When Evangeline "Lindy" Lindenmayer decides to challenge her mother’s plans for her, she finds the challenge nearly insurmountable. Lindy has always found reading more interesting than any societal event. Yet when she meets Jack Winthrop, a young seminary student, she knows that her life will never be the same. Jack makes her question her current lifestyle and the privileges that she has enjoyed. Lindy must face the reality of whether she can agree to her mother’s demands or follow her heart.
This is a book set at the end of the 1800s and is based on a true story, making for a most interesting read. I found the descriptive images of the backdrop, added to the story, giving life to this story. This book is fast moving and kept me reading with the unknown future of this delightful couple. Whilst theirs was a forbidden love story, I found their lively discussions well delivered and thoughtful.

Once again, Ms Yancy has written a page-turner which will have a reader interested from start to finish.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.

Such a well written story. Characters are well written, and allowed me to be emotionally involved. Good plot, with lots of ups and downs. I would have enjoyed come comeuppance for the mother though!!

Evangeline “Lindy” Lindemayer is a wealthy young heiress who feels stifled by society’s expectations. Jack Winthrop is a seminary student of modest means who has been given permission to study in the Lindemayer mansion’s vast library. When the two find a common interest in books, an attraction develops. The problem? Lindy’s mother is determined to marry Lindy off to a member of the British aristocracy. Will Jack and Lindy be able to overcome the obstacles that stand in the way of their happily-ever-after ending? Find out in this novel of high society during New York’s gilded age.

This is a long drawn out tale. It is good in some respects but detailed beyond belief. It should have been termed as religious fiction.
Lindy and Jack have a terrible time getting together.
I haven't read this Author before and don't think I will again.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley and I have left this review voluntarily.

A sweet historical romance that sweeps you up from the get-go. Evangeline, Lindy, is the daughter of a powerful and influential socialite who has determined that Lindy WILL marry a British title, regardless of what, or who, gets in the way. Jack is a highly intelligent seminary student who wants to make a difference in the lives of others. He knows he is out of league with Lindy, but his heart will not accept this fate. Can true love withstand power, money, and titles? Don’t miss this exciting new book from Renee Yancy to see what happens.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher and all opinions expressed are my own, freely given.

I’ve never been known to be a fan of historical fiction. But I think I’m learning that there are niches of historical fiction that I enjoy. I’ve been wanting to read a book like this for a while, and I’m so glad that I had the opportunity to read A Test of Gold. I loved the dynamics between the characters: Lindy and her mom, Lindy and Jack and their forbidden romance. This was a great read and it didn’t disappoint.

The Test of Gold follows Evangeline "Lindy" Lindenmayer as she prepares to be presented to high society. Only, she's more interested in spending her days reading in the family's library, where she meets a young man studying. She is distraught that they must say goodbye, but her mother will not be swayed from her plans. Until Lindy is inspired to stand her ground that is.

I really resonated with Lindy as a character, I too preferred books over boys when I was 18. I enjoyed watching Jack and Lindy bond over their shared love of books. My heart broke for Lindy, what kind of mother treats their child that way?

There were a few things that I paused and though, "Hm, that doesn't seem accurate to the time period.", but historical accuracy isn't too important to me.

Overall this book was a well written and enjoyable romance.

*This eARC was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

I wanted to like this story as it's very much in my wheelhouse, but sadly I found the writing seemed to be that of an author still finding their feet in the genre. The characters seemed as though they were younger teenagers, and the language they used didn't befit the time. Characters acted contrary to their own beliefs and had such an immediate change in reactions to things, you'd easily be mistaken for thinking some of the characters had split person disorder. Sad to say I wouldn't recommend