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Ellie Dwyer's Big Mistake: Book 2 of the Ellie Dwyer Series
Once the cat's out of the bag, there's no telling what may happen next.Ellie Dwyer, 63, embraces her new lifestyle – living full-time out of her tiny camper and sharing outdoor adventures with her energetic 82-year-old friend, Ruth. But Ellie’s idyllic world is interrupted when she is contacted by a woman who knows her oldest and best-kept secret. Viewing her past in a different light, Ellie undergoes an uplifting change of heart. Will her relationship with her new acquaintance bring them a fairytale ending, or is that too much to hope for?
261 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 21, 2020
986 people are currently reading
98 people want to read
About the author
Diane Winger
30 books91 followers I describe myself as a “retired software geek” who loves hiking, rock climbing, kayaking, camping, and cross-country skiing when I'm not reading, writing, or watching cat videos.
I'm a passionate volunteer with several organizations which focus on literacy projects in my community.
My husband, Charlie, and I are co-authors of several guidebooks on outdoor recreation. I was born and raised in Denver and we currently reside in western Colorado. I write fiction featuring strong, adventurous female protagonists.
Please follow me on BookBub to receive notices of new titles, books on sale, and for book recommendations by other authors. http://tinyurl.com/FollowDiane
I'm a passionate volunteer with several organizations which focus on literacy projects in my community.
My husband, Charlie, and I are co-authors of several guidebooks on outdoor recreation. I was born and raised in Denver and we currently reside in western Colorado. I write fiction featuring strong, adventurous female protagonists.
Please follow me on BookBub to receive notices of new titles, books on sale, and for book recommendations by other authors. http://tinyurl.com/FollowDiane
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
April 20, 2022
Wonderful follow-up book to Diane Winger’s first “Ellie Dwyer’s Big Mistake” book. I’m 74 and will be starting this next month to experience our first camper van trip for 2 months with my husband, and maybe longer depending on how everything goes. I got many laughs and insights to her travels and even some new prospective camp grounds and regions to explore. I’ll be continuing the series as we start our new adventures. I’ll also be more open to meeting new people on the road as Ellie did with some lovely outcomes. Thanks for the enchanting read.
May 9, 2020
Want a friend like Ruth to go hiking with!
A nice sequel to Book 1. Although the story centers around adoption, I Do like the focus on the camping locations and stories. .
A nice sequel to Book 1. Although the story centers around adoption, I Do like the focus on the camping locations and stories. .
February 9, 2020
Diane has taken Ellie from a novice full time camper to experienced and enjoying life with her best friend Ruth. She vividly describes the incredible views of our national parks and funny camping stories that will have you laughing. You are transported through turmoil and heartbreak and brought out the other side smiling. A very well written book continuing Ellie's saga. This reader and fan hopes Ellie's adventure will continue.
July 5, 2021
I am so enjoying this sweet series of a woman of my age taking to full time camping, meeting a new best friend later in life and being open for all kinds of adventures & changes at this point in her life. Recently retired, I am being inspired by Ellie & Ruth! Never to late, & I can’t wait to read the last book!!
March 11, 2020
Another delightful episode in Ellie Dwyer's "new" life. Ruth is a wonderful and inspiring character.
May 20, 2020
Timing is everything
This was a great book for me to read when, recently, I needed to feel grounded and grateful in and for my daily life. It's hard to find realistic stories about modern day baby boomers; most characters past midlife end up in cozy mysteries acting like doddering old fools.
This book features 2 adventurous ladies, aged 62 and 82, who are full time RVers. They leave the norm of most women I know I'm !I day to day life, they hike and walk a lot, they are quite physically active. I love the way they are presented as enjoying life with little drama, tragedy, or edge of the seat psychological mystery. Sometimes I'm in the mood to read about characters having fun and laughter with friends, family, and acquaintances. I like the references to songs and social norms back in the day before cellphones and computers.
I've read two other books by this author. One of the two is a companion to this story, and was the same feel good fare in the same settings. I will definitely check out some other works by Diane Winger. Her work is written in a clean and professional style, is non-pretentious and grounding.
Now I am off to read something with a bit more edge to it. But I'll keep an eye out for more books about RV adventures of Ellie and Ruth.
This was a great book for me to read when, recently, I needed to feel grounded and grateful in and for my daily life. It's hard to find realistic stories about modern day baby boomers; most characters past midlife end up in cozy mysteries acting like doddering old fools.
This book features 2 adventurous ladies, aged 62 and 82, who are full time RVers. They leave the norm of most women I know I'm !I day to day life, they hike and walk a lot, they are quite physically active. I love the way they are presented as enjoying life with little drama, tragedy, or edge of the seat psychological mystery. Sometimes I'm in the mood to read about characters having fun and laughter with friends, family, and acquaintances. I like the references to songs and social norms back in the day before cellphones and computers.
I've read two other books by this author. One of the two is a companion to this story, and was the same feel good fare in the same settings. I will definitely check out some other works by Diane Winger. Her work is written in a clean and professional style, is non-pretentious and grounding.
Now I am off to read something with a bit more edge to it. But I'll keep an eye out for more books about RV adventures of Ellie and Ruth.
