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Nov 09, 2025 By Frank Valish

Priscilla Presley’s follow-up to her acclaimed 1985 memoir, Elvis and Me, deals largely with the rest of her life, after she left Elvis in 1972. The book begins with some background about her time with Elvis and the reasons why she ultimately left, before delving into her subsequent years as an animal activist, clothing designer, businesswoman, actress, mother, and grandmother.

Presley details her post-Elvis passions, both personally and professionally, and a life that included not only the untimely death of her famous husband but also the tragedies she suffered in the suicide of her grandson and the loss of her daughter. The specter of Elvis is present throughout the book, as he never truly left her even after their separation and he seemed often in her thoughts thereafter; Presley presents Elvis as the one true love of her life despite relationships after their divorce. She details her acting and humanities work, as well as her building of Graceland into the historic site that it is today. But mostly Softly, As I Leave You showcases Presley’s love for her family. As the wife of perhaps the most famous idol ever and parent and grandparent to children who forever had to bear that same celebrity weight, Presley’s road was never an easy one. Add to these challenges the tragedies that befell her family along the way, and Presley’s story is in some ways quite pained. However, it more so is a testament to her strength, perseverance, and love, in the face of whatever obstacles laid ahead. (hachettebookgroup.com)

Author rating: 7/10