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A Simple Life
From NYT bestselling author Melanie Moreland comes a feuding to lovers standalone romance -
John Elliott is a busy man. He runs his farm and his business, keeping to himself, with no time for anything else in his life.
Quinn Harper is a single mother, looking for a fresh start.
The small town she picked seemed perfect—until her first run-in with John.
They strike sparks of the wrong kind and insist that keeping their distance is for the best.
Yet, despite his growly nature and curt tone, he is sweet to her daughter.
And he finds himself looking for reasons to be in Quinn’s company.
Do things that make them both smile. Make him feel happy.
Sparks sizzle into a low, banked fire.
And then an inferno erupts.
Neither wanted it.
But now, they can’t live without it.
Author's Get ready to swoon over a rugged farmer with a hidden heart of gold, falling for a fearless single mom and her charming little girl.
John Elliott is a busy man. He runs his farm and his business, keeping to himself, with no time for anything else in his life.
Quinn Harper is a single mother, looking for a fresh start.
The small town she picked seemed perfect—until her first run-in with John.
They strike sparks of the wrong kind and insist that keeping their distance is for the best.
Yet, despite his growly nature and curt tone, he is sweet to her daughter.
And he finds himself looking for reasons to be in Quinn’s company.
Do things that make them both smile. Make him feel happy.
Sparks sizzle into a low, banked fire.
And then an inferno erupts.
Neither wanted it.
But now, they can’t live without it.
Author's Get ready to swoon over a rugged farmer with a hidden heart of gold, falling for a fearless single mom and her charming little girl.
290 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 9, 2025
302 people are currently reading
588 people want to read
About the author
Melanie Moreland
76 books5,476 followersWelcome Romance Readers!
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A bit about me:
NYT/WSJ/USAT International bestselling author Melanie Moreland, lives a happy and content life in a quiet area of Ontario with her beloved husband of lots of lovely years and their rescue cat, Amber. Nothing means more to her than her friends and family, and she cherishes every moment spent with them.
While seriously addicted to coffee, and highly challenged with all things computer-related and technical, she relishes baking, cooking, and trying new recipes for people to sample. She loves to throw dinner parties, and also enjoys travelling, but finds coming home is always the best part of any trip.
Melanie loves stories, especially paired with a good wine, and enjoys skydiving (free falling over a fleck of dust) extreme snowboarding (falling down stairs) and piloting her own helicopter (tripping over her own feet.) She's learned happily ever-afters, even bumpy ones, are all in how you tell the story.
Melanie is represented by Flavia Viotti at Bookcase Literary Agency. For any questions regarding subsidiary or translation rights please contact her at flavia@bookcaseagency.com
Join my newsletter for news on upcoming releases and sales CLICK HERE
Make sure to follow me on Amazon for new release alerts CLICK HERE
Join me on Facebook in my reader group CLICK HERE
Check out my excerpts on Verve Romance CLICK HERE
A bit about me:
NYT/WSJ/USAT International bestselling author Melanie Moreland, lives a happy and content life in a quiet area of Ontario with her beloved husband of lots of lovely years and their rescue cat, Amber. Nothing means more to her than her friends and family, and she cherishes every moment spent with them.
While seriously addicted to coffee, and highly challenged with all things computer-related and technical, she relishes baking, cooking, and trying new recipes for people to sample. She loves to throw dinner parties, and also enjoys travelling, but finds coming home is always the best part of any trip.
Melanie loves stories, especially paired with a good wine, and enjoys skydiving (free falling over a fleck of dust) extreme snowboarding (falling down stairs) and piloting her own helicopter (tripping over her own feet.) She's learned happily ever-afters, even bumpy ones, are all in how you tell the story.
Melanie is represented by Flavia Viotti at Bookcase Literary Agency. For any questions regarding subsidiary or translation rights please contact her at flavia@bookcaseagency.com
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December 30, 2024
A Simple Life by Melanie Moreland is a stand alone, sweet, steamy, romance that stole my heart. We have a grumpy farmer, a single mom and a little girl that had our farmer wrapped around her little finger. Right along with me. Melanie hit everything right with this wonderful story.
John Elliott is thirty four years old and owns and runs his own farm. Seventeen hundred acres of farmland. It’s his pride and joy. Along with that, he owns several rentals which he maintains in his hometown of Richton. John is a quiet man and enjoys his life. He was hurt once, taken advantage of. So trust doesn’t come easily.
Quinn Harper is twenty eight years old and is a single mom to her six year old daughter, Abby. Quinn has moved from Toronto, wanting to raise her daughter in a small town. She is opening a new sandwich shop in town which has been her dream for a long time. Quinn has also been hurt in the past.
We’ll say that John and Quinn’s first few interactions didn’t go well. The sparks between them weren’t the good kind. But it’s little Abby that first won John over. And with that, showed her mother the true John that he kept hidden. The man that cared deeply, loved his family, spoiled his nephew, and shared his cake with her little girl.
Pretty soon those angry sparks turned to a better kind. He showed Quinn how a man was meant to treat a woman. And how a man was meant to care for a child. As Quinn and Abby are getting used to their new lives in Richton, the three of them are showing each other what it feels like to be loved, protected and cared for.
This was such a feel good, wonderful story. John was everything I wanted him to be and it was so wonderful watching him fall for little Abby and her mother.
“Relax. It’s just us.”
“I like us.”
“So do I.”
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
John Elliott is thirty four years old and owns and runs his own farm. Seventeen hundred acres of farmland. It’s his pride and joy. Along with that, he owns several rentals which he maintains in his hometown of Richton. John is a quiet man and enjoys his life. He was hurt once, taken advantage of. So trust doesn’t come easily.
Quinn Harper is twenty eight years old and is a single mom to her six year old daughter, Abby. Quinn has moved from Toronto, wanting to raise her daughter in a small town. She is opening a new sandwich shop in town which has been her dream for a long time. Quinn has also been hurt in the past.
We’ll say that John and Quinn’s first few interactions didn’t go well. The sparks between them weren’t the good kind. But it’s little Abby that first won John over. And with that, showed her mother the true John that he kept hidden. The man that cared deeply, loved his family, spoiled his nephew, and shared his cake with her little girl.
Pretty soon those angry sparks turned to a better kind. He showed Quinn how a man was meant to treat a woman. And how a man was meant to care for a child. As Quinn and Abby are getting used to their new lives in Richton, the three of them are showing each other what it feels like to be loved, protected and cared for.
This was such a feel good, wonderful story. John was everything I wanted him to be and it was so wonderful watching him fall for little Abby and her mother.
“Relax. It’s just us.”
“I like us.”
“So do I.”
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
Read
January 10, 2025I really should've DNF. I can't believe I actually finished it. It was sooo...meh? Bland? Boring? Flat? Uninteresting? Snooze fest?
The pacing felt off. There wasn’t any chemistry. John was a jerk (in the beginning) who liked to project his issues onto strangers. Quinn seemed like a total saint. And they went from 0 to 100. It didn't even make sense. Like, am I missing something here???
Abby was definitely the highlight of this book. This kid is just so adorable and smart, and I absolutely loooove her! She made this story much more bearable.
As for the rest of the characters or the plot? I don't care anymore. I actually lost all hope even before I reached the halfway mark.
I really should give myself a pat on the back. Ugh! Those were hours I will never get back. 🤧
The pacing felt off. There wasn’t any chemistry. John was a jerk (in the beginning) who liked to project his issues onto strangers. Quinn seemed like a total saint. And they went from 0 to 100. It didn't even make sense. Like, am I missing something here???
Abby was definitely the highlight of this book. This kid is just so adorable and smart, and I absolutely loooove her! She made this story much more bearable.
As for the rest of the characters or the plot? I don't care anymore. I actually lost all hope even before I reached the halfway mark.
I really should give myself a pat on the back. Ugh! Those were hours I will never get back. 🤧
October 10, 2025
A Simple Life is a simole and yet heart warming story. It is cheesy but I like cheesy from Miss Moreland. Reading it feels like escape from my reality.
A good simple romantic story.
4 stars
A good simple romantic story.
4 stars
January 7, 2025
A Simple Life by Melanie Moreland
5/5⭐
2/5🌶️
"You and Abby are mine. My family will be yours. We will be family. You will never be unimportant again. I swear that to you."
This is my first book by this awesome author, and wow! She’s been on my radar since my best friend Eliv recommended her book. I couldn’t put this book down and read it in less than a day! There’s something so comforting about Melanie’s writing that felt like being wrapped in a cozy blanket. I genuinely loved every part of this story – the characters, the plot, the gorgeous setting, and the chemistry – it’s no surprise that this is my first five-star read of the year! It had everything I adore in a book.
"John was home. With him, I was safe. Loved."
Meet John, a small-town farmer who's been through a lot, which has made him a bit grumpy and withdrawn. One day, he decides to check out a carnival, where he unexpectedly meets Quinn. There’s an instant spark between them, but things take a turn when John makes a snap judgment about her. Quinn, a single mom who recently moved to town with her daughter, is excited to open a new diner. She feels drawn to John, but his early attitude towards her and her diner’s name initially puts her off. As they spend more time together, their relationship starts to blossom beautifully.
I enjoyed how effortless their connection felt. John is so sweet with Quinn and her daughter, Abby; his protectiveness and care for them really warmed my heart. The moments between John and Abby were especially touching. The way he reassured her that he’d always look out for her and her mom was just so sweet. You can tell he genuinely loves them and wants them to feel safe and cared for.
"With me, your hearts are safe. You are safe. You belong with me."
Quinn is such an inspiring mom! She always puts her daughter first, and it’s amazing to see how she’s chasing her dreams now that she’s free from her ex-husband. Despite her tough past and some trauma, she radiates positivity and strength.
Overall, this was such a delightful read! The romance between John and Quinn is so cute and heartwarming. If you enjoy feel-good small-town romances filled with heartwarming moments and swoon-worthy scenes, I highly recommend this book! I can’t wait to dive into more books by this author. Huge thanks to Melanie Moreland and The Author Agency for the gifted eARC!
"A simple life. That doesn't mean boring. It means being happy, surrounding myself with the people I care about, and enjoying the world around me."
5/5⭐
2/5🌶️
"You and Abby are mine. My family will be yours. We will be family. You will never be unimportant again. I swear that to you."
This is my first book by this awesome author, and wow! She’s been on my radar since my best friend Eliv recommended her book. I couldn’t put this book down and read it in less than a day! There’s something so comforting about Melanie’s writing that felt like being wrapped in a cozy blanket. I genuinely loved every part of this story – the characters, the plot, the gorgeous setting, and the chemistry – it’s no surprise that this is my first five-star read of the year! It had everything I adore in a book.
"John was home. With him, I was safe. Loved."
Meet John, a small-town farmer who's been through a lot, which has made him a bit grumpy and withdrawn. One day, he decides to check out a carnival, where he unexpectedly meets Quinn. There’s an instant spark between them, but things take a turn when John makes a snap judgment about her. Quinn, a single mom who recently moved to town with her daughter, is excited to open a new diner. She feels drawn to John, but his early attitude towards her and her diner’s name initially puts her off. As they spend more time together, their relationship starts to blossom beautifully.
I enjoyed how effortless their connection felt. John is so sweet with Quinn and her daughter, Abby; his protectiveness and care for them really warmed my heart. The moments between John and Abby were especially touching. The way he reassured her that he’d always look out for her and her mom was just so sweet. You can tell he genuinely loves them and wants them to feel safe and cared for.
"With me, your hearts are safe. You are safe. You belong with me."
Quinn is such an inspiring mom! She always puts her daughter first, and it’s amazing to see how she’s chasing her dreams now that she’s free from her ex-husband. Despite her tough past and some trauma, she radiates positivity and strength.
Overall, this was such a delightful read! The romance between John and Quinn is so cute and heartwarming. If you enjoy feel-good small-town romances filled with heartwarming moments and swoon-worthy scenes, I highly recommend this book! I can’t wait to dive into more books by this author. Huge thanks to Melanie Moreland and The Author Agency for the gifted eARC!
"A simple life. That doesn't mean boring. It means being happy, surrounding myself with the people I care about, and enjoying the world around me."
February 23, 2025
It was a draft.
February 2, 2025
This was a cute story. Quinn is leaving her marriage and starting over with her daughter Abby and has a run-in with John, who she liked until John thought she was taken when she answered a phone call about her daughter. So he assumed and walked away. That left a bad taste in Quinns mouth, so she left it as that until she found out John is her landlord.
Lots of tension and banter, but with Abby, he's such a softie building her a swing set. Making sure she's okay. 🥺🥺 he was perfect, and when Quinn and him had their talk, things were settled and fine.
They were such a cute little family, and we got to see Abby nut punch her father when they went out to dinner was the highlight!!! I love that she defended her mom and new dad.
No ow/tiny om drama, no cheating, tiny drama, sexy times, no virgins
Recommend-yes
Cover-⭐️⭐️⭐️
Heat level-🌶🌶
Slowinsta
Praise kink
Single parent
Mentions of verbal abuse
Mentions of physical abuse
No condom
Hea
Epilogue
Lots of tension and banter, but with Abby, he's such a softie building her a swing set. Making sure she's okay. 🥺🥺 he was perfect, and when Quinn and him had their talk, things were settled and fine.
They were such a cute little family, and we got to see Abby nut punch her father when they went out to dinner was the highlight!!! I love that she defended her mom and new dad.
No ow/tiny om drama, no cheating, tiny drama, sexy times, no virgins
Recommend-yes
Cover-⭐️⭐️⭐️
Heat level-🌶🌶
Slowinsta
Praise kink
Single parent
Mentions of verbal abuse
Mentions of physical abuse
No condom
Hea
Epilogue
December 25, 2024
📚𝗔𝗥𝗖 𝗥𝗘𝗩𝗜𝗘𝗪 - 𝗔 𝗦𝗜𝗠𝗣𝗟𝗘 𝗟𝗜𝗙𝗘
𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 𝟱🌟 | 𝗦𝗽𝗶𝗰𝗲: 𝟮🌶️
💚ꜱᴍᴀʟʟ ᴛᴏᴡɴ
🌾ꜰᴀʀᴍᴇʀ & ᴅɪɴᴇʀ ᴏᴡɴᴇʀ
💚ꜱɪɴɢʟᴇ ᴍᴏᴍ
🌾ᴇɴᴇᴍɪᴇꜱ ᴛᴏ ꜰʀɪᴇɴᴅꜱ ᴛᴏ ʟᴏᴠᴇʀꜱ
💚ɢʀᴜᴍᴘʏ x ꜱᴜɴꜱʜɪɴᴇ
💓𝗣𝗲𝘁𝗻𝗮𝗺𝗲: 𝗗𝗮𝗿𝗹𝗶𝗻'
❝ Quinn is ready to leave her old life behind and start fresh with her adorable 5-year-old daughter, Abby. She decides to open a diner in a charming small town, but things get off to a rocky start when she crosses paths with John, the grumpy farmer…
💭Their "meet-cute" is more of a "meet-disaster," thanks to John's snap judgment of Quinn. Let’s just say, every time John speaks, he manages to dig himself a deeper hole. Before you know it, they’re at each other’s throats every time John decides to open his damn mouth. But once the misunderstandings clear, something shifts. They let their guards down, and those flickers of attraction they’ve been trying to ignore finally ignite in full force.
✅Watching John and Quinn's relationship evolve is so heartwarming. I love how Quinn is always trying to kill his “grumpiness” with kindness, and she did! And John? He might be a grump, but his soft side shines, especially when it comes to Abby. Their bond is one of the highlights of the story. John is such a softie with her, and Abby’s adorable antics totally steal the show. What she did near the end had me cracking up—“We Are Farmer!” IYKYK😉
✨I’m a sucker for feel-good reads, and A Simple Life hit all the right notes for me. Melanie has such a way with creating cozy, romantic stories that just wrap you up in a blanket of good vibes. This one is no different—sweet, romantic, and with just the right amount of drama to keep things interesting. It’s the perfect low-angst read when you’re in the mood for something light and heartwarming.
✨ 𝚃𝚑𝚊𝚗𝚔 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚝𝚘 MELANIE MORELAND 𝚏𝚘𝚛 𝚐𝚒𝚏𝚝𝚎𝚍 𝚎-𝙰𝚁𝙲, 𝙸'𝚖 𝚕𝚎𝚊𝚟𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚛𝚎𝚟𝚒𝚎𝚠 𝚟𝚘𝚕𝚞𝚗𝚝𝚊𝚛𝚒𝚕𝚢 ✨
June 13, 2025
3.5 stars
A Simple life is a sweet story about Quinn and her daughter Abby who escapes a bad marriage to start over in a small town she loved from her childhood. She didn’t expect to meet the town “grump”, John and the angry feelings she felt towards him. John thinks he’s not ready to date anyone after his last relationship and he wants to be left alone on his farm. Of course, they figure out there is a fine line between love and hate.
I really enjoyed this one. It was a sweet easy read without any real drama. I adored Abby, especially her relationship with Farmer John. Although John was supposed to be the town grump, I never felt that he was.
If you are looking easy sweet read, or a palette cleanser, this story is perfect
A Simple life is a sweet story about Quinn and her daughter Abby who escapes a bad marriage to start over in a small town she loved from her childhood. She didn’t expect to meet the town “grump”, John and the angry feelings she felt towards him. John thinks he’s not ready to date anyone after his last relationship and he wants to be left alone on his farm. Of course, they figure out there is a fine line between love and hate.
I really enjoyed this one. It was a sweet easy read without any real drama. I adored Abby, especially her relationship with Farmer John. Although John was supposed to be the town grump, I never felt that he was.
If you are looking easy sweet read, or a palette cleanser, this story is perfect
December 26, 2024
A simple life. That truly encompasses the heart of this romance story. We have John, our resident farmer, who has met his witty match in Quinn, a single mom starting over. These two have some playful banter with a slight enemies to lovers vibe, but on a friendly scale. They both have pasts that have them guarding their hearts all the while sparks are flying between them. Abby, Quinn's daughter, lightens the mood between them and pulls them further together. There are many sweet moments with them as a family and John quickly steps into a father role. I found myself smiling the entire time reading this one thinking about how perfect a simple life can be.
POV: 1st, Dual
Angst: Low
Spice: 3/5
If you like this, try Reynolds Restoration Series by Melanie Moreland!
POV: 1st, Dual
Angst: Low
Spice: 3/5
If you like this, try Reynolds Restoration Series by Melanie Moreland!
January 14, 2025
• Small town
• Single mom
• Broody farmer
• Adorable little girl
• Meet cute turned to meet enemies
Oh, this book was so sweet. From the small-town vibes to the very sexy moments shared between Quinn and John. I loved it all! But I especially loved the way John loved these two! And had no problem putting them first, unlike Quinn's ex.
John was such a grumpy teddy bear who loved so hard in the most possessively manly way! And his relationship with Quinn's daughter was PERFECT! I lived watching that bond develop.
Quinn's determination and headstrong, fiery attitude immediately had me in love with her character! Quinn had moved to a small town to start over for her daughter and give her a better life than they both had previously had!
The meet cute between these two was PERFECT! 🤣 I loved every second of their heated interactions in the beginning. Melanie nailed these two and their HEA together with sweet Abby!
• Single mom
• Broody farmer
• Adorable little girl
• Meet cute turned to meet enemies
Oh, this book was so sweet. From the small-town vibes to the very sexy moments shared between Quinn and John. I loved it all! But I especially loved the way John loved these two! And had no problem putting them first, unlike Quinn's ex.
John was such a grumpy teddy bear who loved so hard in the most possessively manly way! And his relationship with Quinn's daughter was PERFECT! I lived watching that bond develop.
Quinn's determination and headstrong, fiery attitude immediately had me in love with her character! Quinn had moved to a small town to start over for her daughter and give her a better life than they both had previously had!
The meet cute between these two was PERFECT! 🤣 I loved every second of their heated interactions in the beginning. Melanie nailed these two and their HEA together with sweet Abby!
January 9, 2025
This was wholesome, sweet, and wonderful. Small Town Farmer and a Single Mom who becomes his tenant. They get off to a rough start but it quickly melts away and turns into a beautiful love story.
Quinn and John were a joy to read. I was kicking my feet, smiling and giggling. I also was charmed by Quinns sweet little girl.
It still has some great heat too. So it was a great time
There wasn't much angst or stress. It was as the title says: A Simple Life. But Simple can be beautiful too.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶.5
CW: previous abusive spouse, attempted assault
*Thank you to the author for an ARC of this title.*
Quinn and John were a joy to read. I was kicking my feet, smiling and giggling. I also was charmed by Quinns sweet little girl.
It still has some great heat too. So it was a great time
There wasn't much angst or stress. It was as the title says: A Simple Life. But Simple can be beautiful too.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶.5
CW: previous abusive spouse, attempted assault
*Thank you to the author for an ARC of this title.*
January 9, 2025
Let’s see…
Lost sleep? Check
Loving Farmer John as Abby calls him with her and Quinn? Check
John was determined to remain a curmudgeon after finding out that his last girlfriend had a double life. Quinn just wanted a stable and happy life for her daughter Abby. Sparks fly between John and Quinn. Quinn and Abby took root in his heart even when he didn’t want to admit that he felt more for Quinn than he wanted to. Him with Abby is just so heartwarming. Love this little happy family that deserves it so much.
Lost sleep? Check
Loving Farmer John as Abby calls him with her and Quinn? Check
John was determined to remain a curmudgeon after finding out that his last girlfriend had a double life. Quinn just wanted a stable and happy life for her daughter Abby. Sparks fly between John and Quinn. Quinn and Abby took root in his heart even when he didn’t want to admit that he felt more for Quinn than he wanted to. Him with Abby is just so heartwarming. Love this little happy family that deserves it so much.
July 2, 2025
I am such a sucker for the grumpy/sunshine trope especially when of my favorite writes it. This author penned another mmc that had me falling…. Falling for the grumpy, guarded heart and emotional, small town farmer. The story, the characters, the town… all of it is so captivating. This is a feel good, make your heart burst with happiness story.
Audio:
John and Maxine delivered another stellar performance. This dynamic duo has once again stolen my heart with this grump/sunshine trope. The romance was sweet with a touch of spice. It was exactly what my heart was looking for. A wholesome friends to lovers story that is a feel good listen. The narrators were the perfect fit for their roles of John and Quinn’s. They definitely took MMorelqnd’s characters and owned them.
