Who knew that returning home after a broken engagement could be the best decision you ever made? Denise Hunter is back with another heartwarming contemporary romance with a sweet friends-to-more story that will keep readers turning the pages late into the night.

Jenna Greene just ended things with her boyfriend . . . which also ended her career. (That's the risk a girl takes when her boyfriend doubles as her boss.) With no income and no job prospects in sight, Jenna is forced to return to her mother's house on Chincoteague Island, Virginia, to figure out what's next. And the timing couldn't be more perfect. Jenna's widowed mother has just returned from a cruise--with a brand-new boyfriend in tow. But there's something off about the guy. His story doesn't quite add up, and he keeps sneaking off to make suspicious phone calls and borrowing money from her too-trusting mother.

Book is fantastic loved it ❤️

Truth be told, I love Denise’s books, and this one was another amazing read. If you’re a fan of the friends to more trope, you need to grab this one because it delivers all the feels.

When life throws Jenna a curveball... now single, jobless, and heading home to live with her mom (temporarily), she never expects to find herself right back in the orbit of her childhood friend, Tyson. He let her in on a little secret about her mom’s new boyfriend, which makes this timing perfect for Jenna to come home, figure out her next steps, and maybe do a little investigating.

What she didn’t expect was that reconnecting with Tyson would stir up feelings she never saw coming. They’ve always been just friends, always there for each other through every breakup and heartbreak, but this time, something’s different. As they dig into her mom’s mystery man, the connection between them deepens, and suddenly friendship doesn’t feel like enough!

But Jenna has a million reasons to keep her heart guarded, and Tyson worries just as much about risking their friendship. Their friendship is everything, but them as a couple... THAT IS LOVE! Tyson is such a good man, patient and understanding even when Jenna’s indecision breaks his heart.

I loved this story. I need it in print ASAP!

I received a complimentary copy. This review reflects my honest thoughts.

I enjoyed reading this book. Jenna dates a guy for several years, and when he
purposes at a restaurant and every body is looking on starts the plot.
Then her Mom return's from a cruise with a guy she met on the cruise.
Jenna going home to find out what is going on, with her Mom.
Ty lives across the street and greets her in a hug. Jenna thoughts of how she could
talk to him about what was going on in her life, and he would understand
I enjoyed her books and read them from cover to cover in one sitting.
Thanks to Net Galley and Thomas Mercer for my arc cooy.

Jenna quickly discovers that working for your boyfriend is never a good idea. When she refuses his proposal, he retaliates by firing her. With no job prospects, Jenna returns home to Chincoteague Island, Virginia, to live with her widowed mother—only to be stunned when her mom arrives back from a cruise with a new boyfriend in tow. Jenna’s suspicions grow as she notices him relying on her mother financially and overhears a few unsettling phone calls.
Determined to uncover the truth, Jenna enlists the help of her childhood best friend, Tyson. Still healing from a painful divorce, Tyson is a respected saltwater cowboy who cares for the island’s wild ponies, helps at his parents’ bed-and-breakfast, and volunteers as a firefighter. As the two dig deeper into the mystery surrounding her mother’s new companion, their friendship begins to shift in unexpected ways. Yet Jenna’s past wounds threaten to hold her back from embracing what’s right in front of her.
Denise Hunter delivers another warm, engaging story filled with lovable, relatable characters and plenty of emotional twists. I was captivated from the first page and read straight through to the end—it was simply impossible to put down.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All comments and opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Sigh… another book by Denise Hunter that I hate to see come to an end.
Hunter has truly become one of my very favorite authors. Her novels are always beautifully written with memorable characters you can’t help but root for, and More Than Friends is no exception.

This story follows Jenna and Ty in a charming friends-to-romance journey. While some parts of the plot are predictably sweet and comforting—just what I love from Hunter—there are also a few mystery elements and surprises tucked in along the way that kept me turning the pages. I especially loved the references to the Chincoteague ponies, their unique history, and the tradition of Pony Penning—such a delightful and unexpected touch.

I absolutely loved this story and hope Hunter expands the series to follow the other wonderful characters we meet along the way.
A full 5 stars from me!

Thanks NetGalley for the preview.

More Than Friends by Denise Hunter. Hunter writes another wonderful friends to more romance. Loved the characters and she brought all the feels with this story! I didn’t want to put it down. This should be your next read. Her books never disappoint. Thank you to #NetGalley and #ThomasNelsonFiction for this Arc. This is my honest review.

I always enjoy Denise Hunter’s books and More Than Friends was no exception. Well written plot with excellent characters. My thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this book. This is my unbiased review.

More than Friends by Denise Hunter is a sweet friends to lovers clean small town romance. I enjoyed reading this as well as learning about the Chincoteague ponies on Assateague Island. Lovely read
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson Fiction via Netgalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Just finished, and what a lovely story! I enjoyed the setting and the story line, and of course the ponies. Beautifully written and thought-provoking read by Denise Hunter. Highly recommended.

MORE THAN FRIENDS by DENISE HUNTER is a beautifully written love story with great characters, that takes place on Chincoteague Island where the wild ponies are an important part of island life. I loved reading about the pony penning days, the pony swim and the buy back ponies…
When Jenna Greene refuses her boyfriend’s proposal and loses her job in Alexandria, she goes home to the island where she finds a suspicious man living at her mother’s. She also finds that her recently divorced childhood friend, Tyson Parker, is becoming more than a friend to her…….
Tyson is a volunteer fire fighter, and Jenna has been traumatised by her fire fighter father’s death. Tyson, after being hurt by his ex wife, went “dating mad” for a while and is now wary of getting into any relationship, especially one that could ruin their easy friendship……
This is a story about overcoming fear, guilt and rejection.
I highly recommend this most enjoyable read.
I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Thomas Nelson Publishers. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

Jenna visits her mom after a failed relationship leaves her without a job. Her ulterior motive is to make sure the new man in her mom's life isn't scamming her. She enlists the help of her childhood friend, Tyson, to help solve the mysteries surrounding her mom's new boyfriend. With the time spent together, their friendship evolves into a romantic relationship. This is a cute, sweet romance with a few interesting subplots woven together. I recommend this book!

What I liked
‣ the writing
‣ the ending
‣ island vibes
‣ ponies!!!
‣ friends to lovers
‣ perfectly paced


Review

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. (Thank you Netgalley and Thomas Nelson!!)

Absolutely adorable book, and so real at times. I loved the romance and the chemistry these two shared.

I might or might not have binge read the last half or so. One of the best romance books I've read so far. I can't even think of anything bad to say about the book at this moment.

A sweet cozy romance that will delight fans of Denise Hunter.

I'm so amazed at how this author continues to deliver. She does a small town atmosphere so beautifully, and this is a great premise as Jenna and Tyson investigate the mom's suspicious new boyfriend. The longtime friendship between Jenna and Tyson means we are immediately invested in their relationship.

I especially admired how Tyson has always served as a "safe place" for Jenna to land. Their dynamic is relatable, and I found myself cheering them on.

The investigation keeps the story going and gives them a believable reason to work together.

Jenna's interiority is explored quite a bit -- but for a good reason.

The ending is very satisfactory.

Another winner from Denise Hunter!

Another wonderful story that I very much enjoyed.
I finished it in the early morning hours. Very good!
Wonderful characters that I loved instantly getting to know. I very much enjoyed Jenna and Tyson's journey
What better way to heal your heart than to return back to where you grew up?
There's a bit of mystery involved that kept me turning the pages to see what happened next.
I loved visiting Chincoteague Island, Virginia. So beautiful! I was sad when the story ended .I didn't want to leave. I got to visit a place I'd not visited in a long time. Not since the Misty stories.
This is my favorite Denise Hunter story ever!!
5 stars for keeping me interested. I just loved this novel. This is her best yet.
Thanks for the opportunity to read and review. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine.

Who doesn't love a friends to more trope?! I adored this story so much. The author writes stories that really pull on your heart strings and really makes you love everything about the story and characters! I highly recommend this book!

I went into I went into More Than Friends thinking I’d just read a few chapters before bed… and then suddenly it was way too late at night and I was still turning pages. There’s just something about Denise Hunter’s writing that pulls you in without you even noticing, and this story hooked me fast.

One of my favorite parts was the whole horse angle — the ranch setting, the routines, the way the horses are woven into the characters’ lives. It gives the story this grounded, peaceful vibe that makes the romance feel even sweeter. Plus, the scenes in the barn and out in the pasture were some of the most vivid in the book.

The friends-to-lovers part is done really well. It’s slow and natural, with little moments where you can feel the shift happening before the characters even realize it. I also enjoyed the parallel story with the main characters mother.

Overall, it’s a warm, easy read that left me smiling. If you like small-town romance, gentle chemistry, and stories where animals quietly steal the show, this one’s definitely worth picking up.

I receive complimentary books from various sources, including NetGalley, authors, and others. I am not required to write a positive review, and I have not received any compensation for my thoughts

I loved getting lost in this book! Sometimes we really don't see what is in front of us!
Can friends of many years move into a relationship? Or if things go wrong will that end a friendship?
This is a story about relationships, or maybe just friendship, it is also a story about what happens when the relationship ends.
There is a lot going on here, right from the beginning with a marriage proposal, to the end with the epilogue, which I loved!
Mom coming home from a cruise and a new friend with her, also Jenna coming home to the Island she loves and misses, Chincoteague Island, Virginia. but without a job.
When the final page was turned, I wanted to stay! Looking forward to my next read by this go to author!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Thomas Nelson, and was not required to give a positive review.

This book is fantastic! I couldn't put it down. The wonderful story of Jenna & Tyson that started as friendship, then turned into love, was a joy to read!!

This book was so refreshing! A tender love story for sure filled with challenges and consequences to decisions made. A story of love and forgiveness and a good reminder to stay humble and keep the communication channels open. Denise Hunter has a way to capture the moment and make it real.

As always Denise Hunter gives us another great read! Quick and easy read that was good for the heart! Very cute friends to lover’s book.

: "I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own."

Denise Hunter can always be counted on to bring a heartfelt, realistic story to life. I very much enjoyed this story of best friends Jenna and Tyson as they dance around their feelings for each other, Jenna’s mom’s whirlwind romance with a man she just met, which raised all kinds of red flags for Jenna, and all the information centering around the Chincoteague horses and annual pony swim. There were issues of trust, forgiveness, and the love of friends and family. This is a feel-good emotional story that was compelling and easy to read.

Book Review: “More than Friends” by Denise Hunter- (Releases April 2026)

I stand by what I’ve said in the past. I haven’t yet found a Denise Hunter book that I haven’t liked! This slow burn was seriously so good!

Having just broken up with her boyfriend and losing her job, Jenna Greene is heading home to Assateague Island. She planned on staying with her mom for awhile, working on the island, and maybe spending time with some old friends.

When Jenna’s mom reveals that she is dating someone new, all Jenna can see is red flags. Fears of her past insecurities pop up and Jenna is immediately worried about her mom.

Meanwhile, all this extra time spent with her friend Tyson is showing her exactly the type of man he is….and how all of her previous relationships with men have been lacking. Tyson is the real deal, but wouldn’t it be safer to just stay friends? Especially when he’s a firefighter and she doesn’t know if her heart can take any more heartache from dangerous jobs?

You guys, I LOVED this book! It started out a little slow, but quickly picked up the pace once Jenna got to Assateague Island! It has all my favorite elements I’ve come to know Denise Hunter by! Slow burn, no spice romance with plenty of swoon-worthy moments, twists and turns that you don’t see coming… this is the perfect book to pick up on a cozy rainy or snowy day! I love that this book is spice free, with no foul language, ensuring I can safely share it with my teenagers! I rate this book as 5 stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I received this book for free from Netgalley in exchange for my honest unbiased opinion.

#bookstagram #bookstagrammer #readersofinstagram #readersofig #readers #readersgonnaread #morethanfriends #denisehunter #cleanfiction #cleanromance #tyson #jenna #assateague #wildponies #assateagueisland #assateagueponies

More than Friends is my favorite troupe, friends to lovers. Jenna and Tyson are the best of friends and that lays the foundation for the best relationship either of them have ever experienced. The backdrop of the story is Chincoteague Island, Virginia. Now I want to go on vacation there. A story filled with love, sacrifice and faith.

Another winner by Denise Hunter! If you love second chance romance then you'll love this one. It's is also a fun and unique setting.

More Than Friends, by Denise Hunter, tells of the trials of Jenna Greene. From her lost job after she breaks things off with her boyfriend/boss to moving in with her mother and having to deal with her new boyfriend. Jenna’s life seems out of control!

Enter Tyson Parker, her childhood best friend. You sense that things are about to get very interesting!

This was a sweet story and Denise Hunter doesn’t disappoint. A broken engagement Jenna returns back home and her mom is dating a man that doesn’t seem on the up and up , her childhood best friend Tyson helps her and old feelings come back up.
It was a really good story and I really enjoyed it
Thank you to NetGalley and publishers for my copy

Loved this story about 2 BFF living close to each other when they were young. Jenna moves off of Chincategee Island but comes back in July for the Pony swim and auction. She comes back this time because where she worked her boyfriend was her boss. When she didn't accept his proposal , he fired her. when she returned home, her mother had Gordan,., who she met on the cruise ship there living over the garage. Threw up red flags for Jenna so she turned to her best friend Tyson. They spent a lot of time together,. See how that works out. She worked some at Miss Molly's kayak tours as she did when she was in school . She went back to Alexandria to work. See how that works. A REAT READ.

I loved this story. Such a sweet story of transitioning from friends to a relationship. The characters were well developed and it was a joy to read. So thankful I was able to read this book! I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions in this review are my own.

This was so cute and heartwarming and heartfelt.

Jenna has had her whole life turned upside down - she broke up with her boyfriend, she’s lost her job - and what do you do when that happens? You go home. And for Jenna, that’s Chincoteague Island - to her mother and her best friend Tyson. With Jenna working to rebuild her life and trying to safeguard her mother from a potentially damaging relationship - and Tyson trying to recover from a divorce, is it any wonder their relationship evolves to “more than friends”?

It’s sweet and believable and makes you want to keep reading.

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the audiobook ARC to read and review. All opinions are my own.

A sweet friends to lovers romance. There is a bit of a challenging relationship that causes strife within the family. Some firefighting excitement and the wonderful ponies of the island. I can remember reading Misty of Chincoteague in my youth and wanting to visit. Never happened, but now it feels as if it did. Thanks to the publisher for providing a copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary.

I absolutely ADORED everything about this! Jenna and Tyson, ugh the best friends to lovers story. I need this on the big screen ASAP. The way they figured their lives out, the way Jenna’s mom found her own confidence and love, I just truly fell in love with them all. Thank you so much NetGalley for this ARC. Denise Hunter is such an impactful writer to me.. she brings that emotional desire in every chapter. 5 ⭐️

Life knocks Jenna flat—and I mean flat: newly single, newly unemployed, and temporarily moving back in with her mom. Not exactly the comeback arc she envisioned. What she definitely didn’t expect? Falling right back into the orbit of her childhood best friend, Tyson. 👀
Tyson casually drops a little hmm that’s suspicious secret about Jenna’s mom’s new boyfriend, making Jenna’s return home the perfect time to regroup, rethink her future… and maybe play amateur detective. But while they’re poking around the mystery man, something else starts bubbling up—feelings Jenna never saw coming.
They’ve always been just friends. The safe kind. The “been through every breakup together” kind. But this time? The chemistry hits different. Friendship suddenly feels like it’s falling short, and the emotional tension is chef’s kiss.
Jenna has a million reasons to keep her guard up, and Tyson—sweet, patient, emotionally mature Tyson—worries just as much about risking the one thing they both treasure most: their friendship. But honestly? Them as a couple is everything. Tyson is the kind of man who quietly wrecks your heart by being good, steady, and understanding—even when Jenna’s hesitation hurts him.
Denise Hunter does what she always does best: delivers a heartfelt, engaging story with strong characters you genuinely care about. More Than Friends is a warm, emotional friends-to-lovers romance that hits all the right notes.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book. This is my unbiased review—and yes, I loved it. 💕

Beautifully written story with wonderful, layered characters and an original storyline. Emotional, inspirational, informative and insightful book. Loved this book. This story needs to be made into a movie! Definitely worth the read. This book was provided through NetGalley for me to read. The opinions expressed here are my own thoughts.

ARC Review for NetGalley
• Slow Burn
• Friends To Lovers
• Small Town
• Second Chances
@deniseahunter beautifully captures the ache of the quiet longing that grows between two people who have shared years of friendship, missteps, and unspoken hope. There's a gentleness to this story, a slow unfolding that honors both vulnerability and timing. I loved how faith is woven naturally into the pages with sweet prayers.
This story is about second chances, honest conversations, and the courage it takes to risk more when friendship feels safer. Warm, heartfelt, and deeply satisfying, More Than Friends is a reminder that some love stories are worth the wait-and that God is often moving, even when you think He isn't.
This book left me longing for a nice summer breeze during this winter season.
I loved this book so much!
Thank you @thomasnelson & @netgalley I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Denise Hunter hits out of the park with this book again. The characters are very well developed. It has twists and turns. My favorite part is when Jenna and Ty's friendship transforms into a couple. I knew that they couldn't be friends long because they have a lot of feelings for one another. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. # More than Friends # #Netgalley#

More than Friends is a heartwarming, cozy read by Denise Hunter. I loved the setting on Chincoteague Island in Virginia, especially the history and story of the Chincoteague ponies. It is home to both Jenna and Tyson who have been best friends since they were 12 years old. Jenna moved away for college and work but returned home following the breakup with her boyfriend. Tyson has a year behind him following his divorce. They are there for each other when life throws curve balls. Adding to the story, Jenna’s mom comes home from a cruise with Gordon, a man she just met. Red flags pop up everywhere for Jenna when he moves into her mom’s apartment above the garage. Jenna and Ty do a little sleuthing to try to figure out who Gordon really is. This is a friends’ to lovers story with a few twists thrown into the mix. It is an easy to read book giving out lots of warm, emotional feels. I highly recommend it.