The Trouble with Jenny

Wind River Chronicles #1

by Kathy Geary Anderson

She’s always getting into trouble. He’s always getting hurt.

At the turn of the 20th century, New York socialite Jenny Westraven is in trouble . . . again. An orphaned heiress from a large banking family, she’s expected to follow the rules of society and marry according to her wealth and status. But Jenny craves adventure and anything BUT the ordinary. So, when her guardian aunt and uncle return from a European vacation to find Jenny working as a typewriter girl in a Newark law office, they are appalled. Worse yet, they interrupt a kiss between her and her young boss Mr. “Ben” Bennett.

Jenny has been getting Ben in trouble since he was ten, so he’s secretly relieved when her guardians reject him as a suitor. He has other plans for his life, and they don’t include his troublesome childhood friend. When Jenny uses outrageous methods to reject the suitors her family does approve for her, her aunt and uncle decide to send her to her brother in Wyoming.

Then, a family tragedy takes Ben out west as well, and his path crosses with Jenny’s once again. As they work together to end an injustice, what was merely an attraction between them develops into something more. Unfortunately, Jenny’s involvement with another man comes between them and puts her in the worst trouble of her life.

Now Ben must decide whether to risk his heart to rescue her once again or cut his losses and let her go.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Clean Romance

364 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 20, 2021

Reviews

[Sydney · Rating 5 out of 5]

In her debut novel, The Trouble with Jenny, author Kathy Geary Anderson immediately captures the hearts of readers with her storytelling and charming characters. This sweet and sometimes funny story keeps readers engaged and wanting to read more. A main theme in this story is falling and marrying for love and the main character, Jenny, finds outrageous and funny ways to reject the suitors that her family picks out for her. In this story, Jenny is always “getting herself into trouble” and eventually it causes problems in her love life too. This is a historical romance that readers will definitely want to pick up.

Genre: historical, romance
Publisher: Purple Autumn Press
Publication date: April 20, 2021
Number of pages: 377

Disclosure statement: A complimentary review copy of this book was provided from tour groups, publishers, publicists, authors, and others, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, Or borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR borrowed from Deseret Bookshelf, OR pre-ordered/purchased for review, including Audible. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.

[Kailey · Rating 3 out of 5]

This one wasn’t too bad, but it wasn’t a favorite either. There were a couple of things that I struggled with. I really didn’t care for the bad language that was used. I get that the character that was using it was a rougher character, but I could’ve done without it. For most of the book I struggled with liking the main character, Jenny. To me she was kind of hard to like. I really liked Ben though. He was a great hero to me. I do think this is a good debut novel and I do like the time period. I would like to read another book by this author.


I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.

[Cheryl Wood · Rating 4 out of 5]

Pull up a chair and get ready for an adventure. Jenny and Ben friends since childhood manages to pull Ben into trouble with her. Jenny, who has a compassionate heart for others and makes friends very easily. Ben has other plans for his life which do not include Jenny, can he risk his heart to rescue Jenny, or should he cut his losses and let her go?

Overall, I loved the story, the characters drew me in from page one and looking forward to the next book in the series.

I received a copy of the book from Just Read in exchange for an honest opinion. All opinions are my own.

[Christi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love those books that instantly engage you. They transport you to another world and, before you know it, you forget where you're sitting, and you're suddenly somewhere you never dreamed you'd be. This is exactly what happened every time I picked up The Trouble with Jenny.

The Trouble with Jenny is a clean romance that is full of mischief and heart. Poor Jenny always seems to find herself in trouble in one way or another, either by her mouth, or just being in the wrong place at the wrong time, throughout the entire novel, but her troubles make for a truly entertaining read.

A well-written and engaging story line, The Trouble with Jenny is refreshing and sweeps you through the story at the perfect pace. With well-developed characters, and amazing imagery, you truly are carried to another time and place. The historical account of the west felt impressively accurate, with wonderful dialogue and a unique take on a tried and true troupe.

I fell in love with Jenny's character immediately, seeing pieces of myself reflected off the pages in her, and absolutely adored Ben. Their relationship throughout was so sweet, and I love that they each had their own separate experiences, as well as the moments they came together. The banter between them felt familiar and organic, as did the novel as a whole. It truly did keep my interest and honestly I wasn't ready for the story to end. Thank goodness this is the beginning of a new series, as I am already impatiently awaiting the next release!!

Seeing Jenny fight for her heart's desire, and not conform to the world to which she was born in, was truly entertaining. She has that charm and spunk that keeps you engaged in the story, wanting to see what trouble befalls her next, and see if she is going to follow her heart or what her social status, and strict aunt and uncle, dictates. I immensely enjoyed The Trouble with Jenny and I'm sure you will too.