Audio:
John and Maxine delivered another stellar performance. This dynamic duo has once again stolen my heart with this grump/sunshine trope. The romance was sweet with a touch of spice. It was exactly what my heart was looking for. A wholesome friends to lovers story that is a feel good listen. The narrators were the perfect fit for their roles of John and Quinn’s. They definitely took MMorelqnd’s characters and owned them.
September 10, 2025
Sooo boring but I read with a group of friends that made it fun.
January 11, 2025
☀️Single Mom ☀️ Farmer ☀️ Small Town ☀️ Low Angst ☀️ Sad Past ☀️ Cute little kid ☀️
A Simple Life follows Quinn, a single mom who recently moved to a small town with her daughter Abby in search of a better life. Here they encounter John, a grumpy yet cinnamon roll farmer who immediately misjudges Quinn. This sets them on a path of tension and aggravation and Quinn soon learns John is her new landlord.
As time goes on the two better understand each other and the affection, care and thoughtfulness John shows Quinn’s daughter allows these two to break down the wrong impressions they first made and to start anew. A friendship buds into something else; something unexpected.
This story is super low angst, low tension and just two people falling in love quite easily. The beginning was fun as they were bickering and having snarky conversations. Once that was over I was a bit bored with the story. I definitely wanted some tension and felt like I something was missing. If you like just two people falling in love then this is the story for you. I suppose I just prefer a little more depth. There wasn’t anything wrong with the story I just didn’t personally connect with the characters or have an invested interest in them.
A Simple Life follows Quinn, a single mom who recently moved to a small town with her daughter Abby in search of a better life. Here they encounter John, a grumpy yet cinnamon roll farmer who immediately misjudges Quinn. This sets them on a path of tension and aggravation and Quinn soon learns John is her new landlord.
As time goes on the two better understand each other and the affection, care and thoughtfulness John shows Quinn’s daughter allows these two to break down the wrong impressions they first made and to start anew. A friendship buds into something else; something unexpected.
This story is super low angst, low tension and just two people falling in love quite easily. The beginning was fun as they were bickering and having snarky conversations. Once that was over I was a bit bored with the story. I definitely wanted some tension and felt like I something was missing. If you like just two people falling in love then this is the story for you. I suppose I just prefer a little more depth. There wasn’t anything wrong with the story I just didn’t personally connect with the characters or have an invested interest in them.
January 9, 2025
It started off childish and ridiculous and ended bland. Not a bad story.... just a story.
January 10, 2025
Sometimes all you need in your life as a romance reader is a simple but wholesome love story. And that's what Melanie Moreland delivers in A Simple Life. It just made me so happy and light. It filled my heart with all the warm cozy feels. It also had just the right amount of spice and a tiny bit of heartache from the past to make it even more amazing.
Small town romance
Grumpy sunshine
Single mother
Forced proximity
Farmer and diner owner
Hurt comfort
Alpha hero
John Elliot isn't just a farmer. He has a good business sense and that's why he has a lot of rental properties. He is kind of grump and doesn't like change. So he definitely liked the idea of someone out of their town buying the old diner owned by his deceased mother like figure Thelma. It turns out that Quinn Harper is also one of his new tenants. She is here with her four year old girl Abby for a fresh start. Their story starts with a bit of misunderstanding and animosity but their chemistry and connection is intense.
Abby is the star of the story. This cute girl has seen a lot but she is still full of sunshine and rainbow and a lot of sass. The credit goes to her mother. Quinn never had a real family after death of her parents and that's why she tried her best to give Abby one even when her husband was a POS. But she left to keep the light in her baby. Quinn is sweet and fierce and I absolutely love her. John is your small town hero with an alpha protective personality but he carries a large emotional baggage that caused the miscommunication at the beginning. But he couldn't deny his attraction towards her and how she makes him feel something real after a long time. Once he was in, he was all in. I love how easily he accepted Abby and fell in love with her along with her mother. He is so swoon worthy and possessive and caring once he let people in. He went above and beyond to erase Quinn's insecurities, trust issues and doubts. I enjoyed all the phases of their relationship including the hot one! The epilogue was the sweetest.
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
Small town romance
Grumpy sunshine
Single mother
Forced proximity
Farmer and diner owner
Hurt comfort
Alpha hero
John Elliot isn't just a farmer. He has a good business sense and that's why he has a lot of rental properties. He is kind of grump and doesn't like change. So he definitely liked the idea of someone out of their town buying the old diner owned by his deceased mother like figure Thelma. It turns out that Quinn Harper is also one of his new tenants. She is here with her four year old girl Abby for a fresh start. Their story starts with a bit of misunderstanding and animosity but their chemistry and connection is intense.
Abby is the star of the story. This cute girl has seen a lot but she is still full of sunshine and rainbow and a lot of sass. The credit goes to her mother. Quinn never had a real family after death of her parents and that's why she tried her best to give Abby one even when her husband was a POS. But she left to keep the light in her baby. Quinn is sweet and fierce and I absolutely love her. John is your small town hero with an alpha protective personality but he carries a large emotional baggage that caused the miscommunication at the beginning. But he couldn't deny his attraction towards her and how she makes him feel something real after a long time. Once he was in, he was all in. I love how easily he accepted Abby and fell in love with her along with her mother. He is so swoon worthy and possessive and caring once he let people in. He went above and beyond to erase Quinn's insecurities, trust issues and doubts. I enjoyed all the phases of their relationship including the hot one! The epilogue was the sweetest.
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
January 14, 2025
Once again my heart is full with characters from the pen of Melanie Moreland. I love Grumpy x Sunshine characters and she writes them full of humor and heart.
MMC was so romantic. At first, he shows his gruff exterior, but he cannot help himself to help those in need. You see this with his nephew and sister. Then a cute pumpkin, Abby, comes into his life and he falls head over heels with her and her mother.
FMC was so relatable. She is on her own, picking up her bootstraps from a bad relationship. She wants something to call her own and give her and her daughter financial stability. While she and John rub each other in not such a great way - when they final put their shields down - they are combustible.
I love all the small town cozy feels this romance gives. I love a hero who is protector and lover all in one, and heroine you can connect with. The story is entertaining, romantic and a one day bingeable. I love this author's storytelling. And this one I will find myself re-reading over and over again.
FTC requires I disclose I am an independent contractor for Moreland Books Inc.
MMC was so romantic. At first, he shows his gruff exterior, but he cannot help himself to help those in need. You see this with his nephew and sister. Then a cute pumpkin, Abby, comes into his life and he falls head over heels with her and her mother.
FMC was so relatable. She is on her own, picking up her bootstraps from a bad relationship. She wants something to call her own and give her and her daughter financial stability. While she and John rub each other in not such a great way - when they final put their shields down - they are combustible.
I love all the small town cozy feels this romance gives. I love a hero who is protector and lover all in one, and heroine you can connect with. The story is entertaining, romantic and a one day bingeable. I love this author's storytelling. And this one I will find myself re-reading over and over again.
FTC requires I disclose I am an independent contractor for Moreland Books Inc.
January 9, 2025
You will love this one.
Oh Farmer John… *swoon* I am a sucker for a grumpy, hard working man and John does not disappoint there. This man may be a bit antisocial, and a bit stuck in his ways, but he is loyal, generous and can I add sexy.
The instant chemistry between these two is wonderful, add in the tension of a misunderstanding and you get a great will they/won’t they kind of storyline. And of course, we can’t forget the cutest little girl. I just honestly don’t know if there’s anything better in a romance story than the grumpy hero and his easy bond with an adorable little girl.
You should definitely download this story right away. John is everything you need right now.
Oh Farmer John… *swoon* I am a sucker for a grumpy, hard working man and John does not disappoint there. This man may be a bit antisocial, and a bit stuck in his ways, but he is loyal, generous and can I add sexy.
The instant chemistry between these two is wonderful, add in the tension of a misunderstanding and you get a great will they/won’t they kind of storyline. And of course, we can’t forget the cutest little girl. I just honestly don’t know if there’s anything better in a romance story than the grumpy hero and his easy bond with an adorable little girl.
You should definitely download this story right away. John is everything you need right now.
January 24, 2025
The feel good romance of the year! I loved Farmer John and all his grumbly protectiveness, and Abby is quite possibly the best little girl I've ever read. (I'd love to see her as an FMC down the road).
No one does grumpy/sunshine like Melanie Moreland. Watching Quinn peel back John's layers without either of them realize it was a beautiful thing. I hope this isn't the last we see of this town!
No one does grumpy/sunshine like Melanie Moreland. Watching Quinn peel back John's layers without either of them realize it was a beautiful thing. I hope this isn't the last we see of this town!
January 9, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️.5
A Simple Life was a sweet low angst romance that gave me all the small town vibes. Melanie always writes such real and relatable characters, so it is easy to feel connected to them.
Quinn has moved to the small town of Richton, looking for a fresh start with her daughter after her divorce. She has a couple run-ins with John that didn't go great when he misjudged her and jumped to the wrong conclusions due to his previous failed relationship. John kept making things worse by saying all the wrong things in the beginning, but he really steps up for Quinn and her adorable daughter Abby once he learned she was his new tenant. John is a local farmer but also owns a lot of rentals. He does a lot for his community and is just an all-around good guy.
John was the perfect grumpy cinnamon roll hero, and he quickly started to fall for Quinn and her daughter. They had such a heartwarming romance, with absolutely no angst. I loved how well they communicated and supported each other once they decided to be together. Quinn was just trying to give her daughter the simple life after being with her controlling and emotionally abusive ex. John and his farm lifestyle are the perfect fit for her and Abby. I also adored John and Abby's relationship. There were so many sweet moments with the three of them.
Thank you to The Author Agency for providing the ARC.
🌶️🌶️.5
A Simple Life was a sweet low angst romance that gave me all the small town vibes. Melanie always writes such real and relatable characters, so it is easy to feel connected to them.
Quinn has moved to the small town of Richton, looking for a fresh start with her daughter after her divorce. She has a couple run-ins with John that didn't go great when he misjudged her and jumped to the wrong conclusions due to his previous failed relationship. John kept making things worse by saying all the wrong things in the beginning, but he really steps up for Quinn and her adorable daughter Abby once he learned she was his new tenant. John is a local farmer but also owns a lot of rentals. He does a lot for his community and is just an all-around good guy.
John was the perfect grumpy cinnamon roll hero, and he quickly started to fall for Quinn and her daughter. They had such a heartwarming romance, with absolutely no angst. I loved how well they communicated and supported each other once they decided to be together. Quinn was just trying to give her daughter the simple life after being with her controlling and emotionally abusive ex. John and his farm lifestyle are the perfect fit for her and Abby. I also adored John and Abby's relationship. There were so many sweet moments with the three of them.
Thank you to The Author Agency for providing the ARC.
December 23, 2024
Just what I wanted! Another Melanie masterpiece. Sweet, steamy and packed with fantastic characters. I loved everything about this book. A must read for romance fans who want something light and addictive.
December 24, 2024
Cinnamon roll, alpha hole, man set in his way until he meets a the new girl and her daughter in town! That’s when he gets thrown off his tractor. Another great book by Melanie Moreland.
January 7, 2025
Charming small-town, farmer romance
5 Stars
I love all the different romances that Melanie Moreland writes but I do have a soft spot for her small town, homespun romances like Harvest of Love and now this book. It’s also very possible that she’s discovered my deep rooted farmer kink.
In this story, John is a farmer and mildly content with his quiet but busy life - or so he thinks. But a chance meeting with pretty Quinn at the fair - and their instant connection - makes him long for more. All until a misunderstanding turns the pair into adversaries.
John was a card-carrying grump but he also made no effort to hide his sweet, kind and loving side. So I suppose he was something of a cinnamon roll grump. And I couldn’t resist him. He’s just so solid and dependable. I just wanted to give him a big hug and hold on tight. He may jump to conclusions and judge Quinn harshly without knowing the facts - but it’s understandable and he never really takes it too far. Oh and Quinn can give as good as she gets!
Single mum, Quinn, is easy to love and root for no matter who you are and what your own situation is. She wants to make a new life for herself and her daughter and is determined to do it on her own terms. She’s equal parts fierce and vulnerable and I liked that she was independent but not stubborn. Just an all round likeable character that you really want to get their happily ever after.
John and Quinn’s relationship starts off on the wrong foot but even then, they strike sparks off each other. It’s not fully an enemies to lovers read but it’s got everything I love from when a couple are at odds - you can just tell there’s something deeper there. And when the damn finally breaks, well, damn! It’s delicious. And the heat continues throughout the book - in perfect Melanie Moreland style.
Along with the heat comes the heart. Of two somewhat loners finding each other and becoming something neither expected. It makes my heart sigh. It’s something I find with Melanie Moreland books. You don’t just read it and feel delight at the romance. You read it and your heart says ‘that - that’s what I want’. It’s an experience.
This story is impeccably written and pulled me in straight from the start. It’s low on angst and drama but what that leaves is a charming and heartfelt story that I absolutely adored. If, like me, the idea of small-town life with a strapping farmer who adores you, sounds like your idea of bliss - then this book will be perfect for you. Easily 5 stars.
September 23, 2025
My reflection.
I love a wholesome little story. But I think the best wholesome stories have growth.
I just finished watching Lilo and Stitch and omg what a difference in the portrayal of the ups and downs of a single care giver/ daughter relationship.
I can only think of how much better this book could have been. We caught a glimpse of it in the second to last chapter when John was helping Abby, encouraging her passions and helping her explore the more playful side of being a child.
I think this book would have been amazing if it focused on this aspect of John’s and Abby’s relationship.
Start the story with Quinn and John being enemies. Abby finds John and develops an unlikely friendship where John teachers her how to be a farmer, how to use her hands how to ride horses, how to get her hands dirty and be a kid.
Quinn sees how much this is beneficial to Abby and allows her to keep working on John’s farm. Forcing proximity between Quinn and John while also allowing Quinn to see John through a new lens.
This book was cute, but I do believe the author lacks experience with being a mother because there seemed to be almost no concern with how a new relationship like the one she was engaging in with John would make Abby feel. Also seemed to lack any concerns that I would have if I were in the same situations as her. To me this was a serious opportunity for missed conflict that would have felt real and genuine.
I also think there was the issue of only really exploring the surface level issues with the abuse Quinn experiences in her previous relationship. It felt like it was only used as a plot device and only when necessary, when in reality there would be a lot of baggage and trauma that comes with such an experience. Not only for Quinn but Abby also!!
I love a wholesome little story. But I think the best wholesome stories have growth.
I just finished watching Lilo and Stitch and omg what a difference in the portrayal of the ups and downs of a single care giver/ daughter relationship.
I can only think of how much better this book could have been. We caught a glimpse of it in the second to last chapter when John was helping Abby, encouraging her passions and helping her explore the more playful side of being a child.
I think this book would have been amazing if it focused on this aspect of John’s and Abby’s relationship.
Start the story with Quinn and John being enemies. Abby finds John and develops an unlikely friendship where John teachers her how to be a farmer, how to use her hands how to ride horses, how to get her hands dirty and be a kid.
Quinn sees how much this is beneficial to Abby and allows her to keep working on John’s farm. Forcing proximity between Quinn and John while also allowing Quinn to see John through a new lens.
This book was cute, but I do believe the author lacks experience with being a mother because there seemed to be almost no concern with how a new relationship like the one she was engaging in with John would make Abby feel. Also seemed to lack any concerns that I would have if I were in the same situations as her. To me this was a serious opportunity for missed conflict that would have felt real and genuine.
I also think there was the issue of only really exploring the surface level issues with the abuse Quinn experiences in her previous relationship. It felt like it was only used as a plot device and only when necessary, when in reality there would be a lot of baggage and trauma that comes with such an experience. Not only for Quinn but Abby also!!
January 9, 2025
A Simple Life is the cutest, most adorable, swooniest love story I've read recently. My heart is still recovering from the amount of beats it skipped through the entire book. Melanie.. I truly don't know what you put into this book, but it was damn addictive. You are a damn queen, you knocked it out of the park with this PERFECT story.
If I wouldn't have had to work, it would've been a one sitting binge read. It was absolutely captivating, pure perfection on every front. Moreland’s writing is just so flawless, flowy, easy to follow, it grabbed me and didn't let me go. It just felt like a cozy, warm, comforting blanket, absolutely stellar. I'm still not over this book, I think I won't be for a while, because of the pure level of happiness this book delivers. Amazing!
John… I need him, I want him, he is the most swooniest MMC ever !!! In the beginning I wasn't sure, but hot damn does this man hide the biggest teddy bear under his gruff exterior. The amount of care he had for Quinn’s daughter Abby was absolutely out of this world. He stepped up, he did EVERYTHING for his girls. There are so many precious family moments in this book, they are all masterfully written with the realest of emotions. It just encompassed everything I could want in a romance, with all the feels and a beautiful healthy relationship. NO THIRD ACT BREAKUP 🙌🙌🙌
Overall, this was a complete delight. It brought me pure joy throughout. Filled with swoon worthy and heartwarming moments, this book absolutely captured my heart. Do yourself a favor and read it !
✨️Thank you to @theauthoragency & @morelandmelanie for my gifted ARC in exchange for an honest review.
If I wouldn't have had to work, it would've been a one sitting binge read. It was absolutely captivating, pure perfection on every front. Moreland’s writing is just so flawless, flowy, easy to follow, it grabbed me and didn't let me go. It just felt like a cozy, warm, comforting blanket, absolutely stellar. I'm still not over this book, I think I won't be for a while, because of the pure level of happiness this book delivers. Amazing!
John… I need him, I want him, he is the most swooniest MMC ever !!! In the beginning I wasn't sure, but hot damn does this man hide the biggest teddy bear under his gruff exterior. The amount of care he had for Quinn’s daughter Abby was absolutely out of this world. He stepped up, he did EVERYTHING for his girls. There are so many precious family moments in this book, they are all masterfully written with the realest of emotions. It just encompassed everything I could want in a romance, with all the feels and a beautiful healthy relationship. NO THIRD ACT BREAKUP 🙌🙌🙌
Overall, this was a complete delight. It brought me pure joy throughout. Filled with swoon worthy and heartwarming moments, this book absolutely captured my heart. Do yourself a favor and read it !
✨️Thank you to @theauthoragency & @morelandmelanie for my gifted ARC in exchange for an honest review.
December 21, 2024
Oh how John, Quinn and Abby have stolen my heart. “A Simple Life” is a romantic, heartfelt and feel good single Mom, small town romance that was a joy to read.
Quinn is a single mom to an adorable little girl named Abby and she’s moved to a small town for a simple life to open her own restaurant. One of her first nights there, she meets John Elliott. They have an instant connection but a simple misunderstanding leaves them at odds against each other. Thinking they won’t have to really see each other again, John ends up being her new landlord. But despite the misunderstanding, the two become friends and a romance between them blossoms.
This book is incredibly romantic and I loved every chapter. John is a farmer and a great businessman. He loves his small town and looks out for it. His heart is huge and he will do whatever he needs to do for anyone in his life. Quinn is an amazing mom and I loved how she put her daughter first. She had a dream to open her own business and it was possible in the small town she moved to. John and Quinn had an instant chemistry and it grew as the story went on. It was a strong connection and I loved how it built throughout the story. John is one swoony cowboy and he is so romantic with Quinn. And Abby is such a cute little girl and she bonds instantly with John because she knows he’s kind and safe. And the nickname Pumpkin that he gave her was adorable. This book has all the feels and was such a feel good romance.
Quinn is a single mom to an adorable little girl named Abby and she’s moved to a small town for a simple life to open her own restaurant. One of her first nights there, she meets John Elliott. They have an instant connection but a simple misunderstanding leaves them at odds against each other. Thinking they won’t have to really see each other again, John ends up being her new landlord. But despite the misunderstanding, the two become friends and a romance between them blossoms.
This book is incredibly romantic and I loved every chapter. John is a farmer and a great businessman. He loves his small town and looks out for it. His heart is huge and he will do whatever he needs to do for anyone in his life. Quinn is an amazing mom and I loved how she put her daughter first. She had a dream to open her own business and it was possible in the small town she moved to. John and Quinn had an instant chemistry and it grew as the story went on. It was a strong connection and I loved how it built throughout the story. John is one swoony cowboy and he is so romantic with Quinn. And Abby is such a cute little girl and she bonds instantly with John because she knows he’s kind and safe. And the nickname Pumpkin that he gave her was adorable. This book has all the feels and was such a feel good romance.
December 18, 2024
I loved every minute of this grumpy-sunshine, small town, single mom romance! What a feel good story that had me smiling from page one.
John, or farmer John as Abby calls him, has been hurt in love. He keeps to himself and is quite grumpy with the new woman in town, Quinn. Her and her young daughter, Abby, have just moved to town away from a bad situation, her ex husband. These two feel an instant connection but have a not so great meeting. So not only sparks fly, but barbs too. I love their bickering and how they resolve their differences. John was so amazing and patient with Abby. Their relationship was so cute! John makes both Quinn and Abby feel safe and cared for. Quinn makes John happy in a way no one has before. I loved this book so much and could definitely re-read it!
ARC review.
John, or farmer John as Abby calls him, has been hurt in love. He keeps to himself and is quite grumpy with the new woman in town, Quinn. Her and her young daughter, Abby, have just moved to town away from a bad situation, her ex husband. These two feel an instant connection but have a not so great meeting. So not only sparks fly, but barbs too. I love their bickering and how they resolve their differences. John was so amazing and patient with Abby. Their relationship was so cute! John makes both Quinn and Abby feel safe and cared for. Quinn makes John happy in a way no one has before. I loved this book so much and could definitely re-read it!
ARC review.
December 16, 2024
Another 5-star, must-read from the talented Melanie Moreland. This book felt like a breath of fresh air. A simple pleasure that I needed as much as John and Quinn needed to find a simple and accepting love. Their story was beautiful, from how they found hope and strength after bumps in their past to how they fell head over heels for each other. Melanie Moreland makes a simple life and a simple love seem perfectly possible if we just open ourselves up to the possibility that it is waiting out there just for us. I highly recommend this story.
January 9, 2025
Love is many things but rarely simple. John and Quinn however their story makes it feel like if you're open to it, it could be that simple.
This is a small town romance at its best. Strong alpha hero with the biggest heart, single mother rediscovering her strength and power. The smartest little girl who wants to grow up to be a farmer and I'm so here for it!
What I truly loved most about this story is it simply makes you feel good.
I have voluntarily left this review.
This is a small town romance at its best. Strong alpha hero with the biggest heart, single mother rediscovering her strength and power. The smartest little girl who wants to grow up to be a farmer and I'm so here for it!
What I truly loved most about this story is it simply makes you feel good.
I have voluntarily left this review.
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