June 25, 2020
Good Read
Well after reading the first book, things on this one was just to predictable. When the first so call daughter got in touch, she didn't even meet her but she started to send money right away . Right away I knew this part wasn't right and started to lose my attention. I knew that it would be a scam which it was. Then later in the book finding her real daughter again to soon, she didn't search for years like some people do and it was a locked birth so why did all the info come up so fast. Didn't enjoy that part either.
Well after reading the first book, things on this one was just to predictable. When the first so call daughter got in touch, she didn't even meet her but she started to send money right away . Right away I knew this part wasn't right and started to lose my attention. I knew that it would be a scam which it was. Then later in the book finding her real daughter again to soon, she didn't search for years like some people do and it was a locked birth so why did all the info come up so fast. Didn't enjoy that part either.
March 18, 2020
Another great read by Diane! I feel like Ellie and Ruth are my friends, and I experience all their adventures...and misadventures. Almost makes me want to buy an Aliner, take my kitty, and head west or east or north or south! What's next, Diane?
July 2, 2023
I'm hooked on this series now--a woman who was abandoned by her husband and sets out to escape an ice storm and ends up buying a tiny RV and taking her life on the road. The first book established all that, and this one continues her adventures with her new best friend and the friend's cat. It's kind of like an essay on the magic of women's friendships...with a little lesson on self-reliance and "finding your family" thrown in.
The "mystery" of her "great mistake" is very obvious from the start. And it made me uneasy, expected great pain. But if there was supposed to be great pain, it didn't come across in the telling.
Despite my enjoyment of the story, I have to admit that something in the writing falls flat. I can't put a finger on it, but it seems that the most heartbreaking pain or the most exciting adventure turns out dull. Or rather, just matter-of-fact. I suspect that the problem is that she's telling the story instead of showing it. Although it's in first person, there still a little something extra that needs to be done to put her readers "right there" and "in her head."
I don't know what it is--if I did, I'd be a famous writer. I just know it when I feel it and miss it when I don't.
The "mystery" of her "great mistake" is very obvious from the start. And it made me uneasy, expected great pain. But if there was supposed to be great pain, it didn't come across in the telling.
Despite my enjoyment of the story, I have to admit that something in the writing falls flat. I can't put a finger on it, but it seems that the most heartbreaking pain or the most exciting adventure turns out dull. Or rather, just matter-of-fact. I suspect that the problem is that she's telling the story instead of showing it. Although it's in first person, there still a little something extra that needs to be done to put her readers "right there" and "in her head."
I don't know what it is--if I did, I'd be a famous writer. I just know it when I feel it and miss it when I don't.
May 21, 2022
Absolutely loved the entire series!
Diane Winger is a new author for me. I loved this entire series and would highly recommend them all. I laughed, so hard, and I may have shed a tear or two. The character development was well done, I felt like I'd known Ellie forever. I adore Ruth!!! I dislike leaving spoilers, suffice it to say, if you're needing something to lose yourself in for a few days, choose this series and read all four. My only complaint, there doesn't seem to be a fifth
Diane Winger is a new author for me. I loved this entire series and would highly recommend them all. I laughed, so hard, and I may have shed a tear or two. The character development was well done, I felt like I'd known Ellie forever. I adore Ruth!!! I dislike leaving spoilers, suffice it to say, if you're needing something to lose yourself in for a few days, choose this series and read all four. My only complaint, there doesn't seem to be a fifth
May 30, 2022
I enjoy following the adventures of Ellie and Ruth. Finding this little series that focuses on the Baby Boomer crowd has been great! Glad to find an author that is writing about my generation. I enjoyed the first book more because the focus was on the camping aspect of Ellie's journey. Camping is my retirement hobby and I would love to see the author expand Ellie's travel to other parts of the United States. This series has inspired me to try hiking-suggested to my hubby that we try hiking on our next camping trip! :) Look forward to reading about her next adventures.
May 25, 2023
Ah, Ms. Winger you are a great writer. This is my second Ellie Dwyer book and they are great get-away books. I have learned about a great many adventures with Ellie and friend Ruth.
These were recommended on the basis of some other book I have read.
As a former trailer owner and loved travel, these books are genuine in experiences had by Ellie as she learned the ins and outs of backing trailers, setting them up.
The perks of camping and the sights and sounds of being able to marvel at the wonders this country has for us to explore are too many to count.
These were recommended on the basis of some other book I have read.
As a former trailer owner and loved travel, these books are genuine in experiences had by Ellie as she learned the ins and outs of backing trailers, setting them up.
The perks of camping and the sights and sounds of being able to marvel at the wonders this country has for us to explore are too many to count.
