exceptional Southern girl. This comes through loud and clear as the virgin, college student who was a beauty pageant winner meets Elvis as his wife has left him for another man. She immediately takes Priscilla's place by his side for the next four years. For the first time she speaks of her misgivings of his drug use and what she did to help. If you are an Elvis fan this book is for you as it fills in some very important holes in his life while confirming his musical and personal greatness as well as his serious flaws.

But if that isn't enough of a life she next encounters Bruce Jenner at the apex of his popularity and youth and another love affair is started only to be shattered by his admission he felt like a female. Again, you see the sweet, honest Linda Thompson clearly through her writing as this later love unfortunately ends tragically also but not before two great sons.

But there IS a third act to her love life: David Foster, and incredible producer/songwriter with many awards. And he immediately sees that Linda's poetry could be put to song and she is on to a new love affair and a new rewarding career. Unfortunately, this love affair is not as easy and Linda again experiences true heartache.

In Memphis TN Linda has always been loved and highly thought of. Her relationship with Elvis and his daughter Lisa Marie will do nothing but enhance her popularity with Elvis fans. And her later life is just as fascinating.

BUY THIS BOOK! Very worth the read if you have any interest in a typical Southern girl, Elvis, Bruce/Caitlyn Jenner, the music industry in the 80s/90s and good people in general. Classy lady who did it right and waited to tell her positive tale at the appropriate time.

It was a great book. Miss Thompson is a very talented ,intelligent and articulate southern lady. I believe she was very good for Elvis, and I believe they did love each other very much. It's a shame they didn't end up together, The lyrics she has included in this book are beautiful. The pictures were very nice also. Wonderful job Linda =)

Most people will remember her from "Hee Haw". She is an amazing lyricist to some of the most beautiful songs of our time. Nominated for Academy and Grammy awards and winning an Emmy. So glad I had the privilege to get 2 know this amazing lady. With the upmost Class and Grace she manages to sail through a tumultuous life and come out on top. She has done an amazing job at raising her precious sons always in positivity, never uttering a negative thing about anyone. Originally, I purchased the book curious about life with Elvis and (then) Bruce Jenner. But SHE is clearly the "Shining Star" of this book. If ever there was an angel.....The most shocking is reading about the despicable monster called David Foster. Never in a million years would I have imagined how cruel and heartless a man could be...All in the name of INSECURITY. There is a thing called "KARMA" Mr.Foster and it will eventually bite you in the "arse".

Such a touching words on her relationships, with three men in her life, Linda brings out such heartwarming stories with the truth, and her knowing them. I hated to see "A LITTLE THING CALLED LIFE" end. Linda bought so many beautiful memories on her life.

not much new here, she was and is loving & loyal to Elvis, Priscilla was ignorant, rude and acted like her high & mighty self to Linda at the time of his death. One thing to keep in mind for anyone who loved Elvis or was a fan is this, # 1! whom did Lisa call when she found out her father died within minutes LINDA. Stop and really think about that, anyone would expect a 9-year-old child to call her MOTHER when she just learned she lost her daddy BUT she instinctively called whom she trusted and knew loved her father most. The person who did her best under the circumstances of the money grabbing leeches known as the Memphis mafia.( excluding Joe Esposito.) That tells it all !! Linda Thompson to this day is a "class" act to follow and I admire her. As far as Bruce Jenner goes he is a poor excuse for a human being! GOD will leave him to his REPROBATE mind!

What an amazing book. Linda has the rare talent of truly transcending the reader through her life while you journey through time with her, you feel her true emotions. I loved every aspect of this book. I wish I could read more. You truly get to know Linda, her life, her loves, passions, family and career... Dignity and respect is what I took away from this book, Linda had it and has it for not only her loved ones but also for herself. Fabulous book, Thank You!

I think I have a cavity from the sickly sweet and cliche riddled narrative. Not to mention high blood pressure from reading about the countless children who were damaged by the chaos created by these self indulgent so-called parents. The repetitive "I'm a good girl and married men are off limits" wears thin after she shacks up with the second married man, and then expects the third one not to cheat on her. I guess she's trying to make back some of the alimony and child support she is careful to point out, repeatedly, that she never took. Glad I only spent $1.99 on this one.

I really tried to like this book. I gave 2 stars because I did finish it finally. I realize that this is Linda Thompson's autobiography but dang she would make you think she is a saint. The book while it includes others is definitely all about "me...me ...me" very glad I got it on sale & didn't pay full price.

Having been an Elvis fan for most of my life, I enjoyed reading Linda's account of their life together. It has caused me to have to integrate the "image" of Elvis with the real human being he really was and I find I still love him. I also enjoyed reading about her relationship with Bruce/Catlin Jenner and David Foster. She is a remarkable woman.

Really, enjoyed this book and her description of her relationships with Elvis, Bruce (Caitlin) Jenner and of course David Foster. I really didn't realize the extent of her song writing capabilities and collaboration with former husband David Foster penning hit songs gave me a total other view of her talents. I admire her strength good natured attitude dealing with tribulations and troubles that are unseen at the time, but present themselves in the future.

Couldn't put it down. Great book. Like Priscilla, Linda was forced to leave Elvis because of his drug fuled, unnatural lifestyle. Then she has to deal with Bruce Jenner's issues. Strong woman for sure.

LOVED IT! Such a good read. If you are of a certain age and remember Elvis, and Bruce Jenner the most masculine male athlete ever, and love the music of David Foster - this is the book for you. It was a 'could not put it down' weekend. I swallowed every word. I found Ms. Thompson's telling of her story to be honest, truthful and believable. She reveals intimate details of her life with Elvis, Bruce and David Foster. I was impressed by the care she took to protect her sons for the future they had coming, finding out their father was really a woman inside. While I can't imagine what her parents were thinking letting her go off with Elvis, she was obviously very loved by him and was his true love and caregiver - in every sense of the word.

I submitted a review of 3 stars while I was at 35%. At the time I didn't feel I could finish due to the repetitiveness while telling the story of her time with Elvis. After skipping over several pages I decided to plug along and I did finish. I bumped it to 4 stars but it's more like 3.5. She continued to be quite repetitive in telling of her times with Bruce Jenner and David Foster (who is apparently a total ass). David left his then wife to start something with Linda yet she acts as though she didn't see it coming when he was gone for days at a time and ultimately had an affair (and surely more she didn't know about). Anyhow, another reviewer mentioned the near-martyrdom she portrays, which is very accurate. Overall it's a bit tiring and an okay read but not for the $14.99 I paid to have it on Kindle.

I love this woman. I love the way she writes and thinks. She has turned me into an Elvis fan and now I'm reading all I can about him. So far her book tells me the most about the man Elvis was. I recommend this book to anyone! I always like Bruce Jenner and David Foster but now...not so much. They are Asses.

I ENJOYED READING THIS BOOK LINDA HAS HAD A FRONT ROW SEAT TO FAMOUS PEOPLE AND SHARED SOME VERY UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL OBSERVATIONS. BUT..... I WAS LEFT ASKING MYSELF WHY DID SHE REMAIN WITH THESE GUYS FOR SO LONG?SHE SAID IT WAS LOVE, BUT SHE COMES ACROSS AS BEING SUPER SMART SO SHE SHOULD HAVE FIGURED OUT SOONER THESE WERE NO WIN SITUATIONS.

I don't know how this woman kept hooking up with famous men because she is boring as all get-out. Her book is mainly a tribute to herself...her self-proclaimed capacity to be patient, loving, giving, understanding, a great wife, outstanding mother, tremendous lyricist, fabulous daughter; all proven through stories of how she dealt with Elvis, Jenner, and Foster. Apparently she has no faults.

I thought I knew a lot about Elvis Presley and Bruce Jenner until I got ahold of this fabulously written book by Linda Thompson! So heartfelt, and emotional, you will experience every emotion she went through as she loved these two superstars!! I feel like I've known all three of them forever! Experience it for yourself today!

I guess the Pope better gear up for another sanctification service. The woman depicted in this treacly overpriced book would definitely deserve sainthood. Linda Thompson must have an autobiographical memory of her many marital conversations so vividly recollected on these pages. Southern graciousness does have its limits, hers appears to be never ending. This book just read like an embellished eerietale.

Bobby Gentry sang a song, that fits this woman to a T. " Fancy", she's so "whoa is me"but learns the art of gold digging in a hurry. She uses this word love to cover her true intentions. I feel Elvis figured her out and dumped her for Ginger. She did no wrong in her two marriages that ended in divorce. She knew whom to seduce to further her career.

All I can say is, FINALLY! a book that I really enjoyed. I am so glad I took a chance and ordered it. Didn't know if I would enjoy it or not, but found out that I could not put this book down. I woke up to it and fell asleep to it. Really interesting. She (Linda) is quite a women. Very cultured, and articulate in her writing as well. Didn't really surprise me.

I was hesitant at first ..... what new info could be written about Elvis? Bruce ??? Well read the book. Very interesting and ........it's just a really good read. I give it five stars.....would give it ten but the option for ten is not available.

This is a great book . My husband got it for me for Christmas. I hardly put it down. I was sorry when it ended. Linda wrote a lot about ELvis , however I wish there was even more. I highly recommend this book !

