In this truly intimate and scrupulously well-researched biography of legendary country music singing star Jim Reeves, author Larry Jordan sets the record straight, dispelling rumors and misinformation that have circulated about Reeves for years. The only writer to secure the cooperation of some of Jim's family members and closest friends, Jordan's brisk, though richly detailed narrative style tells an engrossing story.

A longtime friend of Mary Reeves, Jim's widow, Larry Jordan was granted access to many of Jim's private papers, ranging from his schoolwork as a boy growing up in East Texas, to the performance contracts that governed his career. Some of Jim's friends and family have also shared the handwritten letters he sent them over the years, which are excerpted here for the first time. Whenever possible, Jordan lets Reeves speak for himself -- quoting from this private correspondence and even reproducing excerpts in Jim's own hand. Included are Jim's thoughts on love, friendship, human nature, his career, the music industry and more. As Jim celebrates his triumphs, he also reflects on his failures and fears. The result is a fascinating glimpse into the mind of this extraordinary man, whose incredible voice still touches the hearts of millions of fans around the world.

Larry Jordan paints a portrait of Jim Reeves which is honest, though sometimes painful; poignant, yet full of good humor.

There are many major breakthrough revelations here, encompassing all aspects of Jim's life. There are entire chapters devoted to the singer's time on the road, in the studio, at home, with fans, on international tours, at the Opry, on radio and TV. There are even gripping new details about the final minutes of Jim's fateful plane flight that have never been previously disclosed.

See how Mary took the game plan that Jim had laid out for her, and assured a posthumous string of hits that have helped make Jim Reeves one of the world's most popular and enduring recording artists.

Finally, read about the sad fate which befell Jim's widow, Mary. She fought to protect her late husband's legacy, but in the end was stripped of everything she had -- her dignity, her money, her memories.

Every page of this book offers some new insight, and there are scores of rare photos, many of them reproduced in glossy color.

You are sure to savor this portrait of "Gentleman Jim" for years to come.