*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book for JustRead Tours and read through Kindle Unlimited. All views and opinions are completely honest, and my own.

[Kelly-Ann ~ Sassy Bookish Mama · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this story and was pleasantly surprised to find out it is Kathy Geary Anderson debut novel! She did a great job at bringing me into the story and kept me engaged with the characters.

I absolutely enjoyed both Ben and Jenny. Yes, Jenny can be a bit too much at times but I am going to blame it on her upbringing and not knowing any better. She just wants to make herself independent and not be bothered with suitors that are way too old for her. She wants to experience adventure and enjoy life. Ben was the perfect leading man. Their friendship and slow burn romance was just perfect. You kept cheering for him and hoping that they would have their happily ever after.

There are other characters we meet throughout the story as well. We get to know Ben's estranged family and the circumstances regarding that. Through this we see how he reconciles with them and brings forth a redemption arc that I was not expecting but was lovely addition to the story. We see alot of growth in the characters and they do learn much about themselves

Overall I thought this story was good. I can't wait to read more from this series and this author. I definitely recommend you grab this one and give it a try!

Reviewer's Note: There is a part in the story which one of the characters uses mild language. I don't think it was necessary at all but if this is something that is bothersome to you I wanted you to be aware.

I received a copy of this book through Just Read. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

[Faith · Rating 4 out of 5]

An adventure packed read, with a right people wrong time romance set against the Dakota and Wyoming Territories.

Ben and Jenny have known each other for years, with Jenny always managing to drag Ben into some kind of trouble with her. Scandal and loss bring Ben and Jenny out west, where their separate adventures brings them together occasionally. There is a lot going on in this book with many plot pieces and a full cast of characters that they meet along the way. Though there were times when I wasn't sure I would like what the book was setting up, but then there would be a fabulous twist!

Jenny is a very outgoing person, with a compassionate heart for others, she makes friends easily and commits to things wholeheartedly. I liked that her brother is supportive of her throughout.

This was an enjoyable read with a lot going on in this plot driven read, filled with great characters, and great twists! I like that Jenny challenges Ben's preconceived ideas getting him to more deeply on things, they have a great rapport and I liked seeing them together. An entertaining Western read to be sure!


I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Meagan Myhren-Bennett · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Trouble with Jenny
Wind River Chronicles #1
By Kathy Geary Anderson

Jenny Westraven is a beauty who has a sizeable inheritance to her name and as a member of New York's social elite, she is a highly sought-after prize. And that is the problem - she doesn't want to be valued for the financial windfall she will bring her husband. Rather she yearns for a marriage built on love, one like her late parents had. But more than anything Jenny wants to feel as if she belonged somewhere as if someone wanted her for her.

When Jenny has an opportunity to work in a law office as a typewriter for her childhood acquaintance, Ben, she's more than willing to throw herself into the work. There's just one tiny little problem her guardians are less than thrilled that she is working and that she is found in a most appalling situation - kissing her employer!

With her singular skill at getting herself into trouble, Jenny soon finds herself heading West, banished to live with her brother until she is invited back into her aunt and uncle's good graces and home. But it seems that wherever she goes trouble follows. And the person most likely to be on the painful end of Jenny's adventures is Ben.

When Jenny finds herself in a situation that could ruin her, she is determined to fight back. But she needs Ben's help to do so. Can a man with a broken heart truly be her best defense? Jenny is about to find out just where she belongs.

The Trouble with Jenny is a delightful read. Set at the dawning of the Twentieth Century it is interesting to contrast what was with what is. Women had no voice. Those born into wealth were expected to be nothing more than ornamentation on their husband's arm. And wanting adventure is a total no-no. Too bad Jenny is determined to live life to its fullest.

Overall this book is excellent reading. The characters captured my attention and I dearly hope to visit them again in future books. If you are looking for something new to read in the historical romance genre this is one you have to try. This is clean reading that is perfect for mid-teens and up.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion - All thoughts expressed are my own.

