Nerissa's First Christmas: A Curious Little Tale of Love

by Jonjo Powers

Nerissa is homeless. With no history nor ties in the world, she walks the streets of small towns and big cities, spreading her message of love and leaving in her wake pure joy. But who is she? Prophet, fugitive, vagrant, saint, or just a woman in search of love? When she meets Chris Fitzgerald, a beautiful but neurotic Chicago television reporter with a surprising secret, Nerissa's life changes dramatically. An appearance with Chris on the local news makes her an international celebrity almost overnight. Her anonymity gone, she must not only navigate life as a public figure, but also learn how to have lasting relationships with others, without losing herself. Along the way, she discovers Christmas parties, holiday shopping, and decorating trees as well. Just as her trust of Chris is deepening, the threat of deception rises. Nerissa flees back into the streets, desperate for the safety of her anonymity. It culminates on Christmas Eve, when she must finally decide whether or not to take the chance for a lasting love. A funny, touching, and inspiring story of acceptance, tolerance, and love, right for any time of the year. Also available at Kindle.com!

156 pages, Paperback

First published November 21, 2010

Reviews

[T]

I highlighted more in this book, than any other. By the end i almost felt as though i just finished a self-help book, and wanted to print and stick up Nerissa's advice on how to live, around my house. Beneath all of that, though, was a great story of human nature and love. The character of Nerissa, was so seemingly innocent and fun and ...literal, that it made the reading of this story quick and easy.

I admittedly was annoyed by all the "i love you"'s by the end (i'm no sap), but the underlying theme of how to treat others, and to be at peace and accept... everyone, made this book definitely worth reading, and worth recommending. And it's about damn time someone gave warm coats and blankets to the homeless people. If only people like this existed, and if only things like this happened in real life on a regular basis.

The two main characters were in love, but don't expect anything hot and steamy here; just expect a heartwarming story with some bonus advice on being a better person.