Ms. Thompson's "little" life story is anything but. Her vulnerable, honest openness in sharing such personal, private, cherished memories of her life-with the King of Rock & Roll to one of America's greatest athletes and then to one of the greatest music composers-I found to be so inspiring and brave. This is a must-read for any Elvis fan, for in my humble opinion, she knew him true to his core, loved him like no other, and I believe he loved her right back. Ms. Thompson is an example of true kindness, compassion and the gift of forgiveness. Captivating...I couldn't put it down.

The content of this book is quite interesting and fascinating to read. The sentence structure and perfect use of less commonly known adjectives is refreshing. It dragged on too long, however, with the wordiness in which it was written. By the time I finished it, I was undoubtedly ready for it to be the end.

What can I say. What an incredibly captivating interesting life that Linda Thompson was blessed to experience . Not only was she able to love Elvis Presley with her whole heart. But then went on to marry Bruce Jenner. What could possibly be more exciting than that. Except maybe in her own words motherhood. And then life just keeps getting more interesting for her. May you live a long and healthy life Miss Linda Thompson and may God bless you and yours. I enjoyed your book immensely.

Linda Thompson captures the "Evis years", the Bruce Jenner phenomenon, peripheral happenings that were a part of our youth and culture. She has an easy, witty style of writing that keeps you enthralled and amused, even through her tough times.in relationships. A very good read.

I am too young to be an Elvis fan and too old to be a Kardashian fan. I bought this because it would be a "junk food for the brain" book; and it was. I really came out of it disliking her immensely. She allowed herself to be a passive victim because the bling was too good, and she called it love.

I haven't heard of any of these songs she's written, and I'm into pop music. The lyrics seem sophomoric, but hard to say since I never heard the music Ridiculous that there are no pictures, it would be interesting to see what the attraction was, how she got so much with little talent.

I give it a 3 1/2. It is light reading and interesting and sad how Elvis had to and chose to live. Enjoyed the book. I bought the book because I saw Linda on an interview and she seem like a kind person and has such a great outlook on life. Always positive but somewhat to tolerate. She was very young when she met Elvis and did not have a lot of experience in life. She grew with each relationship.

Although there were some titillating bits and revelations, the writing is so insipid and sweetly cloying it could put one in a diabetic coma. The writer is not a believable character in her own story.

Interesting info about Elvis, sounds true. A little too wordy. Felt for all the adjustments Linda had to make in her life. I saw Elvis perform many times over the years, clearly I felt as if I was checking up on his health during the last couple years, even though I never met him. Shocked, yet not surprised when he died. Linda you don't have to explain why you made your choices. You had obligations and "the heart wants what the heart want."

I chose this book to learn more about Elvis Presley.
I had no interest in Bruce Jenner or his sexual preference. Not to mention him as a dead beat dad. Linda, you and your boys\men are saints.
I would not recommend this book because of Bruce Jenner. This book otherwise was an excellent written book. Thank you!

Very well written book! I didn't know Linda Thompson had just talent, or the life of Elvis no one knew, and Bruce Jenner ... well we all know his secret now! In addition the marriage to the self-absorbed Steven Foster in between this long relationships. I couldn't put the book down, a must read. When one looks at all of her romantic involvements I believe they will see she sought out or was drawn to narcissists (sp)? and she was more of a caretaker for all of these self absorbed, famous men. Ms. Thompson does make herself out to be (in writing), somewhat like a Mother Teresa figure to some degree but it is clear she is a loving mother to her now grown 2 boys.

Linda Thompson wrote a heartfelt account of her life spent with three notable figures. I felt that she gave an honest insight to them. She came across as a loving, patient and understanding woman,which I'm sure she is after reading her book.

I liked the book, but Linda made elvis seem weird with all that baby talk stuff. I think that would embarrass him so bad. It made me very sad that she betrayed him. She also made herself look spook wonderful in the whole book.

Half way through the book. Very interesting about Elvis. Give me a break. Your like all goody , Close to your family, But you're gone for 3 year's. Man has shot you with gun's and knives. Cheated on you from day one.. But you stayed , caused you loved him. Oh please moved on to another has been celebrity.

I have to say if you watched the movie 'Elvis & the Beauty Queen' from 1981 then you know what the book will be about. Linda claims she never cashed in on her relationship with Elvis then why did she help make that cheesy movie with Don Johnson? One unknown funny part was Elvis peeing in a cup under a table while in an audience. ?
And I'm pretty sure Elvis dumped her for Ginger Alden. Too bad Elvis never got to write his own story instead EVERYONE ELSE HAS!!!!!

I have been waiting for a book from someone who really knew Elvis. I read Priscilla's book. And Ginger's money grabbing poor me book. But I was waiting for Linda to write a book and I am not going to be disappointed. She has lead a really interesting life. I already love some of her descriptions of things. Thank you Linda for putting out the book. And as a fan,I understand why you couldn't write this sooner.

Linda Thompson is such an elegant lady, with such fond memories, she was gracious to share with everyone. Beautifully written and so nice to hear about Elvis. What a life she has lived...in awe. So inspiring.

Linda Thompson is perhaps one of the kindest people on the face of the earth! No, I've never met her, but reading this book allows a glimpse into the life of a very special person. And I believe that Linda Thompson is indeed special. I'm an Elvis fan. Have been most of my life. I've collected articles and books about his life for many years and was privileged to see him in concert before he left us. I was never much of a fan of Bruce Jenner or of sports for that matter. I don't watch the Kardashians, but I've watched a few of Caitlyn's shows. David Foster is an extremely talented man, having written, co-written and produced some the most popular songs over the years. These men are vastly different, yet each shared something in common. Linda. To have loved such a diverse group of men and not only survived but thrived says a lot about her resilience. Some of the most amazing stories have been told in the pages of this book.
Her love, dedication and protection for and of Elvis is unrivaled. It's important for me to note that of all the "Elvis books" I've ever read, this was by far one of, if not 'the' best. I read Priscilla's book many years ago and Ginger's just last year. In comparison, Priscilla shared the great romance and mystery of her and Elvis's life together as well as the turmoil and eventual dissolution of their marriage. In Ginger's telling of her time with Elvis, all we got is a lot of watching TV, a bit of travel and not a lot of romance. Not that there wasn't romance. It's just that in her telling of their story, she comes across as a bit cold, distant even. Of course she was dealing with an older, unhealthier version of the same man that Priscilla, Linda and a host of other women once knew. It's very telling that Linda says in her book, "only 2 women ever truly lived with Elvis, I was one of them." She clearly didn't feel that Ginger was one of the two.
Linda leads us on a trip that's filled with humor, tears, laughter, patience, (willing) servitude and finally of growing up. One of the funniest stories is when she and Elvis are discussing their impending first sexual encounter. He'd told her from the beginning that he was patient, knowing she was a virgin and it would be her first ever experience. He wanted her to be absolutely ready and was speaking softly, kindly. Just when he'd reassured her that all was well, he looks at her and remarks, "and you really believe all that s*** don't you?!" He then dissolves into uncontrollable laughter and so does Linda. Linda recognized and appreciated his outrageous sense of humor. I laughed too. It brought to mind the wonderful, deep laugh that Elvis has. No one else sounds like that.
Some of the most amazing quotes from her book....."Forgiveness is a gift we give ourselves; He would look deeply into our eyes with those otherworldly eyes of his; The way he carried himself was absolutely electric; To this day he's the best entertainer I've ever seen; If we had gotten married, he still would have had affairs; there's right, there's wrong, there's black, there's white, then there's Elvis Presley; He loved women and we loved him." Killer lines that describe him perfectly. She's right about all of it. He did love women and we surely love him.
In one story she tells how he always kissed the women who lined the front row. And how after the concert she refused to kiss him herself until after he'd brushed and gargled. I must say I agree with her decision.
There are striking similarities between Linda and Priscilla. Not in how they related to Elvis and certainly not in looks. (Both are beautiful women in their own right.) But rather how they left him. Both became tied to a man who desperately loved them, needed them. Yet he needed to be with other women, with someone new all the time. About Elvis's actual death she wrote, "I don't think anybody was more surprised than he when his spirit left his body." This is in stark contrast to his belief that like his mother, he would die in his forties. But when he and Linda were still happily together, he'd assured her that he'd live to past 80.
In regards to her relationships with Bruce and Elvis, "I had learned a thing or two in my years of willing subjugation to a king'.
There are already some calling Linda greedy for writing this book. Truth is, this isn't an "Elvis book". It's a Linda Thompson book. He just happened to be the man who first caught her eye and the man with whom she shared nearly five years of her life. This is a book about the 3 men who shared her heart and one who gave her the two sons that she loves so completely. In describing the tumultuous marriage to David Foster, Linda said, "Elvis was difficult, but never [this] difficult." How interesting is that? Those of us who are fans know of the many stories, not only from women but from men who were his friends, employees and others who testified to his explosive temper, his jealousies.
It's important to note that common threads continue to run through her life. She maintains a relationship with Elvis's daughter, Lisa Marie. She worked very closely with Whitney Houston whose mother Cissy was a backup singer for Elvis for a time. And she remains in contact with some of the men who were part of the Memphis Mafia. She's from Memphis also and that means that she goes home from time to time.
Linda's ability to see the good in everyone in commendable. Clearly she made excuses for as well as covered for all three of the men she loved. She protected them from anyone who dared hurt them and sometimes from themselves. David was the most abusive. He often belittled and berated her. He'd leave for days and eventually, weeks at a time. When Elvis was harsh with her, Linda spoke up for herself. Unlike Priscilla, Linda got away with this. Elvis never tolerated this from Priscilla and would threaten to send her back to her parents. He never allowed Cilla to work or have any type of training. With Linda it was perfectly fine that she wanted to pursue a career.
Linda was determined to hold it together with David for the sake of all their children. With Elvis, she convinced herself that his many dalliances were just part of the deal. He was the first Rock and Roll Superstar, so he was allowed his occasional trysts. Even if she didn't like it.
Her marriage to Bruce seems much quieter and sedate in comparison to life with Elvis or with David. She and David were very social, while she and Elvis were always surrounded by his inner group or they were on the road touring. With Bruce it was a more familial setting. Lots of walks on the beach, coffee together in the morning and finally, having their sons. Just a few years into their relationship he reveals his struggle with gender identity. It was a huge blow to her as she'd never been attracted to women and didn't want to go through with living married life as a lesbian couple.
Her main goal in dealing with Bruce, eventually Caitlyn, was that her sons would not only be accepting of their father's decision to transition, but that they'd understand. In fact, her main goal was to see to it that she raised them up to be men who would be accepting of diversity. She did all that she could to prepare their hearts for the news that she'd someday have to share with them. And when she did, it turned out better than she'd expected.
Linda Thompson's kindness is something that we should all hope to aspire to. She's intelligent, beautiful and very forgiving. She and Elvis shared similar beliefs about religion and children, though they never went to church or had a child together. She loved and appreciated all that he was. Instead of fighting against the things that bothered her about him, she chose to see the good side of Elvis. I'd say she handled that very well.
Linda's love for Bruce was very different. Their life to her was normal. A home, 2 kids, careers that didn't conflict, and no jealousy. Elvis wasn't jealous of Linda unless she appeared interested in another man. Which she wasn't. But David was another story.
David Foster is a handsome man. His work in the industry is well known. Together they forged a great working relationship. But their marriage suffered from his temper, his jealousy (mostly of Elvis) and his eventual unfaithfulness. David likely shared some of Elvis's traits whereas Bruce did not. For her part in the relationships, Linda kept repeating the same mistakes. She was just too nice. It's that simple. It's worth saying that she only wanted to share a life with a man that she loved and was devoted to. In all 3 instances the men were unwilling to share that same life to the same degree. And she all to often made excuses for them. Even covering for their behaviors.
I don't know if she's involved with anyone now. But if she is, I hope that she realizes that she's worth more than just making someone else happy. I'd highly recommend this book to anyone who, well, anyone. It's just good reading.
Update: I've read many reviews of this book here and on Facebook. Most of them are positive, minus the occasional snippy review from jealous readers, mostly women. Why? Linda's story is absolutely crucial in "Elvis History" and in American Music History. And she tells it like no one else ever could. A message to anyone who believes that her motives were selfish or motivated by money...Linda Thompson is and has been a very successful presence in the music world. One thing that stood out to me was the fact that she moved back to a house that she owned prior to marrying David Foster. She could likely own several lavish estates, but chooses to live in a house that holds memories and is special to her and to her children. Linda is a woman of good character. It's clear to me what attracted Elvis to her. Not only did he see a beautiful young woman when they met, but within minutes, he knew the spirit of this woman and he connected with it. Not everyone will agree on the value of this amazing story, and we all have a right to our own opinion. If you've read even a few of the books out there that deal with Elvis's life, you'll surely want to read this one and like me, you'll understand that there was more substance to him than the public persona that the fans created.

