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Ellie Dwyer's Change of Plans
Home is where the camper is. Ellie’s travel arrangements are scuttled following a timely roadside “rescue” by a fellow full-time RVer. Walt is kind-hearted, funny, and, in Ellie’s opinion, a George Clooney look-alike. What better way to bide her time before moving on to her next camping reservation than to enjoy the company of a new friend at a lakeside campground?As a cascade of shutdowns, closed facilities, and canceled reservations conspire to quash her plans to reunite with Ruth, her closest friend and usual traveling companion, Ellie and Walt make the best of “shelter at home” orders, dreaming of their own future adventures once the crisis has eased. But adversity doesn’t have to be as novel as a pandemic; emergencies can still strike in old, familiar ways.Filled with both joy and sadness, Ellie Dwyer’s Change of Plans will make you laugh, bring a tear to your eye, and help you rejoice in the power of love and friendship.This is Book #3 in the Ellie Dwyer series.
231 pages, Paperback
Published March 28, 2021
534 people are currently reading
79 people want to read
About the author
Diane Winger
30 books90 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 52 reviews
January 20, 2023
I love this series
I've been reading books 1 - 3 continuously and will be starting #4 right away.
I am enjoying the company of Ellie and Ruth and love the adventures they are getting into. I hope there will be more books in this series. The camping theme was what got me interested and now I'm hooked ...
I've been reading books 1 - 3 continuously and will be starting #4 right away.
I am enjoying the company of Ellie and Ruth and love the adventures they are getting into. I hope there will be more books in this series. The camping theme was what got me interested and now I'm hooked ...
February 21, 2021
Of course I loved it -- I'm the author! I hope readers will enjoy another visit with Ellie Dwyer in her 3rd novel as much as I enjoyed writing about this character again.
March 7, 2021
This is the 3rd book in the Ellie Dwyer series. I was lucky enough to get an advanced copy to review.
I really enjoyed reading about the adventures of full time RVers Ellie and Ruth. Ellie is in her 60's and Ruth is in her 80's. My favorite parts of the book were about their adventures hiking, kayaking, paddle boarding and other outdoor activities.
It was very interesting to read about the challenges they had to deal with in finding camp grounds and sometimes on short notice. I also liked hearing about the people they met at the various campgrounds and RV camp life in general. When Ellie and Ruth become separated by the pandemic a new romance ensues and adds another layer to the story.
While the main characters in these books are senior citizens I think younger people would really enjoy this series as well. Ellie and Ruth are independent, beautiful spirits. I absolutely love their positive outlook on life and aging. They are great role models for readers of any age.
I am eagerly anticipating the next book to learn what they do and where they go next.
I really enjoyed reading about the adventures of full time RVers Ellie and Ruth. Ellie is in her 60's and Ruth is in her 80's. My favorite parts of the book were about their adventures hiking, kayaking, paddle boarding and other outdoor activities.
It was very interesting to read about the challenges they had to deal with in finding camp grounds and sometimes on short notice. I also liked hearing about the people they met at the various campgrounds and RV camp life in general. When Ellie and Ruth become separated by the pandemic a new romance ensues and adds another layer to the story.
While the main characters in these books are senior citizens I think younger people would really enjoy this series as well. Ellie and Ruth are independent, beautiful spirits. I absolutely love their positive outlook on life and aging. They are great role models for readers of any age.
I am eagerly anticipating the next book to learn what they do and where they go next.
March 17, 2021
I read the first book in Ellie's adventures and really enjoyed it so I was very happy to get an advance copy of this one for an honest review. First let me say I really like the main character. I am about the same age and love to camp so the character and her adventures really appeal to me. This book was a little different because covid hits near the beginning of the book causing Ellie to make major changes to her plans. It is so real because I know how it was at the campgrounds last summer and it is portrayed so accurately! Then Ellie has a romantic encounter with someone she meets and at first I thought oh no, Diane is turning it into a romance novel. Then holy cow, no spoilers from me but another change of plans! A couple unexpected twists for sure. I really love the friendship between Ellie and her bf Ruth. The only thing I could see that was wrong was I haven't read book 2 yet! I know I bought it and am getting ready to take care of that now! Great book even if you aren't a senior or a camper.
March 20, 2021
Being fortunate enough to receive an early copy for my review I must say it is a have to read! I am a senior and proud owner of am Aliner contemplating full-time myself. Ellie's independence and adventurous soul is awesome and inspiring! And her friend Ruth is a hoot and inspiration herself! Change of Plans is filled with many emotions from the very start which makes it hard to put down. You will not regret reading about any of Ellie's adventures, especially this one!
