Ellie Dwyer's Olympic Moment: Book 6 of the Ellie Dwyer Series

by Diane Winger

May the best woman win.

Best friends and full-time campers, Ellie and Ruth, have always loved a good challenge. But little did they know, their latest adventure would lead them down paths they never could have expected. Set against the backdrop of the rugged Wyoming landscape, Ellie and Ruth find themselves competing in that state’s Senior Olympics, determined to test their skills and have some fun along the way.

Thanks to Ruth’s encouragement, Ellie has gained confidence in recent years, and is far more willing to explore new and unfamiliar territory. But when she becomes entangled in a serious disagreement between her daughter and granddaughter, she finds herself facing a challenge unlike any she's encountered before.

As tensions rise and secrets are revealed, Ellie and Ruth must also navigate the mysterious behavior of a fellow athlete who refuses to have her photo taken and avoids talking about her past.

Filled with the usual shenanigans and serious moments, this Ellie Dwyer adventure is sure to please.

Includes an excerpt from The Secrets that Shape Us

272 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 15, 2024

About the author

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

Reviews

[Cindy Dyson Eitelman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very much in the same pattern as the others in the series, but if you're hooked, you're hooked. And I'm hooked. I wouldn't recommend this for everyone--nothing much really happens and although there's a teeny tiny bit of plotted uncertainty that runs through them all, it's not what makes the stories enjoyable.

Sure, there's a woman with an oddly unpredictable memory problem. Sure there's an accident that puts normally indefatigable Ruth out of commission for a while. And of course there's a strange weirdness with Ellie's daughter that keeps her guessing. But none of those are enough to make a story worthwhile. What does that, for me, is the day-to-day story of a life I'd love to be living. Traveling around the country in a camper, seeing new places and things, hiking a lot of trails, and hanging out with a true friend. That's the life for me!

[Jackie Welcel · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was no surprise to me how much I enjoyed this book. I've read all the books in the Ellie Dwyer series (so far) and enjoyed every one. In this book, Ellie and Ruth decide they each are going to enter 2 events at the Wyoming senior Olympics. Of course, nothing goes quite as planned for these two great ladies but they always come out on top. Lots of beautiful hiking and Diane Winger gives such great descriptions of the hiking areas and the beautiful views she makes you almost feel as if you are there witnessing it. The ladies again make new friends, some very interesting! Ellie and Ruth get to spend some time with Ellie's grandaughter in this book. One of the things that happens in this book is they change locations and campgrounds quite a few times and as a camper, I enjoy that. Unfortunately, we are reminded Ruth is getting up there in age but for now she is still going strong. Another great Ellie Dwyer book.

[Janis Paquette · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book 6 about the indomitable Ellie and Ruth! I especially loved this one because it brought back such good memories of camping in Colorado and Wyoming. I even considered checking out the Senior Olympics for a moment there! I love the relationship these two women have with each other and look forward to every new installment.

[Laura · Rating 3 out of 5]

Still enjoying the series but not as much as previous books.

[Teri Pre · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series is wonderful. It's about senior woman who AREN'T involved in crazy mysteries or sitting at home knitting and bitching. They're out hiking, climbing, and facing the challenges that getting older present to us in a realistic way. I sure hope that Winger writes a LOT more of these!

[Marsha Devine · Rating 5 out of 5]

First, let me say that I really enjoy the Ellie Dwyer series. She is relatable and real. Ellie's adventurous spirit led her to camping with her Aliner, which, as I have one too, builds a connection. In this book, Ellie and her pal Ruth are planning to compete in the Senior Olympics. What could go awry? Ellie is excited about the corn hole competition, but is also in a walking competition, along with Ruth. Ellie isn't a super woman. She huffs and puffs up the hiking trails and knows her limits, while Ruth passes her by. These are the gal pals you always wanted.

Olympic Moment is another winner in the Ellie Dwyer series! Fun, enjoyable, and smart, these are the books you read in one sitting, because they take you away with Ellie on her adventures. Enjoy!

[Karen Staley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Diane's Ellie Dwyer series inspired me years ago to become a full-time RVer and I have found a truth in the stories and adventures of Ellie and Ruth. Diane writes with honesty and throws in humor at just the right moments. Her descriptions of the vistas at a summit can bring back memories to those that have stood in the same place or inspire someone else to walk the same path. She writes of the contacts made and the special friendships that develop while traveling this country. She shows the world what a free and beautiful lifestyle RVing is. Thank you Diane for setting me on my adventure of a lifetime.

[Vicki · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a pleasure to have another adventure with Ellie and Ruth to enjoy! Like the main characters, I am a Senior woman who enjoys camping and exploring nature. Through the author's vivid descriptions, I feel like I am alongside my "friends" as they explore the great outdoors. As always, the characters are very well developed, and their experiences are quite believable. Their adventures with Senior Olympics in this book opened up a new area for me to consider participating in. As always, I was sorry when the book ended, and look forward eagerly to the next Ellie Dwyer book.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This latest book in the series does not disappoint. What a wonderful, wholesome book with memorable characters and their relationships and adventures. Again, I found myself wondering what they were up to when I wasn't actually reading the book. To me, that is a sign of a good book! As a senior myself there was helpful information in the book that led me to "googling" various things. Enjoy this one and if you haven't read the others in the series, it's not too late to start with #1.

[GLENNISS INDRELAND · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great series for those who have camped for any period of time, as well as for those who wish to learn about the nomadic lifestyle. These likable characters, Ellie and Ruth, are easy to relate to and their interactions are very believable. This book addresses some of the realities of growing older in a poignant yet inspiring way. I also appreciate that this author represents geographic areas accurately.

[LuAnn Newman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Diane Winger nails it again with Ellie Dwyer's Olympic Moment! I love the concept of the Senior Olympics, as well as the way she addresses everyday problems and health concerns of her characters. The descriptive way she writes allows the reader to feel they are right there with the characters in this book. As with all the books in this series, I hated to see it end! Thanks, Diane, for continuing this series....it's one of my favorites!!

[Jacqueline · Rating 5 out of 5]

While Ellie and Ruth are "Seniors" this is a great read for any age. Ellie's interaction with her daughter and granddaughter add to the story. I really enjoyed reading about their travels to and from the Senior Olympics as well as the relationships they formed with others along the way. The Olympic experience was motivational and inspiring to read about. I love their attitudes and approach to life and hope this story continues for a long time to come.

[Bruce Dinsman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Aging in America redefined

This one focused around Senior Olympics and I was pleased with the author handling this realistically. Fact; accidents at a senior age are a lot more serious. Fact: it doesn’t have the draw of the actual Olympics, so crowds and competitor groups are smaller so there is more of a chance to shine. Ellie moves through changes in family and interpersonal dynamics also.

[Tracy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I feel that this is the best book in the series. Two camping friends, Ellie and Ruth, camp full time. They live and travel with their campers. I love reading about the places they visit and the activities they partake in. The story is very realistic and the characters remind me of a friend and myself. I am looking forward to the next book in the series.

[Irene Frances Olson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Each book in this series is worth the wait!

All of the books in this series read like a memoir: it’s hard to believe Diane isn’t Ellie! I truly hope the series just keeps going and going. Each book newly inspires me to get off my backside and get going! And boy oh boy do I envy the relationship Ellie and Ruth have. You just can’t beat best friends!

[Donna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Friends

Ellie and Ruth make many new friends on their camping adventures. While going to South Dakota, Montana and Wyoming and eventually Arizona Ruth meets and gets a new boyfriend and Ellie meets new friends along the way also! Both ladies are in Olympic events for their age and sex and are judged accordingly. I can see many people interested in this book!

[kathy hutchison · Rating 2 out of 5]

Great read

I have brought and read all of this series. I love Diane Winger attention to details. God created an awesome world and camping is absolutely one way to enjoy His creation

[Beverly Kee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this series!

I can't imagine being able to do the hikes and things these two women accomplish! Between horseback riding accidents, car accidents my idea of hiking is being able to get to the mailbox. Wonderful writing and can't wait for the next book!

[Lauren Castle · Rating 3 out of 5]

Another good read

Ellie & Ruth share a beautiful friendship, and their adventures can be fun for the reader as well. Danny was a surprise addition, and I see him returning if the ladies head out again.

[Lisa French · Rating 5 out of 5]

Best Ever

I am addicted to the antics of Ruth and Ellie! Finishing one book and then quickly onto the next.
Thank you Diane Winger for creating such beautiful characters and amazing adventures.
I am a fan for life.

[Diana · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another great entry to a really fun series.

[Marlyn G. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enjoyable read. I like Ellie and her friend Ruth and all their exciting adventures.

[Susan · Rating 3 out of 5]

Another fun, lightweight adventure for Ellie and Ruth, 2 senior women who RV in their campers and enjoy fabulous hikes, activities and a unique friendship.

[Donna Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Olympic Moment

I love reading about the friendship between Ellie and Ruth. They are so adventurous and fun together. They symbolize what true friends should be like.

[Medenna · Rating 5 out of 5]

this one was a little different.

Ruth and Ellie continue to experience ups and downs through their travels. Ready o read the last book in the series.

[linda kells · Rating 4 out of 5]

great read

Was a easy read but you couldn’t put the book down you wanted see what their next adventure would be

[Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love her books

[Yvette Thrush · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great series

Great story about friendship and camping. Really enjoying the tail. Can not wait to read the next in the series.

[Charlene Sullivan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love all the Ellie Dwyer books and this one did not disappoint. For me, I enjoy them so much because my wife and my favorite pastime is camping and we have an Aliner, as Ellie does. When you can relate and picture yourself in the book it’s very rewarding.

The characters that these ladies meet along the way are always interesting, and sometimes quirky and Ms. Winger does a great job with developing those characters.

The Senior Olympics was an interesting part of the book and added so much to the story of these two wonderful women. To me, they have grown close like sisters and as a friend once referred to herself and me, they’re sisters of the heart.

Loved the book; hope their story continues. Kudos to Ms. Winger for another winner, just like those Olympians.

[Shirley Smith · Rating 3 out of 5]

See book 7 review