February 22, 2020
Not near as entertaining and well written as the first book. IMHO, E!lie is not nearly as sympathy worthy as in the first book, especially when she describes how she deceived her husband about not being able to have kids. And the political correctness of the gay grandsons and black SIL seemed forced.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 9, 2020
Love this read
This is a really easy read as it keeps your interest. It also touches on two subjects that people can relate to. Also is lighted heart with some humor. Love this author, will be looking for more of her books. We also have a Aliner and live traveling with it. Headed out west very soon.❤
This is a really easy read as it keeps your interest. It also touches on two subjects that people can relate to. Also is lighted heart with some humor. Love this author, will be looking for more of her books. We also have a Aliner and live traveling with it. Headed out west very soon.❤
September 11, 2020
Enjoyed; however, not as much as the first book. I felt Ellie was a bit gullible. I was drawn to the series, as my parents had an A-Liner trailer, which they loved. I went camping with them a few times, in this fashion, and also enjoyed the experience. Again, pretty good book, just slightly unbelievable.
March 17, 2021
2021 Book Hoarders Challenge 328. (read in the spring)
Ellie Dwyer is a 63-year-old who is traveling around in her camper enjoying visiting somewhere new. But, she is noplussed and then ecstatic when someone contacts her on Facebook inquiring about a birth of a child when Ellie was 15. But as we know, social media presences are not what they appear to be
Ellie Dwyer is a 63-year-old who is traveling around in her camper enjoying visiting somewhere new. But, she is noplussed and then ecstatic when someone contacts her on Facebook inquiring about a birth of a child when Ellie was 15. But as we know, social media presences are not what they appear to be
March 6, 2025
I really enjoyed this story
While I love to read,I know within a page or two if I will continue a book. This one surprised me. The style is positive, conversational and engaging. It included all of the things that interest me - RVS, campground life, hiking, interesting people. I look forward to reading more in the series.
While I love to read,I know within a page or two if I will continue a book. This one surprised me. The style is positive, conversational and engaging. It included all of the things that interest me - RVS, campground life, hiking, interesting people. I look forward to reading more in the series.
August 15, 2020
Good series
Both of the books are interesting and pleasurable to read. Going out side your comfort zone and taking up living in a camper full time is an interesting plot. Good stories well written.
Both of the books are interesting and pleasurable to read. Going out side your comfort zone and taking up living in a camper full time is an interesting plot. Good stories well written.
October 1, 2020
I really like the characters in this series, but after reading the title and then the part about the adoption I really had it figured out, before it got started. I do like the travel and hiking parts, and how the characters are growing. A nice light read that keeps my interest. Hope to see a 3rd.
December 20, 2020
Highly recommend
I don't want to give anything away but if you haven't read the first book in the series, you should jump into the adventure and read it. Then you will enjoy it so much you will be reading this right after!
I don't want to give anything away but if you haven't read the first book in the series, you should jump into the adventure and read it. Then you will enjoy it so much you will be reading this right after!
August 12, 2022
Great adventure with a bit excitement.
Thus story is a continuation of a women who finds friendship and fun while camping and hiking. A bit off excitement in both a personal topic and challenge of trusting some she meets along the way.
Thus story is a continuation of a women who finds friendship and fun while camping and hiking. A bit off excitement in both a personal topic and challenge of trusting some she meets along the way.
May 31, 2023
Fantastic
This book was a delightful read. A blast as Ellie and Rose travel around from one campground after another and their many outdoor activities. I hope Ellie has seen the last of her bad luck but then again it wouldn't be as exciting. I'm ready for book 3. Highly recommend
This book was a delightful read. A blast as Ellie and Rose travel around from one campground after another and their many outdoor activities. I hope Ellie has seen the last of her bad luck but then again it wouldn't be as exciting. I'm ready for book 3. Highly recommend
June 8, 2023
My newest favorite series!
I love this series, how could you not? Ruth is amazing and so is Ellie, love how the author gets the details of the hikes and places they go! Can't wait for the next book!
I love this series, how could you not? Ruth is amazing and so is Ellie, love how the author gets the details of the hikes and places they go! Can't wait for the next book!
September 18, 2023
I enjoyed reading about Ellie Dwyer and her camping adventures. She takes us to places I’ve never been but would love to go myself. I’ll probably continue reading until I finish the entire series.
October 27, 2023
Such an Adventure! I’m glad things worked out in the end but the identity scammer stole $8,000+ from Ellie before her friend’s son helped her find the right path that led to a nice ending anyway. Good job and word to the wise.
August 11, 2020
I enjoyed her first book much more. This one dragged a bit.
January 22, 2021
Big mistake
Wonderful book of young lady finding her daughter from her teen mistake. Thank god ruth’s grandson came to her rescue
Wonderful book of young lady finding her daughter from her teen mistake. Thank god ruth’s grandson came to her rescue
March 17, 2021
Good story for a rainy evening
It was a good story but I could tell what was going to happen early on and was restless waiting for Ellie to catch on, too.
It was a good story but I could tell what was going to happen early on and was restless waiting for Ellie to catch on, too.
May 7, 2021
Wow!
Great second story. I enjoyed the continuing saga of Ellie amd friends very much. On to book three and the next part of the journey.
Great second story. I enjoyed the continuing saga of Ellie amd friends very much. On to book three and the next part of the journey.
May 11, 2021
Boring as hell. The first book was good. Refreshing. This one not so much. Same @#%*@ different pile.
Spoiler alert??? Read the title!
Spoiler alert??? Read the title!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews