Wooing Gertrude

by Jodie Wolfe

Enoch Valentine has given up finding peace for his past mistakes. He throws everything he has into being the new part-time deputy in Burrton Springs, Kansas while maintaining the foreman position at a local horse ranch. But when trouble stirs on the ranch, he questions whether he' s the right man for either job.

Peace has been elusive for most of Gertrude Miller' s life, especially under the oppressiveness of an overbearing mother. She takes matters into her own hands and sends for a potential husband, while also opening her own dress shop. Gertrude hopes to build a future where she' ll find peace and happiness.

Will either of them ever be able to find peace?

298 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 15, 2023

Reviews

[Rhys-Marie · Rating 3 out of 5]

In my opinion, this is one of those books that are good but not great. I would wholeheartedly recommend this pleasant novel to fans of light Christian historical romances, because it is a pretty unobjectionable example of the genre. I liked Enoch and Gertrude and actually felt they were a good match for each other. Though set in historical times, this book was rather modern, but not glaringly so. I felt it was a little long, but other readers might not agree.

I received a complimentary ARC from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.

[J.E. Grace · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wooing Gertrude is set in 1877, Burrton Springs, Kansas. Gertrude Miller answers an ad as a mail-order bride. She sends her betrothed money to travel to Burrton Springs to become her husband. She is surprised to find out he isn't who she thought he was. Disappointed, she goes ahead and opens up her dress shop hoping for a change. She meets Enoch Valentine who befriends her, but things become complicated from there.

The main characters have many layers. Gertrude and Enoch are both carrying burdens they refuse to turn over to God. Struggling with their faith, their future seems bleak.

The storyline has an unexpected mystery, tension, and lots of suspense from unexpected events. It kept me turning the pages and left me surprised by how everything turned out. I highly recommend this page-turner. I received a complimentary copy from the publisher and willingly choose to review it.

[Eileen · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you're looking for a light, cheery read, this book is for you! Gertrude's initial plight & reaction to a situation she finds herself in draws you in immediately & you just have to continue her story. Enoch arrives on scene & is the constant consideration that Gertrude needs, even though they both believe neither are destined for marriage. We move from a place of self-doubt to peace with both characters, and it's quite the journey. There is also a mystery surrounding sabotage on the ranch! Some sticky situations arise.

The themes of peace and trust in God are obvious throughout the book with a beautiful chance of reflection at the end. If you need a break from daily life, this is a beautiful reprieve.

This is book 3 in the Burrton Springs series. They are interconnected, but each can be read as a stand-alone.

[Barbara M. Britton · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Gertrude's mail-order husband turns out to be a scoundrel, Gertrude fears she will never marry.

Enter Enoch Valentine who agrees to help the sheriff and doesn't expect to keep bumping into a pretty seamstress with guinea pigs. As incidents increase around town and at his ranch, Enoch wonders if being a lawman is worth the price.

Wolfe writes a whirlwind Western with threats, bad guys, and a town full of wonderful characters--some who have starred in her past books.

I'm never disappointed with the faith threads and emphasis on forgiveness that Wolfe weaves into her books.

A page-turning romance with characters you will go "Aw" over.

I received an advanced copy of this story, but all opinions are my own. I even bought a copy to read again later.

[Sandy Kay Slawson · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Wooing Gertrude" is another great story in this series! Loved Gertrude's strength, talent, and sweet spirit, even through the trials she faced. Enoch is a strong leading man, and his story makes my heart ache. This Christian Historical Romance is full of funny, heartwarming, and heart-wrenching moments. And there is plenty of heart-palpitating romance, too. Added to all these are the spiritual lessons woven throughout. This is definitely a must-read! -Sandy

[Clare Revell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved every page. This book is a real page turner. A dressmaker and a new deputy lawman may not have much in common aside from a few mutual friends in town, but in a small town where everyone knows everyone else, Gertrude and Enoch can't help but keep running into each other. Fave scene has to be where Enoch offers to work in the dress shop while Gertrude goes to assist at a birth. And I love the guinea pigs. they make wonderful secondary characters.