[Gretchen Garrison · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book, The Trouble with Jenny, hooked me in during the first few chapters, and it never let go. Part of it had to be the heroine. Jenny fiercely steps into situations that affect those that she loves and cares about. She does find herself getting into predicaments, but that only adds to her charm. This also adds humor and relatability to the book and may be one of the reasons that I could not put it down.
Ben is of course a hero that one wants to get to know as well. He definitely has his flaws, but he also has a willingness to grow. Their story is a part of the book. But it isn't all of it.
That is one part I appreciated about this book -the love story is not overly emphasized. There are several other important parts that make the story a wonderful one to read. Faith is an underlying element that braces the book. Each of the main characters go through experiences that helped them to rethink how they God. These situations add depth and meaning to the story without the reader feeling like a perpetual sermon is happening.
I do feel that this work of historical fiction includes situations (cowboys, Native Americans, mission schools) that would have been true to the times. Although this book may not be steeped in history, the situations could have happened during the time periods presented in this book.
There were several unexpected situations that I did not see coming. If I were to write about those characters, spoilers would result. Although this story was not a mystery, the unpredictable parts did add a lot of interest since I was not sure which direction the author was going to take the book.
I am so glad that I read this book, and I hope to read additional books by this author. I was provided a copy of this book through a book tour. I could tell by the description that I wanted to read and review this book. All opinions are my own.

[Wren · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a charming book! Readers meeting Jenny, Ben, and all the surrounding characters in Kathy Geary Anderson's The Trouble with Jenny: Wind River Chronicles Book One are in for a rollicking and oh-so-interesting ride. Jenny is AWESOME. But perhaps not so awesome for her own time frame. She thinks she can do anything, even things that aren't regarded as appropriate for women in her era. She steps out of her heiress role to go to business school while her guardians are out of the country. She is a fabulous typist! And her childhood friend Ben is an attorney hoping to become partner someday. The kiss that her now-returned guardians interrupts was an unexpected moment. But it loses her the job she so enjoyed. And Ben, who's dating his boss's daughter, really, really misses Jenny. Although she does tend to get him into trouble.

Interesting adventures out west await them both. Stage coach rides, horseback rides, Native American schools, a ranch, wild and tame animals, and more (including romantic adventures) will impact the two northeasterners, and promise to change their lives forever. But will those lives...eventually...include each other? You'll have to read The Trouble with Jenny to find out!

I truly enjoyed this author's first novel. It's evident that she has been practicing her craft with very good results. I liked Jenny and Ben so much, and their lives took twists and turns that I couldn't have predicted. This is a clean romantic adventure (often similar to the pair's well-loved "dime" novels) set in the Gilded Age. More books will be coming, but don't miss the first of the Wind River Chronicles! It was just delightful.

I received a digital copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

[Kendra Neal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Romance and Historical Fiction are a GREAT genre that I like to read. The Trouble with Jenny by Kathy Geary Anderson totally fits into that genre.

Jenny Westraven is part of a Socialite Family. She has always been one to find an Adventure and get into trouble, many times dragging friends into the trouble with her. “Ben” Bennett is a childhood friend, who has been in the midst of her troubles since he was 10. He is now her Boss as Jenny is working as a Typist for his law office. Jenny is supposed to marry within the Socialite Circle, but she is having feelings for Ben. Her Aunt and Uncle who raised her are trying to find a perfect mate for her, but she is using her antics to reject them. They send her to live with her brother in Wyoming to try to get her away from Ben. Lo and Behold, Ben meets up with Jenny again when a family tragedy takes him to Wyoming. They find themselves working on a project together and they are falling more in love with each other.

The Trouble with Jenny is the debut book for new Author Kathy Geary Anderson. I was drawn into the story from the very first page and ended up finishing the book in one day. The characters are soo loving and fun. Jenny is a fun loving "trouble maker", kind of like myself. Ben is a serious down to earth type of person, but he also enjoys Jenny's antics. They kind of have a "forbidden love" because of Jenny's status. I really like how Jenny is soo determined to be herself and not follow Family Rules. I HIGHLY recommend this book and I am very much looking forward to more books in this series!

[Connie Hill · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Trouble with Jenny by Kathy Geary Anderson. This is book one in the Wind River Chronicles. This is my first exposure to this author, and I can tell you that it will not be my last. I hope that you love the book as much as I did. Jenny, who is humorous, kind hearted, sweet is always in the wrong place at the wrong time. Jenny knows that she is expected to follow societies rules. She is expected to marry within their social standards and circle. However, she likes to be independent and make her own decisions. Her strokes of bad luck/chance will keep you smiling throughout the entire book.
Her aunt and uncle are her guardians, and when they come back from their vacation - they are shocked to find out that she has taken a job as a typewriter girl. Jenny has big dreams, she wants more out of life then just the social circles. She is kind and compassionate and really wants to help people. She does not just want to attend social functions. She enjoys working for her childhood friend, Ben Bennett. However, her job will take her on an adventure. More then she bargains for.
This book is a sweet read. It contains well written characters. It made me laugh a lot. I look forward to more from this author.
I received a copy of this book through JustRead Publicity Tours all thoughts are my own.

