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Great Lakes Romances #17
Saving Mossy Point: In the Fifty-First State of Superior
When retired schoolteacher and widow Betty Hanson learns that the 51st State of Superior is about to close Mossy Point State Park, she expresses her concern to Ray Engstrom, the head of the General Land Office. But Mr. Engstrom reveals a discouraging fact: Mossy Point State Park has never paid its own way since it opened back in 1959. And according to him, it “has the same chance of running in the black as a turtle has of flying.”
Determined to prove Mr. Engstrom wrong, Betty gathers help from friends and neighbors. A plan emerges and work begins to put Mossy Point State Park on solid fiscal ground. But not everyone is on board with the plan. At times, Betty almost finds herself side-tracked by dealing with her estranged daughter and grandson who suddenly appear back in her life, and then there is her close friend Lee who seems to want more than friendship. The State itself seems to have alternative plans for the park, and when an accident threatens to destroy both Betty’s and the park’s finances, all of her plans could fall apart. What can possibly turn their fortunes around and make a turtle fly?
Determined to prove Mr. Engstrom wrong, Betty gathers help from friends and neighbors. A plan emerges and work begins to put Mossy Point State Park on solid fiscal ground. But not everyone is on board with the plan. At times, Betty almost finds herself side-tracked by dealing with her estranged daughter and grandson who suddenly appear back in her life, and then there is her close friend Lee who seems to want more than friendship. The State itself seems to have alternative plans for the park, and when an accident threatens to destroy both Betty’s and the park’s finances, all of her plans could fall apart. What can possibly turn their fortunes around and make a turtle fly?
- GenresChristian Fiction
320 pages, Paperback
First published February 20, 2015
15 people are currently reading
131 people want to read
About the author
Donna Winters
34 books36 followersDonna moved to Michigan in 1971 when she married and left her hometown of Brockport, New York. She began penning novels in 1982 while working full time for an electronics firm in Grand Rapids.
She resigned from her job in 1984 following a contract offer for her first book. Since then, Thomas Nelson Publishers, Zondervan Publishing House, Guideposts, and Bigwater Publishing have published her novels. Her husband, Fred, a former American History teacher, shares her enthusiasm for history. Together, they visited historical sites, restored villages, museums, and lake ports, purchasing books and reference materials for use in Donna’s research.
In October 2015 Donna became a permanent resident of New Mexico.
Donna has written more than a dozen historical romances for her Great Lakes Romances® series.
She resigned from her job in 1984 following a contract offer for her first book. Since then, Thomas Nelson Publishers, Zondervan Publishing House, Guideposts, and Bigwater Publishing have published her novels. Her husband, Fred, a former American History teacher, shares her enthusiasm for history. Together, they visited historical sites, restored villages, museums, and lake ports, purchasing books and reference materials for use in Donna’s research.
In October 2015 Donna became a permanent resident of New Mexico.
Donna has written more than a dozen historical romances for her Great Lakes Romances® series.
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Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews
October 29, 2018
Betty is up in arms that the state park maybe closed, due to lack of funds.Parks need to support themselves, places of business would fold, and then another ghost town. She said she would fix it, and wonders what she has gotten herself into. Not everything needs to be fixed, she reminds herself. Speaking with others about a folk school would that work. Interesting of how community got involved with the idea, made an interesting and different type of story to read about.
May 31, 2015
Throughout all of human history, never would people have ever thought that our national parks would face closure simply based on financial issues, yet that is such the premise in the latest novel by Donna Winters, Saving Mossy Point. As money gets tight, Mossy Point State Parkfaces closure unless it can find a way to end this year in the black, but it will take some creativity to make that happen and Betty Hanson, a widow and long time resident of Mossy Point fears that unless they find a way, the town that depends on the tourists that come to visit the park, will move away and leave Mossy Point, a ghost town along with several other state parks throughout the country that are facing the same financial pressures.
With the help of several volunteers and residents, Betty seeks to renovate an old Lahti cabin would be just the perfect location to offer a folk school, a place where people could come and learn a trade, from photography lessons, painting or arts and crafts. She is hoping to get just as creative on locating the supplies they will need to pull this off, she can only hope it is not as bad as she remembers. In the midst of getting this program underway, Betty's grandson shows up unexpectedly at her home with just the clothes on his back. He's supposed to be in college, but he soon tells her he has made his way across the country to arrive at her home hoping she might allow him to stay. One thing is for sure, Betty can use an extra set of hands from Carlos in a way to help pay for the clothes and food he is sure to need staying with her. But will it be enough? Mossy Point State Park has not turned a profit since the park opened in 1959. One thing for sure is its going to take a miracle to make this happen!