[Angela D. · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Wooing Gertrude" proved to be an engrossing read that I found hard to put aside. Jodie Wolfe takes readers on a journey back in time with this historical romance novel, centered around Gertrude and the new Sheriff's Deputy, Enoch, in the Old West setting. A particularly delightful touch was the inclusion of a gerbil sidekick who earns its name in a charming manner. As Gertrude embarks on her entrepreneurial journey, Deputy Enoch grapples with troubles in town, primarily caused by some dubious individuals and a situation at a local ranch. For those who have a soft spot for historical romance, I wholeheartedly recommend adding this to your to-be-read list. Though I received an advance copy of this book at no cost, my opinions in this review remain unbiased and genuine.

[Jeanette Fallon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gertrude thought she had a plan.   But she didn't expect her new groom to be a criminal.  


Gertrude was discouraged.  She felt that God was not there for her.  He wasn't listening.  Have you ever felt like this?  I  can remember a time where I felt alone.  Failed relationships made me doubt any chance for future happiness.

It wasn't until I turned to GOD and prayed that my life changed.  I asked him to guide my steps and keep me safe from harm.  And if I was to remain single, to give me peace about that.  Not long afterwards I met my future husband.  


Gertrude met Enoch and unexpectedly her life changed.  With prayer and the help of her guinea pigs,  Gertrude found the happiness she was looking for.


I loved the story.  A great read.  


I received an advanced reading copy from the author to review.

[Jody · Rating 5 out of 5]

This couldn’t be happening, not on the Eve before their wedding. Please, Lord. “T-there must be some mistake…”

This book starts out with Gertrude knowing exactly how things are supposed to go but in the end she learns that the best laid plans aren’t always God’s Will for her life. This book takes her through a journey of learning to trust in God and His peace. A love story, some trouble and lessons from God’s Word woven together to make a beautifully written story. From the beginning to the end, it caught and kept my attention. Highly recommend!

[Pat · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wooing Gertrude holds a mixture of western action, delightful romance, and Christian themes. Gertrude Miller harbors feelings of low self-esteem that escalate when she learns she has been duped by someone she thought she could trust. Enoch Valentine carries the heavy weight of guilt over an incident that estranged him from his family.

Author Jodie Wolfe creates a sweet romance between her characters as they overcome their weaknesses. I admired Gertrude’s tenacity as she pushed through self-doubt to establish a business in town, pressing on with her dream even when success seemed out of reach. Enoch’s personality is reinforced by his loyalty to his family and friends and the courage he demonstrates when faced with an unexpected mystery leading to danger.

The romantic feelings that develops between Gertrude and Enoch is enhanced by the presence of a certain family of charming rodents that add both humor and drama to the telling of the story. The faith messages that we need to rely on God to direct our lives, that He will never leave us, and He values each one of us is well conveyed.

I thoroughly enjoyed this story and recommend it to readers who enjoy clean romance in a historical western setting.

I received a complimentary PDF copy of Wooing Gertrude and have offered my honest opinion.

[Jennifer Cary · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review for Wooing Gertrude

Oh, what to do when the day you’ve been dreaming of becomes a nightmare!

That’s exactly what happens to Gertrude Miller. The wedding day to a handsome man who would love and understand her never transpires. Instead the young seamstress/entrepreneur finds herself avoiding the embarrassment and the new owner of two guinea pigs.

If she could only just keep her business going and her mother at arm’s length, maybe she could come to terms with being an old maid with no prospects.

Enter Enoch Valentine, cowboy, new deputy, with a determination to live a Godly but single life. He’s just what the seamstress needs, whether he knows it or not.

I loved the fun and sweetness of this historical western that promotes Biblical principles but doesn’t beat you over the head with the Good Book. It all flows smoothly to make this one of the best reads of the year so far.

As Jodie Wolfe was a new to me author, I read this without reading the first two books of the series—no problem, but I absolutely want to read those as well. Jodie is a wonderful writer. I thoroughly enjoyed Wooing Gertrude and believe you will too.

