A Simple Life

by Kristen Williams

Stranded in the quaint town of Elmdale, single mother Bree Lockwood is fleeing an abusive past with her infant daughter, Parker, and little else—no money, no job, no way out. When her car breaks down, gruff single dad Luke Beckett reluctantly offers her a lifeline—a job as his daughter’s nanny and a roof over her head on his farm. Beneath Luke’s guarded exterior, Bree finds a kindred spirit, a man wrestling with his own scars and an unexpected longing to make his house a home. As their wounded hearts collide, Bree discovers safety in Luke’s quiet strength while he learns that family can mend what grief tore apart. In a place where simple moments mean everything, can they build a love that heals?

Welcome to Elmdale, where new beginnings bloom. A Simple Life is the heartfelt start to the Elmdale Series.

266 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 4, 2025

Reviews

[Em · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to the Author, Kristen Williams for providing this early ARC to review.

If you know me as a reader, you know I am hard to please. When it comes to a romance novel, I am even harsher. 'A Simple Life', the first book in the Elmdale Series and the Author's debut novel, surprised me in the best way. What a beautiful and unique love story. Despite the heavy themes of manipulation and domestic abuse, the book is is ultimately about healing, courage and rediscovering self-worth. The quiet, steady chemistry between Bree and Luke felt both refreshing and real. They are just two people finding their way back to themselves, together. You will find yourself rooting for their happiness with every page turn.

Add in the stunning rural scenery, familier aussie slang and a town of memorable people you can’t help but love, Elmdale itself feels alive. The Author has also done a great job of making the side characters just as compelling, I can't wait to dive deeper into their stories in future books.

'A Simple Life' is layered, heartfelt and deeply relatable. There is balance. The story is heavy and gentle, it is cozy, yet confronting, funny and serious, spicy but still has that emotional depth. A straight up rollercoaster of emotions and I can't wait for the next instalment in this series.

I adored so much about this book and the 4-star rating comes as a reflection of my own personal preferences. I would happily read this again and look forward to putting the physical copy on my shelf. Also a little shoutout to 'Vee' a supporting character in this book whose name is special to me.

Tropes: Slow burn, Small town romance, Found family, Healing after trauma, Solo parenting

[Kristy Bianchin · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I was asked to be a beta reader for a small town romance, I honestly wasn’t sure what to expect but the emotional depth of this beautiful book won me over so quickly. A Simple Life is the perfect mix of chemistry, charm & emotion. If you’re looking for your next heartfelt romance read, this one deserves a spot on your list!

[Kristen Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you for taking the time to read my book.
I appreciate your support and hope you love my story as much as I loved writing it! :)

[Deb · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wholesome feel good romance. All the feels, this is my first romance and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Well written, easy to read and relatable.

[Shenae Lazaro · Rating 5 out of 5]

The best book I've read since I was a young teen obsessed with the Twilight series!
I honestly couldn't have loved this novel more. I couldn't put it down.
There is so much in this novel, from trauma and self-worth, as well as being beautifully written surrounding such a gentle, respectful, and passionate romance.
I have the perfect image of Elmdale in my mind, and oh it is beautiful!

I couldn't recommend this novel enough! I want to start it again right away.
Thank you thank you thank you!!

[Molly Grace · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved this book! It takes you on a journey of all the feels, it’s heartwarming and heartbreaking. A cozy read- the perfect palate cleanser! A great amount of built up tension and spice. Love a steamy small town country romance - loved it even more that it was Australian based/themed! Hoping to see more from the Elmdale series.

[Catherine · Rating 3 out of 5]

A simple life is a set in a picturesque, small country town. The story has some heavy themes and follows the main characters learning how to move on from their past experiences. It was a little fast paced in timeline for me but it was a nice read.

[Amy Jordan · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very cute, charming romance, easy to read and beautifully written! Loved that it was based in Australia and Australian slang was used throughout. I fell in love with Luke and Bree and their girls. Would definitely recommend for a quick easy read!

[Margaret Cook · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was throughly captivated with this book from the start. Such a beautifully written story that relates to real life struggles and triumphs. I am so thrilled to now have this on my shelf to recommend!

[Kate · Rating 4 out of 5]

A beautifully cultivated story of struggle and heartbreak ending in a warm hug. A beautiful read and definitely one worth adding to the TBR pile.

[Katelyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

perfectly sweet and Luke was so swoon-worthy! Loved this debut novel by Kristen, will definitely be reading the second one in the series!