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The Only Gold
Jonah Woolner's life is as prudently regulated as the bank where he works. It's a satisfying life until he's passed over for promotion in favor of newcomer Reid Hylliard. Brash and enterprising, Reid beguiles everyone except Jonah, who's convinced Reid's progressive ideas will be the bank's ruin. When Jonah begins to discover there's more to Reid than meets the eye, he risks succumbing to Reid's charms-but unlocking the vault to all of Reid's secrets could lead him down a dangerous path. Losing his promotion-and perhaps his heart-is the least of Jonah's difficulties. When the vengeful son of a Union army vet descends upon the bank to steal a government deposit of half a million dollars during the deadliest blizzard to ever sweep New York, Jonah and Reid are trapped, at odds and fighting for their lives.
300 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 20, 2011
65 people are currently reading
2197 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 261 reviews
October 2, 2014
I enjoyed this so much. I do love a slow burn romance. This is *very* slow but it allowed us to really enjoy Jonah's reawakening to life, and I loved the community around him. Charming and with a terrific sense of place.
September 30, 2011
A wonderful slow paced beautiful love story with mystery and depth. Seriously this was just gorgeous, I loved it so much and the writing is fabulous completely captivating. Jonah and Reid were perfect as workmates and eventual lovers, the chemistry and banter between them was tense but also romantic. Reid's little digs at Jonah to shake him up (stuffed shirt type of guy) was amusing and delightful. One awesome historical romance and a must read.
May 31, 2023
Read this one a while ago before my GR time (hence the not rating) and I remember loving it hard. Tamara Allan is fabulous at writing historical.
February 26, 2020
2/25/20
Currently FREE via Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view...
5 Stars
Every year I do a re-read of this beloved favorite (and several other treasured Tamara Allen stories); and, every year I vow to write a proper review for these stories.
Alas, as I have said in previous reviews, it is always the stories that touch me the deepest that are the hardest reviews to write. It's like when you have a crush on someone, and you get asked what it is that you like about your crush. You may be able to explain that you like their laugh, or their sense of humor, or any other traits...but sometimes there is just an ineffable attraction that you find difficult to explain. The attraction goes beyond words. That's the way I am with my all my book crushes.
I *can* explain that Tamara Allen stories are the ones I turn to when I need to be reminded of the kindness and goodness in others. Her stories show characters grappling with difficulties, and becoming better people for passing through the trials and the tribulations. Her characters are people I would want to be friends with in real life.
I don't know if Tamara Allen's stories re-enter my life just when I need them, or if I subconsciously seek them out when times are a little bit darker. Either way, they are a comfort and a balm in my life.
Highly recommend!
Currently FREE via Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view...
5 Stars
Every year I do a re-read of this beloved favorite (and several other treasured Tamara Allen stories); and, every year I vow to write a proper review for these stories.
Alas, as I have said in previous reviews, it is always the stories that touch me the deepest that are the hardest reviews to write. It's like when you have a crush on someone, and you get asked what it is that you like about your crush. You may be able to explain that you like their laugh, or their sense of humor, or any other traits...but sometimes there is just an ineffable attraction that you find difficult to explain. The attraction goes beyond words. That's the way I am with my all my book crushes.
I *can* explain that Tamara Allen stories are the ones I turn to when I need to be reminded of the kindness and goodness in others. Her stories show characters grappling with difficulties, and becoming better people for passing through the trials and the tribulations. Her characters are people I would want to be friends with in real life.
I don't know if Tamara Allen's stories re-enter my life just when I need them, or if I subconsciously seek them out when times are a little bit darker. Either way, they are a comfort and a balm in my life.
Highly recommend!
April 7, 2014
Never has a book which started so slowly won me over so completely.
We're introduced to Jonah, our main character, on the day he is passed over for promotion at the bank where he works. Jonah has spent nearly fourteen years utterly devoted to his employer. The bank's well being comes first. He works long hours, is well loved and trusted by the staff, and has done everything possible to earn that promotion. But instead, it went to the interloper, Reid.
Jonah is devastated. Here is where Ms. Allen's tremendous talent begins to show. I felt sick for Jonah. I hurt for him. I wanted him to catch Reid doing something awful. I wanted Reid to admit Jonah had deserved the position. I was frightened for Jonah. Worried he'd lose his job. Worried he'd get hurt physically as he goes to greater lengths to catch Reid out.
This entire part of the story moved so slowly, building tension and worry in me until I thought I was going to explode, I just wanted something to happen already so I could stop feeling so sad and sick for Jonah!
And then, he and Reid started to become friends. Their attraction began to form. They began to trust each other, and so. did. I.
And I believed it was all going to be okay. I'd misunderstood Reid. I felt Jonah's relief and joy as my own. Their romance was sweet, heart-felt, and written in such lovely moments of simple enjoyment of each other. I believed they earned their happiness, and I was so touched to see them get it.
And then the rug got pulled out from under me in a spectacular fashion and I worried it might never be okay again. A black moment like few I have ever read. Brilliant. Brutal. Breathtaking.
This was a riveting, emotional gut-punch of a ride. And when the happy ever after happened, I cried like a baby, in relief, in joy, in gratitude.
Tamara Allen is a master. This book is a gift. Highly recommend.
We're introduced to Jonah, our main character, on the day he is passed over for promotion at the bank where he works. Jonah has spent nearly fourteen years utterly devoted to his employer. The bank's well being comes first. He works long hours, is well loved and trusted by the staff, and has done everything possible to earn that promotion. But instead, it went to the interloper, Reid.
Jonah is devastated. Here is where Ms. Allen's tremendous talent begins to show. I felt sick for Jonah. I hurt for him. I wanted him to catch Reid doing something awful. I wanted Reid to admit Jonah had deserved the position. I was frightened for Jonah. Worried he'd lose his job. Worried he'd get hurt physically as he goes to greater lengths to catch Reid out.
This entire part of the story moved so slowly, building tension and worry in me until I thought I was going to explode, I just wanted something to happen already so I could stop feeling so sad and sick for Jonah!
And then, he and Reid started to become friends. Their attraction began to form. They began to trust each other, and so. did. I.
