Does "Local Pride" influence setting?

I'm my case, you betcha!  Jenna Mindel here, wishing you a good morning from bitter cold Northern Michigan.  This February may go down in the record books as the coldest month in years.  If not, I imagine a few days will make that list. Last week, I woke up to -24 degrees. YIKES!

I grew up in Upstate New York, so I'm used to winter.  But since moving to Northern Michigan 16 yrs ago, I've fallen in love with this area.  Winter and really, all the seasons, are treasures of outdoor activity.  There's just something about this area that I'm enamored with.  The local agriculture and general pioneer spirit are things I really admire.  There's also the motto of keeping it local that gives the area a provincial sort of feel.  Of course, so much of it is wrapped up in luring tourists to the area as well.

I have set most of my Love Inspired books in fictional Northern Michigan towns near the Great Lakes.  And the area where I live was the inspiration for my upcoming new series set in Maple Springs, MI that debuts this September.  For me, knowing the area well has helped develop my setting, but will that appeal to readers?
Hmmm, I sure hope so. 

And that leads me to ask if there are favorite locales or settings that lure you in to read the book?  If so, what are some of those favorite settings?

Have a blessed day, and stay warm!!

Jenna :) 

Check my website for updates on my Maple Springs Series at jennamindel.com