What do you think?
Rate this book
Bartholomew #4
Last on the List: A Surprise Pregnancy Historical Romance
Silas Bartholomew is falling behind.
After watching my three younger sisters fall in love over the years, I’ve realized I might not want to be the lone, unattached Bartholomew sibling any longer. It’s time I grew up and assumed my role as my father’s heir. But in order to do that, I’ll need responsibilities, a household, … and a wife.
I was not anticipating a secret arrangement with my sister’s best friend who barely tolerates me.
Mary Lovelace wants nothing more than a family.
Falling into bed with Silas Bartholomew was not part of my plan. This unexpected and, frankly, unwelcome attraction I feel for the infuriating gentleman leads to shadowed secrets and sudden complications.
Silas and I find ourselves feeling far more than we ever anticipated. When our arrangement abruptly ends, I’m left with a future that is growing increasingly tricky, right alongside my waistline.
Finally, the possibility of a family of my own is back on the table, but the father of my child is the very last man I ever intended to share a future with. But some connections are too powerful to ignore.
Can I find the courage to face the love right in front of me or will the family I’ve always dreamed of be just out of reach?
Book #4 in the Bartholomew series follows the surprising and steamy romance between two people who are supposed to hate each other. Last on the List is a full-length historical romance filled with charm and wit, an accidental pregnancy, and a guaranteed happily ever after. While this novel does stand alone, it is probably best enjoyed after reading Book #3 in the series, Third Degree Yearn.
After watching my three younger sisters fall in love over the years, I’ve realized I might not want to be the lone, unattached Bartholomew sibling any longer. It’s time I grew up and assumed my role as my father’s heir. But in order to do that, I’ll need responsibilities, a household, … and a wife.
I was not anticipating a secret arrangement with my sister’s best friend who barely tolerates me.
Mary Lovelace wants nothing more than a family.
Falling into bed with Silas Bartholomew was not part of my plan. This unexpected and, frankly, unwelcome attraction I feel for the infuriating gentleman leads to shadowed secrets and sudden complications.
Silas and I find ourselves feeling far more than we ever anticipated. When our arrangement abruptly ends, I’m left with a future that is growing increasingly tricky, right alongside my waistline.
Finally, the possibility of a family of my own is back on the table, but the father of my child is the very last man I ever intended to share a future with. But some connections are too powerful to ignore.
Can I find the courage to face the love right in front of me or will the family I’ve always dreamed of be just out of reach?
Book #4 in the Bartholomew series follows the surprising and steamy romance between two people who are supposed to hate each other. Last on the List is a full-length historical romance filled with charm and wit, an accidental pregnancy, and a guaranteed happily ever after. While this novel does stand alone, it is probably best enjoyed after reading Book #3 in the series, Third Degree Yearn.
362 pages, Paperback
First published December 12, 2023
71 people are currently reading
294 people want to read
About the author
Laney Hatcher
16 books352 followersSign up for my newsletter: https://bit.ly/3SbXg2v
Laney Hatcher is a firm believer that there is a spreadsheet for every occasion and pie is always the answer. She is an author of stories both old and new where the HEAs are always guaranteed. Often too practical for her own good, Laney enjoys her life in the southern United States with her husband, children, and incredibly entitled cat.
Laney Hatcher is a firm believer that there is a spreadsheet for every occasion and pie is always the answer. She is an author of stories both old and new where the HEAs are always guaranteed. Often too practical for her own good, Laney enjoys her life in the southern United States with her husband, children, and incredibly entitled cat.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
December 13, 2023
Last on the List is the 4th and final book in the Bartholomew Series. This time it’s big brother Silas who’s after his HEA. It can be read as a stand-alone, but the animosity Silas and Mary have towards each other has been prevalent throughout the series.
Mary wants a baby, but she doesn’t want a marriage because her parents’ marriage is horrible, and she thinks that’s what’s in store for her. She’s made a list of bachelors who keep mistresses and Silas is, you guessed it, last on the list. Silas happens to see this list, is offended, and is determined to prove her wrong.
They’re always teasing each other and bickering; fighting to maintain the upper hand. It just builds the tension between them, especially when they’re in small spaces. They can’t fight what’s happening between them and give in, but it can only be a casual thing.
Mary thinks Silas wants someone her opposite, so she doesn’t push for anything more. Silas is tired of not being taken seriously because he isn’t married, especially as the heir. He wants to have a future with someone who wants him. He’d love to be with Mary, but she’s against having a relationship. Once she finds out she’s pregnant, she doesn’t want him to feel she’s an obligation.
Overall, I loved the book. I love these two together and have been waiting for their HEA since the beginning of the series, so I’ve been excited about this one for a while. Although I have to prepare myself for accidental pregnancy books, I appreciate when authors are forth coming about it and I’m usually better about it when the relationship isn’t completely about the baby, and it wasn’t in this.
Just like the previous books, there is plenty of swoon, steam, and humor. It was fun to catch up with the entire family. Poor Augie. He continuously turns up at the wrong times.
Thank you to Laney. I voluntarily reviewed an early copy of this book.
Mary wants a baby, but she doesn’t want a marriage because her parents’ marriage is horrible, and she thinks that’s what’s in store for her. She’s made a list of bachelors who keep mistresses and Silas is, you guessed it, last on the list. Silas happens to see this list, is offended, and is determined to prove her wrong.
They’re always teasing each other and bickering; fighting to maintain the upper hand. It just builds the tension between them, especially when they’re in small spaces. They can’t fight what’s happening between them and give in, but it can only be a casual thing.
Mary thinks Silas wants someone her opposite, so she doesn’t push for anything more. Silas is tired of not being taken seriously because he isn’t married, especially as the heir. He wants to have a future with someone who wants him. He’d love to be with Mary, but she’s against having a relationship. Once she finds out she’s pregnant, she doesn’t want him to feel she’s an obligation.
Overall, I loved the book. I love these two together and have been waiting for their HEA since the beginning of the series, so I’ve been excited about this one for a while. Although I have to prepare myself for accidental pregnancy books, I appreciate when authors are forth coming about it and I’m usually better about it when the relationship isn’t completely about the baby, and it wasn’t in this.
Just like the previous books, there is plenty of swoon, steam, and humor. It was fun to catch up with the entire family. Poor Augie. He continuously turns up at the wrong times.
Thank you to Laney. I voluntarily reviewed an early copy of this book.
Read
October 2, 2025
Last on the List, my surprise pregnancy historical romance, is now live in #kindleunlimited ❤ Mary and Silas are so special to me. I've been pulling for them since the very beginning, and here we FINALLY are. Their HEA is definitely a journey, but it's so sweet (and spicy) and satisfying.
★★Grab your copy TODAY!★★
Amazon: https://mybook.to/LOTL
Goodreads: https://bit.ly/3WyhYM8
Illustrated People Cover: https://amzn.to/4aaMCRP
Floral Special Edition: https://amzn.to/4abJa9w
★ ★ BLURB ★ ★
Silas Bartholomew is falling behind.
After watching my three younger sisters fall in love over the years, I’ve realized I might not want to be the lone, unattached Bartholomew sibling any longer. It’s time I grew up and assumed my role as my father’s heir. But in order to do that, I’ll need responsibilities, a household, … and a wife.
I was not anticipating a secret arrangement with my sister’s best friend who barely tolerates me.
Mary Lovelace wants nothing more than a family.
Falling into bed with Silas Bartholomew was not part of my plan. This unexpected and, frankly, unwelcome attraction I feel for the infuriating gentleman leads to shadowed secrets and sudden complications.
Silas and I find ourselves feeling far more than we ever anticipated. When our arrangement abruptly ends, I’m left with a future that is growing increasingly tricky, right alongside my waistline.
Finally, the possibility of a family of my own is back on the table, but the father of my child is the very last man I ever intended to share a future with. But some connections are too powerful to ignore.
Can I find the courage to face the love right in front of me or will the family I’ve always dreamed of be just out of reach?
Book #4 in the Bartholomew series follows the surprising and steamy romance between two people who are supposed to hate each other. Last on the List is a full-length historical romance filled with charm and wit, an accidental pregnancy, and a guaranteed happily ever after. While this novel does stand alone, it is probably best enjoyed after reading Book #3 in the series, Third Degree Yearn.
November 30, 2023
I adore this series and The Last on the List is a fantastic way to end the series…even though I don’t want it to end.
Mary is a kind and wonderful woman but she is so hard on herself. She hurt my heart by thinking she was not good enough or worth being loved.
Silas is a lifelong bachelor and is searching for his purpose in life. He’s a good person but has a bit of a reputation.
Laney writes this enemies to lovers trope magnificently with the perfect amount of tension, push/pull and passion! The banter and sass between these two is fantastic!
I really loved this story and how these characters connected, help one another with their insecurities and ultimately brought the best out in each other.
This book can be read as a stand alone but I suggest reading the books in order to better understand the other characters and history.
Mary is a kind and wonderful woman but she is so hard on herself. She hurt my heart by thinking she was not good enough or worth being loved.
Silas is a lifelong bachelor and is searching for his purpose in life. He’s a good person but has a bit of a reputation.
Laney writes this enemies to lovers trope magnificently with the perfect amount of tension, push/pull and passion! The banter and sass between these two is fantastic!
I really loved this story and how these characters connected, help one another with their insecurities and ultimately brought the best out in each other.
This book can be read as a stand alone but I suggest reading the books in order to better understand the other characters and history.
November 26, 2023
I love the Bartholomew series and I’m so sad that it had to end. However I could not think of more perfect ending.
Last on the list tugged on every last one of my heart strings. I just loved Silas. He was forever a bachelor and needed purpose in his life. Mary was such a unique heroine. She knew what she wanted and made a list to get it. (And I just realized the double meaning of the title just this minute… Laney you genius)
This book may not be everyone cup of tea because it deals with pregnancy but it is just a work of art. Laney’s writing just gets better and better which each book and I cannot wait to see what the future holds.
Last on the list tugged on every last one of my heart strings. I just loved Silas. He was forever a bachelor and needed purpose in his life. Mary was such a unique heroine. She knew what she wanted and made a list to get it. (And I just realized the double meaning of the title just this minute… Laney you genius)
This book may not be everyone cup of tea because it deals with pregnancy but it is just a work of art. Laney’s writing just gets better and better which each book and I cannot wait to see what the future holds.
November 27, 2023
What a great way to end this series! So glad Mary and Silas found their happy ending together! Their bickering was super entertaining and Mary gre on me so much during the previous instalments I was super glad to see her take the center stage finally. And a perfect match for Silas who finally found his place in the world by tending to Jamie and Mary (in different ways of course!).
Thankful for the Bartholomews and this amazing series!
Thankful for the Bartholomews and this amazing series!
December 23, 2023
⭐⭐⭐⭐✨ "Above all, the portrait exemplified the abundant, chaotic love these individuals shared. There was not another family quite like them." 💜 so sad the series is over : (
December 12, 2023
All the stars, loved this so much!
Last on the List will, without a doubt, make my list of favorite reads for this year! It was the perfect way to end this series that I have absolutely adored.
We got to know Mary and Silas in the previous books, and while I wouldn't call them enemies, they are definitely antagonistic towards each other. All that great snark and banter continues in this story, but we also get the tension and chemistry and pining and all the feels - and it's all interwoven perfectly! I love these characters so much and was genuinely sad to reach the end of their story (and even more sad that the series is over).
