One Family
Three Generations
The Story That Bound Them Together
Discover an unprecedented look at Elvis through the eyes of a 1950s radio deejay, a Memphis Mafia spouse, and the next generation carrying the legacy forward. Richly told through rare family photos and original illustrations.
About Elvis Days
The stories in this book are arranged in chronological order. We begin with the actual days Elvis spent with us and his interactions with our friends and family.
The second section reveals, for the first time, a look at my marriage to a Memphis Mafia member. This union gave me a unique glimpse of what life was like with the guys at Graceland, and the deep struggles they faced when Elvis passed. This book offers an unprecedented, deeply empathetic look at the man left behind—specifically Lamar Fike. Often maligned by fans for his involvement in Albert Goldman’s controversial biography, Lamar is revealed here not as a vindictive insider, but as a man who was totally broke, drowning in debt, and quietly suffocating under the weight of his grief and survival.
Finally, the third section is devoted to the next generation of Elvis fans. They will help carry his message of humility, honor, and love far into the next century. Thank you, Elvis, for the goodness you have brought into the world.
Discover the legacy of Elvis Presley’s relationship with the Fadal family in this exclusive Second Edition book. Divided into three parts, this 100-page chronicle covers Elvis’s original 1950s weekend escapes from Fort Hood to the Fadal home, Janice’s time married to Memphis Mafia member Lamar Fike, and a welcome to the next generation of fans. Personally signed by author Janice Fadal, this collector's item features original illustrations alongside photographs of Elvis at home with the Fadals.
What Early Readers Are Saying
"Waco and the Fadal family are forever etched into Elvis' story. They provided him an escape, a getaway from Army life, a retreat, and a home away from home. The Fadals enjoyed a relationship with the rarely-seen person of Elvis before he became an icon."
— Chris Ermoian, Executive Director, Texas Music History Museum / Texas Music Cafe® TV
"I have always found Elvis' story and rise to fame fascinating. Meeting Janice almost 20 years ago and hearing her personal stories about him has only added to that fascination. Some of the stories here I knew, others I did not. I hope you enjoy this collection of memories of a magical time, with a talented young man, and a beloved and endearing family."
— Karen Keith, Longtime Friend & Early Reader
"Janice Fadal has provided a truly unique slice of Elvis history in this very personal book. From her childhood memories of watching her mother prepare to entertain and host the most famous entertainer on the planet, to grown-up reflections of understanding her own involvement in the Elvis world in a more personal way, this book captures so many layers of one family's story. Elvis Presley was a one-of-a-kind artist. The perspective of the Fadal Family offers a one-of-a-kind look at the place and the people who were a Texas-sized part of Elvis Presley's life during a magical era in music history."
—Sally Hoedel, Best Selling Elvis Author & Historian
"Elvis Days is a little bit history and a whole lotta rock and roll. In all my years filming and researching the incredible life story of Elvis Presley, I can honestly say that spending time learning the story of the young, 'real' Elvis at the Fadal Waco home has been one of my favorite memories—walking the very locations where it happened alongside Janice Fadal has been a true blessing. If you want a humanized side of Elvis that you don't get anywhere else, this is the book. It tells the story of the Eddie Fadal and Elvis friendship in Waco, Texas—from her dad's movie theater to a kitchen window looking out at Elvis, and stories of hanging out with his girlfriend. Updated by Janice with real thoughts, personal insights, and the amazing fact that she later married Memphis Mafia member Lamar Fike, don't double-dribble on this one. Enjoy this unforgettable Fadal family story."
— Trey Miller, "Globetrotting with Trey" YouTube Channel
Most families have stories, but ours includes the King of Rock 'n' Roll
Most families have stories, but ours includes the King of Rock 'n' Roll.
Our connection to Elvis Presley spans more than seventy years and three generations. It began in 1956 at a Dallas radio station. My father, a professional deejay, was significantly older than the young 21-year-old artist who walked through the door promoting his new 45 record. That age gap created a unique dynamic, and their professional meeting quickly sparked a profound personal connection. Later, the bond deepened when I married a member of the Memphis Mafia, gaining an inside view of the world behind closed doors. Today, that history lives on through the next generation of fans who keep the magic alive.
We wrote this memoir to bridge the gap between history and memory. Together with our personal family photographs showing Elvis relaxing and enjoying himself with friends in our home, this book features custom original illustrations drawn by my daughter. Her art beautifully fills in the gaps, taking you straight into the rooms where history happened.
If you would like to add a stay at The Elvis House to your own bucket list, it can be booked directly online. Come experience the history, walk the very locations where it happened, and step directly into the legacy. Scan our booking QR code or visit our rental website to check availability through VillaStay.
Experience The Elvis House