[Emily Flynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh, Jenny. You have a great adventure. You spunky, independent heiress. We meet Miss Jenny working outside her family’s desires. From there her independent nature lands her in the scandal sheets. I loved Jenny.

Jenny’ aunt and uncle are high society and she is bound by this as well though she would would rather escape it to be a lawyer in a time when women are limited in what they can do. Ben, is Jenny’s friend. He is a lawyer and she is working as his typing girl.

The characters in this story are charming and well developed. The mystery in this story was developed before I knew it was there. The writing was strong and faith-filled. The events of the story developed in a natural manner and was completely believable. I found myself drawn in to the story quickly and found it difficult to put it down 

I would recommend this book to anyone who wants a delightful story with interesting twists and turns.

I received an eARC and this is my honest review

[Courtney | Soul of a Librarian · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book! I didn't even realize it was a debut until I read the author bio at the end, so I'm looking forward to more from this author.

I LOVED the dynamic between Ben and Jenny, even if I found them infuriating at times because I just wanted them to get their act together. Like two ships passing in the night and whatnot, but it made for some excellent swoon moments and some nice angst (if you like that kind of thing, which I do). I couldn't help but to keep flipping through, hoping they'd find each other in the end.

Because WOWEE, do these two know how to make a mess of things. Hahaha.

A lot of ground is covered in this book and we experience several settings with several characters, but the heart of the book remains and I was grateful to see it.

A little note for content: there is an instance of language, so if you have a higher sensitivity to that sort of thing, be mindful. It is incredibly brief, but present nonetheless.

I received a complimentary copy of this novel. All expressed opinions belong to me.

[Shonda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great characters, especially Jenny and how independent and strong her character is. A great plot that kept you fully engaged in the story. The romance was sweet and I found it very charming. The story kept me fully entertained, I love how Jenny just plunged headfirst into everything. Her ambition was encouraging, the circumstances she often got herself into had me laughing. Ben was smart and a good friend and I kinda felt sorry for him always having to fix what Jenny got into but it lead to such an entertaining read. This is a really great story that keeps you definitely on your toes and reading late into the night.
Was given a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.

[Randi Sampson · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I picked up The Trouble with Jenny, I expected that it would be an okay read... but I was very quickly and pleasantly surprised at just how very enjoyable it truly was. Right away I was drawn in by Jenny's character. As the title might suggest, she seemed to have a way of finding herself getting into trouble and I couldn't help but enjoy it. Her childhood friend Ben seemed to find himself drawn into her troubles right along with her. Spanning east coast to west, this was an entertaining story full of both laughter and heart and I absolutely adored it! While I would say the writing styles were completely different, I did find myself thinking that fans of Jen Turano like myself would enjoy Jenny and her antics as well. There was definitely a good bit of humor mixed in, but like I said it wasn't all laughs either... it really gave an interesting look at the marriage expectations among the upper class at the time too. Overall, I really enjoyed this book and cannot wait to see what comes next in the series. I'll certainly be looking forward to it!

**I received a complimentary copy of this book for consideration. All thoughts are my own.

[Helen · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Trouble with Jenny, by Kathy Geary Anderson, is the first book in the Wind River Chronicles series. This is a well written, clean romance with strong characters. This story shows the feelings those of the higher class have towards marriage. I just love Jenny’s character. She is a strong caring person who holds true to her feelings. I enjoyed the way she turned suiters her uncle brought in away. She also has a tendency to not think things through and gets in trouble often. I also enjoyed Ben, he is a caring person who will sacrifice for others. He has been there for Jenny for many years. Both Ben and Jenny were raised by family members who did not always put what was best for them as high priority. While this is a good clean romance, it also has suspense and humor. There are twists and turns in the story that kept me wondering what was going to happen next.

I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this story from JustRead Publicity Tours. This is my honest review.

[Amanda H · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ben has know Jenny all of his life, long enough to know that trouble follows her! When he agrees to give her a job at his law office, he doesn't realize what he is getting into and that his perfect plans are about to go awry!

Overall, I enjoyed this story and the refreshing characters and unique plot. I didn't care for the mild language in it, like when Ben is conversing with his step-brother. Otherwise though, I liked the characters and enjoyed the trip back in time to different parts of the United States. I look forward to reading more books in this series!

I received this book from Just Read. This is my honest review.

[Cindy Davis- Cindy's Book Corner · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book! My full review here: https://cindysbookcorner.blogspot.com...

[Rebecca Trump · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have had a chance to read a debut novel, The Trouble With Jenny by Kathy Geary Anderson, and let me tell you it was a pleasure. I won’t give any spoilers away but this book had it all. Drama, action/adventure, comedy (a lot of it). Of course, love. And if that wasn’t enough, the inspirational side was wonderful, using one of Jesus’ most well-known parables. Kathy’s writing flowed so well, it seemed I was reading a seasoned author. If you haven’t read this book, you are missing out. 5 of 5 Stars

I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed are my own.

[Jt Furbay · Rating 5 out of 5]

I truly enjoyed this book, the character development and story. Jenny comes from a rich family and her guardians are her aunt and uncle who expect her to live by the social rules of the upper crust. But Jenny is independent and has a mind of her own. While her aunt and uncle are in Europe for a long trip, she attends a school to learn to be a typist and to take dictation. While they are still gone, she talks an old family friend Ben Bennett, a upcoming lawyer, to hire her. While he gives her a kiss, her aunt and uncle walk in on the scene. That ends that job and Jenny is sent out west to Lander, WY to live with her brother and his wife. Jenny has been causing trouble for Ben since they were kids. Ben's father dies and he goes out to go out to see his stepmother and her three kids to see how he can help them. It seems his father left all his businesses and ranch to Ben. His two stepbrothers don't like him at all. His best friend, Jenny's brother, asks him to come to Lander for a visit. Jenny loves being out west and falls for Nick Sparrowhawk, a local cowboy. Ben has feelings for her also. Red the story to find out what happens in all these relationships. It has a surprise ending!

[Melissa Graham · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Stars

This was my first book from Kathy Geary Anderson and it will definitely not be my last. I have always been a huge fan of historical fiction and this book did not disappoint.

Jenny is a selfish, headstrong orphaned heiress who is always getting herself into trouble. She has known Ben most of her life and is now working as a typewriter girl in his law office. Then, with one indecent after another, her aunt and uncle get fed up with her nonsense and send her out West to live with her brother. Ben has a family tragedy that turns his life upside down and takes him out West also. While out West, Jenny learns to care for others more than herself. Of course Jenny being Jenny, gets herself into no end of trouble until Ben is forced to come to her rescue once again.

This book was a fun read, but I was not a fan of some of the language. It won’t keep me from reading the other books in the series though and I would definitely recommend this book.

I was provided a copy of the book from the author/publisher. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.

[Mary Albers Felkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this debut! The Trouble With Jenny will take you on an entertaining jaunt over the rough terrain of western plains and complicated relationships and brings them to a satisfying end. You'll enjoy a rich cast of believable, sympathetic characters, namely the hero and heroine who are, at times, diametrically opposed in purpose, status, goal and belief but who find the gumption to fight for the love and friendship they've held over the years. On your trek towards a hard fought for happily ever after, you'll enjoy rides on a stage coach, elegant high society events, camping among the native Americans, a frightening encounter with a bear all woven in among sweet kinship and laughter. If you're a fan of historical romance, you must move this to the top of your TBR pile!

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful debut novel. Set in the early 1900s, it showcases the class and wealth divide in relationships as well as how choices have consequences. Jenny is a wealthy socialite, educated in Europe. But she grew up with Ben, who worked his way through school, and through university to become a lawyer. Maintaining a friendship between classes was hard enough, but what if it threatened to become more? The story moves from New York to Wyoming, which allows more freedom, but it also allows more room for missteps and Jenny seems to find them all. To Ben's detriment. I loved this first book in a series and can't wait for the next one!

[Lou Baggett · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Fun Read

I loved the main characters, Ben and Jenny, and their story rang true. I thought the historical portrayal of the West was accurate. Kathy obviously knows the West and her history. I was also impressed with her dialogue and complicated story line. Well done.

[Emily Renken · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book! This fits in well with the genre but has enough twists and turns that you don't anticipate that it makes it very engaging. Reading from Jenny and Ben's perspective throughout is a nice take. I love it and I can't wait to read the next two planned installments! Please hurry, Kathy!

[Ronya · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a great debut novel! I ordered this book on a whim when it was recommended in a group I am a part of. I am so glad that I did. I enjoyed the story...it was not predictable. The characters were relatable and a joy to get to know. I am looking forward to book two already!

[Danielle Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really loved the humor in this book. From the first page I was laughing at some of the antics on the page. A great historical fiction book with a flair of humor.