Loving it so far!! I was amazed to find Linda writes and I am so thankful for her song "And When She Danced". I watched Stealing Home and just fell in love with that movie and song!! Still love it to this day! It has a special meaning to me personally..
She really seems like a sweet and wonderful person to love these men and accept them for who they were/are..
Good luck in all you do Linda!!

I thought it was a good book but as an Elvis fan, I wish it had been just about him. It was more about Bruce Jenner than anyone and I don't care about him at all. Seemed like a lot of name dropping of famous people, which kind of bothered me but over all was a good book.

I think linda really loved Elvis but I think a lot of this is sour grapes because Elvis dumped her for Ginger !! Elvis True Fans don't want to hear the same garbage that is in other books . We Fans want to hear the good things .All of the women who wrote books about Elvis just tried to make them selves look good .We will never know Elvis's side of the Stories !!!

“A Little Thing Called Life: On Loving Elvis Presley, Bruce Jenner, and Songs in Between” Linda Thompson recalls the extraordinary excitement and wonder of her relationship with Elvis Presley, and her marriage to Gold Medalist athlete Bruce (Caitlyn)Jenner, with whom she had two sons. Linda’s long marriage followed-- to Grammy award winning Canadian music producer/composer David Foster.

After winning the Miss Tennessee beauty pageant (1972), Linda was 22 years old when she met Elvis Presley at a movie theater. Aside from being utterly star-struck by Elvis’ “gloriously complex personality” she bonded with Elvis feeling as if she had already known him, and by their common Southern heritage. Though her parents both smoked, there wasn’t ever any alcohol around. Linda was quite unaccustomed to the pills Elvis took, and atmosphere at Graceland. Elvis showered her with exquisite gifts and the couple routinely flew to Las Vegas on his private jet . Lisa Marie and Linda were very close, as Linda’s story began, unfolding with a terrible call from Lisa Marie on August 16, 1977.

Wanting to distance herself from Graceland, Linda moved to Los Angeles only 8 months before Elvis died. When she first noticed Bruce Jenner on TV in the 1976 Olympics, she had no clue how her life would eventually connect to his. Linda met Jenner after a tennis tournament in 1979. At that time Linda lived in Nashville, and was a famous easily recognized “Hee-Haw Honey” on the national Hee-Haw TV comedy show. Linda was always comfortable around Bruce, how candid, trusting and open he was about this life: she would guard his deepest secrets during their marriage (m. 1981-1984) and for decades afterwards. Bruce's celebrity allowed a visit to the Oval Office where they met President Ronald Regan, he readily put them at ease. To her credit, despite the fact that Bruce had limited involvement with his sons Brandon and Brody, there would be no father-son “Hallmark Moments”: Linda would insist on respect and tolerance of others, and was among the first to publically embrace Caitlyn as she transitioned in 2015.

In writing about her 15 year marriage to David Foster (m. 1991-2005), their musical collaboration inspired some of the most beautiful song compositions ever recorded. Not at all the submissive young woman she once had been, Linda was confident and expert at handling the “yin/yang” of the positive and negative tensions and intimacy that formed her marriage to Foster. Linda, a romantic optimist, had high hopes for a happily blended family that never quite worked out; despite several attempts with counseling/therapy
Independent, and on very good terms with her former spouses, Linda, a grandmother, enjoys a happy and joyous family life with many lifelong friends. While fans may or may not remember Linda’s appearances on Hee-Haw, or reading about her incredible romance with Elvis Presley in collector books/magazines, she gave her first interview about Elvis on Larry King in 2002. With so many seeking to shine in the spotlight of celebrity culture, Linda has kept a surprisingly low profile. Several pages of great personal photos included.

I thought by reading this book that I would gain some insight into the lives of Elvis Presley, Bruce Jenner, and David Foster. I had a hard time finishing the book because the entire book is riddled with the self-righteousness of Linda Thompson. She was so put upon, according to her, by everyone - Elvis, Jenner, Foster...yet she valiantly and courageously soldiered on because she was oh so protective of everyone and was everyone's best friend, and she was the most understanding, etc., etc. I felt as if the entire book was just a means for her to applaud herself, and in the chapters that related to Elvis specifically, she repeated herself constantly. What she could have said in two or three paragraphs, she droned on for chapters upon chapters saying basically the same thing. The only reason I finished the book was because I kept hoping that it would get better. It didn't.

I found that I really didn't like this book. I was in between the Elvis era (too young) and the Kardashian era (too old). Linda Thompson seemed to know how to pick the wrong guy! Elvis when he was totally unraveling, Bruce Jenner when he wanted to be a woman and David Foster who seemed to be quite narcissistic. While Linda tells stories about her life with each man, she is telling things about them, but leaving out most of her story. Making excuses for each and telling us over and over what a wonderful person she is. Practically a saint. I do give her credit for keeping quiet until "Caitlyn" came out and for not capitalizing on her life with Elvis sooner, but Linda was off putting and just plain unlikeable.

Oops, this is my bad; but I had no idea there are 2 different Linda Thompson's in the music business. When this came up as Kindle "deal of the day", I took a quick glance & thought I was getting an autobiography of Richard Thompson's ex-wife.

Again, my bad; but I really don't care about Elvis. I would LOVE to read an auto biography of the ex Mrs Richard Thompson; one of the best British female vocalists ever. Oh well.......

I'm not sure if I'm even going to bother to read this. At least it was an inexpensive mistake.

It was not worth the wait for this Elvis fan. There is one constant story told over and over--Linda was physically attracted to Elvis, ended up mothering him, was afraid his prescription drug use was killing him. Lather, rinse, repeat. It's not the honesty that's the problem. It's that it's so repetitiously told, over and over and over again the same thing, virtually every page, with so little of anything positive about life with Elvis. Linda goes out of her way to protect Bruce/Caitlyn Jenner, but it's simply difficult to see much evidence for her claims of deep love for Elvis in these pages (though I do not doubt that she did). That is because there are precious few anecdotes that give the reader an inside look at the fun they must have had to be together for 4+ years. Linda does not talk about the awe of Elvis concerts, the frenzy at public appearances, late night shopping or anything like that in much of any detail. It's a one note, and frankly, depressing story from this award-winning songwriter. The book on Elvis by Linda's friend Jeanne LeMay is much more interesting and well-rounded. And the recent biography by Ginger Alden did a great deal more to make me appreciate the full complexity of the 1970s Elvis.

My sister finally breaks her silence in this wonderful memoir. She is truly a gifted writer and speaks from the heart with great love and compassion. Her life has simply been amazing and she shares much of it with the world through this fantastic book....and I am not surprised that this book is a New York Times Best Seller! With much love and admiration, I am so happy that she has found her voice. I gave it 5 stars because I couldn't give it more!

I recently got more into Elvis music, which led me to Linda’s memoir. I found Linda’s book to be very eye opening, in terms of what daily life was really like living with EP. I first listened to Linda’s book on CD, via library loan. I’ve listened to several audiobooks since and this is by far the best written and most captivating audiobook I’ve listened to. Linda Thompson interweaves several different aspects of her life (motherhood, love, her parents, honesty with herself) to make one flowing story line. I decided to use my audio credit to get it this month because months after first listening to it, I still thought of points Linda had made about family, love and life in general.

Linda Thompson is honest and respectful of those she mentions in the book. A testament to what appears to be her kind-hearted, diplomatic, and loyal character. She’s led a very complex, exciting life yet, from the way she presents it, she still manages to find the humility to keep herself grounded.

I read the book because I am an Elvis fan and wanted to learn more about Linda's relationship with Elvis. I was hoping to read new stories but its basically like her 1980s movie "Elvis and the Beauty Queen". I question her claim that she lived with Elvis for 4 1/2 years. We know for a fact there is a list of women he dated during that time period and most of them claim to have spent time at Graceland with him. Where was she when these women visited Elvis at Graceland? Linda's explanation is that these women just sat around and read books with Elvis. If you read Alanna Nash's book about all the women Elvis dated you will find that this is not true. Sheila Ryan goes into detail about her sex life with Elvis in Alanna Nash's book. Sheila dated Elvis during at least 2 years of the 4 1/2 years Linda claims to have been living with Elvis. I think if Linda was completely honest she would say that she had a romantic relationship with Elvis for about 18 months and then she basically became a part of his entourage the "Memphis Mafia". It doesn't take away from the fact that she spent a lot of time with Elvis and she knew him better than most people. I do believe she honestly loved him and did everything she could to help him.

Over the past several years, I have had the pleasure of getting to know Linda Thompson through social media interaction. During this time and communication, I have come to distinguish her as a fascinating human being; a one-of-a-kind individual on a planet with approximately 7.4 billion others. She serves as a role model for both women and men of all ages, and I respect her unbiased character, adore her southern charm, revere her as a follow animal lover and advocate, and, most importantly, admire her endless devotion to spreading kindness. Furthermore, Linda's unconditional love for her family and most personal experiences is expressed through tender lyrics that are melded with beautiful melodies into time-honored songs you probably have heard and know.

Linda not only conveys a refreshing passion for life, but she has also LIVED an extraordinary life. While reading 'A Little Thing Called Life', I was able to instantly appreciate the fact that her memoir was written from the heart. It welcomes generations of fans of Elvis Presley, Bruce Jenner, David Foster, and even her sons, Brandon and Brody, into a first-hand narrative of her relationships with these people, and shares how these connections have molded her into the exceptional mother, grandmother, woman, friend, and colleague she is today. The book is also filled with a collection of priceless photos celebrating Linda’s life as well as the lyrics to her many musical contributions.

Whether or not you, a potential book buyer, are familiar with Linda Thompson, her family, her career, or her life, I recommend purchasing 'A Little Thing Called Life' and taking a memorable trip back through time. I assure you will enjoy getting to know her as I have.

Congratulations, Linda, on fulfilling your dream of completing ‘A Little Thing Called Life’ after 39 years, and thank you for sharing it with the world. From Memphis to Malibu, it’s certainly been a remarkable journey so far. Continue taking the high road, and enjoy the ride. - Paul L (Milwaukee, Wisconsin)

I anxiously awaited the first word from Linda Thompson, a lady who has had relationships/marriages with three of the most illusive and exciting men in the world...Elvis Presley, Bruce Jenner and David Foster. However, this reader was sadly disappointed with Thompson's book. While I find her honestly refreshing, I did feel as I turned almost each page that I wanted to grab Ms. Thompson and scream "Really...couldn't you see thru them? And you kept repeating the same mistakes?!!". Her time with Elvis and the secrets of his very private, illusive life are finally revealed and these facts left me with little sympathy for our lost hero. What a demanding man who did, definitely, give us much great music and many kind deeds to remember him by was, simply stated, a selfish, spoiled and indulged child of a man, who led to his own demise, leaving a young women still to griever in his loss. Jenner was no better...fathering children and still insisting to pursue his "double life" at any price. Thompson seems, sadly, to have lived a life as a co-dependent conspirator in the lives of Presley, Jenner and Foster and she is such an accomplished woman who deserves much, much more from life. I prefer to think of Linda in the manner I did before I read this drawn out salute to the shallow men she loved....strong and unshakable. Rather, my opinion of Thompson changed after reading her book and I do hope she is able to find herself without the need to indulge any more famous, but very, very flawed men. Three stars is really more than I could go...and my time was wasted, I hate to say!! Glad I borrowed this book from a friend!!

I really loved this book and agree with all the wonderful reviews provided here. However, I also agree with one reviewer who said she makes herself look like a saint and glosses over a few key details. She was very kind in her telling of her story but I feel like she left out a lot of nitty gritty details. It's one of the best books I've ever read, however I feel like she was so concerned in making herself and those around her look as good as possible despite the realities of angry emotions and day to day life with these famous partners of hers.

I want to preface this review by saying that I did enjoy it and couldn't put it down! I have been waiting for years for Linda to write her memoirs and enlighten Elvis fans on what it was like for her to live with and love him. There is so much on Elvis out there, by people who knew him well and those that didn't really know him at all, but I thought the book was a little sappy and self righteous which left me wondering..what?!?!?! It's interesting that Linda, who I think, is a great person and who at her core to may be sincere would mention, several times in the book, that she doesn't date or have relationships with married men...all three of her loves were still legally married at the time she entered the picture; not judging, but it is what it is. In general I felt she didn't really have anything new as all the stories she told have been written about in other literary works ad nauseam. Also, I didn't appreciate the lyrics throughout the book, but that's just me.

I do recommend the book as a must read for Elvis fans, but it could have been

It's an ok read. I rented this book from the public library which utilizes the store's Kindle platform. It took two rental cycles for me to get through the book. She had some interesting stories about her life with Elvis, Bruce Jenner and David Foster. I found the "baby talk" dialogue between her and Elvis excruciating to read through because it didn't seem real. In fact, a lot of the dialogue had a made up feel to it, but it wasn't bad per se (except the Elvis baby talk as I mentioned). She had a tendency to wander off at times. She would be writing about something and venture off onto another subject before getting back to the subject at hand. My biggest complaint is her use of vocabulary words that wouldn't be used in every day conversation. I consider myself to be an intelligent woman and I self-published my own Kindle book on the store. She seemed like she wanted to impress with her use of big fancy words. I had to stop several times and use the thesaurus to find the definition which interrupted my flow of reading so eventually I just glazed over words I didn't know because I stopped caring about what she meant. I was taught in my college writing class is that simplicity is best when writing so your readers will not feel intimidated. We know she is a smart lady who writes song lyrics, but she doesn't have to prove herself by writing in vocabulary that many readers may not know. All in all, it was worth the freebie rental through the public library.

Let's start with that. And, I've read many books about him. This was the most sensitive, loving, and intimate portrait I've ever read. What a woman! Not only that, but what a woman to understand she had to leave. As I was reading the story of their relationship, I had to reflect that it was probably good for Linda that he was unfaithful. I don't know, of course, but I think she would never have been able to leave him otherwise. Which, of course, would not have been good for her.

It always struck me as sad that Elvis believed Priscilla left him for another man. Although she did move in with Mike Stone, believing that was the reason she left made it easy for Elvis to ignore and fail to deal with the real reasons--much the same as Linda's. As presented in this book--it would have been impossible for any woman to stay with him. Although the circumstances were different, Priscilla and Linda really tell the same story.

I love this Book on CD ! Linda's voice is a soothing pleasure to listen to. She has a wonderful attitude about life and her goodness shines through.
I am listening to this again when my life has been very stressful and i find it very therapeutic . She presents an honest and compassionate telling
of the famous but difficult men she has shared her life with.

My goodness where should I start? This memoir is beyond wonderful. I purchased both the audio version for listening on audible as well as the hardback version. You should definitely buy both, as Linda's sweet voice brings her story to life and you can do other things while listening to her amazing story. She has brilliantly and generously told of her loving Elvis Presley and Bruce Jenner. I am about halfway through it now and cannot put it down. Linda has a wonderful way with words, and her kindness and pure heart and soul comes through brightly. I am so glad she decided to tell her story. It truly radiates love and tells of her exciting and interesting life, which includes her fair share of pain and joy. I will try to update when I finish, but just know that this is a great book and I hope you enjoy it as much as I have.

I loved this book! I mainly only wanted to read the Elvis parts but I read the whole thing. It's very well written and keeps u wanting to read more. I really loved how Linda makes u feel like u are right there with Elvis. Everything seems to be true and honest however u r only getting her side of the story here but it goes along with other stories I have read so I feel like she was very honest. Great read. Buy the book u will love it.

I read every review before I decided to read this book. Linda's stories about each of the meaningful relationships she shared with the men in her life was touching. It was nice to get a better understanding of her marriages since she was married to two popular and successful men, I had been a bit curious about how those marriages were for her, and about the relationship she has with Lisa Marie Presley after Lisa became an adult. Linda has always come across very sweet in her television appearances such as talking about Elvis or Lisa, or supporting her sons on The Princes of Malibu or The Hills. And as far as someone's complaint of Linda's use of vocabulary, I have no idea what they are talking about. But the book on google did have a missing word here and there. I'm not sure if this is in every digital or physical book, or just the google version.

I held off on this book for a long time thinking it was all about Elvis and doesn't everyone already know all about him? I finally ordered it when I saw that she had been married to David Foster and I wanted to see what he was like after reading Yolanda Hadid's book. Also she was married to Bruce Jenner. Wow Linda knows how to attract interesting partners. I really liked this book. It's well written and Ms. Thompson, despite a privileged life, seems well grounded and sweet and a credible narrator. I found out some interesting things about her, like she is an award winning song (lyric) writer. A very good read.

Wow what a life she has had. Lives of the rich and famous for sure. She must have something going on to get these types of men. I wonder what her secret is. Plus she is tall and beautiful and an accomplished actress, poet and song writer. I would have liked to hear more about the lifestyle that having all that money brings but people would probably think she's bragging and she is too classy for that. On the other hand she name drops quite a bit and it gets a tad annoying to read " my dear friend " so and so multiple times. She seems to have led a very fine life. She doesn't bash anyone, even Caitlyn. I liked the book even though it got a little long winded.

I have been on a bit of an Elvis Presley-kick, and I saw that his next to the last girlfriend, Linda Thompson, just published a well-received memoir called A Little Thing Called Life: On Loving Elvis Presley, Bruce Jenner, and Songs in Between. I have to honestly say that I have mixed feelings about this book.

Linda Thompson grew up in Memphis, TN to poor but proud parents. Once she began college, she started entering (and winning) beauty pageants to help defray tuition. While reigning as Miss Tennessee Universe, she met Elvis Presley at a private screening at a Memphis movie theater. Soon, they were an item and she moved into Graceland. Taking care of Elvis was a 24/7 job and Thompson kept it up for 4-1/2 years. She finally broke it off 8 months before Elvis died of a drug overdose. Wanting a normal life, a husband and a family, Thompson then met and married Bruce (now Caitlyn) Jenner. Obvious, this was not the normal she was looking for, although she did have two sons with Jenner. Her last husband was composer and producer, David Foster. They were actually together 19 years—longer than Elvis and Bruce combined. After breaking up with Presley, Thompson carved out a career as a Hee Haw Honey, an award-winning lyricist, and an actress. The author shares 23 of her songs throughout the book, and she really does have a talent for writing. This book was also very well written.

But as I read, I continued to have problems. Thompson’s years with Presley started getting darker and more bizarre as Elvis continued to become more dependent on drugs. Besides the constant drugs, the sleeping all day and being up all night, and his explosive temper, I was especially concerned with all the loaded guns around Graceland. Elvis thought nothing of pumping a car full of bullets if the thing wouldn’t start. She also made excuses for his behavior. When Thompson knew he was cheating on her, she justified it by thinking “he was trapped by his own fame, and I didn’t want to make his life more restrictive than it already was. I wanted him to be able to experience other people, if that’s what he needed to be happy and feel inspired and fulfilled.” I find this hard to stomach. Also, Thompson spent way too many years with the controlling and sometimes emotionally abusive David Foster. She justified that because she was in love with him. I wonder what kind of message she is sending to other women and especially, young girls. But other things also bothered me. Thompson’s book is filled with superlatives. She makes herself seem like Saint Linda. She also name-drops at every opportunity. Granted, she is in the entertainment business, but we constantly read about all her close, wonderful friends like Barbra Streisand, Kevin Costner, Kenny Rogers, etc. Her acknowledgement section includes 3 pages of all the celebrity-types she thanks for making a difference in her life.

I did enjoy much of A Little Thing Called Life and I especially liked the musical sections. But overall, I thought that Thompson isn’t much different from the many members of Presley’s Memphis Mafia who wrote tell-all books about working for Elvis. Even after he died, they were still looking to make money off The King.

A very honest account of her life, and relationships with Elvis Presley, Bruce Jenner and David Foster. I bought the book because I'm an Elvis fan, and having read 'Elvis: What Happened?' this year, her book stands as a confirmation of that controversial book by his ex-bodyguards. Elvis was a loving man, generous to a fault, and the greatest entertainer of his day. But he was also controlling, obsessive, had many girlfriends at the same time, had a temper, and was a drug addict. He required constant attention, and Linda was as much his nurse as his girlfriend, and she saved his life on numerous occasions. While Linda writes that she left Elvis after 4.5 years, it sounds mutual to me: Elvis flew in new girlfriend Ginger Alden, and flew out Linda Thompson. Elvis died 8 months later, and Linda was called by Elvis' father to come to the funeral, but Priscilla vetoed them sharing a flight from LA together: only she should be regarded as Elvis' woman,despite their divorce. Onto Bruce: she writes of their beautiful romance, their marriage, and their two wonderful kids raised in their Malibu house. Life couldn't get much better, until Bruce revealed that he was actually Caitlyn. Poor Linda! Your heart goes out to her. But once Bruce marries a Kardashian, he puts that transition to womanhood on hold, and cuts his boys Brandon and Brody out of his life. He was a dead-beat dad who paid no child support, and never visited. Creep! As for hubby number two, David Foster, he helped Linda and her career no end, but he was jealous of Elvis, and forbade her to talk about him. He also didn't like Brandon and Brody having friends over 'his' house, and wanted to be treated like a 'King' at all times, even though he was no Elvis Presley. His propensity to just leave and not be heard from for weeks on end was later revealed as the times that he was usually off with other women. Poor Linda! She is a strong woman, very forgiving and understanding, and you get why Vernon Presley, Elvis' dad, called her the 'nicest person' he'd ever met. But I can't help but connect the dots that Elvis, Bruce and David were all MARRIED MEN when she met them, and perhaps it would have been wiser for her to get with a man who was unmarried, and unattached. This is a good read though, and I recommend it.

I liked Linda's account of her romance with Elvis, and their busy life on the road touring. Linda's book was lacking in specific stories, and specific details. I wonder if the risk of liability caused Linda to be non-specific in her account. For example, Linda calls one of Elvis' men "Fetchit", when the man's name is clearly James Caughley - known in others' accounts of the same story. Linda says that his Memphis Mafia truly cared for Elvis - "to a man". Did she mean "to a fault"? Linda talks about redecorating Graceland with the stained glass P for Presley above the entry, and with the peacocks - but no details are provided. The only "affair" or episode of cheating where she named the other woman was Ginger Alden. So it makes the reader wonder about Linda's perceptions of Joyce Bova, Sheila Ryan, and other women who bedded Elvis during the years 1972-1976 when Linda and Elvis were together. What about Elvis' death threats, and the allegations of paternity suits? There is so, so much more that Linda could tell Elvis fans. Most Elvis fan readers are disinterested in her other relationships, but crave more about her knowledge of Elvis. I am hopeful that she might write another book focusing on Elvis, and providing more stories of her time with him, and more detail that fans crave.

l have always fantasised about being Elvis Presley's girlfriend, imagining what an incredibly exciting and fascinating life it would be......After reading Ginger Alden and Linda Thompson's books about life with Elvis, l don't envy them at all!!!. From what l have engaged they were little more than nurse maids, whose main job was making sure Elvis didn't kill himself by overdosing on prescription drugs. Apart from very few holidays in Hawaii, concerts in Las Vegas and trips to the Memphis Theatres and stores after hours, they were prisoners at Graceland, spending most of their time in his bedroom, without even enjoying an exciting sex life. The baby talk, the infidelities and spiritual discussions they had to endure, as well as the glamorous looks they had to maintain 24 seven, would be absolute torture for me. Its almost sad reading Linda's words, because she has opened my eyes to the real Elvis behind the legend. The temper tantrums, the unforgivable merciless torment he inflicted on his Memphis Mafia body guards is hard to read, his loving gestures and generosity to strangers were probably his way of making amends for the disgraceful behaviour he subjected those who lived with him too. It's no wonder Priscilla decided to divorce him. Life with Bruce Jenner was even worse, living a lie for so many years, only to realise the man she loved was actually contemplating becoming a woman and was miserable the whole time. A man who totally abandoned his children once he remarried and became a member of the Kardashian clan. Linda then moves on to her third important relationship and second marriage with a man who was even worse than both Elvis and Bruce put together..Such atrocious behaviour inflicted on such a loving, caring and giving person....l couldn't put Linda's book down, it was absolutely enthralling, and l read it in 2 days.....l only hope that her next relationship brings her the love and respect she truly deserves...

Finally! I waited years for Linda Thompson to write her autobiography. The book follows her own personal growth as she enters into each relationship over the years with three different men who all had/have larger than life careers. I loved being taken right back to the 70s as she gave details of her years with Elvis. Then she moves along to Bruce Jenner and I felt many of the questions I had about that relationship were answered by the end of the book. Her story continues with David Foster and the ups and downs of being with him.

I am glad that Linda waited to gain perspective on these relationships, taking many years before writing her book. It is very telling about her that she did not seek to exploit her time with these men by offering sensationalized stories to the press. And of course, the Bruce/Caitlin Jenner storyline was still unfolding, so she honored that by keeping it private until after the transition.

The book held my interest throughout. Linda does some name dropping and you get an idea of the opulent lifestyle she's been privileged to. Some of the book was a bit repetitive and she didn't mention things like birth control (she was a virgin when she met Elvis), plastic surgery or write much about her 15 years on Hee Haw. Still, the book is very revealing. With such a life as she has led, she apparently has some kind of unique charisma and has lived quite an interesting, unusual and fascinating life.

This book is amazing. Totally holds my interest and that is something hard to do, if I read a book it must hold my interest or I end up putting it down. Linda speaks to you and you feel like a forever friend. Met her in Nashville, TN and she was very friendly and once again you end up finding a friend. Thank you for sharing your story! Whether an Elvis fan, or Bruce Jenner fan you will not be disappointed. I found a friend through Elvis. Thank you Linda for sharing your heart.

I have been an Elvis Presley collector, expert, author, and historian for (approximately) six decades. I have (literally) spent a lifetime amassing things of quality pertaining to Elvis onstage and off (i.e. photographs, videos, books, audio files, albums, records, 45's, autographs, handwriting, his beloved mother Gladys Love (Smith) Presley, Vernon Presley, Graceland, and much more). When it comes to products associated with Elvis my standards are extremely high and yet the 5 star rating I have given to Linda Thompsons' book "A little thing called life" is definitely warranted. Kudos to your Linda Thompson and to everyone who was involved.

I have always believed that Linda Thompson was one of Elvis' great loves of his life and that she loved him, and in all probability, continues to do so to this day. Also I believe that Linda Thompson is an eternal "class act" and is multi-talented. Accordingly, she is an accomplished, and respected, songwriter and one of her songs "my grown up Christmas wish" is exceptional and it is included in every playlist on every device I have.

Among the wonderful qualities of Linda Thompson is her (including but not limited to); intelligence, being a great mother, wit, heart, honesty, curiosity, loyalty, being a southern lady, love/respect of family, vibrancy, talents, grace, ability to light up a room, etc. author. With respect, and humility, Linda Thompson is a beautiful lady/person inside and out and this book is beautifully written.

There is no doubt that she was GREAT when it came to loving, caring for, etc. Elvis which I respected and appreciated during Elvis' life and have continued to be all these decades later.

The book Linda Thompson has written "A little thing called life" is a great read and I highly recommend it. She sheds new, and personal, aspects of her (wholly) unique life which can fluctuate between humor and hardships. Though I always expected a book authored by Linda Thompson to be a "quality book" this book exceeded even my expectations.

Linda Thompson has been a blessing to her friends, family, loved ones, etc. as well as to her fellow man (i.e. men, women, and me). Hence, I say aloud THANK YOU Linda Thompson for sharing part of your life in each page of "A little thing called life". Elvis Presley fan, or not, please check out this book and share it with others.

And THANK YOU to the store for offering great products, such as Linda Thompson's book specified here, and for allowing us to share our experiences of the products including the ability to review.

Take care and may God bless you.

Jeff Schrembs

I read this book with an open mind but wish I had never bought it. Linda was lucky to have met these men and what thanks does she give them? Writing not so nice tell alls about each one of them. She also plays herself up constantly and as some kind of loving saint with these men. She hits Elvis the hardest as I did not care to hear of Elvis peeing in a glass at a Don RIckles Show in Las Vegas. To love someone is to not speak so badly about the one you love. I felt this book was a payback to those men and anyone she felt had wronged her. A revenge book. My cousin's brother went to college with Linda's long time boyfriend and apparently she was no virgin when she met Elvis which casts a huge doubt on other things she claims in the book. Do not recommend at all. Save your money and donate to a charity. A worthy cause.

Interesting and fast read read but it came off really braggy and self indulgent at parts and the song lyrics got a bit tiresome. And c'mon! No one is THAT perfect. The end is where it got REALLY ridiculous and sappy.

Linda Thompson has allowed many famous men to walk on her endlessly. She wrote poems and Elvis wanted to set them to music but she refused. Once she left Elvis the man in Elvis' band wanted to set her poem to music and did so against her wishes; this started Linda's song writing career and desire. She chose bad men who walked on her endlessly; you would think that a beauty queen would have had a higher self esteem and goals for herself.

Linda is a great person but no role model for women as a whole; she was walked on constantly. I was in bad marriages and men can suck you dry but even pregnant and poor I walked out and dug a hole for myself and built myself up. I too, have had many knocks in life but I got out and refused to be treated like a door mat. Linda had a home and a career before David but she allowed him to walk on her endlessly. WHY? You had a home, songs recorded, and many cracked doors to go through. No self esteem and being a empty slate that you allowed men to write on endlessly is not a way to portray Tennessee as a beauty queen. I lived bad marriages but I got out with no money in my pocket and while facing being homeless with children with no relatives to go to; I am glad to see that Linda finally got out, but David ended it and Linda still never did.

Linda sugar coated her book endlessly and put all of her men on pedal-stools endlessly. If you watch the movie the "Elvis and the Beauty queen" tells the true story that Linda tried to smoother. Her book is worth viewing and I bought the audio as well. I enjoyed her book and can see why she stayed so long in many bad abusive relationships.

Fly Linda, fly alone: you do not need a man to make you happy. Find yourself and be happy alone. Build your life and buy all of your own things in life; do not look to man for anything. By listening to your story it only confirms to me what I have figured out years ago that men are needy, pouty, whiney, selfish, and self absorbed creatures that suck the life out of you while never hardly giving back. blood suckers. I stay clear of them and I have bought all of my things myself and I am mother to my children and NOT TO A MAN!

I am poor but I own myself and not a slave to being treated like a door mat. walked on endlessly over majority of my life. Find yourself and be bold you were Miss so and so this and that. I was never groomed to be Miss anyone and never won anything but I won myself and own my self and refused to be treated like crap by anyone EVER! I am someone and not a doormat.

Book was okay but she comes off sounding very egotistical and oh so proper...always doing and saying the the most perfect thing at the perfect time. It seriously got to be a little much. I have no doubt she's a genuinely nice person, good mother and loyal friend, but she never gets into any her own behaviors that may have contributed to the demise of these relationships, it's all very one dimensional. I would've more substance and details to give the book more "meat" so to speak. It's an easy read, bought it for vacation.
She's still a beautiful woman, with a gift for writing that has led an interesting life.

It's 1972, you're 22, shy and observe manners due to a Southern upbringing. You've won local beauty pageants. After resisting a girlfriend's invite "because they serve alcohol in that establishment" you're persuaded to go with her inside. Upon meeting another friend, he offers another invitation: a midnight visit to the Memphian Theater where the biggest pop icon in Mankind's history plus rock and roll pioneer is having his private movie night. That chance meeting would lead to almost five years of near constant physical interaction, intense intimacy, searing emotional highs, tumultuous psychological reliance and through it all, a mutual, radiant, furious love. All to come to a tragic end because in the '70's, we didn't have ubiquitous support systems in place to deal with prescription drug dependency. That story alone is enough for the average lifetime.

But Linda's not average. A few years later she'd meet, marry and have children with the biggest, most gold medal winning Olympic athlete who'd harbored an incredible secret: gender dysphoria. She'd kept that knowledge to herself until the Vanity Fair magazine cover because again, in the '80's, the understanding and compassion for this community hadn't yet materialized; even if it was the sole reason for their marriage's dissolution.

Between the Elvis and Bruce/Caitlyn relationships, the parallels are striking. Yet Linda wasn't finished. She'd go on to marry and collaborate as lyricist with David Foster, producer and musical genius; garnering Academy Award and Grammy nominations, including an Emmy win.

Anyone interested in a moving, compelling, fascinating story will not be disappointed. In Linda's own words, it's A Little Thing Called Life. Indeed.

Linda Tompson, thank you for writing this book. I've been waiting for it for 40 years. It was an excellent read. I'm guessing you sugar coated it a little in order not to take the low road. You achieved quiet a feat. It was a pager turner and I loved it from beginning to end. Thank you.

This is one great book filled with rare amazing stories about some of the key figures in entertainment history. But it has a huge flaw, that the author insists on seeing everything positively and placing her ex-lovers in the best possible light. She comes across as a delusional Pollyanna type (something she calls herself), who cheerleads for her men when she should be eviscerating them after they've mistreated her. And worst of all is how she tries to make excuses for Bruce Jenner's lies and horrible mistreatment of his family. So while every page of the book is worth reading, it remains incomplete because the author has failed to really learn much about her own life.

Where does one start with a book filled with graphic negative stories about three of the biggest names in entertainment? Thompson reveals shocking things about Elvis (he takes up about 55% of the pages), who treated her like a prized slave and abuses her by forcing her to stay with him every moment of the day and night. She, of course, sees this as being a wonderful sign of love. The rest of us will see this as a man mistreating a woman and not allowing her to have independent thoughts. For years she is not allowed to do anything without him, never straying from Graceland or Vegas, but she praises him for all the love he shows her by buying her huge rings or flying her on private jets. And when he flies into a drug-induced rage? She again excuses his behavior away as him just being tired after giving so much to others!

Thompson is guilty of enabling Elvis's addictions. The picture she paints of him is horrifying: he never is told "no," he orders everyone around to serve him like a king, and the combination of drugs and alcohol make him do crazy things. Yes, she was there for the shooting of the TV set. And she tells you exactly how she made his peanut butter and banana sandwiches (mush the bananas and peanut butter together!). Elvis is sick and while she claims to be a dedicated Christian in love with another believer, in truth the two sin freely together without any guilt. She is an agreeable doormat that Elvis walks all over.

She finally comes to her senses when he cheats on her with someone in "their" home Graceland (she's fine with his cheating away from home!). So she moves out and runs into Bruce Jenner at the Playboy Mansion. That starts the next section of her life (and book) with the "perfect man." And everyone seems to think he's perfect at least. The two literally never had an argument in all the years they were together and he appeared to be the perfect husband...until he tells her that he feels like a female inside and wants to begin the transition to becoming a woman. This is decades before the rest of know the Jenner story. And while she states words that express her support for Bruce's transition, she then begins to reveal the true Jenner, the man behind the fake smile--the self-centered jerk who appears to have feelings for no one else but himself. When she refuses to stay married to what will be a woman, he abandons the marriage and their two sons--going years without seeing his boys. The picture painted here of Bruce Jenner is not a positive one. He was a seriously screwed-up guy with some major issues. Even in his current persona as a female, the conclusion you get from reading the book is that Jenner is one of the most selfish, psychologically confused persons who ever lived. Not someone to be admired but to be condemned for how he mistreated others through his lying and abandonment. It begs the question--why does society make excuses for someone with gender issues when they abuse everyone else around them? He should be held accountable for his terrible actions. Once he hooked up with the Kardashians (in an apparent change of heart where he stopped becoming a woman) he had nothing to do with his four other children, and for that he should be ashamed. There's no excuse for being an irresponsible parent no matter what you're feeling about yourself inside--he made bad choices.

Linda made the nonsensical decision of not asking for alimony or child support from Jenner in the divorce. That makes no sense and shows how misguided she is with her need to feel empathy for everyone. The men in her life literally screwed her over and she kept a smile on her face, telling everyone how wonderful they were. While some could defend that as Christian ("turn the other cheek") that's not a good character quality when trying to support small children, though she brags about it throughout the book.

Then she meets David Foster (with some other names tossed in along the way, such as Dodi Fayed). Another self-centered egotist who wanted to be treated like royalty just like her other lovers. He mooches off her for awhile and she uses his musical abilities to further her songwriting career. They spend almost 20 years together, with him cheating on her and her "practicing forgiveness" on him. She paints herself as a saint in suffering with his outbursts, but in truth she can be blamed for much of the chaos because of her failure to deal with reality head-on and taking a stand for herself or her kids. When she finally does after two decades, the marriage ends.

She throws Foster under the bus big time and in his case it's not a surprise--we've seen him on TV shows and in the reality show Princes of Malibu, where he's the male version of control freak Barbra Streisand (and that's not a compliment!). The question here is why Linda put up with Foster for so many years, then blames him when she let him get away with so much abuse? It appears it took her over thirty years to go from a subservient plaything for Elvis to the ideal mother and wife for Bruce Jenner to Oscar-nominated songwriting partner who wanted to be treated as an equal to the mega-talented David Foster. Once she dumps Foster (the day after their reality show premieres on Fox!) she finally becomes a woman. And the book pretty much ends--even though that was 11 years ago. The final pages are a quick coda that says she's single and happy, proud of her two boys (ignoring the crazy lifestyle Brody in particular has shown on television), getting along with Caitlyn Jenner (who comes for Thanksgiving dinner!), and is still the good Christian girl her parents raised her to be.

The book leaves me wanting more. Even at 365 pages there are many things she does not discuss and entire years of her life that she skips over. It is, however, one of the most revealing autobiographies ever published because of what she tells about the men in her life, not about herself. The woman has a unique connection to the major pop culture icons of the past 50 years (Elvis's connections to the Beatles, the Rat Pack, and Michael Jackson, Jenner's Kardashian empire, and Foster's work with the biggest names in the music business). For her willingness to reveal so much detail about these people, showing how fake they are in their sad personal lives, she should be awarded five stars.

Through all of this she discusses her "career" of writing lyrics for songs. She over-praises herself and over-states her songwriting abilities. Almost all of her songs are simplistic and unmemorable (most chapters end with her lyrics). The woman, honestly, doesn't have unique lyrical talent and was partnered with some wonderful composers. However, the goal of this book in her eyes appears to make everyone believe she is one of the top lyricists that has ever lived and to be taken seriously. Sorry, Linda, but after reading about how you only pick rich men to live with, fail to react to their mistreatment of you, and fail to act as a responsible independent woman, I just can't take you seriously. I do appreciate, though, your willingness to tell a lot of great inside stories about these men who were completely different in private than they were in public. Revealing secrets is what a memoir should do--now all you need to add is some serious introspection and see where you failed. Life, especially your life, isn't the fairy tale you make it out to be.

Life with Elvis sounds like such fun especially when he shoots guns through the walls sending bullets whizzing by Linda's head while she was in the bathroom getting dressed. She's lucky that she didn't end up dead. Elvis was also found of shooting up the TV sets at Graceland and using Linda as a human remote control. "Honey, get up change the channel will ya"? "Sure Elvis, I am forever your humble servant". Good grief. Finding him passed out with his head face down in a bowl of chicken noodle soup is also an image that is particularly disgusting. The man was a full on drug addict and was for YEARS before she ever met him. All she did by pulling his head out of soup bowls was to enable his self destructive behavior. The question I kept asking through her story is "Why did she stay with him". He apparently refused to marry despite her begging. Elvis complained to the Memphis Mafia that "Linda is always bugging me to get married, I thought the man was supposed to do the asking". This lady needed to stand in the shadow of somebody famous so badly that she was willing to live like a hermit, a doormat and used as target practice by a drugged out lunatic. Priscilla hit the road with her karate instructor and I can't say that I blame her one bit. This man was OUT OF CONTROL AND OUT OF HIS MIND MOST OF THE TIME.

The best part of the Elvis saga was the fact that Priscilla refused to let Linda join her and Lisa Marie on Elvis's private jet for the trip from L.A. to Memphis for his funeral. Oh not, shot down out of the sky AGAIN. That's what happens when the ex wife deals with the "ex-girlfriend" hunnie, you get no respect.

She LOVES to describe herself as "Elvis's Ex". No hunnie, Priscilla is Elvis's ex, not you. You were a live in caretaker and romp in the hay although I cannot imagine that Elvis was interested very much in that direction considering the horrific extent of his drug addiction. Linda stayed because she was so hoping for that marriage proposal that never came. The fact that he bought her a house down the street from Graceland was his way of saying "You're getting a house out of this so that you are not homeless when I get rid of you". Poor Linda. Linda says she has no doubts that Elvis loved her. He may have but he loved drugs more and he didn't love her enough to stop the drugs and to stop having affairs with other woman..

The final straw in their one sided relationship was Elvis telling Linda that he sent his jet the Lisa Marie to pick her up from Vegas to take her back to Graceland while he stayed on in Vegas. Linda just KNEW he had another girl in Vegas stashed away in a room somewhere just waiting for her to leave. How much more of a "get out of my life" message does somebody need before they take the hint, pack up their skimpy, tasteless and tawdry Susie Creamcheese outfits paid for with Elvis's American Express card and hit the door anyway? Linda did just that and she also has to tell us that Elvis's father promptly cancelled her American Express card after she left. Well yeah, duh. Don't tell me you didn't see that one coming. After they broke up Elvis never called and never wrote her although she did call him and wrote him a letter detailing all of her heartache. (Super sad face).

Linda went on to become a Hee-Ha Honey and do bit parts in Aaron Spelling TV shows. She then went on the marry Bruce Jenner who changed himself into a woman after they divorced. Funny, but Bruce was married with a baby on the way (but he was separated) when they hooked up. Same thing happed with Elvis since he was still married to Priscilla but told Linda he was "separated". I wonder why they say lightening does not strike twice in the same place. Linda is proof that it DOES! :Linda had two sons with Bruce Jenner including that man-child Brody Jenner of The Hills fame.

Linda says she is a "songwriter" and reads her poetry through out book (I listened to the audio of this book). Sad to say it but her poetry is very teenager-ish. It's something a 15 year old would write.

Linda also likes to say she was a "Miss Tennessee". Well, that's not quite the truth. She was a "Miss Tennessee USA" Miss Tennessee goes on to complete in the Miss America pageant, Miss Tennessee USA does not. Big difference. Linda goes on to marry David Foster and blah, blah, blah more of the same. Along the way she apparently asked Priscilla for the number to her plastic surgeon's office so that she could achieve the same skin stretched tight and duck lipped look that the ex Mrs. Presley sports today.

Linda comes off as sort of dumb, a doormat and a co-dependent. She states that Elvis would have died much sooner had she not been there to SAVE him. OK, we will award you the Medal of Freedom for keeping a drug addict alive for the four years you lived at Graceland. We can also understand your enthrallment of a drug addict who was going downhill at warp speed since you were something like 22 or 23 when you took up with him, but what was the excuse for getting preggers by Bruce Jenner and forcing a marriage on him? Don't tell me you never noticed that your size 10 high heels kept mysteriously ending up on Bruce's side of the closet.