As someone who typically does not enjoy historical romance, this entire series has just blown me away. I can not sing its praises enough. All four books are available in KU, and I would highly recommend them to even the most die-hard contemporary readers.
Last on the List will, without a doubt, make my list of favorite reads for this year! It was the perfect way to end this series that I have absolutely adored.
We got to know Mary and Silas in the previous books, and while I wouldn't call them enemies, they are definitely antagonistic towards each other. All that great snark and banter continues in this story, but we also get the tension and chemistry and pining and all the feels - and it's all interwoven perfectly! I love these characters so much and was genuinely sad to reach the end of their story (and even more sad that the series is over).
As someone who typically does not enjoy historical romance, this entire series has just blown me away. I can not sing its praises enough. All four books are available in KU, and I would highly recommend them to even the most die-hard contemporary readers.
December 20, 2023
3.25 stars. This book wasn’t the worst, but it fell below my expectations. To be honest, I skipped about a third of the book because the heroine was so annoying in her continual hypocrisy and self-sabotage. Before I go on I better write a snippet about the book. Mary is the spinster, outspoken best friend of Patty, Silas Bartholomew’s sister. Her family is privately horrible, publicly perfect and she decided marriage must be a truly awful institution. So she decides to have affairs that will eventually lead to her having a baby. Making a list of bachelors with a loose reputation she decides how to start her hunt. Unfortunately her sparring partner Silas sees her list first and, thinking the list is potential suitors, is offended his name is dead last. To her surprise he feels the need to prove his prowess. This begins the craziness.
What worked for me: 1) Spelling/grammatical errors were minimal. 2) I honestly enjoy this author’s writing style. The pacing, the voice, the characters are all usually very smooth.
What didn’t work for me: 1) Mary. Oh the hypocrisy of Don’t Ever Lie To Me Mary. Also the constant self sabotage of her actions made it hard for me to sympathize or even walk the journey with her. 2) Patty. Your best friend tells you she’s pregnant with your niece/nephew and you’re not going to tell the father it’s his child???? And she’s going to live with you and possibly raise the baby AT YOUR HOUSE???? With your brother who is constantly coming over? And you’re not even going to tell him? Because it’s none of his business??? 🤦🏻♀️ 3) I was done with Silas’ grovel fest he had going on throughout the book. Seriously. Look, if he screws up he apologizes. But when she screws up repeatedly it is nobody’s business but her own? I could not with this group. So she is screwing up badly and there is Silas apologizing AGAIN for some curt words. 4) I could only stomach that circus so long (65% through the book) before I couldn’t take it anymore and skipped to the end. 5) The end. “Sure, there was gossip, but we didn’t care.” Uh, what? Did not make any sense. 6) For the love of all that is holy, please stop the multiple epilogues. One was enough and the 2nd didn’t add a thing that couldn’t have been added in a different spot.
All in all, not the best read for me. BUT, as I liked the 1st 3 (mostly book 2), I will continue to try this author.
What worked for me: 1) Spelling/grammatical errors were minimal. 2) I honestly enjoy this author’s writing style. The pacing, the voice, the characters are all usually very smooth.
What didn’t work for me: 1) Mary. Oh the hypocrisy of Don’t Ever Lie To Me Mary. Also the constant self sabotage of her actions made it hard for me to sympathize or even walk the journey with her. 2) Patty. Your best friend tells you she’s pregnant with your niece/nephew and you’re not going to tell the father it’s his child???? And she’s going to live with you and possibly raise the baby AT YOUR HOUSE???? With your brother who is constantly coming over? And you’re not even going to tell him? Because it’s none of his business??? 🤦🏻♀️ 3) I was done with Silas’ grovel fest he had going on throughout the book. Seriously. Look, if he screws up he apologizes. But when she screws up repeatedly it is nobody’s business but her own? I could not with this group. So she is screwing up badly and there is Silas apologizing AGAIN for some curt words. 4) I could only stomach that circus so long (65% through the book) before I couldn’t take it anymore and skipped to the end. 5) The end. “Sure, there was gossip, but we didn’t care.” Uh, what? Did not make any sense. 6) For the love of all that is holy, please stop the multiple epilogues. One was enough and the 2nd didn’t add a thing that couldn’t have been added in a different spot.
All in all, not the best read for me. BUT, as I liked the 1st 3 (mostly book 2), I will continue to try this author.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 4, 2023
Last on the List by Laney Hatcher is the 4th - and sadly the last - book of the Bartholomew Series...
While this novel does stand alone, it is probably best enjoyed after reading Book #3 in the series, Third Degree Yearn. (Note from the author)
OH MY GOODNESS!
I loved the previous books of this series and I still want to be part of this charming and special family. 💕
This book was a really heavy roller coaster ride! Up and down and up and down... 😅
Mary Lovelace has one big wish. She wants a family of her own and to fulfill this wish, she needs help... so to say. Good thing is that Silas Bartholomew kind of has the same wish... but... Mary is the best friend of his sister and they really don't like each other that much... or do they?!
MARY and SILAS! Oh my! What they've done with me! Two characters who stile my heart, made me cry, made me laugh and swoon, made me angry too! Aaargh! Honestly?!
Sometimes they were soooo frustrating! Ugh!!! Let's just say they could have had it much easier in their story... 😅
I don't wanna spoil you, so I'll stop talking!
But besides this bit of frustration...
I ABSOLUTELY LOVED THIS BOOK!
The banter between Mary and Silas? PERFECTION! 👏👏👏👏
Both are on the same level! She's not shy or innocent! Mary's a strong woman, who knows what she wants and does everything to get it.
And Silas? Awwwwww! Be still my beating heart! He's the oldest Bartholomew sibling and lived his life like he wanted to... but seeing his sibling in love and with children?
That changed him and it was wonderful to experience it! 🥰
Him with Mary? Awwwww! No matter what! I loved them in every situation! ❤️
It was also soooo lovely to have the whole Bartholomew family in the story too. It just showed how supportive they're are... and it's also so important for Mary and her background. 🥰
Last on the List is a wonderful historical romance with lots of banter, romance, sexy times, emotional stuff, laughter, and all the other good stuff! 👍
Thank you so much to Laney Hatcher for this ARC.
This is my honest review in my own words.
While this novel does stand alone, it is probably best enjoyed after reading Book #3 in the series, Third Degree Yearn. (Note from the author)
OH MY GOODNESS!
I loved the previous books of this series and I still want to be part of this charming and special family. 💕
This book was a really heavy roller coaster ride! Up and down and up and down... 😅
Mary Lovelace has one big wish. She wants a family of her own and to fulfill this wish, she needs help... so to say. Good thing is that Silas Bartholomew kind of has the same wish... but... Mary is the best friend of his sister and they really don't like each other that much... or do they?!
MARY and SILAS! Oh my! What they've done with me! Two characters who stile my heart, made me cry, made me laugh and swoon, made me angry too! Aaargh! Honestly?!
Sometimes they were soooo frustrating! Ugh!!! Let's just say they could have had it much easier in their story... 😅
I don't wanna spoil you, so I'll stop talking!
But besides this bit of frustration...
I ABSOLUTELY LOVED THIS BOOK!
The banter between Mary and Silas? PERFECTION! 👏👏👏👏
Both are on the same level! She's not shy or innocent! Mary's a strong woman, who knows what she wants and does everything to get it.
And Silas? Awwwwww! Be still my beating heart! He's the oldest Bartholomew sibling and lived his life like he wanted to... but seeing his sibling in love and with children?
That changed him and it was wonderful to experience it! 🥰
Him with Mary? Awwwww! No matter what! I loved them in every situation! ❤️
It was also soooo lovely to have the whole Bartholomew family in the story too. It just showed how supportive they're are... and it's also so important for Mary and her background. 🥰
Last on the List is a wonderful historical romance with lots of banter, romance, sexy times, emotional stuff, laughter, and all the other good stuff! 👍
Thank you so much to Laney Hatcher for this ARC.
This is my honest review in my own words.
November 30, 2023
LAST ON THE LIST (BARTHOLOMEW SERIES BOOK FOUR)
Kindle Unlimited: [X]YES [ ]NO
Stand-alone: [X]YES [ ]NO
Author: Laney Hatcher
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Spiciness rating: 🌶🌶️🌶/5
POV: Dual, first person
Main Couple: Mary & Silas
Genre: Historical Romance
Tropes: surprise pregnancy; opposites attract
Review:
It seems it was yesterday the first book im this series was released and I had the first contact with the Bartholomew family and I’m sad this is the last book, but it couldn’t end better. Each new book Laney released became my favorite and Last on the list is now my fave.
Laney has a way of telling captivating tales and the best part of her writing is how we come to love to no end all her couples. Even when they are extremely stubborn like Mary (mainly), and Silas. Even when I wanted to scream at them, it was because I couldn’t wait to see them together and happy.
We had glimpses of Mary and Silas fun bickering from book two on, but they were so much more than the fun characters they seemed to be and their story was so emotional I caught myself tearing up a couple of times. Their story was the steamiest from the four books, their chemistry was off the charts and I more than recommend this series. If nothing I wrote until here convinced you, just know I can’t stand the surprise pregnancy trope and, in spite of that, I loved the book.
*** I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. ***
Kindle Unlimited: [X]YES [ ]NO
Stand-alone: [X]YES [ ]NO
Author: Laney Hatcher
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Spiciness rating: 🌶🌶️🌶/5
POV: Dual, first person
Main Couple: Mary & Silas
Genre: Historical Romance
Tropes: surprise pregnancy; opposites attract
Review:
It seems it was yesterday the first book im this series was released and I had the first contact with the Bartholomew family and I’m sad this is the last book, but it couldn’t end better. Each new book Laney released became my favorite and Last on the list is now my fave.
Laney has a way of telling captivating tales and the best part of her writing is how we come to love to no end all her couples. Even when they are extremely stubborn like Mary (mainly), and Silas. Even when I wanted to scream at them, it was because I couldn’t wait to see them together and happy.
We had glimpses of Mary and Silas fun bickering from book two on, but they were so much more than the fun characters they seemed to be and their story was so emotional I caught myself tearing up a couple of times. Their story was the steamiest from the four books, their chemistry was off the charts and I more than recommend this series. If nothing I wrote until here convinced you, just know I can’t stand the surprise pregnancy trope and, in spite of that, I loved the book.
*** I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. ***
November 29, 2023
What an absolutely wonderful end to this series. The Bartholomew family has completely stolen my heart.
The way that Mary and Silas fell in love felt so natural and perfect in this book. They don’t necessarily have an enemy to lovers romance, but the way they poke and prod at each other, as they have been through this entire series has been such a fun buildup of tension between these two.
The pining that these two have for each other, just makes me want to squish them together. Having Silas’ POV was ‘chefs kiss’, the way he felt for Mary was perfect.
Oh my poor Augie. I just cannot stop laughing how he was always in the wrong spot at the wrong time in this book.
I definitely recommend reading the whole series, for the tension (see above). This book especially, has CW listed at the beginning, so take care readers!
The way that Mary and Silas fell in love felt so natural and perfect in this book. They don’t necessarily have an enemy to lovers romance, but the way they poke and prod at each other, as they have been through this entire series has been such a fun buildup of tension between these two.
The pining that these two have for each other, just makes me want to squish them together. Having Silas’ POV was ‘chefs kiss’, the way he felt for Mary was perfect.
Oh my poor Augie. I just cannot stop laughing how he was always in the wrong spot at the wrong time in this book.
I definitely recommend reading the whole series, for the tension (see above). This book especially, has CW listed at the beginning, so take care readers!
December 12, 2023
POV: Dual
Spice: 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️
Last on the List is a beautiful ending to an amazing series! It’s also one of the faster burn historical romances that I’ve read, and I’m here for it!
I’ve always loved Silas, with his sense of humor and how much he loved all his sisters, in a time where men didn’t necessarily care about those relationships. While I appreciated that Mary was a strong and independent lady who didn’t really care what people thought about her (hence the list she made) and how she kind of turned the tables on Silas and made him a secret mistress, I really was upset with all the hurt she caused sweet Silas!
Beautifully written as I’ve come to expect from Laney, this book made me smile as well as she’d a few tears, but mostly happy ones. I loved the epilogue, but I sure am going to miss this family!
Spice: 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️
Last on the List is a beautiful ending to an amazing series! It’s also one of the faster burn historical romances that I’ve read, and I’m here for it!
I’ve always loved Silas, with his sense of humor and how much he loved all his sisters, in a time where men didn’t necessarily care about those relationships. While I appreciated that Mary was a strong and independent lady who didn’t really care what people thought about her (hence the list she made) and how she kind of turned the tables on Silas and made him a secret mistress, I really was upset with all the hurt she caused sweet Silas!
Beautifully written as I’ve come to expect from Laney, this book made me smile as well as she’d a few tears, but mostly happy ones. I loved the epilogue, but I sure am going to miss this family!
November 29, 2023
Laney Hatcher does it again! I’m so sad the Bartholomew series is coming to an end. I’ve enjoyed every second of it. Mary has been our friend since the beginning of the series, and Silas has been the brother we’ve all wanted! I’m delighted that these two mature adults were able to get a happily ever after. I love a romance with grown-up adults! The maturity of these two really showed through which is not something you always see in a romance novel. Additionally, it was great to see all of the sisters and husbands living there happily ever after. And the epilogue was the cherry on top!
Thank you to the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
December 11, 2023
These frustratingly endearing, honorable, and adorable idiots (lovingly)—Silas and Mary—have stolen my heart. It takes a skilled author and charming characters to win me over with a surprise pregnancy plot, and Laney Hatcher is skilled beyond measure.
It’s so bittersweet saying goodbye to a family, but the Bartholomew siblings are all safely ensconced in their HEAs and Laney Hatcher provided us all with double epilogues to end this series.
If you’re not a historical romance reader, I’d wager just about anything that you’ll love each story from Laney Hatcher. Last on the List is a wonderful historical romance. One that I couldn’t stop picturing Julia Roberts and Dermot Mulroney. Even with iconic scenes plucked from Julia’s filmography.
With each new book from Laney Hatcher, I become more devoted to her brand of storytelling. Do not miss out on any of her wonderful books.
It’s so bittersweet saying goodbye to a family, but the Bartholomew siblings are all safely ensconced in their HEAs and Laney Hatcher provided us all with double epilogues to end this series.
If you’re not a historical romance reader, I’d wager just about anything that you’ll love each story from Laney Hatcher. Last on the List is a wonderful historical romance. One that I couldn’t stop picturing Julia Roberts and Dermot Mulroney. Even with iconic scenes plucked from Julia’s filmography.
With each new book from Laney Hatcher, I become more devoted to her brand of storytelling. Do not miss out on any of her wonderful books.
September 15, 2024
I absolutely adored this series and following the adventures of the Bartholomew family. This book provided a fantastic conclusion to the series. Silas stood out as my favorite Bartholomew due to his captivating nature. The dynamic between Mary and Silas was incredibly entertaining. Their humorous exchanges and squabbles never failed to bring a smile to my face, and the unexpected pregnancy added an exciting twist to the narrative. While each book can be read as a standalone, I wholeheartedly recommend experiencing the entire series to fully appreciate the charm of the Bartholomew clan. Although I am saddened by the end of this journey, I cherished every moment.
December 6, 2023
Y'all, this last one is my favorite. I love getting to the end of a series (for now) and having the couple that's been bickering for YEARS finally get their time in the spotlight.
I won this e-arc as a giveaway from the author herself!
I genuinely don't have anything I didn't like about this book. This was the perfect story for Silas and Mary, and absolutely ripped my heart out and put it back together. And the two epilogues????? MY HEART. I highly recommend this series and y'all better read this when it comes out next week!!!!
I won this e-arc as a giveaway from the author herself!
I genuinely don't have anything I didn't like about this book. This was the perfect story for Silas and Mary, and absolutely ripped my heart out and put it back together. And the two epilogues????? MY HEART. I highly recommend this series and y'all better read this when it comes out next week!!!!
December 13, 2023
Laney Hatcher's writing and storytelling just keep getting better and better with each book. Last on the List is her best book yet, and I loved it so much.
I liked Mary from the very first chapter as we get to see her plans and her opinion of Silas. When the two of them meet after her carriage gets stuck their banter and chemistry were perfection. I couldn't wait to see how their relationship developed and Laney did not disappoint. She did such a wonderful job with the character growth and building their connection as they truly got to know one another.
I'm sad that this is the final book in the series, but it was the perfect story to end with! I cannot recommend this book and series enough.
Thank you to all the author for providing an ARC for an honest review.
I liked Mary from the very first chapter as we get to see her plans and her opinion of Silas. When the two of them meet after her carriage gets stuck their banter and chemistry were perfection. I couldn't wait to see how their relationship developed and Laney did not disappoint. She did such a wonderful job with the character growth and building their connection as they truly got to know one another.
I'm sad that this is the final book in the series, but it was the perfect story to end with! I cannot recommend this book and series enough.
Thank you to all the author for providing an ARC for an honest review.
December 13, 2023
This is a fantastic series about the Bartholomew siblings. This book is about Silas and Lady Mary. Are they friends? Enemies? Mary and Silas fuss and banter quite often. Mary has set out with plans to acquire what she wants most. She’s made a list. Silas finds that list. He’s determined to find out why he’s last on the list. I enjoyed this story. I enjoyed all the sweet things Silas did. Mary was a bit stubborn. But I guess that comes from the red hair. Loved the ending of the book.
December 31, 2023
I’ll admit, I dragged my feet on reading this book. The reason? I did not want this series to end. I’ve loved this little piece of 1800’s England that Laney Hatcher envisioned for us. I’ve loved being a part of the Bartholomew family for the past 2 years. While I’m sad to see it end, I’m so excited for the future and what Laney will write for us next. I’m so glad to see Mary and Silas get the story they both deserve, could not have asked for a more satisfying ending to a series.
December 5, 2023
I received an ARC from the author today.
I loved Mary and Silas both so very much since the beginning of this lovely series. Silas is boyfriend goals for sure. This was such a heartfelt journey for both of them and I am so very happy they both found their HEA. I definitely recommend this book and this series.
I loved Mary and Silas both so very much since the beginning of this lovely series. Silas is boyfriend goals for sure. This was such a heartfelt journey for both of them and I am so very happy they both found their HEA. I definitely recommend this book and this series.
December 15, 2023
This started real nice and I was enjoying almost everything about it, the fun banter that ended up in physical intimacy, the back story of both main characters and the inner issues that they needed to resolve before their relationship could evolve and feelings were discussed. Unfortunately it grew repetitive rather quickly and it frustrated me to end how this woman kept sabotaging her future and running away from a man who clearly loved her. Yes, agreeing to start looking for a woman to marry while still engaging with the FMC was an asshole thing to do, but he never truly did anything with anyone, gave a sincere apology and confessed his love for her. But this heroin was also incredibly immature and hurt his feelings on purpose in multiple instances and never apologized for anything until the very end of the book when she finally told him he was the father of the baby, after months of him taking care of her while believing she was carrying another man's child. By that point I no longer cared for them and the future of their relationship.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 28, 2023
I very much wanted to like this book, but I simply could not abide by the heroine's awful assumptions and disregard for the hero's feelings. The characters deserved a better journey. It read much more like a contemporary novel than a historical one.
March 3, 2024
The perfect ending to this series
This was the perfect ending to the series. Loved it so much! It was so great to read about each siblings story and the ending of this one wrapped it all up in a nice little bow.
This was the perfect ending to the series. Loved it so much! It was so great to read about each siblings story and the ending of this one wrapped it all up in a nice little bow.
November 29, 2024
DNF - I skipped the most following the 65% mark. I just couldn’t read anymore of Mary pity herself for the situation she maneuvered herself into and with increasingly selfishness on top of it. I’m just sorry for Silas. He deserves a better story to complete this family’s books.
September 3, 2024
Definitely my favorite, really enjoyed this historical romance series!
April 1, 2025
⭐️: 5.0
. Plot/trope: Enemies to lovers. Hidden pregnancy. I loved the banter and the evolving relationship. Sweet towards each other.
. FMC: Mary.
. MMC: Silas.
. Plot/trope: Enemies to lovers. Hidden pregnancy. I loved the banter and the evolving relationship. Sweet towards each other.
. FMC: Mary.
. MMC: Silas.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 15, 2023
I will admit to having a bit of a problem with anachronisms in attitude in historical novels, depending on what that attitude is. I do try to be flexible and I certainly don't have a huge problem if the female lead is more 21st century in her desire for self-determination, independence, and control over her life. This was an exception to my tolerance.
I confess that I didn't get any farther than 6 pages into the book before being able to read farther. Why? Because while the book was set in the mid-Victorian period (although the cover implies that it is a Regency novel), Mary, the female lead, at the age of 32, being single, on the shelf, and with a dowry too small to attract a husband, decides that she is going to become a mother without bothering with a husband and so writes up a list of 22 men who don't seem to be particularly interested in marriage who she has determined will be willing to get her pregnant and then leave her and the child alone. She has already calculated that it might take some time to achieve her goal because she has had relations in the past and never got pregnant, but that's fine with her.
Aaand at this point, my tolerance was shattered. A single woman in that incredibly socially conservative society who found herself pregnant out of wedlock destroyed any illusions she might have entertained at living a respectable life. In a society where connections often were the difference between life and death--literally--she is purposely acting in such a way to sever all connections to her family and everyone she has known. And while she may have been willing to ignore polite society's opinion of herself, at the same time and without concern or conscience, she condemned her child to a life on the outside of society. They would be unlikely to be able to find work that allowed them to support themselves to any level of comfort, and they it is unlikely would have been able to make an advantageous marriage; that her child likely would have suffered a life on the streets didn't seem to occur to her. The only thing she cared about was that she wanted to become a mother and to heck with what happened after that. (I won't bother going into the dangers of pregnancy in that time, although with the high likelihood of her dying during childbirth and leaving an illegitimate newborn on its own shows a staggering sense of selfish entitlement that is quite frankly horrifying.)
I don't know if she had family who might care enough about her to overlook her attitudes and actions and support her anyway--I didn't get far enough in the book to find out. I am making the assumption that whoever gets her pregnant will decide to marry her and support their child, this being a romance after all (although why he would want to saddle himself with such an awful person, I don't know). She may even have a moment of self-actualization where she realizes the folly of her actions. And I don't care.
I have enjoyed Hatcher's other books, some more than others. While they've been a little uneven for me, I've been happy to continue to read her. I don't normally hate books--at most I may either be bored or mildly annoyed by aspects of them. This was an exception for me; had I been reading a hard copy instead of an e-book, I would likely have thrown it across the room.
I appreciate that many readers might not be bothered by the motivations driving Mary in this book, and that's fine. I hope they enjoy it. I just can't enjoy it myself.
I confess that I didn't get any farther than 6 pages into the book before being able to read farther. Why? Because while the book was set in the mid-Victorian period (although the cover implies that it is a Regency novel), Mary, the female lead, at the age of 32, being single, on the shelf, and with a dowry too small to attract a husband, decides that she is going to become a mother without bothering with a husband and so writes up a list of 22 men who don't seem to be particularly interested in marriage who she has determined will be willing to get her pregnant and then leave her and the child alone. She has already calculated that it might take some time to achieve her goal because she has had relations in the past and never got pregnant, but that's fine with her.
Aaand at this point, my tolerance was shattered. A single woman in that incredibly socially conservative society who found herself pregnant out of wedlock destroyed any illusions she might have entertained at living a respectable life. In a society where connections often were the difference between life and death--literally--she is purposely acting in such a way to sever all connections to her family and everyone she has known. And while she may have been willing to ignore polite society's opinion of herself, at the same time and without concern or conscience, she condemned her child to a life on the outside of society. They would be unlikely to be able to find work that allowed them to support themselves to any level of comfort, and they it is unlikely would have been able to make an advantageous marriage; that her child likely would have suffered a life on the streets didn't seem to occur to her. The only thing she cared about was that she wanted to become a mother and to heck with what happened after that. (I won't bother going into the dangers of pregnancy in that time, although with the high likelihood of her dying during childbirth and leaving an illegitimate newborn on its own shows a staggering sense of selfish entitlement that is quite frankly horrifying.)
I don't know if she had family who might care enough about her to overlook her attitudes and actions and support her anyway--I didn't get far enough in the book to find out. I am making the assumption that whoever gets her pregnant will decide to marry her and support their child, this being a romance after all (although why he would want to saddle himself with such an awful person, I don't know). She may even have a moment of self-actualization where she realizes the folly of her actions. And I don't care.
I have enjoyed Hatcher's other books, some more than others. While they've been a little uneven for me, I've been happy to continue to read her. I don't normally hate books--at most I may either be bored or mildly annoyed by aspects of them. This was an exception for me; had I been reading a hard copy instead of an e-book, I would likely have thrown it across the room.
I appreciate that many readers might not be bothered by the motivations driving Mary in this book, and that's fine. I hope they enjoy it. I just can't enjoy it myself.
November 28, 2023
Format - E ARC
Rating- ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Spice- 🌶 🌶 🌶 🌶
Series- Bartholomew #4
Troupes- not so surprise pregnancy, enemies to lovers, forced proximity, mutual pinning,
Representation- later in life love and family,
CW- neglectful and abusive parents, on page labor and delivery,
I am so sad to report that this is the last on this series for the Bartholomew family. Silas and Mary have been a consent presence in the rest of the series and despite the surprise preggers troupe I was so excited to finally get to read their HEA! It was everything I hope for and so much more!
Mary is an unconventional Lady, and with her being “firmly on the shelf” she still wants a loving family of her own, she has a plan and she’s ready to execute it. She wasn’t however prepared for her old rival and sparing partner to swoop in and capture her body as well as her heart and leave her with exactly what she was hoping for. She has everything to has yearned for but now he’s made her want so much more.
Silas is at loose ends not longer interested in traveling and loving being with is family but he’s missing something or someone, when an unexpected rescue turns into the most passionate encounter of his life he’ll do and be anything Lady Mary wants in order to stay close to her.
I love every single second of this book, even when I wanted to strangle Mary for keeping her secrets and being to stubborn, I love the tension and hold Spicy scene batman Laney did not hold back on the chilly peppers! It starts early (as it the case with surprise perggers books) and continues though out. Just when you think they are to twisted up and mad at each other BAM seggy times in the pond! And it never got old or boring 😉
I loved the setting of this whole series the Laurel Park house in a fixture in my head now and wish is was real! As I said this is the last in this series but hopefully not the last we see of this wonderfully wacky and oh so lovable family!
If you looking for a cozy historical romance with some yule tiding themes and lots of heart, feels and a happy tears HEA then this book is for you!
Thank you Laney Hatcher for the advanced copy in exchange for my opinions are nonsense!
And Congratulations on your first full series!
Rating- ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Spice- 🌶 🌶 🌶 🌶
Series- Bartholomew #4
Troupes- not so surprise pregnancy, enemies to lovers, forced proximity, mutual pinning,
Representation- later in life love and family,
CW- neglectful and abusive parents, on page labor and delivery,
I am so sad to report that this is the last on this series for the Bartholomew family. Silas and Mary have been a consent presence in the rest of the series and despite the surprise preggers troupe I was so excited to finally get to read their HEA! It was everything I hope for and so much more!
Mary is an unconventional Lady, and with her being “firmly on the shelf” she still wants a loving family of her own, she has a plan and she’s ready to execute it. She wasn’t however prepared for her old rival and sparing partner to swoop in and capture her body as well as her heart and leave her with exactly what she was hoping for. She has everything to has yearned for but now he’s made her want so much more.
Silas is at loose ends not longer interested in traveling and loving being with is family but he’s missing something or someone, when an unexpected rescue turns into the most passionate encounter of his life he’ll do and be anything Lady Mary wants in order to stay close to her.
I love every single second of this book, even when I wanted to strangle Mary for keeping her secrets and being to stubborn, I love the tension and hold Spicy scene batman Laney did not hold back on the chilly peppers! It starts early (as it the case with surprise perggers books) and continues though out. Just when you think they are to twisted up and mad at each other BAM seggy times in the pond! And it never got old or boring 😉
I loved the setting of this whole series the Laurel Park house in a fixture in my head now and wish is was real! As I said this is the last in this series but hopefully not the last we see of this wonderfully wacky and oh so lovable family!
If you looking for a cozy historical romance with some yule tiding themes and lots of heart, feels and a happy tears HEA then this book is for you!