And I believed it was all going to be okay. I'd misunderstood Reid. I felt Jonah's relief and joy as my own. Their romance was sweet, heart-felt, and written in such lovely moments of simple enjoyment of each other. I believed they earned their happiness, and I was so touched to see them get it.
And then the rug got pulled out from under me in a spectacular fashion and I worried it might never be okay again. A black moment like few I have ever read. Brilliant. Brutal. Breathtaking.
This was a riveting, emotional gut-punch of a ride. And when the happy ever after happened, I cried like a baby, in relief, in joy, in gratitude.
Tamara Allen is a master. This book is a gift. Highly recommend.
January 4, 2025
✰ 5 stars ✰
“What do you want?”
“I know.”
“You don’t know anything.”
“I know it’s not me you’re jealous of.”
Oh my God, why are all the books I have left on my tbr for so long turn out to be the ones that I end up loving so much??? There must have been a reason why I chose to read The Only Gold and this weekend I finally decided to take the plunge and read it...it was everything I never expected it to be and more. 😍😍
Set in the early 1900s at a prominent New York bank, it is the beautiful slow burn romance between Jonah, a bank cashier wholeheartedly dedicated to his job and Reid, the newly appointed bank cashier, a man who brings forth fresh innovative ideas and kind-hearted gestures and words that win over the entire bank team. Resistant to his charms and his ideas that inspire changes to the system he's maintained at the bank for so long, Jonah refuses to be swayed by his innovative ideas and subtle flirtations.
But, as they spend more time together to not only protect the interests of the bank but strengthen the bonds of the office workers, their latent attraction to each other steadily builds and as Reid slowly thaws down Jonah's walls and proves to him that 'the only gold' in the bank is not the only place his heart can find happiness in.
The writing was full of emotion and this undercurrent of repressed desire that Jonah and Reid had in their interactions had me with such a silly soft smile on my face. There is no feeling more beautiful as when you have the two people who you know are destined to be together, and when they have that moment when they no longer deny that chemistry it leaves you squealing like a happy little schoolgirl.💓💓💓
Jonah let a cold smile come. “I’m quite aware of the direction you’d like to push me.”
Reid had the brass to grin. “Mr. Woolner, you don’t have the first idea.”
Reid and Jonah were polar opposites with their own respective flaws, but their gradual evolution of their relationship blossoming into something more was so engrossing, I couldn't stop reading because the writing just effortlessly flowed! From office work to dinner dates, the plot never was at a standstill, and I always appreciate that. From the beginning you could see how taken Reid was with Jonah - how he was trying so hard to win his favor, even when he was unwittingly pushing his buttons, even when he never openly said what he wanted -
“Is there reason to hope we may see the day when you’ll no longer take everything I say as an attack on the bank… or you?”
I know, historical fiction may not be for everyone. I know, the writing may be too flowery and at times, there may have been too much focus on the bank mechanics, itself, but as it was stated
“So you’re forgiving of any man willing to risk his life for the bank.”
“A bank is only as strong as its reputation.”
So yes, as the story progressed, as secrets are revealed, the bank does play an integral part to the plot, and I didn't seem to mind it one bit. Because we got to see so many tender and warm moments shared between Jonah and Reid - during the difficult times, their feelings for each other became even more pronounced and genuine, I couldn't find it in my heart to find a reason to complain. There definitely was a scarcity of explicit scenes, but when the gorgeous writing brings forth a romance that can be so much more than physicality, I didn't seem to mind that either. 🥰🥰
Two points I want to highlight before I gush any further. Stories that have a double entendre in their titles are my weakness - so having the subtle nods to Reid's eyes of 'gold' and the gold in the bank was a lovely touch. Earlier, when Jonah was still struggling to convey how much Reid was starting to affect him, there was this exchange
“You’re right. I can’t flirt.”
“That stumbling confession is better than all the flirting in the world.”
And then the final moment, that tied it up all so well
Jonah turned to find Reid watching him fondly. If he was still susceptible to stumbling confessions, on this occasion he had no difficulty being succinct. “You’re here.” Judging by the kiss that followed, it was answer enough.
👏👏👏👏
“What do you want?”
“I know.”
“You don’t know anything.”
“I know it’s not me you’re jealous of.”
Oh my God, why are all the books I have left on my tbr for so long turn out to be the ones that I end up loving so much??? There must have been a reason why I chose to read The Only Gold and this weekend I finally decided to take the plunge and read it...it was everything I never expected it to be and more. 😍😍
Set in the early 1900s at a prominent New York bank, it is the beautiful slow burn romance between Jonah, a bank cashier wholeheartedly dedicated to his job and Reid, the newly appointed bank cashier, a man who brings forth fresh innovative ideas and kind-hearted gestures and words that win over the entire bank team. Resistant to his charms and his ideas that inspire changes to the system he's maintained at the bank for so long, Jonah refuses to be swayed by his innovative ideas and subtle flirtations.
But, as they spend more time together to not only protect the interests of the bank but strengthen the bonds of the office workers, their latent attraction to each other steadily builds and as Reid slowly thaws down Jonah's walls and proves to him that 'the only gold' in the bank is not the only place his heart can find happiness in.
The writing was full of emotion and this undercurrent of repressed desire that Jonah and Reid had in their interactions had me with such a silly soft smile on my face. There is no feeling more beautiful as when you have the two people who you know are destined to be together, and when they have that moment when they no longer deny that chemistry it leaves you squealing like a happy little schoolgirl.💓💓💓
Jonah let a cold smile come. “I’m quite aware of the direction you’d like to push me.”
Reid had the brass to grin. “Mr. Woolner, you don’t have the first idea.”
Reid and Jonah were polar opposites with their own respective flaws, but their gradual evolution of their relationship blossoming into something more was so engrossing, I couldn't stop reading because the writing just effortlessly flowed! From office work to dinner dates, the plot never was at a standstill, and I always appreciate that. From the beginning you could see how taken Reid was with Jonah - how he was trying so hard to win his favor, even when he was unwittingly pushing his buttons, even when he never openly said what he wanted -
“Is there reason to hope we may see the day when you’ll no longer take everything I say as an attack on the bank… or you?”
I know, historical fiction may not be for everyone. I know, the writing may be too flowery and at times, there may have been too much focus on the bank mechanics, itself, but as it was stated
“So you’re forgiving of any man willing to risk his life for the bank.”
“A bank is only as strong as its reputation.”
So yes, as the story progressed, as secrets are revealed, the bank does play an integral part to the plot, and I didn't seem to mind it one bit. Because we got to see so many tender and warm moments shared between Jonah and Reid - during the difficult times, their feelings for each other became even more pronounced and genuine, I couldn't find it in my heart to find a reason to complain. There definitely was a scarcity of explicit scenes, but when the gorgeous writing brings forth a romance that can be so much more than physicality, I didn't seem to mind that either. 🥰🥰
Two points I want to highlight before I gush any further. Stories that have a double entendre in their titles are my weakness - so having the subtle nods to Reid's eyes of 'gold' and the gold in the bank was a lovely touch. Earlier, when Jonah was still struggling to convey how much Reid was starting to affect him, there was this exchange
“You’re right. I can’t flirt.”
“That stumbling confession is better than all the flirting in the world.”
And then the final moment, that tied it up all so well
Jonah turned to find Reid watching him fondly. If he was still susceptible to stumbling confessions, on this occasion he had no difficulty being succinct. “You’re here.” Judging by the kiss that followed, it was answer enough.
👏👏👏👏
April 20, 2013
6 stars.
OMG!Utterly beautiful writing. Swoonworthy romance. Perfect.
I am in love with this book and everything in it.... Jonah and Reid, New York in winter in 1888 (and the awesome blizzard that I've since found out actually happened - cool pictures here ),quirky boarding house occupants...even the bits about early banking were actually interesting! Awesomely drawn world, real and wonderful characters (so wonderful I was an hour late for work on Friday 'cause I just couldn't.let.go.) plus there's an actual plot!
Maybe I'll flesh this out some more when I've touched ground again, but for now;
It's bloody marvelous.
Read it.
PS- Now I'm just waiting for my car battery to actually die on me. Heh. Totally worth tempting fate.
OMG!Utterly beautiful writing. Swoonworthy romance. Perfect.
I am in love with this book and everything in it.... Jonah and Reid, New York in winter in 1888 (and the awesome blizzard that I've since found out actually happened - cool pictures here ),quirky boarding house occupants...even the bits about early banking were actually interesting! Awesomely drawn world, real and wonderful characters (so wonderful I was an hour late for work on Friday 'cause I just couldn't.let.go.) plus there's an actual plot!
Maybe I'll flesh this out some more when I've touched ground again, but for now;
It's bloody marvelous.
Read it.
PS- Now I'm just waiting for my car battery to actually die on me. Heh. Totally worth tempting fate.
April 27, 2012
This book begins slowly, but gradually carries the reader along with it as the pace picks up to an action-filled climax. It opens with the introduction of Jonah, a bank officer who has devoted himself to his job, at least partly because he is unwilling to let his personal desires have any place in his controlled and circumscribed life. He is faced with Reid, the man who comes in to take the promotion Jonah was expecting, and who proceeds to rearrange both Jonah's professional and his personal life. The slow evolution of their relationship, and Jonah's helplessness in the face of Reid's forceful personality, is a delight to watch. And as time goes on, Reid comes up against the hidden strengths of Jonah's character, with unexpected results. I enjoy historical stories which, like this one, transport me with a feeling of complete authenticity to another time and place. Tamara Allen is one of the best writers I have found in this style of story, and I loved every minute of this book.
August 13, 2016
M/M Bingo
Round 8 - Week 3
"Best Gay Historical Romance"
********************
3.5 stars
For all intents and purposes, this should have been a SLAM DUNK. New York, historical, geeky bankers, and Tamara Allen (who I love). Well, maybe it was more like a bank shot off the glass that spins and spins around the hoop and finally…as the crowd holds their breath…falls in.
I had a really hard time…struggled even…with the first half of the book. It was SLOW – which can work for me as long as there’s some kind of build up. But, the first half was almost entirely about Jonah, an assistant cashier at a bank, being grouchy and difficult and pouty about not getting the head cashier’s job and being awful to Reid, the man brought in to fill the role.
From the get-go, Jonah, a man unwavering in his ideas of how a bank should be run, was hard for me to like. Honestly, I felt for him, for sure. And I wanted to be on his side…be his champion…in his hurt and disappointment and quest to prove the decision a wrong one. But, for page after page, I just lost interest and then started getting irritated with him. ”Get over it already or just leave the bank!” I screamed at my kindle.
But then, at just around the halfway point, the energy and the pace of the book changed. Jonah and Reid’s contentious relationship became…MORE…and the enemies-to-lovers storyline took off! From there add in some duplicity, some danger, some foul characters, and, as this is a bank of course, a heist (!)…and I was at the edge of my seat.
I came to love Jonah and Reid and their courage and their dedication to one another!
If it weren’t for the drawn out first half, this book may have made my favorites list…the second half is THAT good! And Tamara Allen’s writing, per usual, is OUTSTANDING.
So, if you’re in the mood for a solid historical and feeling especially patient, give this a go. The second half is a reward in and of itself. Enjoy!
September 9, 2012
WOW. This book was fantastic, which surprised me because I thought it was really slow at first, but by 20% I was invested in this story of Jonah, an assistant cashier at a New York City bank in 1888 who finds out that he lost the expected promotion to cashier to some out-of-towner who promises scary things like "change" and "innovation," two things that buttoned-up Jonah so fiercely thinks he AND the bank don't need.
Rivalry between late 19th century bankers sounds super boring to me, but boy, was this book enthralling, and by 50%, I was fully in love with the dueling between Jonah and Reid, his new boss, and the eventual thaw and romance. And sweet Jeebus, this book is in the Good Sexual Tension listopia category for a reason! Jonah holds to his bitter guns for a long time, but Reid (god bless him!) pokes and prods because he "likes the challenge," and their back-and-forth is a real joy to read.
And by 70%, you'll be gripping your book (or e-reader) though a long tense climax as a terrible snow storm descends on the city to wreak havoc on our characters and the crime some are trying to get away with.
After pushing through the beginning, this was a very addictive story with richly developed characters, a strong and believable historical setting, wonderful and funny dialogue, and an entrancing romance. An amazing read, and I was blown away by what a great writer Allen is. I think I got this 300 page book for free off some short-term Amazon discount, and even now, it's only a dollar for the e-book version! This made me think even more that this story was a real gift, a true treasure. If you like historical m/m romance, I can't imagine a better book to recommend.
Rivalry between late 19th century bankers sounds super boring to me, but boy, was this book enthralling, and by 50%, I was fully in love with the dueling between Jonah and Reid, his new boss, and the eventual thaw and romance. And sweet Jeebus, this book is in the Good Sexual Tension listopia category for a reason! Jonah holds to his bitter guns for a long time, but Reid (god bless him!) pokes and prods because he "likes the challenge," and their back-and-forth is a real joy to read.
And by 70%, you'll be gripping your book (or e-reader) though a long tense climax as a terrible snow storm descends on the city to wreak havoc on our characters and the crime some are trying to get away with.
After pushing through the beginning, this was a very addictive story with richly developed characters, a strong and believable historical setting, wonderful and funny dialogue, and an entrancing romance. An amazing read, and I was blown away by what a great writer Allen is. I think I got this 300 page book for free off some short-term Amazon discount, and even now, it's only a dollar for the e-book version! This made me think even more that this story was a real gift, a true treasure. If you like historical m/m romance, I can't imagine a better book to recommend.
July 7, 2025
fellas don't you hate it when you're running a bank per regulation standards and a new hot cashier comes in and starts changing processes without your buy-in
November 24, 2011
Charming, affecting, affirming tale of two opposites who drive each other nuts before one, then the other, recognizes the possibility for love.
The characters are wonderful: I particularly loved stiff-necked, buttoned-up Jonah (his overzealous devotion to the bank where he works is funny but also believable and admirable), but gregarious, golden-touch Reid is a delight, too, particularly as Jonah's evident disapproval & borderline passive-aggressive hostility only redouble Reid's determination to win him over.
The dialogue crackles like something out of a golden-age Hollywood movie, particularly in the early, adversarial scenes. Reid, an outsider, has been given the cashier job on which Jonah had long pinned all his hopes, and he's constantly horrifying Jonah by proposing new ways of doing things. Here's just one example of an exchange between the two:
Reid sat and picked up one of the trade papers on the desk. "I've been reading over the credit books, and I see you've done the necessary investigation into the business affairs of your more frequent borrowers. I have some questions - "
"Regarding our decisions on past loans?" Jonah smoothed the front of his waistcoat, brushing fingers over the buttons once more, just in case. "We've had no unusual losses, I assure you. No more than any other bank."
Reid folded the newspaper and tossed it aside. "Is there reason to hope we may see the day when you'll no longer take everything I say as an attack on the bank... or you?"
Though there was not the least rancor in the question, the frankness of it took Jonah aback. "You exaggerate."
"Do I?"
"I'm in no position to argue with you."
"Yet you do, without fail." Reid rose. "Assistant cashiers generally assist, Mr. Woolner. At least they have in all the banks I've worked in before. You resist all down the line and assert your concern is for the bank. You may understand why I'm not convinced that's the case."
So glad I discovered this book, which hasn't gotten a lot of press at the mainstream sites. Now I'll have to pace myself going through Allen's backlist so I'll finish right when her next book comes out :)
The characters are wonderful: I particularly loved stiff-necked, buttoned-up Jonah (his overzealous devotion to the bank where he works is funny but also believable and admirable), but gregarious, golden-touch Reid is a delight, too, particularly as Jonah's evident disapproval & borderline passive-aggressive hostility only redouble Reid's determination to win him over.
The dialogue crackles like something out of a golden-age Hollywood movie, particularly in the early, adversarial scenes. Reid, an outsider, has been given the cashier job on which Jonah had long pinned all his hopes, and he's constantly horrifying Jonah by proposing new ways of doing things. Here's just one example of an exchange between the two:
Reid sat and picked up one of the trade papers on the desk. "I've been reading over the credit books, and I see you've done the necessary investigation into the business affairs of your more frequent borrowers. I have some questions - "
"Regarding our decisions on past loans?" Jonah smoothed the front of his waistcoat, brushing fingers over the buttons once more, just in case. "We've had no unusual losses, I assure you. No more than any other bank."
Reid folded the newspaper and tossed it aside. "Is there reason to hope we may see the day when you'll no longer take everything I say as an attack on the bank... or you?"
Though there was not the least rancor in the question, the frankness of it took Jonah aback. "You exaggerate."
"Do I?"
"I'm in no position to argue with you."
"Yet you do, without fail." Reid rose. "Assistant cashiers generally assist, Mr. Woolner. At least they have in all the banks I've worked in before. You resist all down the line and assert your concern is for the bank. You may understand why I'm not convinced that's the case."
So glad I discovered this book, which hasn't gotten a lot of press at the mainstream sites. Now I'll have to pace myself going through Allen's backlist so I'll finish right when her next book comes out :)
October 9, 2014
2.5 star rating.
I'm in the minority, but I was bored of my tree quite frequently during this book.
I think Jonah's love for his job/love for the bank went crazy overboard, to the point where I think he might need to seek some help to get over his obsession. I get the time period, but he literally goes over and above all for the sake of the bank (not the people mind you, the actual institution--the clients--the finances).
While the writing is obviously excellent, and you can tell this author has a done a lot of research into this time period, this book is too long. Probably 100 pages too long. There is a lot of (and I mean a lot of) filler information that, I felt, slowed down the flow of the story, so I began skimming.
The twists and turns definitely did throw me for a bit of a loop, sometimes, even if the big mystery was rather obvious to guess. It was fun and in parts, I was definitely quite hooked.
I liked the characters, but didn't love them. Never felt a very strong connection to any of them. Sometimes they'd make decisions that were, well, crazy. Or just... didn't make any sense to me, especially nearing the ending of the book.
It was good.
Yep.
I'm in the minority, but I was bored of my tree quite frequently during this book.
I think Jonah's love for his job/love for the bank went crazy overboard, to the point where I think he might need to seek some help to get over his obsession. I get the time period, but he literally goes over and above all for the sake of the bank (not the people mind you, the actual institution--the clients--the finances).
While the writing is obviously excellent, and you can tell this author has a done a lot of research into this time period, this book is too long. Probably 100 pages too long. There is a lot of (and I mean a lot of) filler information that, I felt, slowed down the flow of the story, so I began skimming.
The twists and turns definitely did throw me for a bit of a loop, sometimes, even if the big mystery was rather obvious to guess. It was fun and in parts, I was definitely quite hooked.
I liked the characters, but didn't love them. Never felt a very strong connection to any of them. Sometimes they'd make decisions that were, well, crazy. Or just... didn't make any sense to me, especially nearing the ending of the book.
It was good.
Yep.
December 24, 2023
I was rather worried at first because it seemed pretty obvious where this book was heading. Thankfully, Ms. Allen exceeded my expectations. This is a well-crafted tale that takes its time and lets the characters and their relationships develop naturally. While Reid was excessively cheerful at times, she managed to keep him grounded also, and I liked that Jonah was also shown to have his faults. I was curious to see if Reid could break through Jonah's shell and how those two would get past their differences. A very enjoyable tale.
July 29, 2012
A brilliantly told story, that will keep you interested from page one. Don't be put off if like me you tend to stay away from storys set in the past. This is one you should try if you want a real romance with guys you will fall in love with and a story to keep you guessing.
dnf
March 20, 2023Dnf @ 54%
I’ve been reading this book for the past four days and I barely remember what it’s about, so I think it’s time to call it. 🤷♀️
The writing was very good, if a bit too heavy on purple prose sometimes. But neither the characters nor the plot could hold my attention, and it just about put me to sleep.
I’ve been reading this book for the past four days and I barely remember what it’s about, so I think it’s time to call it. 🤷♀️
The writing was very good, if a bit too heavy on purple prose sometimes. But neither the characters nor the plot could hold my attention, and it just about put me to sleep.
October 6, 2014
I've read a bunch of reviews for this book, and what strikes me as interesting is that many of them thought the beginning was slow but the second half picked up.
I had the complete opposite reaction to reading this book. I LOVED the slow, teasing, tense, frustrating first half. Give me more of that, please! Gah, boy did it work a nice burn.
As the second half commenced, I felt the story lose some of that tension. I was a wee bit disappointed at the lack of descriptive love scenes (especially the first one, after that fade to black suits me fine), but mostly I found the narrative seem to drift a little. I wasn't quite as engaged anymore until of course . My interest was once again piqued, and I was drawn into it for a chapter or so until things just got confusing. Maybe it's just me, but I didn't understand why things were happening and the reasons for those actions. ???
I liked the fact there was an explanation as to why Jonah wasn't made head cashier.
I also liked that, in the end, our boys get their HEA.
This was my first Tamara Allen book, and it won't be my last. I need me more first halves like this one!!!
I had the complete opposite reaction to reading this book. I LOVED the slow, teasing, tense, frustrating first half. Give me more of that, please! Gah, boy did it work a nice burn.
As the second half commenced, I felt the story lose some of that tension. I was a wee bit disappointed at the lack of descriptive love scenes (especially the first one, after that fade to black suits me fine), but mostly I found the narrative seem to drift a little. I wasn't quite as engaged anymore until of course . My interest was once again piqued, and I was drawn into it for a chapter or so until things just got confusing. Maybe it's just me, but I didn't understand why things were happening and the reasons for those actions. ???
I liked the fact there was an explanation as to why Jonah wasn't made head cashier.
I also liked that, in the end, our boys get their HEA.
This was my first Tamara Allen book, and it won't be my last. I need me more first halves like this one!!!
March 22, 2020
5 Sparkling Stars
This story is wonderful! Other reviewers have said it more eloquently, but Tamara Allen does a fantastic job of bringing history alive in this lovely slow-burn romance. As soon as I finished reading it, I had to Google images of late 19th century New York, (especially the real-life blizzard of 1888). Ms. Allen's descriptions are so vivid and so well done that the real-world pictures looked just like I imagined from the story.
And her characters!! I loved how Jonah's prickly armor was pierced by Reid's charm and good nature. These two are made for each other; (and after a few squabbles), they truly make each other better people. I wish that I could be friends with these kindhearted men in real life.
Amazingly, Ms. Allen is currently offering most of her stories for FREE, so it is a great time to add these stories to your book treasure hoard. I urge all my GR pals who enjoy historical romance to check these out.
Go, go, go and download these delightful treats!
Highly recommend!!
https://www.smashwords.com/profile/vi...
This story is wonderful! Other reviewers have said it more eloquently, but Tamara Allen does a fantastic job of bringing history alive in this lovely slow-burn romance. As soon as I finished reading it, I had to Google images of late 19th century New York, (especially the real-life blizzard of 1888). Ms. Allen's descriptions are so vivid and so well done that the real-world pictures looked just like I imagined from the story.
And her characters!! I loved how Jonah's prickly armor was pierced by Reid's charm and good nature. These two are made for each other; (and after a few squabbles), they truly make each other better people. I wish that I could be friends with these kindhearted men in real life.
Amazingly, Ms. Allen is currently offering most of her stories for FREE, so it is a great time to add these stories to your book treasure hoard. I urge all my GR pals who enjoy historical romance to check these out.
Go, go, go and download these delightful treats!
Highly recommend!!
https://www.smashwords.com/profile/vi...
probably-not-but-freebie
February 5, 2019Freebie at the zon.com right now: https://smile.amazon.com/Only-Gold-Ta...
April 3, 2011
When I was a child I used to imagine that one day I will get to travel in the time travel machine to some of my favorite eras in the past to see for myself how people lived in those days. Of course I know now that this is not possible, but in a sense
this book for me had been a perfect substitute of the time travel machine. It transported me to another era. I felt that I was in the year 1888 in the city that gave me a second home, just as it gave second home to Jonah and Reid. I really loved this writer's another historical romance "Whistling in the Dark" and I would have been quite okay with this novel if her writing stayed at the level of "Whistling in the Dark", but in my opinion it improved so much. The settings seemed meticulously researched. It was so much fun reading about Jonah walking on the Wall street, or him and Reid taking a walk on Broadway and thinking about how much these streets changed from year 1888 to our time. Language is clear and easy to understand overall, but it definitely has historical flavor. You can see, feel and smell everything that is taking place around you.
Jonah Woolner had been an assistant cashier in the New York Bank for the last fourteen years since he was nineteen years old.
His life and his work are basically the same thing, he lives and breathes according to the rules he thinks banker should follow. He is hoping to be promoted to the cashier since he had been doing this work for months, but when our story begins
Jonah learns that Board of Directors hired the newcomer Reid Hylliard as the cashier instead. Jonah is upset and jealous, he of course keeps his jealousy to himself (mostly anyway) and out of loyalty to the bank he decides to stay instead of quitting. However his style of work seems to clash every day more and more with with Reid's innovative changes he is bringing to the bank. Reid seems to be happy go lucky individual who charmes bank's staff very fast and Jonah is one person who takes Reid the longest time to win over.
I thought that tension between Jonah and Reid was masterfully maintained throughout the book, even when they seemingly started to understand and like each other better it was like watching one step forward and two steps back dance. Of course
Jonah is the one whose insecurities, jealousy and mistrust feed into the tension, since Jonah does not have the complete information of what had been happening around him. Here is just one example of their delightful banter:
"Reid stood, meeting him eye to eye, seemingly in all seriousness. "You may be as forward as you like"
"Taken aback, Jonah regarded him warily "I may?"
"I'd prefer it."
"Well, then" " A morning coat is not a frock coat."
A morning coat is a compromise."
"Compromise?"
"Between dressing respectably for the bank and looking as though he spends his saturday evenings with a book and glass of port."
"No, better to convey, I suppose that he spends his evenings at the dancive hall, consorting with the women of uncertain virtue."
"You might benefit from an evening like that"
"I daresay you would think so"
Having just called their banter delightful, I should clarify that Reid is the one who is trying to lighten up their conversations and I have not always liked that. Oh as we get to know him, we see that the man is really genuinely charming and kind and just as zealously devoted to his job as Jonah is devoted to his, but I felt in the beginning that he was dismissive of Jonah's very real hurt.
I loved how both guys are portrayed as genuinely and very realistically good people, but also having some real flaws. Jonah is really a sweetheart, who treats other people as decently as he can manage, but he did forget for a while that pedantical and proper way to live and work is not the only way to live and work and he is *very* jealous of Reid initially. As proper gentleman he keeps it mostly bottled up inside, although as I mentioned above it definitely shows in the restrained way in some of their conversations and daily work :)
Reid is also a good person, but I got a vibe from him that he thinks he knows better than anybody else how to handle unforeseen "complications" and thus when Jonah resists, he does not always proceed in a way which is the most considerate of
Jonah's feelings.
I also liked how the story did not revolve around protagonists' angsting about them preferring to be with men. Oh it caused them some heartbreaks and painful breakups with family members, of course it did and they are aware of the need to be cautious, but they are first and foremost professional men, who just happened to prefer to sleep and fall on love with other men. While Jonah at some point refers to their sexuality as their limitations, overall they seem to accept who they are. I really liked it.
I liked how when even they are together Jonah still admits to himself and Reid that hurt is still lingering there for some time, that the fact that bank promoted an outsider still bothers him, even though he grew to trust and like Reid. In other words I liked how the change in his feelings and disposition proceeded at such slow pace. It felt extremely believable. And I liked how supposedly so self confident Reid does need assurance of how Jonah feels about him too.
I found it extremely amusing and a testament to the writer's skill that despite several hints througout the book I could not foresee that last 20% of the book or so turn from quiet romance to action/adventure of the sorts. I found it extremely fitting and properly foreshadowed when I was looking back, but I did not see it coming at all.
Highly recommended.
this book for me had been a perfect substitute of the time travel machine. It transported me to another era. I felt that I was in the year 1888 in the city that gave me a second home, just as it gave second home to Jonah and Reid. I really loved this writer's another historical romance "Whistling in the Dark" and I would have been quite okay with this novel if her writing stayed at the level of "Whistling in the Dark", but in my opinion it improved so much. The settings seemed meticulously researched. It was so much fun reading about Jonah walking on the Wall street, or him and Reid taking a walk on Broadway and thinking about how much these streets changed from year 1888 to our time. Language is clear and easy to understand overall, but it definitely has historical flavor. You can see, feel and smell everything that is taking place around you.
Jonah Woolner had been an assistant cashier in the New York Bank for the last fourteen years since he was nineteen years old.
His life and his work are basically the same thing, he lives and breathes according to the rules he thinks banker should follow. He is hoping to be promoted to the cashier since he had been doing this work for months, but when our story begins
Jonah learns that Board of Directors hired the newcomer Reid Hylliard as the cashier instead. Jonah is upset and jealous, he of course keeps his jealousy to himself (mostly anyway) and out of loyalty to the bank he decides to stay instead of quitting. However his style of work seems to clash every day more and more with with Reid's innovative changes he is bringing to the bank. Reid seems to be happy go lucky individual who charmes bank's staff very fast and Jonah is one person who takes Reid the longest time to win over.
I thought that tension between Jonah and Reid was masterfully maintained throughout the book, even when they seemingly started to understand and like each other better it was like watching one step forward and two steps back dance. Of course
Jonah is the one whose insecurities, jealousy and mistrust feed into the tension, since Jonah does not have the complete information of what had been happening around him. Here is just one example of their delightful banter:
"Reid stood, meeting him eye to eye, seemingly in all seriousness. "You may be as forward as you like"
"Taken aback, Jonah regarded him warily "I may?"
"I'd prefer it."
"Well, then" " A morning coat is not a frock coat."
A morning coat is a compromise."
"Compromise?"
"Between dressing respectably for the bank and looking as though he spends his saturday evenings with a book and glass of port."
"No, better to convey, I suppose that he spends his evenings at the dancive hall, consorting with the women of uncertain virtue."
"You might benefit from an evening like that"
"I daresay you would think so"
Having just called their banter delightful, I should clarify that Reid is the one who is trying to lighten up their conversations and I have not always liked that. Oh as we get to know him, we see that the man is really genuinely charming and kind and just as zealously devoted to his job as Jonah is devoted to his, but I felt in the beginning that he was dismissive of Jonah's very real hurt.
I loved how both guys are portrayed as genuinely and very realistically good people, but also having some real flaws. Jonah is really a sweetheart, who treats other people as decently as he can manage, but he did forget for a while that pedantical and proper way to live and work is not the only way to live and work and he is *very* jealous of Reid initially. As proper gentleman he keeps it mostly bottled up inside, although as I mentioned above it definitely shows in the restrained way in some of their conversations and daily work :)
Reid is also a good person, but I got a vibe from him that he thinks he knows better than anybody else how to handle unforeseen "complications" and thus when Jonah resists, he does not always proceed in a way which is the most considerate of
Jonah's feelings.
I also liked how the story did not revolve around protagonists' angsting about them preferring to be with men. Oh it caused them some heartbreaks and painful breakups with family members, of course it did and they are aware of the need to be cautious, but they are first and foremost professional men, who just happened to prefer to sleep and fall on love with other men. While Jonah at some point refers to their sexuality as their limitations, overall they seem to accept who they are. I really liked it.
I liked how when even they are together Jonah still admits to himself and Reid that hurt is still lingering there for some time, that the fact that bank promoted an outsider still bothers him, even though he grew to trust and like Reid. In other words I liked how the change in his feelings and disposition proceeded at such slow pace. It felt extremely believable. And I liked how supposedly so self confident Reid does need assurance of how Jonah feels about him too.
I found it extremely amusing and a testament to the writer's skill that despite several hints througout the book I could not foresee that last 20% of the book or so turn from quiet romance to action/adventure of the sorts. I found it extremely fitting and properly foreshadowed when I was looking back, but I did not see it coming at all.
Highly recommended.
May 11, 2015
I cannot give this book enough praise. It's a beautifully sweet slow burn romance with a nail biting story which gets a lot more intense towards the end. The story is well written, original and very realistic and the two main characters Jonah and Reid are extremely likeable. This is not to be missed for any historical romance fans.
August 22, 2016
This was great company for my week end. A very free flowing, slow burn read with great atmosphere and credible characters and plot line.
December 23, 2023
Fun historical slow burn romance with caper-y dimension. The caper-y part is a little disconnected from the first half and the envy at first is a little hard to read, but overall immersive, fun and sweet.
April 14, 2011
In the world of too many books and too little time, the phrase “auto-buy” is tossed around with almost cavalier meaning. Although I have very few “auto-buy” authors where I buy everything they do no matter what, Tamara Allen has to be on my list. The Only Gold may not be as beloved as Whistling in the Dark, which if you haven’t read do so now immediately, but it showcases Allen’s meticulous attention to detail, flair for complex yet fascinating characters, and impeccable writing.
Set in 1888 New York, Jonah Woolner is married to his job at the bank. Having spent fourteen years working his way up to the position of Cashier, Jonah thinks today is finally the day he’ll get his hard fought promotion. Yet he’s thrown for a loop when the board announces they’ve brought in someone from the outside to bring a fresh perspective. Hurt by the rejection and worried about the reputation of the bank Jonah immediately clashes with Reid. Despite his numerous charms which seem to work on most everyone else, Jonah initially refuses to acknowledge Reid’s quick policy changes or his attempts to get to know Jonah. As time passes, Jonah gets to know Reid and realizes they might have more in common than he thought. However a deadly blizzard sets Jonah and Reid on opposite sides and just may put a stop to their budding happiness.
Once again Allen has delivered an incredible story. The writing is simply superb with an amazing eye to detail. The New York setting is very vivid and the story is steeped in the details from small to large. The time period with threat of war and conflicting tensions plays out in subtle, yet important ways. Subtly and complexity are used brilliantly as every character offers nuance and depth. The story tends to be a leisurely walk rather than a race and even during some of the most dramatic times the pace tends to drag a little. This is especially so when the fight scenes read somewhat stale and rote but the real eloquence of the writing comes out with the characters, their dialogue and actions.
Both Jonah and Reid are fabulous. They’re flawed, complicated, irritating and totally absolutely wonderful. Jonah starts the story so uptight and rigid that you can’t help but adore him instantly. Well I did at least. He’s so married to his job and against change that Reid’s slow seduction plays out over time in a variety of ways. From brash and bold to subtle and entreating, the dance between the two is beautiful and lovely to watch. Reid is so over the top charming and impossible to fluster that he is the perfect foil for the prematurely tight fisted Jonah. The only stumble amongst the characterizations comes towards the end when Jonah uncovers some secrets about Reid. I expected a wholly different reaction from Jonah, perhaps a reversion to his first personality. Instead Jonah’s reactions are in another direction and I couldn’t quite reconcile this in my head. I kept thinking he should have reacted differently, stronger.
Other than that slight quibble the story plays out with drama, romance, intrigue, and rescue amongst a graphic and intense setting. The story is filled with warmth, laughter, tension, and a host of scene stealing secondary characters. One of the best attributes to Allen’s books is that the female characters are often as interesting and dynamic as the men. Here Liliane delights in her dialogue and behavior as equally as the older sisters running Jonah’s boarding house shine in their motherly natures. The real stars are of course Jonah and Reid who have an obvious chemistry with a lot of sensuality, yet leave the explicit language behind closed doors.
The Only Gold is another stellar story that is incredibly easy to recommend. The slight issues are just that and those that appreciate a subtle romance filled with innuendo, quips, banter, and gentle love should really adore this. The writing is wonderful and considering this is the third book in a row from Allen I’ve loved, I’ll continue to buy whatever she writes. Here’s to hoping there are a lot more to come.
Set in 1888 New York, Jonah Woolner is married to his job at the bank. Having spent fourteen years working his way up to the position of Cashier, Jonah thinks today is finally the day he’ll get his hard fought promotion. Yet he’s thrown for a loop when the board announces they’ve brought in someone from the outside to bring a fresh perspective. Hurt by the rejection and worried about the reputation of the bank Jonah immediately clashes with Reid. Despite his numerous charms which seem to work on most everyone else, Jonah initially refuses to acknowledge Reid’s quick policy changes or his attempts to get to know Jonah. As time passes, Jonah gets to know Reid and realizes they might have more in common than he thought. However a deadly blizzard sets Jonah and Reid on opposite sides and just may put a stop to their budding happiness.
Once again Allen has delivered an incredible story. The writing is simply superb with an amazing eye to detail. The New York setting is very vivid and the story is steeped in the details from small to large. The time period with threat of war and conflicting tensions plays out in subtle, yet important ways. Subtly and complexity are used brilliantly as every character offers nuance and depth. The story tends to be a leisurely walk rather than a race and even during some of the most dramatic times the pace tends to drag a little. This is especially so when the fight scenes read somewhat stale and rote but the real eloquence of the writing comes out with the characters, their dialogue and actions.
Both Jonah and Reid are fabulous. They’re flawed, complicated, irritating and totally absolutely wonderful. Jonah starts the story so uptight and rigid that you can’t help but adore him instantly. Well I did at least. He’s so married to his job and against change that Reid’s slow seduction plays out over time in a variety of ways. From brash and bold to subtle and entreating, the dance between the two is beautiful and lovely to watch. Reid is so over the top charming and impossible to fluster that he is the perfect foil for the prematurely tight fisted Jonah. The only stumble amongst the characterizations comes towards the end when Jonah uncovers some secrets about Reid. I expected a wholly different reaction from Jonah, perhaps a reversion to his first personality. Instead Jonah’s reactions are in another direction and I couldn’t quite reconcile this in my head. I kept thinking he should have reacted differently, stronger.
Other than that slight quibble the story plays out with drama, romance, intrigue, and rescue amongst a graphic and intense setting. The story is filled with warmth, laughter, tension, and a host of scene stealing secondary characters. One of the best attributes to Allen’s books is that the female characters are often as interesting and dynamic as the men. Here Liliane delights in her dialogue and behavior as equally as the older sisters running Jonah’s boarding house shine in their motherly natures. The real stars are of course Jonah and Reid who have an obvious chemistry with a lot of sensuality, yet leave the explicit language behind closed doors.
The Only Gold is another stellar story that is incredibly easy to recommend. The slight issues are just that and those that appreciate a subtle romance filled with innuendo, quips, banter, and gentle love should really adore this. The writing is wonderful and considering this is the third book in a row from Allen I’ve loved, I’ll continue to buy whatever she writes. Here’s to hoping there are a lot more to come.
November 3, 2013
I really, really enjoyed this. Tamara Allen's writing is so beautiful and non-explicitly sensual that it still gets me all hot and bothered. Love the slow build romance and quirky characters. And the setting. And the sweetness.
4.5 stars rounded to 4 because I struggled a little with the slow start of the story and I pretty much had the "mystery" figured out.
4.5 stars rounded to 4 because I struggled a little with the slow start of the story and I pretty much had the "mystery" figured out.
November 13, 2021
Rating this 5 as I really want to come back to this and read again. Such a lovely romance between the two main characters. I really enjoyed the setting - all those gorgeous old bank buildings seem so much more vibrant now. If I was less taken with the two MCs I would probably rate as 4 stars as I had some plot and character motivation inconsistencies niggling at me after I finished.
January 22, 2013
4.5 stars
Wonderfully atmospheric, realistic and with amazing characters, both the MCs and the supporting ones.
A slow start and a couple of confusing moments made this just a little bit less than perfect.
ps: seriously, where can I find me a Reid? ;)
Wonderfully atmospheric, realistic and with amazing characters, both the MCs and the supporting ones.
A slow start and a couple of confusing moments made this just a little bit less than perfect.
ps: seriously, where can I find me a Reid? ;)
August 22, 2020
This was my second Tamara Allen, and it definitely won’t be the last. Her historicals are not fast-paced, but they are smart and very immersive both in time and place. I’m impressed, and I haven’t even read her most popular one yet.
I never would have predicted I could read that much about banking without being bored out of my mind, but I gotta admit I was into it. (I am also a total dork when it comes to streamlining operational procedures, sooooo ... :) I was just about done with Jonah’s attitude when Reid finally worked his magic, but it made a lot more sense in retrospect so try to be patient with him!
I never would have predicted I could read that much about banking without being bored out of my mind, but I gotta admit I was into it. (I am also a total dork when it comes to streamlining operational procedures, sooooo ... :) I was just about done with Jonah’s attitude when Reid finally worked his magic, but it made a lot more sense in retrospect so try to be patient with him!
September 11, 2021
this had, in my opinion, the exact right amount of banking logistics disputes for a romance novel
July 12, 2023
DNF ~47%
I really enjoyed the two books I've read from this author so I expected this to be a slam-dunk, but I really did not like it at all. The writing was great, and I thought the historical setting was really well done. I also quite like Jonah, the MC whose POV the book is told in. Unfortunately, I could not stand the love interest, Reid, at all. I felt like the author was trying to write this in a way that was meant to make us feel that Jonah was being entirely unfair to Reid, but frankly, I thought Reid was a major asshole and, frankly, outright cruel. I didn't at all find their relationship to be enjoyable to read, didn't buy Jonah's growing feelings, and them sleeping together at the 45% mark made absolutely no sense to me and was 0% satisfying, and not only because it was entirely fade to black. Based on context clues, I do think some of the things I didn't enjoy about this one would eventually have been explained in the narrative, but the actual relationship for me was really unappealing and the emotional notes rang false for me, so it just wasn't worth it to continue.
I really enjoyed the two books I've read from this author so I expected this to be a slam-dunk, but I really did not like it at all. The writing was great, and I thought the historical setting was really well done. I also quite like Jonah, the MC whose POV the book is told in. Unfortunately, I could not stand the love interest, Reid, at all. I felt like the author was trying to write this in a way that was meant to make us feel that Jonah was being entirely unfair to Reid, but frankly, I thought Reid was a major asshole and, frankly, outright cruel. I didn't at all find their relationship to be enjoyable to read, didn't buy Jonah's growing feelings, and them sleeping together at the 45% mark made absolutely no sense to me and was 0% satisfying, and not only because it was entirely fade to black. Based on context clues, I do think some of the things I didn't enjoy about this one would eventually have been explained in the narrative, but the actual relationship for me was really unappealing and the emotional notes rang false for me, so it just wasn't worth it to continue.
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