I was gifted this advance copy of Wooing Gertrude by the author and am under no obligation to write a favorable review. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Elaine Sampson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the 3rd book in the Burton Springs Brides Books and I have been looking forward to its completion and it did not disappoint.
Things couldn’t be going better for Gertrude. She just moved in to her own place in town, started a business and would be married very soon. Life was good; however, things changed in a heartbeat. Her fiancée’ was not at all who she was led to believe. The wedding? Gertrude went from joy and peace to sadness and turmoil. What next?
Enjoy the ride, things begin to happen quickly; with a troubled part time Sheriff’s Deputy and Ranch Manager, some furry critters and unsavory characters. Dark secrets, regrets, self-doubt combined with intrigue, caring and self-discovery work together to make this book a delightful adventure.
Journey with the principle characters as they learn to release, relax, and let God lead.
This spoke to me as trust and rest in the Lord is not always easy and Wooing Gertrude is a good reminder of what I already know but need to practice more in times of trouble.

* This book was provided for free and I was under no obligation to provide a favorable review.

[Susan Lyttek · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can't remember the last time I willingly read a historical romance. But if they're all by Jodie Wolfe, I just might change my mind.
In the beginning, the dedication to "'Aunt Gertrude' and her love of guinea pigs" had me intrigued. If Gertrude was based on a real person, a strong woman of yesteryear, I wanted to know more.
Even though Gertrude's opinion of herself isn't that good (I mean, advertising for a husband and getting a con artist instead!) she loves her friends and community. And in acting like the hardworking woman she is, she gradually gets to know Enoch, the new deputy in town.
In addition to the issues their pasts have woven into their personalities, Enoch and Gertrude need to figure out the mystery revolving around Ellie Lou's place before they can have their happily ever after.
Not only is the story compelling, Jodie Wolfe has a way with words. My favorite quote is: "Enoch's words of praise settled on her like melting butter on a baked potato, filling in all the nooks and crannies."
I'm convinced readers of all genres will enjoy this fairy tale of a story set in pioneer Kansas. I know I certainly did.

[Betsy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enjoyed this entertaining and inspiring visit back to Burrton Springs, Kansas where two kindred spirits meet, build walls and break them down to ultimately find the path to their happily-ever-after. The journey is fraught with external problems as well as serious soul searching on the parts of both Gertrude and Enoch who are each affected by deep and personal family issues. The strong faith message of finding ultimate peace in God was uplifting and beautifully written. It was great revisiting with other characters from the previous books in the series including Jules, Drew, Annie and Josh who added interest and played supporting roles to Gertrude and Enoch. There were some lighthearted moments that added humor into the mix of this inspiring tale, especially with the animals. This book is a real treat with adventure, danger and romance undergirded with a strong and inspiring message.

I received a complimentary copy from the author in a giveaway. A positive review wasn’t required and the opinions expressed here are my own.

[Gail Johnson · Rating 4 out of 5]

When Gertrude Miller decides to find a husband, she quickly learns that taking matters into her own hands can get a gal in trouble. When her handsome man arrives on the stagecoach, he’s arrested by Sheriff Joshua Miller.
When part-time deputy Enoch Valentine is sent to question Gertrude about her fiance’s unlawful activities, he wants to erase the pain over her embarrassing situation, for he carries his own load of regret.
With the swindler in jail and no hope of getting married, Gertrude opens her own dress shop. As she finds her way through life and gets acquainted with Enoch, she must deal with her mother’s belittling comments and a rival dress shop.
I enjoyed revisiting the characters of the previous stories in the Burrton Springs Brides Books and getting to know Gertrude better. I cheered for her to overcome every obstacle and smiled when she found her happily ever after.
I received an advance copy of this book from the author. The opinions above are my own.

[Karen Malley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wooing Gertrude is a delightful read. It’s the third book in the series, but reads as a standalone. The book starts with Gertrude finding herself in a difficult situation which leads her to believe she’ll never be married. She is a strong, independent women who opens her own clothing shop, something that is not common in her time. When Enoch enters her life, neither of them has any intention of falling in love, but sometimes life has a way of changing our plans. Throughout the story, mischief arises, and you’ll find yourself turning pages trying to discover why so many troublesome things are happening in their town. Throw in some kind hearted friends with godly wisdom and a pair of guinea pigs, and you’ve got a book that will keep you turning pages. I highly enjoyed this story. Another win from Ms. Wolfe!

[Connie Hill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wooing Gertrude is written by Jodie Wolfe. This is part of the Burrton Springs Bride series. I have read other books by this author and have always loved them. I have not read the other books in the series, and I did not have any issues following along. This book is set in 1877 in Burrton Springs, Kansas

Gertrude does not think that she will be married. She is in process of opening her own clothing shop. I love that she is a strong and independent woman. Enoch is a part time deputy for Burrton Springs. He has a lot of baggage and hurt from his past and he throws himself into his work. He is drawn to Gertrude but she keeps him at arms length.

I loved the character development. I love the historical details in this story. The story is well written. Thank you to the author for allowing me to read a copy of this book - all thoughts are my own.

[Terri Wangard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Men haven’t been lining up to date Gertrude Miller in 1877, Burrton Springs, Kansas, so she answers a mail-order bride ad and pays for the man to come to Burrton Springs. He’s promptly arrested. She opens a dress shop and struggles with the townswomen’s nosy curiosity and her mother’s spiteful comments.

Enter Enoch Valentine, the new deputy sheriff. He’s drawn to Gertrude, but she keeps him at arm’s length. Both must deal with past hurts before they can face a joyful future. Both learn to let go of the past and accept the good God wants to bestow on them.

Best zinger line from one of the townsmen: “The good Lord made women to serve men.” Add a smart horse and a family of squealing guinea pigs for light-hearted humor.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.

[Jessica Baker (A Baker's Perspective) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wooing Gertrude is everything I wanted and more. Not only does Wolfe stay true to the time period, but she easily pulls the reader into the story with wonderfully crafted characters. Just when you think you’re going to have a mail-order husband story (yes you read that right!), Wolfe surprises you with a wonderful twist. Then comes Enoch, this unexpected but delightful addition to the story. Readers will not be able to put the book down while embarking on Gertrude and Enoch’s journey. With faith, fun, guinea pigs, and character growth, Wolfe has penned another wonderful novel that I can see myself enjoying many times over the years. Highly recommend!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Vicky Sluiter · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fun story! The next book in author Jodie Wolfe’s Burrton Springs Brides series, I enjoyed getting to know Enoch and Gertrude. They sure didn’t have it easy! Add in an overbearing mother and yikes. Poor Gertrude. And Enoch had his own problems. Can they ever work things out?

If you enjoy westerns with bad guys, good guys, threats, and guinea pigs….yes guinea pigs..then I highly recommend Wooing Gertrude.

I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.

[Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is so good! It's a well written Christian Western romance that was a joy to read. It has action, drama, a mystery to solve and guinea pigs. I don't think I've ever read a western/historical book that had guinea pigs. I loved the messages of faith and forgiveness woven throughout the story and the devotional at the end was wonderful.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Tracy Sylvester · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enoch Valentine decides to become the new deputy in Burrton Springs, Kansas. On his first day he meets the new seamstress business owner, Gertrude Miller. Both are sworn to not marry and for different reasons. Enoch feels he can't get away from his past and Gertrude was wronged by a mail order scoundrel. This is a book from the Burrton Springs Brides book series but can be read as a standalone book as well. This is a well written, clean, historical romance that I couldn't put down.

[Tina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wooing Gertrude by Jodie Wolfe

Burrton Springs, Kansas 1877
Gertrude Miller is overjoyed; she just opened her own dress shop and she is planning to marry a man of her own choosing. However, things don’t go as planned. Part-time deputy and horse ranch foreman, Enoch Valentine, certainly has his hands full with both jobs. Especially when trouble brews on the ranch. As the clues are uncovered I tried to figure out who is responsible for the trouble. It is interesting that Gertrude is not a mail-order-bride, but actually sends for a mail-order-husband. I’m not sure I would be brave enough to do either one.

Gertrude and Enoch learn they cannot solve their problems on their own, they need to rely on God and allow Him to direct their paths. A good reminder for all of us. I especially enjoyed the Sunday sermon Pastor Drew gave on page 284-287 and the verse: “Peace I leave with you, My peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid”, John 14:7. I enjoyed the author's A Devotional Moment at the end of the story.

~I won a PDF copy of this book from the author/publisher (no monetary gain was exchanged), this is my honest review~

[Brandy Marks · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book from the author as a beta reader. It’s not my favorite genre. It was a really cute story and well written. It’s been a while since I read it and I can’t remember all the details anymore, but I did enjoy it.