Step into the cozy, heartwarming world of Chapel Springs, Indiana, where love blooms, faith deepens, and small-town charm wraps you in a warm embrace! Denise Hunter’s Chapel Springs series, a beloved collection of contemporary Christian romance novels, invites readers to join the McKinley family as they navigate life’s challenges and find happily-ever-afters. With its blend of relatable characters, heartfelt themes, and a picturesque setting, this series has captured the hearts of fans seeking inspirational stories that uplift and inspire.
Across four standalone novels and a collected omnibus, Hunter weaves a tapestry of romance and redemption that feels like a visit to a close-knit community. Whether you’re a fan of Christian fiction or simply love a good love story, Chapel Springs offers a delightful escape.
How Chapel Springs Began
Denise Hunter, an Indiana native and award-winning author, began writing the Chapel Springs series in 2013, drawing inspiration from her love for small-town life and her Christian faith. With over 40 novels to her name, Hunter crafted this series to reflect the warmth and quirks of Midwestern communities. Published by Thomas Nelson, the series started with Barefoot Summer and quickly gained traction for its authentic characters and emotional depth. Hunter’s knack for blending romance with real-life struggles, informed by her own experiences and imagination, gave Chapel Springs its unique voice.
The Heart of Chapel Springs
The Chapel Springs series follows the McKinley siblings in their charming Indiana hometown, each book focusing on a different family member’s journey to love and self-discovery. Barefoot Summer (2013) introduces Madison, who, after losing her twin brother, closes her heart to love and faith. Her quest to win a sailing regatta with the help of Beckett O’Reilly unravels secrets and sparks romance. In Dancing with Fireflies (2014), Jade McKinley returns to Chapel Springs pregnant and alone, finding unexpected love with Daniel Dawson, the town mayor who’s adored her for years.
The Wishing Season (2014) centers on PJ McKinley, a chef dreaming of opening a restaurant, who competes with contractor Cole Evans for a historic house. Their rivalry turns to romance as they share the space, blending ambition with attraction. Finally, Married ’til Monday (2015) follows Ryan and Abby, who pretend to be married for a family event, rekindling old feelings. Themes of faith, forgiveness, and family weave through each story, set against the vibrant backdrop of Chapel Springs, with its riverfront charm and tight-knit community.
Hunter’s style is clean and engaging, with just enough faith-based reflection to inspire without feeling preachy. The small-town setting, complete with nods to Indianapolis and local culture, grounds the series in a relatable, immersive world.
Why Chapel Springs Resonant
The Chapel Springs series has left a lasting mark on contemporary Christian romance, earning praise for its heartfelt storytelling and layered characters. Fans adore Hunter’s ability to tackle real-life issues—grief, fear, and past mistakes—while delivering the promise of a satisfying romance. With three of her novels adapted into Hallmark movies, Hunter’s influence extends beyond the page, bringing her stories to a wider audience. The series’ focus on family and faith resonates deeply with readers seeking hope and connection, making it a staple in inspirational fiction.
Its enduring appeal lies in its universal themes and the cozy, inviting world of Chapel Springs, where readers feel like part of the community. The series’ omnibus edition, released in 2015, ensures its accessibility for new fans, cementing its place as a beloved collection.
- Publication Years: 2013–2015
- Number of Books: 4 main titles, plus an omnibus
- Awards: Hunter is a RITA finalist with multiple accolades
Grab Barefoot Summer and dive into Chapel Springs’s world of romance, faith, and family—you’ll be hooked by the first page!