Thank you Laney Hatcher for the advanced copy in exchange for my opinions are nonsense!
And Congratulations on your first full series!
December 14, 2023
“I felt like you were giving me bits and pieces of you and then asking me to return them when you were done. All the while, I was handing you parts of my heart that I never got back.”
Last on the List by Laney Hatcher is the fourth and final book in the Bartholomew series. This was a bittersweet read as I have loved the Bartholomew family and never wanted the fun to end! Mary Lovelace has been a dear friend of the Bartholomew sisters for years. At thirty-two years old, she has resigned herself to life without a husband but refuses to abandon her dream of motherhood. After a lifetime in an unhappy home, Mary yearns to make her own loving family. Silas Bartholomew is a man about ton with wanderlust. Watching his siblings find love and start families, planted a seed in Silas’s heart, but can he escape his playboy reputation to find love? Silas is a compassionate, brilliant, affable cinnamon roll with a salacious side. He melted my heart with his kindness, flirting, and cheeky ways. Mary is a witty, loving, saucy minx who has withstood town judgment for years. With battered self esteem, Mary’s self worth is skewed, until Silas makes her see her true beauty through his friendship and love. I loved that Silas and Mary had a solid foundation (though it may be filled with snippy banter) that helped them see each other beyond societal perspectives and gossip-fueled reputations. From frenemies, to fling, to soul-deep love, Silas and Mary’s story is utterly charming. Last on the List is a lovely blend of quippy banter, hilarious tawdry moments, swoon-tastic romance, and heartwarming found family charm. If you are looking for lighthearted, steamy historical romance, you’ll love Silas and Mary!
Last on the List by Laney Hatcher is the fourth and final book in the Bartholomew series. This was a bittersweet read as I have loved the Bartholomew family and never wanted the fun to end! Mary Lovelace has been a dear friend of the Bartholomew sisters for years. At thirty-two years old, she has resigned herself to life without a husband but refuses to abandon her dream of motherhood. After a lifetime in an unhappy home, Mary yearns to make her own loving family. Silas Bartholomew is a man about ton with wanderlust. Watching his siblings find love and start families, planted a seed in Silas’s heart, but can he escape his playboy reputation to find love? Silas is a compassionate, brilliant, affable cinnamon roll with a salacious side. He melted my heart with his kindness, flirting, and cheeky ways. Mary is a witty, loving, saucy minx who has withstood town judgment for years. With battered self esteem, Mary’s self worth is skewed, until Silas makes her see her true beauty through his friendship and love. I loved that Silas and Mary had a solid foundation (though it may be filled with snippy banter) that helped them see each other beyond societal perspectives and gossip-fueled reputations. From frenemies, to fling, to soul-deep love, Silas and Mary’s story is utterly charming. Last on the List is a lovely blend of quippy banter, hilarious tawdry moments, swoon-tastic romance, and heartwarming found family charm. If you are looking for lighthearted, steamy historical romance, you’ll love Silas and Mary!
December 21, 2023
Overall Grade: A-
Tropes: surprise pregnancy; best friend’s brother; sister’s best friend; banter; enemies to lovers to vibes; found family
Laney Hatcher has definitely saved her best for last. Last on the List, the final story of her Bartholomew series, offers an apt end to this touchingly irreverent historical romance series. The Bartholomew siblings have definitely captured my heart, and Silas and Mary are the cherry on the hot fudge of this delicious romantic sundae.
Whenever you write a couple with the type of fiery banter that Mary and Silas engage in, you know the story will be engaging. Hatcher deftly carries us through their “hate to love,” fiery attraction, friends with benefits, and angsty romance. I loved the pacing of their journey even though Mary’s secrecy and want to protect Silas would frustrate any reader. Yet, this is the crux of the surprise pregnancy trope, and Hatcher allows us to rest in that tension for much of the book. She needs this space, however, to help Silas recognize his love for Mary (no surprise!), but even more, understand her background and its impact on Mary’s sense of self so he can love her the best. Even more, Hatcher grants them the space to learn to “see” the other better than anyone else. This takes a careful hand and decided storytelling to do it well, and Hatcher, in my opinion, has done it in Last on the List.
The ending of this story is poetry as we say goodbye to the Bartholomew siblings while also celebrating who Mary and Silas have become as a couple and parents. Laney Hatcher has done nothing more than make me fall deeper in love with her brand of historical romance. Hoping for more stories from her soon.
Tropes: surprise pregnancy; best friend’s brother; sister’s best friend; banter; enemies to lovers to vibes; found family
Laney Hatcher has definitely saved her best for last. Last on the List, the final story of her Bartholomew series, offers an apt end to this touchingly irreverent historical romance series. The Bartholomew siblings have definitely captured my heart, and Silas and Mary are the cherry on the hot fudge of this delicious romantic sundae.
Whenever you write a couple with the type of fiery banter that Mary and Silas engage in, you know the story will be engaging. Hatcher deftly carries us through their “hate to love,” fiery attraction, friends with benefits, and angsty romance. I loved the pacing of their journey even though Mary’s secrecy and want to protect Silas would frustrate any reader. Yet, this is the crux of the surprise pregnancy trope, and Hatcher allows us to rest in that tension for much of the book. She needs this space, however, to help Silas recognize his love for Mary (no surprise!), but even more, understand her background and its impact on Mary’s sense of self so he can love her the best. Even more, Hatcher grants them the space to learn to “see” the other better than anyone else. This takes a careful hand and decided storytelling to do it well, and Hatcher, in my opinion, has done it in Last on the List.
The ending of this story is poetry as we say goodbye to the Bartholomew siblings while also celebrating who Mary and Silas have become as a couple and parents. Laney Hatcher has done nothing more than make me fall deeper in love with her brand of historical romance. Hoping for more stories from her soon.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews