Anthony Trollope’s The Last Chronicle of Barset brings his beloved Barchester series to a close with what might be its most gripping story. At its heart is a deceptively simple problem that causes maximum chaos.

The Story

The Reverend Josiah Crawley, a poor but fiercely principled schoolmaster, is found using a check for twenty pounds. The problem? He has no clear memory of how he got it, and the wealthy Mr. Soames insists it was stolen. Crawley’s stubborn pride and deep shame prevent him from mounting a proper defense, even as the formal charge of theft looms. The scandal ripples outward, threatening his daughter Grace’s engagement to Major Grantly, whose father, the Archdeacon, strongly disapproves of the match. Meanwhile, other familiar faces from Barchester—like the gentle Mr. Harding and the ambitious Mr. Slope—navigate their own dramas, all while the community chooses sides in the court of public opinion.

Why You Should Read It

This book is a masterclass in character. Josiah Crawley is one of the most fascinating, frustrating, and ultimately heartbreaking figures in Victorian literature. His mix of brilliance, piety, and self-destructive pride makes you want to both shake him and defend him. Trollope doesn’t just tell a mystery; he pulls back the curtain on an entire social world. You feel the weight of gossip, the tension between charity and judgment, and the quiet heroism of those who stand by the accused. The resolution is deeply satisfying because it feels earned by the characters, not just plotted by the author.

Final Verdict

Perfect for readers who love rich, character-driven novels where the plot springs from people’s flaws and virtues. You don’t strictly need to have read the other Barchester books to enjoy this (Trollope fills you in), but if you have, it’s a rewarding finale. If you enjoy the social insight of Jane Austen but wouldn’t mind a bit more plot-driven scandal and a deeper look at Victorian class and church politics, this is your next great read. It’s a big book, but it moves with purpose, and you’ll likely find yourself as invested in Crawley’s fate as his neighbors were.