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.

This book is so well written you are on an emotional roller coaster with Jenna and Tyson. They are sweet and caring friends since high school and very much invested in their families, careers and friends. You will fall in love with them and not want their story to end.

Another fun lighthearted romance by Denise Hunter. Easy flowing conversations, an inviting setting and likable characters are what make this book an enjoyable relaxing read. The side stories also invited you into the workings of relationships that surrounded the main characters. They helped the story flow and added to the building of the main characters personalities. The setting was part of the story yet didn't take over. The story itself was relatable and believable. I enjoyed reading the book and found it to be an easygoing story that filled a few hours with wholesome entertainment.

There was plenty to enjoy in this sweet romance. What especially stood out to me was the unique setting of Chincoteague Island, Virginia, and the wild ponies there. It was interesting to learn about the traditions of this island. The friends-to-more trope was also done really well, with the bonus of a few unexpected twists in the story. If you enjoy contemporary, small-town, sweet romances, this is the book for you.

More Than Friends by Denise Hunter is a heartwarming friends to lovers story.

When Jenna Greene ends things with her boyfriend, she is fired from her job for refusing his marriage proposal, she is stuck without hope of finding a new job. She returns home to find her mother has brought home a man from a cruise. Jenna is immediately suspicious. Jenna's long time friend, Tyson Parker, tries to help Jenna play detective to find out where this man is coming from.

The story is a departure from others as it is central in Chincoteague, Virginia, where the wild ponies live. Jenna takes on a part time job as a tour guide. Tyson is a volunteer firefighter, which opens Jenna's wounds as she lost her father in a fire.

This is a heartwarming story and a reminder that some love stories are worth the time and patience for feelings to come full circle. Clean, well written characters and interesting. A worth while read.

I received a complimentary ebook copy from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for sending me a copy of this book to review.

This was a fantastic read, and I enjoyed it a lot. I am looking forward to reading more by this author.

I greatly enjoyed this Heartwarming and heartbreaking read. Characters and storyline kept me from the first page to the last. I could not lay this book down. Jenna and Ty’s story is precious to read and cheer them on. Highly recommend this book. I was given an advanced reader copy of this book by NetGalley and the publisher and I am freely sharing my review. #denisehunter @denisehunter #netgallay @netgalley #harpercollinspublisher @harpercollinspublisher

More Than Just Friends by Denise Hunter is a Christian Contemporary Christian romance. I enjoyed reading this story very much. It is well written and easy to read. I quickly got caught up in the story that kept my interest to the very end. This is a nice story of going home, finding the person and the life God meant for you.

This is a fun story to read. Jenna finds herself without a job and boyfriend and able to quickly go home to check on her mother. Her childhood friend, Tyson, is still there as is the job she loved and excelled in. But her mother has a new boyfriend Jenna is suspicious of and the business she work for is now for sale. The mystery behind her mother’s boyfriend adds to keeping the story interesting. I enjoyed the background story of the ponies and how they help the town.

I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book, this is my honest review.

Denise Hunter is one of those authors where I’ll read everything she writes. She has a way of telling stories, of coming up with such uniquely their own plots for every book. I really enjoyed this island setting and backdrop of Chincoteague’s wild ponies, which I had never heard about before. The development of feelings between Ty and Jenna was done beautifully. The issues they each had to face, believable. I also loved the mystery added with Jenna’s mom. Such a great story from start to finish.

Denise Hunter brings us along as Jenna and her Mom's, life unfolds from where they are now. Jenna and her BFF from childhood, start hanging out, her mother and the man that came home with her after the cruise, are getting to know each other. I found that it was slow paced, that was laid back, and I just enjoyed it. The community, the kayaking that goes gently through the water, the Chincoteague's wild ponies, possibly gently falling in love.
It was nice to slow down, get out of the chaos of life, and just enjoy watching their life unfold.
I received an ARC from Thomas Nelson through NetGalley. I enjoy books that take me away, to some place relaxing, enjoyable, and calm, this book did all three.

I loved this book. It’s the first book I’ve read of Denise Hunter and she didn’t disappoint. I definitely want to read more of her books!

I loved this book. It kept my interest because of the factual aspects of the wild Chincoteague ponies that were included in the great story of friendship and family. Jenna returns home after turning down her now ex-boyfriend’s proposal. Her bff from school Tyson is a volunteer firefighter and going through a divorce; they reconnect and find out that their feelings have changed. Working together to solve the mystery of her mother’s new vacation boyfriend draws them closer together. Can they work through their old traumas to find love with each other? You’ll have to read this story to find out. I was given an advance copy of this book in exchange for my review.

I loved this story from the very start. The opening scene set me up for a fun read. I was not disappointed throughout the story.

We start with meeting Jenna, who based on the opening, returns home to see her mom and find out what's going on there. We soon after meet Tyson, her friend. They relate vey well. The setting of an island, and beach always appeals to me. This one is more special as it includes a lot about the wild ponies on Chincoteague and the pony buy back. There's a lot of history for Jenna and I fell in love with Dream.

The story has people who have been damaged, hurt, disappointed for good reasons. There are side couples who play into the story and I liked them all.

This is a low spice Christian Fiction and I appreciated it for that.

I love reading Denise Hunter so I was looking forward to reading her newest novel set to release in April 2026.

Denise Hunter is a must read for me. Her stories are heartfelt and features realistic characters with complex histories and just a joy to read.

Jenna returns home after a broken engagement and losing her job. She reconnects with her lifelong best friend, who is also a ‘saltwater cowboy’ and a go red fighter. This novel takes place in Virginia, on Chincoteague Island, which features the famous Chincoteague ponies. I have never heard of this place before so it was interesting to read about the history - it was beautifully written and felt like I was there.

Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC!

I always enjoy reading Denise Hunter books because I know I will be drawn into a world of romance, chemistry and a friendly wrap-around community. More than Friends brings all that along with fascinating details about the history of Chincoteague Island (I always love it when I learn interesting historical facts while I read fiction!). I found this book to be one I didn't want to put down, I was so pleased I started reading on the weekend, as I was drawn in to Jenna and Tyson's story.

Jenna has hit rock bottom - a marriage proposal rejection sees her losing her relationship and job and since it was very public no one is hiring her. She heads back home to Chincoteague Island where her mother and oldest & best friend Tyson is still living. Together they enjoy hanging out, investigating her mothers new boyfriend and avoiding the chemistry sizzling just beneath the surface.

This book has great characters, wonderful emotions and some totally relatable problems. I really enjoyed the storyline and the way Jenna had to work to find herself and discover what makes her tick best. There are challenges and joys being involved in the fire brigade/first responders and I thought these were carefully and tastefully discussed throughout the book. This is a book I know I will pick up again when I want a satisfying comfort read. I received a complimentary copy of this book, opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

⭐friends to more
⭐finding yourself
⭐sweet & clean

This book was an absolute pleasure to read. Cowboy romance AND firefighter in ONE?! Yes PLEASE.

Jenna and Tyson were best friends since they were kids and I absolutely loved their connection as friends and then as they turned to more. There was heartache and hurt and for goodness sake I wish someone would actually just smack Marissa at this point.

If you're looking for a swoony romance with some harder topics but not weighed down to feel like a drudgery, then definitely pick up this masterpiece!

Denise Hunter is an excellent author and I love everything she writes.

Denise Hunter is always a win in my book!

More than Fiends by Denise Hunter is another winner - you can never go wrong with her books - maybe that's why movies are often made?? ;) In this one, set in a small town island, Chincoteague, on the Eastern coast of Virginia, Jenna Greene returns home after losing her boyfriend and her job. Ready to find peace and breathe, her mom comes home with a new boyfriend, however, Jenna feels something is off.

Tyson Parker was Jenna's best friend growing up and he's never left the island. He's always loved being there and now he's a firefighter. Tyson's ex-wife broke him, when she cheated on him and now as his friendship rekindles with Jenna, feelings begin to grow. Jenna gets his help to uncover the secrets of her mom's boyfriend and when feelings develop between the two - can they trust to find where this leads?

I really enjoyed this wonderful friends to more romance taking place around Chincoteague and Assoteague Islands, and the famous ponies, which play a big part of the story. Themes of grief, fear, second chance romance, with suspicions of a con job. Clean/cozy with light faith thread. Kayaking, history tour guide, firefighting, a few tears, but mostly joy! Such an enjoyable story!

Great for lovers of romance + women’s fiction

Love the author and her writing style

Fun romance that’s unique but classic in vibes

More Than Friends is my favorite Denise Hunter book yet! It had all the elements I love in a romance—memorable characters, sweet and wonderful chemistry, meaningful character transformation, and a beautiful, unforgettable setting that made me wish I could visit the island and see the ponies myself. I even looked up the Chincoteague Pony and the Chincoteague Island setting and was amazed that it’s a real place. Now I definitely want to visit!

I found myself thinking about the book whenever I wasn’t reading it because I truly enjoyed spending time with these characters. Tyson’s playful rivalry and brotherly bond with his brothers had me laughing many times, and the sibling dynamics even made me think of my own siblings. I’m already hoping we’ll get to read Seth’s story soon.

I also appreciated Jenna’s deep love and concern for her mother, which made her character shine even more. And it was so sweet to watch the gradual blossoming from friendship into something deeper. I always enjoy stories where romantic partners start off as friends, though that shift can be difficult to navigate. Denise Hunter handled it beautifully—it never felt rushed, and their fears and uncertainties were shown naturally through the story.

For me, this was an amazing read and one I could easily revisit just to spend more time with the characters and the unforgettable island setting. Highly recommended!

Thanks to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction for the complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own.

Jenna and Ty have been best friends since childhood. When Jenna returns to the island after she loses her job in the city, things begin to heat up between them. They are both afraid to take the next step and ruin their friendship. Despite their best efforts, the pull is too strong. Then when tragedy strikes, things fall apart. Are they able to repair the damage between them and start over? You'll have to read this book to find out. Sweet story with wonderful characters. I loved the setting on Chincoteague Island and learning about the ponies and the history behind that. Very interesting. I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed are my own. #morethanfriends #netgalley #thomasnelsonfiction

Jenna and Tyson were friends since age 12. Jenna broke up with her ex, lost her job, and decided to go home to see her mom. She is surprised to find her mother brought home a guy from a cruise. Jenna has always shared her thoughts with her best friend Tyson. This time being together makes them wonder if they are more than friends. This takes place close to Chincoteague Island. I loved the traditions of the wild horses. Tyson works with the horses, helps his parents at their Bed and Breakfast, and is a volunteer firefighter. Between Tyson's jobs and trying to figure out why mom's boyfriend is still around allows for a lot of excitement. Great book with wonderful characters.

Alexandria, Virginia. Jenna Greene has made it clear to the guy she’s been dating for two years that she’s not ready to get married, Jenna can’t believe it when he proposes, and when she doesn’t say “yes” he fires her.

Jenna returns home to Chincoteague Island, her widowed mother Dee has returned from a cruise, with a boyfriend and this sets of alarm bells for her daughter.

Tyson Parker is divorced, works at his parents' bed and breakfast, and is a volunteer firefighter. Jenna lived right across the street, being athletic she hung out with the three boys growing up and she’s a good friends with the whole family. He’s very happy when Jenna returns, she convinces him to help her find out more about the elusive Gordon, after spending time with her, Tyson notices Jenna is a very attractive woman and she’s noted he’s very handsome man.

However, Jenna has vowed never to become involved with a first responder, as she still hasn’t got over the loss of her dad who was a firefighter eighteen years ago and besides she and Tyson don’t have a great track record in finding love and nothing worse than being in a rebound relationship or a second choice.

I received a complimentary copy of More than Friends from Thomas Nelson and all opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. This is the first novel I have read by award winning writer Denise Hunter and it won’t be my last.

Unbeknownst to me for over a hundred years and in late July saltwater cowboys have been swimming wild Chincoteague ponies across the Assateague Channel, and I can understand why it attracts tourists and animal enthusiasts. To keep the herd numbers under control and they are taken to the Chincoteague Carnival Grounds and some of the foals are auctioned off for a good reason and cause.

Combine this with a friends to possible lovers narrative it’s a winner, and it also includes other relevant topics such as grief and loss, abandonment and change, how it’s important to get professional help to deal with this.

I highly recommend, for fans of clean and wholesome romantic fiction and five stars from me.

If you’re looking for a sweet, small-town romance to get lost in, More Than Friends by Denise Hunter is such a cozy read. Jenna returns to her mom’s house on Chincoteague Island after a broken engagement and ends up leaning on her childhood best friend, Tyson—a swoony saltwater cowboy and volunteer firefighter—for help when things get a little mysterious around her mom’s new boyfriend.

I loved the friends-to-more storyline—it’s funny, tender, and full of those “aw, finally!” moments that make you root for the couple. Tyson is charming, grounded, and just the right mix of protective and swoony, and Jenna’s mix of determination and vulnerability makes her so relatable.

If you’re a fan of Debbie Macomber or Hallmark-style romance, this one’s a perfect escape: warm, funny, and heartfelt, with a touch of mystery to keep you turning pages late into the night.

Not really a second chance romance, but rather a first chance at a romance between long standing friends. Loved the setting at Chincoteague and the wild ponies. I was rooting for Jenna and Tyson the whole time—hoping they could find their way to each other. As their feelings develop Jenna must face feelings about romance with a first responder in light of the loss of her father. A great beach read.

The publishers provided an advanced readers copy of this book for reviewing purposes. All opinions are my own

I read this as an ARC through NetGalley, and I honestly loved it. This was such a sweet, easy contemporary romance to fall into. It had so much heart, and it definitely pulled on my emotions more than once. I actually teared up a few times.

I really loved that there was more than one love story woven into the book. It made the whole story feel even fuller and more meaningful. Overall, this was a warm, emotional, feel-good read, and definitely a 5-star for me.

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

I have read a few of Denise Hunter's books in the past and I have loved every single one of them. She is one of my favourite writers and ones again this book did not disappoint. I absolutely loved this book.
It’s a book about two friends who find each other again and quickly they catch more feelings. I loved how they grew together again and how they fell in love. They were such a sweet couple.
I would absolutely recommend this book. Its written so well and you fly through the book.

Thank you NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction for the ARC. All opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

The last few novels by this author have been particularly great. This is no exception! From the lovely cover, to the educational and unique island setting with the Chincoteague ponies, to the friends-to-more trope, I simply settled in and just enjoyed.

I really enjoyed all of the characters and their stories. Both of the main characters, Jenna and Ty, had painful wounds from their childhoods. Jenna’s Dad died tragically as a firefighter when she was 12. Ty’s father left them when Ty was a young child. Jenna can’t find a reason to fully commit to a relationship and Ty went through a divorce after his wife had an affair. Their long friendship and loyalty to one another warmed my heart. The closeness with their families is also endearing.

Sometimes the “friends to more” trope can feel very forced and lacklustre. This is one of the best I’ve read with that trope. We got to see how it stared, how it grew, and when it suddenly shifted to something else. It felt natural and honest. Annnnd…. anyone who says a clean romance cannot convey chemistry needs to read chapter 26 in particular. Just sayin’……… ;-)

I appreciate how there are so many other parts to this story than only romance. They are not cheesy and perfect characters. They had painful childhood experiences, personal challenges, hurts, and weaknesses like anyone else. The path to romantic love isn’t without its struggles. Yet their relationship makes so much sense and is enjoyable to journey along with.


*** My thanks to the publisher, Thomas Nelson, and Net Galley for a complimentary copy. My review is voluntary. My rating, opinion, and words are completely my own.

A contemporary romance with no heat! Just a nice clean book.
Jenna Greene and Tyson Parker were childhood friends enjoying summers roaming Chincoteague Island.
As they grew older, Ty was always there for Jenna. But she didn’t see him as anything more than a good friend, although he always hoped for more.
Jenna left the island after graduation and didn’t return to the island until she lost her job and her boyfriend on the same day. Ty is there once again to pick up where their friendship left off and help her pick up the pieces from her upended life. But when their friendship turns to more, no one is more surprised than both of them..
An excellent book with a beautiful island, a history of wild ponies and a sweet romance to warm your heart.
Thank you Netgalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction for the eARC. I received a complimentary copy of this book without remuneration and this review is my own opinion.

This was the sweetest story. I can't believe it's my first Denise Hunter book. It is heartwarming and leaves you feeling all fuzzy and happy inside. A Hallmark story without all the cheesiness.

I can't wait to read more by Denise.

Thank you NetGalley for the ARC.

More Than Friends
Denise Hunter
April 14, 2026

When Jason and Jenna head out to dinner she is surprised to see friends at surrounding tables. Her mind wanders to what he has in mind. At that point he got down on one knee… Jenna doesn’t know what to think, what to say. She is not ready for marriage. When she answers ‘no’ his anger takes over. He fires her from his medical practice and leaves. Jenna decides she must go home to the island; to the security of her mom, Dee and her best friend Tyson.
More Than Friends will be published on April 14, 2026 by Thomas Nelson. I was able to read and review Hunter’s latest novel via NetGalley. This story was a pleasure to read - friends, family, problems to solve and the beautiful island of Chincoteague in Virginia, home to the wild ponies. I thoroughly enjoyed Jenna’s tale and the introduction of her friends and family. I would love to read a sequel. This book is a delight!

Thanks to NetGalley, Thomas Nelson, and Zondervan Fiction Audio for the ARC and ALC of More Than Friends by Denise Hunter, narrated by Kim Churchill.

I am forever grateful that I discovered Denise Hunter, as she has become my favorite, feel-good, low-spice contemporary romance author. My first read by the author was The Second Story Bookshop (2025), and I was surprised how much I loved it, as it is a second-chance romance, which usually does not work for me. Denise Hunter can make you feel like the characters are friends of yours, which allows you to connect to the story in a way that makes readers experience the same emotions felt on the page, which is incredibly difficult to achieve. I could rave about her all day long, but I NEED to talk about her latest masterpiece, More Than Friends.

More Than Friends is exactly as it sounds. It is a childhood friends to lovers as adults after both main characters have struggled and faced heartache, both personally and professionally. The setting of this book is Chincoteague Island, Virginia, where the wild ponies roam before/after their time spent on Assateague Island, Maryland. The ponies and the setting are an incredibly important part of the story, and I instantly connected as I grew up visiting Assateague Island, seeing the wild ponies take off for their annual swim. But even if you have never been to or heard of these islands, the author does an incredible job of describing them all in a way that readers will be able to feel the sand between their toes.

The FMC, Jenna Greene, is back home on Chincoteague Island after her life imploded. When you are in a long-term relationship with your boss, and you turn down his VERY public proposal, things don’t generally work out in the professional sphere. She quickly finds out that when all else fails, you can always go home, which is where she runs into her childhood best friend, Tyson Parker. They decide to team up to investigate the man Jenna’s mom has brought home from her cruise and swiftly moved into her home. When someone seems too good to be true, and the red flags are flapping in the sea breeze, Jenna has to do everything she can to help prevent her mom from falling victim to this “romance con man”. Working together with Tyson and being home away from the hustle and bustle of the Washington DC suburbs allows Jenna to open her heart and her eyes to everything and everyone she has missed.

This is another 5-STAR book from Denise Hunter. Laugh out loud moments, feel good, heartwarming (found and genetic) family moments, a bit of mystery, and sweet, low-spice romance between friends turned lovers, this book has everything a romance reader could ask for. The audiobook was absolute perfection as well. Kim Churchill has incredible talent as a narrator, as she is able to make you connect not only to the characters but to her as well. Listening to the audiobook made me feel like I was out with a girlfriend and she was telling me an incredible love story.

Please, please do not miss More Than Friends by Denise Hunter and the audiobook, narrated by Kim Churchill. The cover is ABSOLUTELY gorgeous, and the story inside is just as beautiful. I will be pre-ordering a physical copy TODAY and will be rereading this one again and again.

jenna returns home after losing her job and her fiancé., to live with her mother. she meets up with an old friend. sweet story

I am enchanted by this love story. I loved everything about it. I’m still crying happy tears with the ending.

Thank you NetGalley, Denise Hunter, Thomas Nelson Fiction for the ARC.

“More Than Friends” by Denise Hunter is the perfect literary escape full of good characters, deep personal issues, and some Chincoteague pony content. Jenna is reeling from some major life events/changes, and she heads back home to Chincoteague Island to visit her mother. Jenna’s best friend, Tyson, is also reeling from some major life changes and the decisions he made after that time. Together, we see these best friends helping each other through tough circumstances and learning things about themselves along the way. Jenna and Tyson step in to help Jenna’s mom with some issues, and their helping is not going so well. Top it all off, Jenna and Ty are suddenly seeing each other in a whole new light, and it is not just as a best friend! Their friendship is so valuable to each of them, that it feels terrifying to think of jeopardizing that special connection for something that could just be a momentary thing.
This was a lovely story, mostly light feeling in the plot line while also addressing some deep themes in grief, abandonment, anxiety, guilt, and relationships. It highlights the usefulness of therapists or counselors as we navigate difficult situations in our lives. As all Denise Hunter books, this is a clean story while still having romantic elements. Lovers of the wild ponies on Chincoteague will also enjoy this story as it shows us how the pony population is managed and how it in turn helps to sustain the fire company on the island. The Saltwater Cowboys and their pony swim and pony auction are a great addition to the story. I highly recommend this book to anyone needing a great literary escape.

Jenna Greene turns down her boyfriend’s proposal, and since he’s also her boss, she suddenly finds herself unemployed. She heads back to her mother’s house on Chincoteague Island, Virginia, soon after her mom returns from a cruise with a man in tow. Curious about the stranger now living in her mother’s garage apartment, Jenna enlists the help of her childhood best friend, Tyson Parker, who lives and works in town. Tyson, a dedicated island fireman, has been dating quite a bit since his divorce, but one of the EMTs he’s seeing is stirring up trouble—both for him personally and at his fire station. As Jenna and Tyson grow closer while spending time together, she accepts a new job on the mainland, only to realize that moving away isn’t what she truly wants for her life.

Ahhh Denise Hunter, the queen that you are 😭 this book was everything!

Reading More Than Friends felt like being cozied up in an Adirondack chair on the porch of a coastal beach house, listening to the waves roll in. Peaceful, comforting, and completely immersive. It’s clean but oh-so-swoony, with just the right touch of faith woven throughout to make it feel even more meaningful.

I also loved the layer of suspenseful drama woven into the story. It added such a compelling edge and kept the pages turning. Paired with the real, deeper issues the characters faced, this isn’t just a light, cheesy romance. It’s heartfelt, beautiful, and carries so much more depth than you might expect.

And I have to mention the audiobook as well. The narrator did a fantastic job bringing the story to life and added even more emotion to an already beautiful read.

Denise truly can’t miss. Once again, she delivered a story that was uplifting, emotional, and easy to fall into from the very first page.

I’m so thankful and grateful to have received both an ARC and ALC in exchange for an honest review. Huge thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and Uplit Reads for the opportunity!

Another 5 star read from Denise Hunter: she never disappoints! I've heard and read about the horses on Chincoteague so it was delightful read a story based on the islands and about the running of the horses.

Best friends growing up, Ty and Jenna encounter romantic feelings when Jenna's home after ending a relationship and loosing her job because of it. They decide to encourage the feelings and see where it leads. She always swore she'd never date a firefighter as her Dad lost his life in the line of duty. When an accident at a fire causes injuries to Ty she rethinks her ability to commit further. She's starting a new job 3 hours away and feels the best thing is to make a clean break.

The job isn't what she expected, she misses her Mom and Ty, and an amazing offer lands on her ldp. Can she face returning to the island and just remaining friends? You'll want to read this charming and heartwarming story to find out.

Although I received a free ARC from NetGalley and the publisher, all thought and opinions are my own.

Wonderful story, enjoyed every moment!

I love the interior thoughts of Jenna Greene as she rejects a proposal and gets fired at the same time. Jenna goes home for a visit to the beautiful island she grew up on to see her mother and her best friend Tyson Parker.

This story is full of humor, two best friends whose relationship changes, wonderful family dynamics, firefighters, fears to work through, and coming home. Oh, and did I mention the beautiful wild horses on Chincoteague?

In times of uncertainty, Jenna's friend "Sofia was always quick to remind her that just because something was out of Jenna's control didn't mean it was out of God's control."

Do yourself a favor and pick up More Than Friends, you will love it!

Thanks to the publisher & Net Galley for allowing me to read an early copy. I loved it. All opinions are my own.

When Jenna said “no” to an unexpected and very public proposal from her boyfriend and boss he fired her and left her to find her own way home. Fast forward two months and she’s drowning in the famous job application rejection emails … “unfortunately, we’ve decided to move forward with another candidate for this position. It’s a space I currently occupy with Jenna and immediately drew me to her character. She thinks her mom has gotten herself into a dilemma and decides to head to her childhood home on an island off the coast of Virginia to check up on her. I’ll let you read the rest of the story so you can swoon like I did over Tyson the Chincoteague volunteer fireman. He’s also a saltwater cowboy that guides the ponies of Assateague across the water for annual pony penning. The ponies swim! Sigh. As this moving story unfolds Jenna eventually finds herself again and works through past trauma to bring us to our favorite kind of ending. I just adored this book. Be sure to search the internet for “ponies of Assateague” to you can see some pictures of the actual event on which this fictional romance is based.

This was a great read.
There were a lot of good life lessons learned in this story. I especially appreciate the emphasis on needing help and counseling for past trauma. Christians tend to deny or ignore the long term effects trauma has on your life. Especially childhood trauma.
The main characters are well developed and find that maybe friendship is only the beginning.
There is also some interesting history in the story.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. My opinions are my own.

If you’re in the mood for a beachy escape with a side of mystery, a sprinkle of romance, and just enough chaos to keep things interesting—this one’s a total win.

Jenna Greene’s life basically implodes in the most dramatic way possible (honestly, dating your boss is bold), and before she can even process it, she’s back on Chincoteague Island, broke, jobless, and sharing a roof with her mom… who now has a very questionable new boyfriend. 🚩

And let me just say: I did NOT trust this man from the start. Sneaky phone calls? Borrowing money? Weird vibes? Absolutely not.

Enter Tyson Parker—childhood best friend turned small-town hero who somehow manages to be both rugged (hello, firefighter + wild pony caretaker 😍) and emotionally available. We love a healed king… or at least one trying to be. The slow-burn shift from “one of the guys” to wait… why is he looking at me like that? is chef’s kiss perfection.

What really makes this story fun is the mix:
• Small-town charm ✔️
• Light mystery ✔️
• Second-chance-at-life energy ✔️
• Friends-to-something-more tension ✔️

Jenna’s inner battle is super relatable too—she’s tough and competitive on the outside, but when it comes to love? Total panic mode. Watching her try to figure out whether to protect her heart or risk it all adds just the right emotional depth without getting too heavy.

Overall, it feels like a Hallmark movie with a little extra sass and a suspicious boyfriend subplot—and honestly, that’s a vibe.

I loved this book just as much as the others by Denise Hunter that I have read. I will definitely read anything that she writes. This story is about best friends who want to be more than friends. They had issues to overcome to be together as more than friends. This is a sweet clean romance.

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

More Than Friends by Denise Hunter
You had me with Salt Water Cowboys and wild ponies!
Seriously!
This was the best kind of story – a friends to lovers, sweet cozy romance with second chances and wild ponies!
Jenna wasn’t ready for marriage. When her boyfriend tried to push, his proposal went south. That calamity landed Jenna back home and jobless. That’s the problem when you date your boss and things don’t work out.
Home is on the beautiful Chincoteague Island where salt water cowboys roam with wild ponies once a year. It really is a slice of heaven.
When Jenna returns home, she finds her mother with a new beau. Her having a beau at all was new but this one really just got off the boat with her. A short cruise and things were moving too fast. Jenna was unnerved.
Her longtime friend from childhood, Tyson is there on the island. He’s all grown up now working full time and volunteering as a salt water cowboy.
Freshly divorced, Tyson is working through his own relationship dilemmas. That doesn’t stop him when Jenna enlists him to help her do a little investigating. She wants to save her mom from heartache, but can she save herself from her fears?
Jenna has decisions to make when she applies for her dream job back on the mainland and may have to leave her heart behind.
This was a wonderful clean story of friends to more. I loved the way the tension was built into their relationship, and the second chance theme that worked through several characters’ roles. The beautiful imagery took me there and I know it’s a beautiful place. This is an awesome book to escape in any time of the year that you want to dip your toes in the sand and dream about cowboys and wild beach ponies! Loved it! 5/5⭐
I would like to Thank Netgalley and Denise Hunter for the opportunity to review and ARC of this title. The opinions expressed here are my own.

This was cute and sweet, an easy quick read. Friends to lovers is one of my favorite tropes. Thank you netgalley for allowing me the chance to read this

I did a combination of the digital and audio copies of this book. The narration by Kim Churchill was absolutely perfect for this book. It was pleasant to listen to and the warmth of the voices really added to the story.

I love books by Denise Hunter. Jenna and Tyson were friends from way back. When she has a break-up and the dude happens to be her boss, she finds herself headed back home. Things between Jenna and Tyson start to change with a kiss on the cheek here, a touch there, until there are feelings flying all over the place.

Each of them is also dealing with other drama in their lives. Hunter gives enough drama to enhance the romance, but the friends to lovers trope of this book was really where it's at. It is just the perfect romance!

Thanks to Thomas Nelson Fiction and Thomas Nelson and Zondervan Fiction Audio for the copies. All thoughts are my own.

*First off a HUGE thank you to Denise Hunter & Taylor Ward at Thomas Nelson for this ARC!*

Jenna Greene just broke up with her boyfriend (who formerly was her boss) and she just lost her job. So she decides to go back home to visit with her mom who lives on Chincoteague Island in Virginia. Jenna’s mom came back from her cruise with fun memories and a boyfriend, which Jenna is a little worried about that since she has only known this man for about a week.

Tyson Parker is Jenna Greene’s best friend and they have known each other since they were little. Tyson helps Jenna get back in the groove of things as she stays with her mom for a little while on the island. Tyson also wears many hats which includes being a volunteer firefighter and one of the well known saltwater-cowboys on Chincoteague Island.

In this story you learn about Chincoteague Island, and the Chincoteague Island wild ponies which live on the island and on Assateague Island. I enjoyed learning about the ponies and I loved the love story in this book. We learn about the relationship between Jenna & Tyson and the situations that are going on in both of their lives. Do Tyson & Jenna end up being more than friends?🤔😉

I truly loved the banter and all the of the side characters throughout this story! Definitely recommend this book if you are looking for a spring/summer read! 🐎🏝️❤️

A lovely contemporary best friends to more romance set in the community of Chincoteague, a barrier island along the coast of Virginia.

There are no swears, no alcohol and level 1 kisses only.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from @Netgalley and @thomasnelson. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Denise Hunter is one of my go-to authors for the best in clean contemporary romance fiction and this book illustrates why. She takes a familiar trope, best friends to more, and gives it a twist to make it totally fresh. I loved the two appealing main characters, Jenna and Tyson who grew up as neighbors and best buddies, and the way they reconnected years later after having suffered personal heartbreaks to see one another with new eyes. There were some intriguing subplots that drew the couple together and added interest and an air of mystery to the story. The book’s setting was like a bonus character as it introduced readers to the wild ponies on Chincoteague Island, VA and the work the saltwater cowboys do in taking care of them. What an amazing and beautiful movie could be made from this book! I loved it! I received an ARC from the publisher. All opinions expressed are strictly my own.

I received an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley and I loved it! I love nice clean books without F-bombs and or taking the Lord’s name in vain.Denise Hunter books always support what I want in my life.

I posted my review on Amazon too but can’t figure out how to share the link here.

This is the best book! It's a sweet, heartwarming read that holds your attention from the first page until the last. It has a wonderful cast of characters and the location was perfect. I loved that the author included the wild ponies of Chincoteague Island in the story. I loved this book and highly recommend it
I received a complimentary copy from Thomas Nelson Fiction via NetGalley and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

More than Friends is a friend-to-more romance that has plenty of hindrances and problems for the two main characters. Written by Denise Hunter, Jenna Greene and Tyson Parker grew up across the street from each other, being close friends but nothing more. Now both have broken relationships, along with the pain and confusion that comes with it. Work situations and complications make their journey one of growth as well as the relationship. The story mirrors real life in that aspect. Then there is a realistic subplot with Jenna and her mother along with a new man in her mother’s life.

A great cast of characters that would make this a great story no matter the setting, but it was “icing on the cake” is for this story to take place on Chincoteague Island, Virginia. The famous horses of the island are also part of this wonderful tale. One of Denise Hunter’s best books.

This story was a perfect read from beginning to end, with a fairytale setting, lovable characters and an immersive and magical plot. Jenna Greene returns to Chincoteague Island after a she loses her job in Alexandria and is comforted by family, friends, and her childhood best friend Tyson Parker. Feeling at loose ends, jobless and without a boyfriend, Jenna seeks solace in the familiar routine of working at the kayak business that she worked at in her youth. She and Ty fall into a familiar routine, too, of talking to each other frequently and sharing all of their challenges and dreams. This book has a dual storyline, one being Jenna’s story and the secondary one is the story of Jenna’s mom who meets a new guy on a cruise. Both stories are well crafted, offering drama as well as delightful budding romance. The plot is charming and refreshing and the setting painted a vivid picture of the pony swim from Assateague to Chincoteague, an event that we took our children to and thoroughly enjoyed so I was happy to relive those happy memories as I read this novel. Of course, the romance between Jenna and Tyson was destined from the start, but it wasn’t without a lot of bumps in the road and some possibility of imminent failure. The trope is friends to lovers and is told in a way that is absolutely fun, flirty and made me cheer for all of the characters who found their HEA. This book is a slam dunk winner for me and all that I enjoy about romance: clean, flirty, warmhearted and with appealing characters.
I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own.

Review posted on Goodreads April 14 2026
Review posted on Instagram April 14 2026

Sweet story, feel good vibe, perfect for a beach read.

Jenna and Tyson have a special bond with each other and with the people around them.

As they navigate their own lives and personal hurdles, they finally realize that real love is about owning that things can get difficult and not shying away from it.

The story of the Chincoteague wild ponies made me wish I were there for the pony swim. And of course the saltwater cowboys wouldn't be hard to look at.

Thank you @deniseahunter, @netgalley and @thomasnelsonfiction for an ARC of this amazing book in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.

Jenna Greene, faced a devastating setback when her boyfriend, who was also her boss, broke up with her. This unexpected turn of events not only ended her career but also left her without income and a place to live. Desperate for a solution, Jenna reluctantly decided to move back home.

Meanwhile, her mother, a widow, had just returned from a cruise with her new boyfriend. However, Jenna couldn’t shake the feeling of unease and distrust towards him. Something about him felt off, and she knew she needed the help of her childhood best friend, Tyson Parker. Tyson, who was still healing from a painful divorce, had a knack for uncovering secrets. He decided to use his investigative skills to dig deeper and uncover the truth behind Gordon’s behavior.

“More Than Friends” by Denise Hunter is a captivating tale that explores themes of family, second chances, and the power of trust. The author’s portrayal of Jenna and Tyson is truly remarkable. Their friendship blossomed into a deep and meaningful bond, and their chemistry on the page radiated to me.

The book is filled with unexpected twists and turns that keep readers engaged and on the edge of their seats. It’s as if the story unfolds before your very eyes, playing out like a captivating movie. I highly recommend “More Than Friends” to anyone who enjoys a compelling and emotionally resonant read.

Get your copy today!!

More than Friends by Denise Hunter is a lovely, feel-good, friends to lover’s sweet romance. Jenna returns home for all the right reasons, though she makes a bit of a mess of things with her meddling and protective nature, and finds her best friend is still there but brings new feelings. Tyson is there as a great support and partner, and I love the chemistry between these two. I enjoyed the descriptions of his role as a saltwater cowboy. I was not familiar with this concept and loved learning more about it and how it factored into their story. I appreciated their deep connection through friendship, how well they knew each other and their raw openness and honestly with one another. While they both have some past wounds to deal with, they handle them together and blossom into a beautiful relationship as a result. A perfect hallmark style romance that was just a warm, feel-good romance.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley, and all opinions expressed are solely my own, freely given.

Jenna and Tyson have been friends for . . . always, really. But life took them their separate ways until a broken engagement and worries about her mom bring Jenna back home to Chincoteague Island with its beautiful wild horses and her never-forgotten friend who might just turn out to be so much more.

More Than Friends is everything I love in a small-town romance—warm, tender, and full of heart. While Jenna and Tyson truly want the best for each other, it somehow makes falling in love and overcoming past fears and hurts all the more complicated.

The island setting, with glimpses of the beloved Chincoteague ponies, and a cast of wonderful characters make this story a perfect “curl-up and read” book.

*Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction for the complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

A broken engagement, job loss and returning home only to find that her mom has a mysterious new boyfriend. What could go wrong? And your best guy friend is always there for you, right? Except now the friend zone isn’t feeling as comfortable as it once was. I enjoyed the playful banter between longtime friends Jenna and Tyson while watching Jenna blossom and find the career path that suits her perfectly. The characters are always warm, and friendly and the locale was a real treat. Chincoteague Island, Virginia is a unique choice with wild ponies in the setting of a stunning beachy vacation spot.
I’ve read several of Denise Hunter’s novels and always enjoy them. She is a USA Today bestselling author, and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend her novels.
I received an early e -copy of this book from Net Galley and I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 Code of Federal Regulations, Part 255, Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

I enjoyed reading More Than Friends, a charming contemporary romance set in Virginia. Jenna returns to her barrier island hometown after her former boss sets up a disastrous Valentine’s Day grand gesture wedding proposal that ends their personal and professional relationship.

Jenna is concerned about her mother being besotted with a new boyfriend who’s secretive and might be a con artist. This inspires Jenna to stay with her mother and pick up summer tour guide work on the island while continuing to apply for management positions in Washington Metro Area.

Tyson is Jenna’s childhood friend who’s working at his family’s B&B and recovering from a messy divorce. He lives across the road from Jenna’s mother, works as a volunteer firefighter, and is one of the saltwater cowboys who care for the wild ponies on the island.

Jenna and Tyson’s romance is fun and sweet. They have emotional baggage and obstacles to overcome as they move out of the friends zone and put their friendship at risk if their romance doesn’t work out.

I loved the delightful small town cast of quirky characters who add many lighthearted moments to the story. The characters are dealing with trust issues and working on overcoming their fears. Forgiveness themes and the importance of honesty and truth in relationships are explored in the story.

I recommend More Than Friends to contemporary romance readers who like friends-to-more romances with small town charm, a firefighter hero, family drama, and relevant faith elements in the story.

Many thanks to Thomas Nelson and NetGalley for the advanced reader copy.

Denise Hunter delivers another enduring story that I will want to reread for years to come. With beautiful scenery, wonderful characters, and an engaging story this friends to lovers trope gives all the captivating feels. Hunter’s attention to detail in her writing brought the story to life for me. It was as if it was jumping off the page at me and left me always wanting to read more.

I am so completely intrigued with Chincoteague Island after reading this book that I hope to visit there one day. Jenna & Ty’s stories show that even though seasons of life are hard, there can be beauty in the ashes.

I highly recommend this book. It is definitely one of my favorite by Denise Hunter!

I was given a complimentary copy of this book by the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are completely my own.

Oh, I loved this story! The lifelong friendship between Jenna and Tyson turning into something more was absolutely beautiful. There’s something so special about a friends-to-lovers romance, and this one captured that slow shift in such a natural, meaningful way.

I really enjoyed how the story wove together multiple layers—each centered around love for family, friendships, and the island itself. It created such a warm, grounded atmosphere that made everything feel connected and real.

I also appreciated how the book handled past trauma. It showed that even when we think we’ve moved on, those experiences can still shape us in ways we don’t always recognize. The story did a great job highlighting the importance of actually working through those things in order to move forward in a healthy way.

Watching Jenna and Tyson’s relationship evolve had me completely hooked—I was giddy seeing their love grow, and I couldn’t wait to see how it all came together, even though I didn’t want it to end.

This was a warm, emotional, and beautifully layered story about love in all its forms. I definitely recommend it.

What happens when your safe place turns into your biggest risk?💛

I picked up More than Friends expecting a cozy friends-to-lovers romance but wow, this one gave me all the feels and then some.

From the moment Jenna heads back to Chincoteague Island, I felt like I was right there with her salt air, wild ponies, and all the nostalgia of a place tied to love and loss. There’s something so comforting about the small-town setting, but beneath it is this quiet emotional depth that really pulled me in.

Jenna is such a relatable character. Her fear of commitment, especially after everything she’s been through, felt real and not overdone. Watching her navigate her complicated feelings about her past, her mom’s questionable new relationship, and especially Tyson kept me completely invested.

And Tyson… 🥹
He is the definition of steady, kind, and quietly swoon-worthy. The way his feelings for Jenna grow while he’s still healing from his own heartbreak? It felt so genuine and tender. Their chemistry is soft but undeniable, and I loved how their friendship made every moment feel deeper and more meaningful.

What really made this story stand out for me was the balance between romance and personal growth. It’s not just about falling in love, it's about learning to trust, to heal, and to take a chance even when it’s terrifying.

If you love heartfelt, small-town romances with emotional depth, a touch of mystery, and a slow-burn friends-to-lovers journey, this one is definitely worth adding to your TBR.

✨️Thank you Uplit Reads, TNZ Fiction and Denise Hunter for sharing More than Friends with me!

More than Friends is a sweet romance of friends to more troupe in a great island setting of Chincoteague, Virginia. I really liked Ty and Jenna, who have been best friends since they were twelve years old. Jenna is living a few hours away but with a failed relationship and job loss, she goes home when she hears that her mom returned from a cruise with a strange man with her. Ty and Jenna work together to find out what they can about this guy. But they find their own relationship might be more than best friends. But so much stands in the way of that happening. This is a sweet romance with obstacles, old fears, and other events to cloud the timing. On the other hand, I enjoyed hearing more about the wild pony roundup and swim that I have heard about. All the strings get tied up with a satisfying ending.

Who knew that going home after a broken engagement could turn into exactly what your heart needed?

I’ve always loved Denise Hunter’s books, and this one absolutely delivered. It’s a heartfelt, feel-good romance with just the right amount of tension, warmth, and emotional depth to keep you completely invested.

Jenna’s situation pulls you in right away—losing both a relationship and a career at the same time is a tough reset, and returning home feels more like survival than a fresh start. But what unfolds from there is a story full of unexpected healing, second chances, and quiet courage. The added mystery surrounding her mother’s new boyfriend gives the story an extra layer that keeps things moving and adds just enough intrigue without overshadowing the romance.

And then there’s Tyson.

If you love the friends-to-more trope, this book is everything you want it to be. The history between Jenna and Tyson makes their relationship feel natural and deeply rooted, and the slow shift from friendship to something more is handled so well. Tyson is steady, patient, and genuinely good—even when it costs him. His character adds so much heart to the story, and honestly, he’s hard not to fall in love with.

What I appreciated most was the emotional tension. Jenna’s hesitations feel real, not forced, and the risk of losing a lifelong friendship adds weight to every moment between them. You’re rooting for them, but you also understand what’s at stake.

Overall, this was such a warm, engaging read with lovable characters, meaningful growth, and a romance that truly delivers “all the feels.” I was hooked from the beginning and didn’t want to put it down. Definitely one I’ll be adding to my shelf.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, and all opinions expressed are my own.

First of all, I LOVED how the ponies of Chincoteague made part of the story, as both a horse mad adult and someone who LOVED the Misty of Chincoteague books as a kid (yes, that one even rated a mention in this book, much to my delight!). I also loved that the main character was in her late 20s- offering a little encouragement for a single Christian also the same age! Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It covers topics like her mom dating after many years as a widow, relationships and healing after divorce, etc, but handled with the care Denise Hunter does so well! Highly recommend! I finished this one in a weekend!

Many thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in return for my honest review.

Friends-to-Lovers AND HE'S A COWBOY?! On Chincoteague?! What more could you possibly want for a beach read! More than Friends has become my favorite Denise Hunter reads!

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC of More than Friends! Pub Date: 4/16/26

Denise Hunter is always my go-to when I need a smut free romance story. I love her writing and this one did not disappoint.

I am such a sucker for the friends to lovers trope, and this novel was perfect for it! It didn’t feel rushed at all, it felt very genuine and natural and I absolutely loved it.
The overall story was wonderful and didn’t disappoint. Definitely a must read for anyone who likes friends to lovers, second chance, slow burns.

This is the second book, I have read by Denise Hunter. I really enjoyed it. It was clean, heartwarming, and romantic. The ending was really good. I look forward to reading the next book that Denise Hunter writes. I'm grateful that ,netgalley and the publishers let me read this in exchange for an honest review.

Denise Hunter’s books are some of my favorites, and this one did not disappoint. I love the friends to lovers trope, and this book handles it well. I also enjoyed the side story of Jenna’s mom and Gordon as it helped the story move along. This book made me want to visit to see the wild ponies!

Thank you, NetGalley, for allowing me to read this ARC copy.

More than Friends was a sweet romance of childhood friends who fall in love.

When Jeanna learns from her childhood friend, Tyson, that her mother returned from a cruise with a man, she high-tails it home to Chincoteague Island. Coming home after months of looking for a new job, after her ex fired her when she couldn't say yes to his proposal, was not what she expected.

The Guy who came back with her mother seems great, but she still feels suspicious of him, so she ends up staying with her mother in her old room for longer. When she runs into the owner of the ISland tours, she lands herself her old high school job temporarily until a position can be filled.

Tyson helps her find out what they can about her mom's boyfriend, and soon they both start to develop feelings for one another, seeing each other in a new light.

This was such a slow-burning will-they-or-won't-they pretty much throughout the whole book. I loved it.

Jenna Greene, 27, has just turned down a proposal from Jason Fleming for whom she works at a dental office. While they have been dating for two years, she simply feels she is not ready for marriage. As his proposal took place in a crowded restaurant, he is embarrassed and angry with her. He then fires her as well. Now, Jenna cannot find another job as Jason’s family is well-known in town.

Jenna gets a calls from Tyson Parker with whom she grew up on Chincoteague, a barrier along the Virginia coast. Tyson and his 2 brothers have turned their huge family home into a B&B. He tells her that her widowed mother has returned from a cruise and has a man staying with her. Jenna feels like she needs to check this situation out and heads home for the weekend.

Jenna is skeptical of the man her mother has brought home and needs to learn more about him. She gets with her good friend, Tyson, who has been her best friend since they were kids. He commisereates with her on the loss of her job. To tide her over, the woman she used to work for in the summer with kayaks, has offered her a job for the time being and she accepts. She extends her stay on the island and she and Tyson become closer. Could their friendship blossom into something else?

This is a very clean novel showing the closeness of family and friends. The history of the island is well explained too. As I grew up near this area, I’m sure readers will be interested in visiting the area. So, enjoy!

Copy provided by NetGalley and Edelweiss in exchange for a fair and honest review.

This is my second book by Denise Hunter and just like the first one, I am enamored! I absolutely adored this book. I laughed, I cried, I fell completely in love with the characters in a way that feels like forever. I didnt know anything about the book except it was friends to lovers and I was surprised throughout the entire book. Jenna and Tyson were so sweet and so heartfelt to a point that it was their downfall. They loved each other but Jenna was so scared to lose Ty the same way she lost her dad, and Tyson was afraid of holding her from her dreams by keeping her in their childhood town. In the end, love, peace, therapy, a meddling neighbor helped find their way back together.

If you love closed door romance, friends to lovers, and small coastal towns, This is the book for you!!

I received an ARC of More than Friends thanks to the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

This was a really sweet best friends-to-lovers romance that had a great climatic scene and perfect resolution. I really enjoyed the characters and watching their relationships (with each other and with others) shift. The book was well written and I definitely recommend it!

While technically I chose this book as part of the Christian Fiction Reading Challenge book for July (yes, I know it’s April, but let’s roll on), I was so fortunate to be able to grab an ARC for it, so I’m hitting it up early for the release. It’s fine, I promise. It’s romance . . . pure and true romance without anything else to really carry it but more romance, so I had reservations because, well, my ancient black heart. There’s a subtle Nicholas Sparks vibe, with a hint of Runaway Bride (or potential fiancé or whatever) for me, and a good serving of ‘Misty of Chincoteague’ by Marguerite Henry (and if you didn’t read this as a child, what’s wrong with you . . . go read it!).

I’m really struggling with this review. I loved this book for all the reasons I normally only would like it. (I literally just scrolled Insta after writing that line because words hard.) Denise Hunter takes all the normal formula of a romance and then twists it around. You know you are getting the happy ending, I mean, isn’t that the point? But you also get a real story about real people trying to figure it all out in life and love. Two life-long friends who chose to take a chance at love despite all the reasons why they shouldn’t (her list was better). They know what they risk losing, they know it won’t work and can’t last, but that chemistry man . . . get’s you every time.

There’s a fun side quest with Jenna’s Mom’s own romance situation and oh, the ponies. That side quest took me back to childhood and added depth to the story for me. I felt the ending wrapped up a little too quickly . . . and too neatly, but honestly, I still loved it. I’d like to have them struggle more to get to their happily ever after, but that’s probably just cranky ole me. Honestly, for all the reasons I shouldn’t love this book, I’m here gushing just a little in my heart. Sometimes the too-perfect boy just needs to get the girl.

More Than Friends, by Denise Hunter, is the story of Jenna Greene and the summer she returns home to Chincoteague Island after her boyfriend makes the mistake of proposing in a very public setting even though she had told him she wasn’t ready for an engagement. So not only did the fancy dinner result in losing a boyfriend, it also ended up in losing her job because her boyfriend was also her boss.

Returning home to lick her wounds, Jenna also wants to check on the new guy her widowed mother met on a cruise. Why would someone come home with a person they had only known for a week? Why would her mom bring him home anyway? How fortuitous that Jenna is there to find out Gordon’s motives. And Jenna’s best friend Tyson Parker is there to help. In fact, Tyson has been Jenna’s best friend since they were kids, but what would happen if they risked their friendship by crossing a line?

This is another lovely story by Ms. Hunter. Her characters are well drawn and dimensional in a beautiful coastal setting. The storyline weaves together several important strands and delves into some deep themes as Jenna’s story is told. I very much enjoyed this book and I do recommend it!

I love everything Denise Hunter writes, and I really enjoyed MORE THAN FRIENDS. Thank you @tnzfiction, for my finished copy of Hunter’s new novel, out now.

Jenna receives a marriage proposal that she doesn’t want, and ends up heading home to the small island of Chincoteague where she reconnects with Ty- her long-time friend, as well as her family. While on Chincoteague Ty has his own problems and struggles, while Jenna is working on discovering what she’d truly like to do with her life.

I loved the growth that Hunter includes in this novel- the danger- the bravery of so many characters. It is going to be a great beach read for this spring and summer!

Title:More Than Friends
Author: Denise Hunter
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Rating: 5 ⭐️

What if the love of your life… was the one who’s been there all along?

More Than Friends by Denise Hunter is a heartfelt and uplifting friends-to-lovers romance set against a charming coastal backdrop.

Hunter excels at crafting emotionally resonant characters, and Jenna and Tyson’s journey is both tender and believable. Their reconnection and gradual transition from friendship to romance is handled with care, highlighting themes of healing, trust, and the enduring nature of true connection.

I especially appreciated how the story emphasizes that meaningful relationships can withstand time, distance, and life’s unexpected challenges.

This is a sweet, clean romance that will appeal to readers who enjoy character-driven stories with emotional depth and a satisfying, heartfelt payoff.

I received an advance reader copy through NetGalley. Thank you to NetGalley and Denise Hunter for the opportunity to read an early copy of More Than Friends. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Denise Hunter does it again! Her books never fail to put a smile on my face! They are so sweet and heartwarming! Her characters always feel real and human. Her plots are always romantic with a bit of sususpense/mystery mingled in! Add this one to your TBR!

I enjoyed this sweet love story that made me feel all of the feels and left my heart happy. It is the story of Jenna and Tyson, best friends since childhood, and their discovery that everything they want out of life can be found on Chincoteague Island, the place they call home. The descriptions of Chincoteague Island made me feel like I was there and I especially liked the inclusion of the wild ponies.

The main characters, Jenna and Tyson, supported each other and understood each other and I liked them. I understood their hesitancy to explore their new feelings because of the baggage from their past relationships they each carried and not wanting to mess up their friendship. As I read I felt the emotions along with them and may have expressed my feelings out loud when they frustrated me. Their family and friends added to the story and made me laugh.


I highly recommend adding this book to your summer reading if you enjoy sweet friends to lovers romances in a beautiful vacation setting.