Couldn't put it down. She has a way with writing that puts you there and I like the way she seems reluctant to tell the truth when it might harm others and takes the time to even give her rationale for bad behavior. She has lived one charmed life despite the heartache.

I found her life story fascinating. I always learn something when I read about others. She is a beautiful person inside and out. I really respect her for not sharing secrets to make a profit. I appreciate the time and effort that went into writing this.

If I had to describe this book in one word it'd be, CLASSY. Thank you for sharing your life with us. This was a remarkable read, and once you start the book, it's hard to put down. A true lady. Bravo Linda Thompson.

A breathtaking masterpiece! Linda dives deeply into her off-the-charts exciting life. Bold, honest, funny & heart-centered, this sexy book will keep you up all night. This text is the PERFECT gift for anyone who has ever loved with wild abandon. More than just an autobiography, "A Little Thing Called Life" is a manual on kindness & the importance of following your God-given instincts. I hope you all buy 7 copies, like I just did. Lucky us, to get to read something as spectacular as Linda Thompson's long-awaited life story.

What an interesting life for a small town girl Southern girl! By the grace of her good looks Linda won beauty pageants that helped pay for her college education and other opportunities. Very interesting insiders view of life with Elvis Presley, Bruce Jenner and David Foster.

I enjoyed this book. Lots of juicy gossip and name-dropping. No kidding. Couldn't put it down for a while. But I just have to say, I laughed out loud at her phrase "unctuously solicitous." I don't know how often she works that into her normal conversation, but whatever happened, I really enjoyed that phrase.

Linda Thompson is an intelligent and unusually articulate woman, and I am enjoying the Audible version of this book (expertly read by her!). I even interrupted another Audible mystery book by one of my favorite authors to listen to this one instead. I have lived in the deep south during part of the 60s and also moved to Los Angeles in the mid-70s. So I can confirm that Ms. Thompson has successfully captured the social environment of those areas as well as the tone of those times, as she takes us from her upbringing in Tennessee and her eventual meeting with Elvis to her subsequent amazing early experiences with him in Los Angeles and Las Vegas, and back to Graceland. I am only in Chapter 7 so far, and can't wait to finish hearing the rest of her story. I also met Ms Thompson very briefly one afternoon in Beverly Hills in early 1977, and I can honestly say I have never seen a photo of her that does her justice -- she is even prettier in person.

Only part way through the Elvis years. I find it hard to believe that she would write these poems, and not allow Elvis to record them as songs, especially being the wonderful singer and artist he was, and will always be. She said she wanted to keep them private. Hmmmmm. I don't really appreciate the other tidbits of information about her and Elvis's habits that the public still doesn't need to know. I find it invasive and embarrassing for both Lisa Marie and Priscilla. Doesn't Linda have enough fortune and fame? I'll redo this when I finish the book. I'm curious about the David Foster years...........

Had she cut back on patting herself on the back, how beautiful she was (when she now looks like a hacked up, filler addicted clown), who NEVER would drink or do drugs or smoke because she is a "southern belle", and how she "kept Elvis alive" then this book would be really good. She is the perfect mom, partner, wife, etc. right? She accepted houses, cars and jewelry from her famous lovers and slept her way into the life she lives now. Whatever, at least she gave some juicy tidbits....

I enjoyed the book and found Linda a positive person who was very zen about difficult situations. She was insightful without being overtly gossipy, and found something good in each situation. I found her to be authentic. I would read the book again.

I loved the book..once I started I couldn't stop until it was finished. I have a hard time understanding how she was so full of Grace toward all 3 of the men who hurt her over and over. Guess I need to extend this type of grace and forgiveness.....I relate to her unconditional love toward her sons ( which are the same age as mine). I loved to peak into the personal lives of Elvis And Bruce.. Totally enjoyed it

I was really looking forward to reading this to learn about her relationships with Elvis and Bruce but I ended up with so much more. This is a great story that follows a naive college girl as she establishes herself into an accomplished independent woman. It's so interesting to see how she basically becomes a totally different person, in a good way, from the beginning to the end. I really enjoyed reading this and I'm glad she put it all out there at the appropriate time.

Amateurishly written, full of platitudes, banality and self deception. Very little accountability for the path she chose, her young age no excuse for those decisions. She was pretty and wanted to be famous. She willingly elected to be a groupie and a fame-whore, no matter how you slice it. We all make poor choices. If you're going to write a book about them, own it. There is nothing new here, everything sugar coated and watered down by someone trying to downplay their part in it, but without the depth of character to make the "deep" observations she attempts. Sorry. She's probably a "very nice" person, as she continually ascertains her acquaintances ascertained ?but the book stunk.

This book is juicy! Elvis Presley, Bruce Jenner & David Foster scoop.. who can resist? Linda Thompson has terrible taste in men. Elvis cheated on her blatantly for years, Bruce identifies as being female and David brushes women away like dirt from the bottom of his shoe. I also am disgusted to learn that David left his wife and 3 kids under age 5 including a 1 year old to run off with Linda. These are all terrible humans in the moral department, but it makes for an incredibly juicy book! I also do not think it is common knowledge that Linda is an accomplished song writer, so learning this and hearing about that process was interesting.

I never new much about her. I bought this book because of the two famous names on the cover! I love this book I read it fast. Because I could not put it down. I learned so much about Elvis . I had to go buy a book about him. Even though there is so meny out there. I will be buying Bruce's book as he is catielyn now! I love books!

The book was enjoyable reading as I grew up in the "Elvis" era. My only criticism would be the last chapter. Too much about her kids, their personal realtionships and all that "gooey stuff". I liked the factual info on Elvis and Bruce but she went into WAY too much detail about her personal feelings.

I didn't really know that much about Linda Thompson before I read this book, so I really didn't have any pre-conceived notions about her or her life. I was born after Elvis died, so I wasn't familiar with their history. I just visited Graceland a few months ago, so I thought it might be interesting to read this book, and it definitely was. (Plus, I'm just really into celebrity bios lately!)

Her description of their life together made this a very quick read; it's so interesting to find out how such revered celebrities like Elvis are completely different than the way the public views them. Her life with Bruce Jenner was also really fascinating, and I had no idea that she was such a prolific songwriter. I was a little familiar with her marriage to David Foster, but she really fleshed out the parts of her life that I wasn't familiar with and made it a very interesting read. I also want to note that the book gives juicy details without being scandalous about it, which is a hard thing to do.

I loved everything about this book! Linda is a beautiful person, inside and out. She truly had/has an amazing life. I'm a big Elvis fan, so it was really cool to read how wonderful he was, and how loving he was to Linda. Also her life with Bruce and David was great to read about too.
Linda- thank you for writing this book-- ❤️

While one of my weekly trips to Target I stumbled upon this book. Let me tell you... I am so glad I did. Linda is a beautiful soul and when reading her book you will see that. I have recommended this book to all the women in my life because I know they will want to be best friends with her just as I after reading it!

I loved reading this book! Linda's writing is beautiful in it and really takes you to where and when she is talking about. She is so graceful in the way she speaks about her past. Thank you for writing this book Linda!!

This is not only one of the latest Elvis-related biographies but one that has been long awaited. I was impressed with Linda's physical and psychological strength throughout. What I find interesting is that Elvis's last girlfriend really isn't talked about among the Elvis loyal friends (George Klein on his Elvis satellite radio shows nor any other Presley family/friends), but Linda, her brother, Sam, and others like the Thompson family are held in high regard. Makes you wonder about the relationship Ginger (last girlfriend) had with the "Elvis elite". Anyway, Linda's book was a very quick read, worth getting at the library, and I'm glad I have a small perspective of her life with Elvis. I wasn't that interested in her life with her two husbands, considering all 3 of the main men in her life (Elvis, Jenner and Foster) had hidden temperaments that very few knew about until Linda's book.

This book draws you in from page one! You can feel her heart through her exquisitely written words. Through love and loss, good and bad, happiness and disappointment Linda is an example of how we should all embrace our lives and be grateful for the good things.

When you combine beautifully uplifting vocabulary with heartfelt vulnerability, honesty, creativity, empathy & comedy ("brimming with gold"), you get a magnificent exchange of synergistic energy! This gorgeous breathing artifact weaves a magical tapestry of history and serendipity as we peek into Americana while contemplating current themes around ethnicity & gender identity.

Congratulations team-humanity. Not only is this a phenomenal read but ICYMI Linda just planted a new paradigm of empathy within a single linguistic seed. Thank you for this emerald, Ariadne? ~@Compassioning

THANKS LINDA FOR DISASSEMBLING MY LAST BIT OF HERO WORSHIP FOR ELVIS WHO BETWEEN THE LINES SHE CALLS A RAPIST, A BEAST, A BULLY, A THUG, A LIAR, A CHEAT AND A SELF INDULGENT PIG. IT'S FUNNY, I USED TO LIKE AND ADMIRE HIM. NOT AFTER THIS BOOK.

Like Linda herself this an amazing authentic and exceptional book about a loving insightful look back on al life lived with as much love and beauty as the woman herself. A must read for everyone....you will feel grateful for her sharing her amazing life with all of us. Awesome read and thoughtful teachings and insights into life lessons.

I absolutely loved this book. Definitely recommend! I'm 26 and grew up watching Brody Jenner on the Hills and Princes of Malibu. Princes of Malibu definitely intrigued me into their life and this family. Linda's life is inspiring to me. I soaked in every word and loved reading about her life's journey. Thank you for writing!