March 20, 2021
This book is easy to read, and has some very real camping dilemmas. The romance was realistic, but dragged a little at times. I really liked the friendship between Ellie and Ruth. Camping friendships really the best. I received this book in advance in order to write a review.
Read
March 24, 2021I read this book out loud to my wife, since we enjoy camping also, it sparked a bond reading it . The characters seemed very lifelike and easy to identify with. Would recommend the book to anyone that enjoys a road trip. Take a trip with Ellie.
August 13, 2021
Hiking and Camping
If you are a fan of camping and outdoor activities you will enjoy read. It is the 3rd book the series and takes place at the beginning of the pandemic.
If you are a fan of camping and outdoor activities you will enjoy read. It is the 3rd book the series and takes place at the beginning of the pandemic.
July 19, 2025
I love these books! This is number 3 in the series. Have really liked them all. Love the main characters. These books are fun, thought provoking, adventurous…all in all good books, especially suited to older readers!
March 9, 2021
I've enjoyed the other two Ellie Dwyer books but I think Winger does an especially good job with the effects of the pandemic and a sudden romance. Highly recommended!
May 19, 2021
I picked up this book, knowing virtually nothing about the author or her previous work. I wanted to learn more about RVing, and I thought a simple love-story with RVing as the setting would be a good way to gain additional insight.
At first, the book appeared as I expected—a sweet, love story between an older couple, which was a nice angle. But as I continued to read, I found a surprising depth to the characters and a confirmation of a few fundamental truths about life. The protagonist was a strong, independent woman who showed that women can function in the RVing world (as well as everywhere else) without a man, that it is possible to take risks and survive inevitable mistakes, that holding true to one’s values is a preferred creed for one’s life, and that a friendship between women can be one of the most precious relationships in the world.
I found the book well-crafted, well-edited, and a satisfying read.
At first, the book appeared as I expected—a sweet, love story between an older couple, which was a nice angle. But as I continued to read, I found a surprising depth to the characters and a confirmation of a few fundamental truths about life. The protagonist was a strong, independent woman who showed that women can function in the RVing world (as well as everywhere else) without a man, that it is possible to take risks and survive inevitable mistakes, that holding true to one’s values is a preferred creed for one’s life, and that a friendship between women can be one of the most precious relationships in the world.
I found the book well-crafted, well-edited, and a satisfying read.
September 14, 2023
Wow! I really liked this one. It didn't have much, if any, of the writing style issues of the previous book--in particular, the parts that were simple listings of where she camped and what trails she hiked, one after another with no enlivening details of fun, amusing or distressing happenings along the way. And also the main plot line of the previous book was awfully obvious from the beginning.
But this was really good! Covid alert--if you don't want to relive the first year or so of the Coronavirus Pandemic, stay away! For me, it brought the memories back and since it was three years ago, I could be amused at how freaked out we all were. I was camping in a Texas State Park when the governor closed them all down and sent us streaming for home. And if I hadn't had a home to go to, it would have been catastrophic.
Nothing here was predictable or the slightest bit repetitive. It was very, very good and engaging throughout. A little scary at times, but fun!
But this was really good! Covid alert--if you don't want to relive the first year or so of the Coronavirus Pandemic, stay away! For me, it brought the memories back and since it was three years ago, I could be amused at how freaked out we all were. I was camping in a Texas State Park when the governor closed them all down and sent us streaming for home. And if I hadn't had a home to go to, it would have been catastrophic.
Nothing here was predictable or the slightest bit repetitive. It was very, very good and engaging throughout. A little scary at times, but fun!
April 4, 2021
Nice, easy read. Slow down
I’m not sure what it is about the Ellie Dwyer series that grabs me. I tend to finish these books in nearly one sitting. I find the character of Ellie to be quite straight laced and tame, even though she travels the country in an RV with little fear of unfamiliar territory.
Ellie is the same age I am, so maybe that’s why I find her interesting. There aren’t many books with main characters my age. Ellie has lived a much tamer life than I have. I think that age and time have brought us to value the same things: friendship, natural beauty, loving a family of choice.
I noticed at the end of this book that the author has penned many books. I’ve read one of her books outside the E.D. series, and I think I might like some of the others she has written. I will definitely be checking them out.
I’m not sure what it is about the Ellie Dwyer series that grabs me. I tend to finish these books in nearly one sitting. I find the character of Ellie to be quite straight laced and tame, even though she travels the country in an RV with little fear of unfamiliar territory.
Ellie is the same age I am, so maybe that’s why I find her interesting. There aren’t many books with main characters my age. Ellie has lived a much tamer life than I have. I think that age and time have brought us to value the same things: friendship, natural beauty, loving a family of choice.
I noticed at the end of this book that the author has penned many books. I’ve read one of her books outside the E.D. series, and I think I might like some of the others she has written. I will definitely be checking them out.
December 6, 2023
Fun to see Covid in rear window
The title of my review doesn't do justice to the wonderful story Ms Winger has written, but I have to say that it feels great to read a story centered around Covid and feel that it is a past thing, maybe like my grandparents looking back on the dust bowl or the depression. But it makes a great setting for Ellie to have her great rediscovery of intimacy and passion. She and Walt have the time and circumstances to get close in a very short time. I love how Ellie doesn't derail her life in the end for connecting back up with Walt. At this point in her life, she understands what her core currency is, with the southwestern hikes and a close family relationship with Ruth. Both Ellie and Ruth are inspiring for living life to the fullest, regardless of age. Bravo!
The title of my review doesn't do justice to the wonderful story Ms Winger has written, but I have to say that it feels great to read a story centered around Covid and feel that it is a past thing, maybe like my grandparents looking back on the dust bowl or the depression. But it makes a great setting for Ellie to have her great rediscovery of intimacy and passion. She and Walt have the time and circumstances to get close in a very short time. I love how Ellie doesn't derail her life in the end for connecting back up with Walt. At this point in her life, she understands what her core currency is, with the southwestern hikes and a close family relationship with Ruth. Both Ellie and Ruth are inspiring for living life to the fullest, regardless of age. Bravo!
November 14, 2021
I truly enjoy Ellie Dwyer as she is an older lady traveling the country in her pop-up camper. The stories involve everyday things that could happen to an older person and has some sort of way of following a logical source. In this story, set in the beginning days of the 2020 Covid epidemic in America, her trip to visit her in-laws is cancelled and she is in forced to remain in Texas. There she finds a love, but will it truly work out for them?
And her senior citizen friend Ruth is still as vibrant as ever but she too faces some issues.
And her senior citizen friend Ruth is still as vibrant as ever but she too faces some issues.
November 25, 2023
I'm not feeling really charitable toward Walt. He tells Ellie that he is divorced but doesn't mention a 6 month waiting period imposed by the state. He takes her Jeep into town for groceries and gets in an accident that sends him to the hospital unconscious. His (ex)wife's contact information is in his wallet so the hospital contacts her instead of Ellie. Ellie is iced out because of COVID-19 restrictions on visitors to hospitals and rehabilitation centers. Ellie is trying to be calm, but it becomes apparent that he is going back to his ex.
March 9, 2025
Changes
I really dislike changes so this book wasn't as good as I would have liked. Saying that though I still liked it. I haven't been sure I wanted to read a story involving Vivid 19 but this storyline was okay. I just know that Vivid 19 was a serious problem and many people died because of it, but I also know many people who didn't think it was that big of a deal. I for one took it as a big deal! People died! There were really big changes for Ellie and Ruth but they made the most of them and still got back together!
I really dislike changes so this book wasn't as good as I would have liked. Saying that though I still liked it. I haven't been sure I wanted to read a story involving Vivid 19 but this storyline was okay. I just know that Vivid 19 was a serious problem and many people died because of it, but I also know many people who didn't think it was that big of a deal. I for one took it as a big deal! People died! There were really big changes for Ellie and Ruth but they made the most of them and still got back together!
May 4, 2021
A very enjoyable read!
I so enjoyed the first two books in this series so it was great to get back with Ellie and Ruth to catch up their continued journeys! It was especially interesting to relive the beginning days of the pandemic through Ellie's experiences with it. The story and characters are very relatable. I hope tis series continues. I look forward to continuing this journey!
I so enjoyed the first two books in this series so it was great to get back with Ellie and Ruth to catch up their continued journeys! It was especially interesting to relive the beginning days of the pandemic through Ellie's experiences with it. The story and characters are very relatable. I hope tis series continues. I look forward to continuing this journey!
May 31, 2021
Not rushed
In spite of the inclusion of the pandemic, the story didn’t feel too rushed. There were some editing issues, mainly with names, but not too difficult. (Jon was Al, Ellie was Ruth) of might hold these books to a higher standard considering Ellie is a proofreader. I thought the pandemic was handled well, without a ton of fearmongeing; but highlighting the effects on a nomadic population.
In spite of the inclusion of the pandemic, the story didn’t feel too rushed. There were some editing issues, mainly with names, but not too difficult. (Jon was Al, Ellie was Ruth) of might hold these books to a higher standard considering Ellie is a proofreader. I thought the pandemic was handled well, without a ton of fearmongeing; but highlighting the effects on a nomadic population.
August 11, 2022
Another good read from Diane Winger!
Ellie Dwyer has really developed into a spunky RVer since her first attempt at camping three books ago. What is so inspiring about these adventures is knowing that "if she can do it, I can do it!" I feel like I am right there with her on these adventures because she describes everything with such detail. My imagination soars with every chapter. I look forward to the next adventure with Ellie and Ruth.
Ellie Dwyer has really developed into a spunky RVer since her first attempt at camping three books ago. What is so inspiring about these adventures is knowing that "if she can do it, I can do it!" I feel like I am right there with her on these adventures because she describes everything with such detail. My imagination soars with every chapter. I look forward to the next adventure with Ellie and Ruth.
June 1, 2023
Top shelf
The more I read the more I feel apart of the characters lives. I'm so glad that the pandemic is behind us but it still exciting presents will always affect our way of life. The was the author weaves this larger than life issues into her story just make it that much more engaging. I had a feeling Walt was going to break Ellie's heart because he talked to much about her. Going to read the next book and enjoy reading.
The more I read the more I feel apart of the characters lives. I'm so glad that the pandemic is behind us but it still exciting presents will always affect our way of life. The was the author weaves this larger than life issues into her story just make it that much more engaging. I had a feeling Walt was going to break Ellie's heart because he talked to much about her. Going to read the next book and enjoy reading.
August 18, 2021
Love this series,it was a Great Escape!
It was wonderful to meet Ellie and Ruth and follow along with their adventures. It was a very relatable series and I would love to try out the "life on the road" , if only I had better health. I would like to hear more stories from the road!
It was wonderful to meet Ellie and Ruth and follow along with their adventures. It was a very relatable series and I would love to try out the "life on the road" , if only I had better health. I would like to hear more stories from the road!
May 6, 2023
I did not enjoy this book as much as the first two. Honestly I am just sick of reading and hearing about Covid, so if that bothers you too you may want to skip this one. I also wasn't a big fan of the romance part. I do really like the main characters and the camping and travel aspects of the series, but I decided to take a break before continuing on to book #4.
June 8, 2023
Amazing story!
I really enjoyed this book as well as the others in this series! Knowing how the pandemic hit all of us it was interesting to see it from the full timer side! It was awful for family in hospitals as we had. I love how there was funny, sad and happy moments in each of this series!
I really enjoyed this book as well as the others in this series! Knowing how the pandemic hit all of us it was interesting to see it from the full timer side! It was awful for family in hospitals as we had. I love how there was funny, sad and happy moments in each of this series!
July 9, 2023
If this wasn't part of a series I already purchased I would likely have abandoned this one. I realize the author may have found writing about the pandemic cathartic but reading this wasn't very enjoyable for me. Not recommended unless you want to rehash pandemic protocols and restrictions. I'd particularly avoid this if you lost a loved one to Covid.
1.5 stars
1.5 stars
March 2, 2025
Best book so far
Interesting.my hubby and I have RVed for years and she is pretty much spot on about camping...fun, acquaintances, mishaps, RV parks/campgrounds, etc. I'm glad she resisted getting back with Mr suave, but also that she rose above it all to forgive him. Love how Ellie and Ruth established a deep friendship. Looking forward to next book.
Interesting.my hubby and I have RVed for years and she is pretty much spot on about camping...fun, acquaintances, mishaps, RV parks/campgrounds, etc. I'm glad she resisted getting back with Mr suave, but also that she rose above it all to forgive him. Love how Ellie and Ruth established a deep friendship. Looking forward to next book.
May 20, 2021
Well written,
Continuing series is compelling to read. Its good to know how the characters come through life and its trials. These series of books are more for the older crowd of readers, but still interesting.
Continuing series is compelling to read. Its good to know how the characters come through life and its trials. These series of books are more for the older crowd of readers, but still interesting.
June 5, 2021
Adventures and friendships
Love these books as I have been an adventurer myself . And plan on more to come my Burnaby Belle and I have swam all the Oceans that surround this country,we have been till too long.
Love these books as I have been an adventurer myself . And plan on more to come my Burnaby Belle and I have swam all the Oceans that surround this country,we have been till too long.
June 24, 2021
Wonderful Series
I love this adventurous senior! She is doing what I wish I’d be brave enough to try - part time. I enjoy hearing about areas she’s visited and want to see some myself.
I love this adventurous senior! She is doing what I wish I’d be brave enough to try - part time. I enjoy hearing about areas she’s visited and want to see some myself.
July 14, 2021
Loved this Series
Wonder if the author is Ellie? As a single, recently retired 60-something, who loves camping, I really related to this story. Ellie & Ruth have inspired me that I can do anything! Great stories of friendship, love, loss, the outdoors & more! A great read!!
Wonder if the author is Ellie? As a single, recently retired 60-something, who loves camping, I really related to this story. Ellie & Ruth have inspired me that I can do anything! Great stories of friendship, love, loss, the outdoors & more! A great read!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews