Are there any reincarnation novels where the protagonist isn't seeking revenge or a vastly different life, but simply wants a peaceful existence that keeps getting disrupted?

That's a fantastic question! It's true, the reincarnation genre often leans heavily into revenge plots or the desire for an overwhelmingly grand and different life. However, there are definitely stories that explore the more subtle desire for peace, only to have it constantly challenged. It's a relatable theme – who wouldn't want a quiet life after a difficult past?

One series that comes to mind is "The Apothecary Diaries." While not strictly a reincarnation novel in the sense of the protagonist remembering a past life on Earth, it features a brilliant young woman, Maomao, who is forced from her life of quiet solitude as an apothecary into the dangerous world of the imperial palace. Her primary motivation is to return to her peaceful, scholarly existence, but her intelligence and unique skills continually draw her into solving mysteries and navigating courtly intrigue. Her desire for normalcy is constantly thwarted by circumstances, and she often expresses a longing for her former, less complicated life. The disruptions are less about external enemies seeking revenge and more about the inherent dangers and political machinations of her environment.

Another angle to consider, though it might be a bit more metaphorical, could be stories where the protagonist is reborn into a world that is inherently chaotic or facing a looming threat, and their personal goal is simply to carve out a safe haven. They aren't necessarily driven by past trauma or a desire for power, but by a fundamental need for security and stability. The "disruptions" then come from the larger forces at play in the world, forcing them to adapt and protect what little peace they've managed to create. Think of characters who just want to farm, build a small village, or live a quiet life in the countryside, only for monsters to attack, wars to break out, or political factions to demand their allegiance. Their journey becomes about maintaining that fragile peace against overwhelming odds, rather than actively seeking to change their destiny or right past wrongs. It’s more about survival and the preservation of a simple existence.

While I can't pinpoint a perfect, direct match to your request with a protagonist explicitly remembering a past life and *only* wanting peace, the spirit of what you're looking for can be found in characters who are thrust into extraordinary circumstances and whose primary desire is to return to or maintain a peaceful, uncomplicated life. The "disruptions" often stem from the narrative's need to create conflict, but the protagonist's internal drive remains focused on serenity. It’s a beautiful contrast that many authors explore.