I received Saving Mossy Point by Donna Winters compliments of Upon The Rock Publicists and Bigwater Publishing for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review outside of a complimentary copy of the novel. The opinions contained in this are strictly my own. The best part of this novel is the wonderful set of characters that are part of bringing this story to life. I love how there are two vastly different groups who have alternative plans for the park and soon find themselves working against one another to accomplish their own purposes. This would make an exceptional summer read for young adults looking for a great novel with a conservation theme and being good stewards of what God has so richly blessed us with. I'd rate this one a 4 out of 5 stars in my opinion. This is the 17th book in the Great Lakes Romance Series!
With the help of several volunteers and residents, Betty seeks to renovate an old Lahti cabin would be just the perfect location to offer a folk school, a place where people could come and learn a trade, from photography lessons, painting or arts and crafts. She is hoping to get just as creative on locating the supplies they will need to pull this off, she can only hope it is not as bad as she remembers. In the midst of getting this program underway, Betty's grandson shows up unexpectedly at her home with just the clothes on his back. He's supposed to be in college, but he soon tells her he has made his way across the country to arrive at her home hoping she might allow him to stay. One thing is for sure, Betty can use an extra set of hands from Carlos in a way to help pay for the clothes and food he is sure to need staying with her. But will it be enough? Mossy Point State Park has not turned a profit since the park opened in 1959. One thing for sure is its going to take a miracle to make this happen!
I received Saving Mossy Point by Donna Winters compliments of Upon The Rock Publicists and Bigwater Publishing for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review outside of a complimentary copy of the novel. The opinions contained in this are strictly my own. The best part of this novel is the wonderful set of characters that are part of bringing this story to life. I love how there are two vastly different groups who have alternative plans for the park and soon find themselves working against one another to accomplish their own purposes. This would make an exceptional summer read for young adults looking for a great novel with a conservation theme and being good stewards of what God has so richly blessed us with. I'd rate this one a 4 out of 5 stars in my opinion. This is the 17th book in the Great Lakes Romance Series!
June 3, 2015
Donna Winter in her new book, “Saving Mossy Point” Book Seventeen in the Great Lakes Romances series published by Bigwater Publishing LLC brings us into the life of Betty Hanson.
From the back cover: When retired schoolteacher and widow Betty Hanson learns that the 51st State of Superior is about to close Mossy Point State Park, she expresses her concern to Ray Engstrom, the head of the General Land Office. But Mr. Engstrom reveals a discouraging fact: Mossy Point State Park has never paid its own way since it opened back in 1959. And according to him, it “has the same chance of running in the black as a turtle has of flying.”
Determined to prove Mr. Engstrom wrong, Betty gathers help from friends and neighbors. A plan emerges to open a folk school, a place where students of all ages can come to learn a craft, and work begins to put Mossy Point State Park on solid fiscal ground. But not everyone is on board with the plan. At times, Betty almost finds herself side-tracked by dealing with her estranged daughter and grandson, who suddenly appear back in her life, and then there is her close friend Lee, who seems to want more than friendship. The State itself seems to have alternative plans for the park, and when an accident threatens to destroy both Betty and the park’s finances, all of her plans could fall apart. What can possibly turn their fortunes around and make a turtle fly?
They are going to close the State Park. If they do that there will not be any more need for the tourists. No more tourists, no more tourist money and therefore no more town. Betty sets out not only to keep to the Park open but that it make a profit for the first time in its existence. Not everyone wants her to succeed though and the group opposed is set to do nasty things, both to her plan and to her. This book is a lot of fun. It is clever and highly imaginative. Betty is the highlight of this story. Her character is what makes the whole book come together. Ms. Winters has provided us fun, excitement and a whole lot of faith all rolled up into a well paced story.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Upon the Rock Publicist. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
From the back cover: When retired schoolteacher and widow Betty Hanson learns that the 51st State of Superior is about to close Mossy Point State Park, she expresses her concern to Ray Engstrom, the head of the General Land Office. But Mr. Engstrom reveals a discouraging fact: Mossy Point State Park has never paid its own way since it opened back in 1959. And according to him, it “has the same chance of running in the black as a turtle has of flying.”
