Homeless in a Mercedes

Lost in the Keys

De: Richard Arsenault, Eva Arsenault

Narrado por: Richard Arsenault

**What would you do if you were fired for reporting fraud and abuse at work, and then hunted down by your union, forcing you into homelessness?**

This is the gripping, autobiographical true story of Richard Arsenault, television editor for Ellen and American Idol, and his wife Eva, as they faced this very nightmare. Despite his work making millions for others and helping create profitable popular television series, Richard and Eva found themselves homeless after reporting fraud. “You’ve got to have faith, not fear.” These reality television creators experienced "reality" firsthand as their new job in Florida evaporated, forcing them to survive with no money, no support, and no roof. Thanksgiving became a can of beans on a gas station picnic table in the Florida Keys. Sleeping in their car was a luxury because the police didn't allow it.

This book chronicles the struggle of a couple who fell through the ripped safety-net of America, offering insights into the broken US labor system and the wicked forces of power. Homelessness can happen to anyone who stands up for what's right, as it happened to the authors. Temporary homelessness differs from chronic homelessness. This book is about white-collar Americans who—through unfortunate events—are denied help and justice, plunging them into temporary homelessness. The Mercedes Benz was their only protection from the elements, people, and alligators. The authors struggle to survive the ultimate “reality” experience, dealing with health issues, no work, and no sympathy.

The surreal beauty of the Florida Keys and Jupiter, Florida, is captured in their journey. Come get “lost in the Keys” and discover how a positive attitude, faith, and irony made this couple closer than ever before as they struggled to survive being homeless, through no fault of their own, in a Mercedes.

©2013, 2024 Richard Arsenault (P)2024 Arsenault Publishing

A Survival Story That Transcends Survival

Homeless in a Mercedes is far more than a gritty survival tale—it is a profound exploration of betrayal, resilience, and the fragile line between stability and despair. What begins as a story of temporary homelessness quickly evolves into a powerful commentary on how easily anyone can find themselves abandoned by the very institutions meant to protect them. It would be romantic if it weren't nearly fatal.

The author’s harrowing journey—nearly eaten by alligators, relentlessly consumed by swarms of mosquitoes—becomes a metaphor for the constant threats faced during a time when safety seems impossible. Yet at its heart, this is a love story: one of unity, loyalty, and determination in the face of crushing odds.

This book reminds us that homelessness is not a permanent identity but a circumstance, and the escape from it often requires extraordinary perseverance. With vivid storytelling and unflinching honesty, it challenges the reader to consider not only what it means to survive, but what it means to be failed by systems that promise justice and care.

A must-read for anyone drawn to stories of survival, justice, and human perseverance under unimaginable duress.