More than Friends: A sweet, low-spice contemporary romance

by Denise Hunter

There's nothing like teaming up to investigate your mother's shady new boyfriend to make you see your best friend in a whole new light . . .

Jenna Greene has been very clear with her She is not ready for marriage. Too bad he didn't listen. Turns out a rejected proposal is a sure way to lose a boyfriend--and a job. Because, yes, he'd also been her boss. But it seems the firing has come at the perfect time. Back on Chincoteague Island, Virginia, Jenna's widowed mother has returned from a cruise--with a new boyfriend in tow. Something isn't right, and Jenna decides to return home to find out what's going on.

Tyson Parker has a pretty great life on Chincoteague. He's gainfully employed at his parents' bed and breakfast--in the very home where he grew up with his three brothers, right across the street from his best friend, Jenna. He loves volunteering for the island's illustrious fire company and being one of the saltwater cowboys who cares for Chincoteague's wild ponies. If only he could've skipped the whole part where he'd married a two-timing woman. Still, he's elated to have his best friend back when Jenna returns to the island, even if it is only temporary. And he's happy to help her figure out what her mom's suspicious new beau might be up to. But soon his feelings for Jenna begin to shift into. . . something different.

Jenna expected to enjoy visiting her mom, Tyson, and his whole family. She'd expected to feel closer to her deceased father on the island where the foal they'd named years ago now roams the wild salt marshes of Assateague like its ancestors have for hundreds of years. What she didn't expect was for her feelings for her best friend to change. But she's always sworn she'd never date a firefighter. Plus, Tyson is fresh off a betrayal. And also, there's that teensy commitment problem she seems to have. Would she even have the courage to finally give her heart away? And should they really risk their beautiful friendship in the hopes they could someday be something more?

Genres: Christian Fiction, Romance, Contemporary, Fiction, Christian

352 pages, Hardcover

Expected publication April 14, 2026

About the author

Denise Hunter is the award-winning author of more than 40 novels, three of which have been adapted into Hallmark movies.

Denise writes heartwarming, small-town romances, peopled with layered characters who have real-life issues. Her readers enjoy the vicarious thrill of falling in love and the promise of a happily-ever-after sigh as they savor the final pages of her books.

In 1996, Denise began her first novel, writing while her children napped. Two years later it was published, and she's been writing ever since. Her books contain a strong romantic element, and her husband says he provides all her romantic material, but Denise insists a good imagination helps too!

Denise and her husband live in Indiana, where they raised three sons, and are currently enjoying an empty nest.

Reviews

[Jo|Ruth Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Anne · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a sweet friends to lovers romance set on Assateague Island. I loved the touches of the wild ponies and the whole coastal vibe, especially since I live so close to the area. Jenna and Ty’s chemistry felt easy and familiar. Their families lived next door, so they pretty much grew up side by side. Now Jenna is back home and they finally get to figure out what has been simmering between them all these years.

There are a few fun subplots mixed in that I will not spoil, but they made the story feel fuller and kept me interested. Overall, this was a warm and enjoyable read, the kind you can settle into with a smile.

Thank you to the publisher for providing this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Rae · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Eki · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jenna suddenly broke up with her boyfriend and lost her job in the progress. Fortunately (or unfortunately) she got a hint that her mom might've gotten herself into love trouble as well, so now she has an excuse to go back home. As she's meeting up with her childhood friends, suddenly her best friend seems oddly attractive. But will things work out between them? They both got out of serious relationships recently after all, Jenna doesn't know if he feels the same and why ruin a perfectly good relationship? As the excuses pile up so does the tension.


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.

[emyrose8 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Compelling setting, strong characters, and a believable transition from friends to more. I enjoyed the side plots of Mama Dee's romance and the drama at the firehouse. There are some uncomfortable moments, but I loved how the characters handled them in the end.

Notes- grief and abandonment are two sub themes of the book

Thanks Netgalley for the ARC! All opinions are my own.