Determined to prove Mr. Engstrom wrong, Betty gathers help from friends and neighbors. A plan emerges to open a folk school, a place where students of all ages can come to learn a craft, and work begins to put Mossy Point State Park on solid fiscal ground. But not everyone is on board with the plan. At times, Betty almost finds herself side-tracked by dealing with her estranged daughter and grandson, who suddenly appear back in her life, and then there is her close friend Lee, who seems to want more than friendship. The State itself seems to have alternative plans for the park, and when an accident threatens to destroy both Betty and the park’s finances, all of her plans could fall apart. What can possibly turn their fortunes around and make a turtle fly?
They are going to close the State Park. If they do that there will not be any more need for the tourists. No more tourists, no more tourist money and therefore no more town. Betty sets out not only to keep to the Park open but that it make a profit for the first time in its existence. Not everyone wants her to succeed though and the group opposed is set to do nasty things, both to her plan and to her. This book is a lot of fun. It is clever and highly imaginative. Betty is the highlight of this story. Her character is what makes the whole book come together. Ms. Winters has provided us fun, excitement and a whole lot of faith all rolled up into a well paced story.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Upon the Rock Publicist. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
June 4, 2015
"Saving Mossy Point" is a poignant story of attempts to preserve what may be lost. Betty Hanson has suffered the loss of her husband and the destruction of her relationship with her only daughter and her family. When Mossy Point State Park is threatened to become a memory of the past due to lack of funding, Betty decides to do whatever she can to save this glorious park enjoyed by so many families over the years. Betty engages the help of friends and neighbors to seek answers to prevent Mossy Point from eventual closure.
Donna Winters creates a very colorful and diverse cast of characters to represent the community. Events are authentic and the author's sense of humor adds to the activities throughout this heartwarming story. Drama unfolds with credible incidents that are cause for despair, but a strong conviction to save Mossy Point prevails, and the group continues to work together toward their goal. Surprising events are unexpected but give hope where adversity has presided.
An abandoned building on the property becomes the focus as Betty suggests a folk school in order to bring in revenue to keep the state park open. The place is a mess, but the task force is ready to take it on, and do everything in their power to save their park. This area along the shore of Lake Superior is a spectacular and breathtaking location that Donna describes with accuracy and credibility.
"Saving Mossy Point" is an enjoyable story of humanity and realism regarding the obstacles in life's path, and the power that faith plays. Overcoming adversity and anguish are powerful details in this entertaining book.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed in this review are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.
Donna Winters creates a very colorful and diverse cast of characters to represent the community. Events are authentic and the author's sense of humor adds to the activities throughout this heartwarming story. Drama unfolds with credible incidents that are cause for despair, but a strong conviction to save Mossy Point prevails, and the group continues to work together toward their goal. Surprising events are unexpected but give hope where adversity has presided.
An abandoned building on the property becomes the focus as Betty suggests a folk school in order to bring in revenue to keep the state park open. The place is a mess, but the task force is ready to take it on, and do everything in their power to save their park. This area along the shore of Lake Superior is a spectacular and breathtaking location that Donna describes with accuracy and credibility.
"Saving Mossy Point" is an enjoyable story of humanity and realism regarding the obstacles in life's path, and the power that faith plays. Overcoming adversity and anguish are powerful details in this entertaining book.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed in this review are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.
June 3, 2015
Saving Mossy Point by Donna Winters
Captivated by the cover. Once I read the summary I knew this would be a good read.
Starts out with the new state of Superior and there is a state park that is need of saving as one in charge wants to sell it.
Betty has other plans and now that she's a widow she has a lot of time on her hands to do the work. She hopes to collect others who will donate their time in order for the park to have a folk school.
This is where they would learn different skills surrounding the area. If she can have the park run in the black this season he's agreed not to sell it right away.
Just within the first chapter I have learned what a lectern is and the device used to make a trail. Never knew the names and it's fun to learn new things. We are walkers and travel the northeast in search of fun places to walk and learn about the areas we visit.
She is continually asking God for guidance....love all the ideas and everything on the calendar to help promote the park and what it will offer. Problem is Betty's grandson stops in-from the west coast, unexpected and a neighbor falls on the park land and injures himself, threatening to sue.
Just when things are running smoothly, or so we think..... mayhem occurs and then some...
Easy going read and I appreciate hearing from different generations of characters in the book. So much is going against them keeping the state park.
Other works by the author are highlighted at the end. Great blend of religion in this book, it's not overpowering or pushy.
I received this book from the author in exchange for my honest review.
Captivated by the cover. Once I read the summary I knew this would be a good read.
Starts out with the new state of Superior and there is a state park that is need of saving as one in charge wants to sell it.
Betty has other plans and now that she's a widow she has a lot of time on her hands to do the work. She hopes to collect others who will donate their time in order for the park to have a folk school.
This is where they would learn different skills surrounding the area. If she can have the park run in the black this season he's agreed not to sell it right away.
Just within the first chapter I have learned what a lectern is and the device used to make a trail. Never knew the names and it's fun to learn new things. We are walkers and travel the northeast in search of fun places to walk and learn about the areas we visit.
She is continually asking God for guidance....love all the ideas and everything on the calendar to help promote the park and what it will offer. Problem is Betty's grandson stops in-from the west coast, unexpected and a neighbor falls on the park land and injures himself, threatening to sue.
Just when things are running smoothly, or so we think..... mayhem occurs and then some...
Easy going read and I appreciate hearing from different generations of characters in the book. So much is going against them keeping the state park.
Other works by the author are highlighted at the end. Great blend of religion in this book, it's not overpowering or pushy.
I received this book from the author in exchange for my honest review.
May 14, 2015
Do you all think I have lost my love for reading? Not so I have just been so busy!
I just finished a pretty good book! I have always been an avid reader. Growing up, I loved historical fiction. Now that I am an adult, I still enjoy speed-reading books for a younger audience in the hopes of finding new favorites for my siblings as well as my future children. Although there are many wonderful books for children and young adults which are not particularly Christian (think Little House and such), it is always great to be able to provide books for your children which reinforce Biblical truths and grace . Donna did a great job.
I thought the author wrote with wonderful style and skill. It is rare to find a Christian fiction book written in such a classic manner. I believe that is the crowning glory of this book.
Donna Winters Bio
Donna adopted Michigan as her home state in 1971 when she moved from a small town outside of Rochester, New York. She began penning novels in 1982.
Her husband, Fred, a former American History teacher, shares her enthusiasm for the Great Lakes. Together, they visit historical sites, restored villages, museums, state parks, and lake ports purchasing books and reference materials, and taking photos for use in Donna’s research.
http://www.greatlakesromances.com/abo...
I just finished a pretty good book! I have always been an avid reader. Growing up, I loved historical fiction. Now that I am an adult, I still enjoy speed-reading books for a younger audience in the hopes of finding new favorites for my siblings as well as my future children. Although there are many wonderful books for children and young adults which are not particularly Christian (think Little House and such), it is always great to be able to provide books for your children which reinforce Biblical truths and grace . Donna did a great job.
I thought the author wrote with wonderful style and skill. It is rare to find a Christian fiction book written in such a classic manner. I believe that is the crowning glory of this book.
Donna Winters Bio
Donna adopted Michigan as her home state in 1971 when she moved from a small town outside of Rochester, New York. She began penning novels in 1982.
Her husband, Fred, a former American History teacher, shares her enthusiasm for the Great Lakes. Together, they visit historical sites, restored villages, museums, state parks, and lake ports purchasing books and reference materials, and taking photos for use in Donna’s research.
http://www.greatlakesromances.com/abo...
July 4, 2015
I enjoyed reading this story in an afternoon. The main character is my age and like me from a small town which has it's fair share of characters in every shape, size, and personalities. I felt right at home and understood much of the wear and tear that can happen to those involved in small town ways and how important it is to have people who are willing to spend time on volunteer projects so life can continue on to the benefit of the town and the area. I have friends that live in the UP and enjoyed reading about the area in the delightful descriptions the author provided. It was also refreshing to read a story that wasn't filled with sex and murder. I believed that characters and their peculiarities especial how Betty prayed for God's help and protection but still worried continually about how she was going to work things out when the chaos was going to start which is such a common and totally human reaction. Few real people pray and then don't get anxious when the answer doesn't pop up in front of them immediately. Definitely worth reading for all ages.
I received this book free as a participant in a blog tour. I was not obliged to give a favourable review.
I received this book free as a participant in a blog tour. I was not obliged to give a favourable review.
May 26, 2015
This is a fun novel with a blend of reality and fairy tale. The reality is that the State of Superior is going to sell off Mossy Point State Park. How that ends up is the fairy tale part. Also part of the reality are the characters. There are some wonderful ones and some pretty crusty ones, but they all come together to help the community. This would be a good book for retired people as most of the characters are older. Betty, the retired school teacher leading the effort to save the park, is a Christian who prays and reads her bible regularly. That was very refreshing.
See my complete review at http://bit.ly/1ArEDNP.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this book through Upon the Rock Publicist for the purpose of an independent and honest review.
See my complete review at http://bit.ly/1ArEDNP.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this book through Upon the Rock Publicist for the purpose of an independent and honest review.
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews