As It Was
by Elle Rivers
He’s the grumpy farmer stuck in a rut. She’s the city girl who changes everything.
Mollie Wilson has everything she’s supposed to want—a stable job at her family’s company, a fiancé, and a high rise in the heart of Nashville. But the noise, the rush, and the expectations all leave her longing for the quiet peace of her grandfather’s farm, the last place she remembers being truly happy. When her family reveals that the farm wasn’t sold off after all and was left in a trust for her, she’s torn. They want her to sell it to fund her future, but she’s starting to wonder if she’ll truly be happy with a life in the city.
For ten years, Cain Smith has lived and worked on Bennie Grove Farm alone—until a stunning city girl claiming to be the owner breaks into his house and turns his quiet, controlled world upside down. He doesn’t trust her, but he’s sure that his surly attitude will cause her to leave, just like everyone else has. She’s a distraction he doesn’t need, not when he’s trying to single-handedly run the farm and raise his young nephew, the only family he has left.
When trouble comes knocking at the farmhouse door, Mollie and Cain are both faced with an uncomfortable question—can they learn to rely on each other, or will they keep running from their pasts? But no matter what they choose, they know that nothing will ever be as it was again.
As It Was is a small-town, single-dad romance novel with the grumpy/sunshine and found family tropes, set in the town of Strawberry Springs. It’s the first in a series of interconnected standalone novels.
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Martial Peak Reviews
Elle Rivers’ As It Was is a captivating exploration of love, identity, and the age-old conflict between city life and rural simplicity. This novel is a delightful addition to the romance genre, particularly for those who enjoy the grumpy/sunshine and found family tropes. Set in the charming town of Strawberry Springs, the book is the first in a series of interconnected standalone novels, promising readers a rich tapestry of stories to look forward to.
The narrative centers around Mollie Wilson, a protagonist who embodies the quintessential modern dilemma: a life that looks perfect on paper but feels hollow in reality. Her journey from the bustling cityscape of Nashville to the serene fields of her grandfather’s farm is not just a change of scenery but a profound quest for self-discovery. Rivers skillfully portrays Mollie’s internal conflict, making her a relatable and sympathetic character. Her longing for the farm, the last place she felt truly happy, is a sentiment that resonates with anyone who has ever yearned for a simpler, more authentic life.
In stark contrast to Mollie’s vibrant city life is Cain Smith, the grumpy farmer whose life is defined by routine and solitude. Cain is a character shaped by loss and responsibility, having spent a decade managing Bennie Grove Farm and caring for his young nephew. His initial distrust of Mollie is understandable, given his experiences, and adds a layer of tension that keeps the narrative engaging. Rivers does an excellent job of peeling back the layers of Cain’s character, revealing a man who is not just grumpy but deeply caring and protective of those he loves.
The chemistry between Mollie and Cain is palpable from their first encounter. Their relationship evolves from mutual suspicion to a partnership built on trust and shared goals. This transformation is beautifully paced, allowing readers to savor each moment of their growing connection. The dynamic between the two is reminiscent of other beloved romance novels, such as those by authors like Nora Roberts and Debbie Macomber, where opposites attract and ultimately complement each other.
One of the standout themes in As It Was is the concept of found family. Both Mollie and Cain are searching for a sense of belonging, and they find it not only in each other but in the community of Strawberry Springs. The secondary characters, from Cain’s adorable nephew to the quirky townsfolk, add depth and warmth to the story. They serve as a reminder that family is not always defined by blood but by the connections we choose to nurture.
Rivers’ writing is both evocative and accessible, painting vivid pictures of the contrasting worlds Mollie inhabits. The descriptions of the farm are particularly enchanting, capturing the tranquility and beauty of rural life. This setting serves as more than just a backdrop; it becomes a character in its own right, influencing the decisions and emotions of those who live there.
Another noteworthy aspect of the novel is its exploration of personal growth and the courage to embrace change. Mollie’s decision to leave behind a life that no longer fulfills her is a powerful message about the importance of following one’s heart. Similarly, Cain’s journey from isolation to opening his heart to love and community is a testament to the transformative power of vulnerability and trust.
While As It Was is a romance at its core, it also delves into deeper issues such as grief, responsibility, and the impact of past choices on the present. These themes add layers to the story, making it more than just a love story but a reflection on life’s complexities and the resilience of the human spirit.
In conclusion, Elle Rivers’ As It Was is a heartwarming and thought-provoking novel that will appeal to fans of small-town romances and character-driven stories. Its blend of humor, emotion, and romance makes it a compelling read that stays with you long after you’ve turned the last page. Whether you’re a long-time fan of the genre or a newcomer, this book is a delightful escape into a world where love and community triumph over adversity.
For those interested in exploring more about this book, you might find it on platforms like Amazon or Goodreads, where you can delve into other readers’ reviews and perhaps discover more about the upcoming books in the series.
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