[Ashley Osborn · Rating 5 out of 5]

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

[Gracie Schlabach · Rating 3 out of 5]

I LOVED the premise, look at this cover...then look again!! It has the chincoteague ponies on there!!! To say I was a horse crazy kid would be an understatement. If you haven't heard of or read the Misty of Chincoteague books, maybe go correct that right meow. Haha. But seriously, this book was CUTE!!!! The ponies were involved a lot in the story so not just a cash grab cover or premise as it were, they were featured a lot. The friends to more trope is my favorite, loved that Tyson and Jenna had known each as best friends growing up. Faith content extremely light, a mention of praying here, a mention of "thank God" there. That's about it. Mention of a church attendance. My grevience with the story? While the romance was cute, didn't appreciate the wording for it as I demonstrated on the next picture over. It was making me uncomfortable, a married woman of near 7 years mind you. Who comes up with such definitions for making out? My husband is like, what does that mean, I'm like I DON'T KNOW, don't want to know!🫣🤣 also mentions of dating someone for their bra size not their IQ, and mentions of someone placing their hand well below the lower back while dancing if you catch my drift. Hate that, because this story was so good! The mystery of Jenna's man Gordon whom mama Dee brought home from a cruise ship, HILARIOUS. Wish the author wouldn't make her romances too much. This author always has the most unique stories, but often relationships are rocky, divorces and broken engagement vibes.
CW in the comments.
Thank you @netgalley for my ARC this is my honest review.
#arc #january2026reads #ebook #morethanfriends

[Anne Wolters · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Portia Citlali · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story was a 3.5/4 star read for me.

I really enjoyed this story, especially the setting of Chincoteague Island, Virginia, and the horses/ponies. The book offered a beautiful glimpse into the island’s traditions and culture, and it left me wanting to learn more.

After a series of unfortunate events, Jenna returns home to escape and to check in on her mother, who has made some questionable choices. Her best friend Tyson, who is going through a recent separation, decides to join her on this journey. As they spend more time together, they both begin to realize that there may be something more between them.

I was very invested in Jenna and Tyson’s story, as well as her mother’s storyline. Jenna and Tyson help each other in meaningful ways, and together they come to understand that some things are worth fighting for, while others require compromise. The story felt genuine, and the characters had strong chemistry. There were moments when I found myself even more invested in Jenna’s mom’s storyline, but overall, I truly enjoyed this book.

As an added bonus, the discussion questions at the end were thoughtful and helped deepen my understanding of the characters. They also provided great food for thought and perspective.

Dual POV
Friends to Lovers
Summer Romance

I wanted to thank NetGalley for this ARC

[Brea · Rating 4 out of 5]

More Than Friends by Denise Hunter asks a quiet but powerful question: why not?
Why not choose the love that already knows your scars, your silences, your truest self?
After a broken engagement unravels her life, Jenna Greene returns to Chincoteague Island—drawn back to salt air, wild ponies, and the place where she remembers who she is. It’s there that she reconnects with Tyson Parker, her childhood best friend, whose steady presence feels like coming home. Their love unfolds softly, built on years of trust, shared history, and the kind of devotion that doesn’t demand—only offers.
Jenna’s fears are real: loss, risk, change. But this story understands that love doesn’t eliminate fear—it teaches you how to choose anyway. Wrapped in faith, forgiveness, and emotional honesty, More Than Friends is about recognizing what you deserve and daring to reach for it.
Tender, low-spice, and deeply comforting, this friends-to-lovers romance feels like a warm blanket and a deep breath. A gentle reminder that sometimes destiny isn’t dramatic—it’s simply waiting for you to notice what’s been there all along.
⭐ 3.5–4 stars
Thank you to Thomas Nelson Fiction and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.

[Maj Lewis · Rating 2 out of 5]

Hunter has already established herself as an auto-read for me and I was looking forward to this friends-to-more trope story. After really enjoying several of Denise’s previous novels, this one was a bit of a letdown. It was more slow-paced and harder to get into than some of her other works. Her characters also seemed to be lacking depth which is not like her typical writing. The two main characters were uninteresting and their romance had no spark.

On the positive side, this novel has a breathtaking cover, a quaint small-town setting, and the perfect amount of secrecy in the plot to keep readers turning pages despite the slower pace.

After being let go from both her job and her almost-fiancé, Jenna heads back home to the island of Chincoteague to visit her mom and start afresh. After reconnecting with an old best friend/neighbor, She learns her mom has formed a hasty attachment to a suspicious male and sets out to investigate with friend and town firefighter, Ty!

Read if you like island-living, firefighters, small towns, wild ponies and friends-to-lovers.

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

[Addie · Rating 4 out of 5]

More Than Friends by Denise Hunter was a lovely introduction to her writing and a story I genuinely enjoyed. This friends-to-romance journey follows Jenna and Ty as they navigate long-held feelings, shifting relationships, and the fear of risking a friendship for something more. Beneath the romance is a thoughtful exploration of what happens when relationships change or end and how starting over can look different than expected.

Set on charming Chincoteague Island, Virginia, the setting adds a warm, nostalgic atmosphere that perfectly complements the story. I especially loved the small-town details, the sense of community, and the unique traditions woven throughout. While some moments felt predictably sweet, there were also gentle surprises and light mystery elements that kept the pages turning.

From the very first chapters to the epilogue, this story is about coming home, learning to see what’s been in front of you all along, and choosing love even when it feels risky. A cozy, heartfelt read that left me wanting more from Denise Hunter. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Thank you Netgalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction . 4⭐️

[Liz Moore · Rating 5 out of 5]

Out of the twelve books I’ve read by Denise Hunter, I’ve never given her less than four stars—and More Than Friends is another reason she remains my favorite author.

The chemistry between Jenna and Tyson was absolutely one of my favorite parts of the story. Their connection felt natural, emotional, and believable, and I found myself rooting for them from the very beginning. Denise Hunter has such a gift for creating relationships that feel real, and this one was no exception.

The story flowed beautifully from start to finish. Nothing felt rushed or forced; instead, every moment built perfectly on the last, making it hard to put the book down. I was especially drawn to Jenna’s past and how it shaped her—those layers added so much depth and emotion to the story.

Overall, More Than Friends is a heartfelt, engaging read that reminded me why Denise Hunter continues to be a must-read author for me.

Thank you to Thomas Nelson and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review this wonderful book. 💙

[Maddi Schmidt · Rating 4 out of 5]

More Than Friends was such a warm and engaging read that I happily gave it four stars. Denise Hunter delivers a story that feels heartfelt, grounded, and refreshingly genuine. The characters are well-drawn and easy to root for, with flaws that make them real rather than perfect. Their journey from friendship to something deeper is tender, believable, and full of those slow-burn moments I love in contemporary romance.

What I appreciated most was how the emotional stakes were handled. There’s a lovely balance between the sweet, romantic moments and the characters’ personal growth, which gives the story depth without ever feeling heavy. The setting and secondary cast add texture and light humour that kept the pages turning.

If you’re in the mood for a story about connection, second chances, and the kind of love that feels like home, this is definitely one to add to your TBR. It wasn’t quite perfect for me in every way, but it came very close and left me smiling long after I finished.

***Big Thank-you to Netgalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction for an ARC***

[Julie Mertus · Rating 4 out of 5]

After a broken engagement costs Jenna Greene her job and home, she retreats to Chincoteague Island, Virginia. There, she discovers her widowed mother is dating a suspicious man who may be a con artist. Jenna enlists the help of her childhood best friend, Tyson Parker—a volunteer firefighter and "saltwater cowboy" healing from his own divorce. As the duo investigates the mystery, their platonic bond shifts into a romance, forcing Jenna to decide if she’s ready to risk her heart again.

I really enjoyed this wholesome romance. I also appreciated the background provided on the island – it prompted me to read more about the wild ponies of Chincoteague, an area I have always wanted to visit.

I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a little to no spice, faith-filled, emotional read

Thanks to Thomas Nelson Publishing and NetGalley for this ARC, in exchange for my honest review.

[Leigh · Rating 5 out of 5]

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 an informative 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.

[Maureen Timerman · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[steffy ✿ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rounding up from a 3.5.

I thought this was an enjoyable read and thought the pacing and atmosphere was great. I liked the setting of the story because I grew up nearby and it felt like a little touch of home. The characters were interesting and the storyline moved along well.

There were times where characters said things that felt very unnatural in conversation and it took me out of the story. I just couldn't help thinking, "people don't talk like this." It happened at least a few times. Once the friends turned into lovers, I also felt disconnected from them. I just didn't sense the chemistry of them as a couple. None of this was strong enough for me to dislike the story, obviously. It was still a nice read. It was my first Denise Hunter and I'm excited to read from her again.

Thank you so much to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson for the opportunity to read this in advance!

[Margaret Nelson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved the setting for this new stand-alone novel by Denise Hunter – the country of the wild horses of Chincoteague and Assateague. I read Misty of Chincoteague when I was still in primary school, and so have enjoyed any books set in the same area. Most of the characters are very lovable too, and several of them work directly with and around the wild horses. They have various issues of trust to deal with, fears to learn to live with, old hurts to work through, but the relationships are handled well, and there are swoony kisses too!

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

[Terri Wangard · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an enjoyable story highlighting the ponies made famous by Misty of Chincoteague. Jenna returns home to the island after declining her boyfriend/boss’ proposal and he fires her. Her lifelong friend Tyson is a volunteer fireman; her father was a fireman who died in the line of duty. Their friendship becomes something more, but a lot holds them back. They don’t want to ruin a special friendship with a fling; they’re in no position to start another relationship; she won’t date firemen. The story slowed for me as they each pondered their angst. The pace picks up toward the end, but of course, there’s a hiccup.

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Ellen White · Rating 5 out of 5]

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 a hug. Jenna thoughts of how she could
talk to him a out 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.

[Kristen · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Helen Wu ✨ · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a cozy, comforting read for me, especially the storyline about Jenna worrying over her single mom dating and possibly being scammed. That part hit close to home and felt very real in a way that made me lean in. The small town setting, the island vibes, and the friends to lovers romance all worked exactly as expected. It was warm and easy to read, but also built on very familiar tropes, so nothing felt particularly surprising. I enjoyed my time with it, even if it didn’t push beyond what this kind of story usually offers.

Thank you NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction for the ARC!

[Maggie May · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have loved all of Denise Hunter’s books, and this is no exception. She writes beautiful storylines, and emotional characters. The FMC, Jenna loses her fiance and her job all at once. She decides to go back home to figure things out, while reconnecting with her childhood male best friend.
Even though I knew what was going to happen, I enjoyed the journey that the characters took to get to their HEA. This book feels like cuddling up with a warm blanket and a cup of hot cocoa. I loved it.

[Carol Deegan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Despite knowing from almost the beginning where this book was headed it was an excellent book and kept my interest throughout. The friends to lovers face a few hurtles but end up together. The ponies on Assateague Island play a big part in the book and the author included that history. I loved the ending of the book. If you like a good romance you will like this book. I received a copy of this book and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Blessing Okwuofu · Rating 5 out of 5]

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

[Sheila Kaye · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Lucy · Rating 3 out of 5]

A great book, a perfect beachy escape read. 5/5 for how much I enjoyed it but there were a few parts that felt like twists but there wasn’t enough suspense before it was revealed, like with Gordon, and with Tyson.
Will keep my eye out for more by Denise Hunter.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own