I Knew You Would Be Trouble

by Brettney Thompson

Alec Kohl is a successful dog handler with the RCMP and resides with his girlfriend Heather, who is also a police member. At the end of the summer, Blake Taylor moves in next door and Alec can't help but notice her fire and her energy. As months pass, Alec and Blake build an amazing friendship, the kind where they can tell each other anything, rely on each other for support through their own personal relationships, and even have fun playing hockey together and taking their dogs for walks. As they both experience problems in their own personal relationships, will this bring Alec and Blake closer together, or are they only meant to be just friends?

372 pages, Paperback

Published October 26, 2023

About the author

Brett has relocated to Alberta, Canada, with her husband, three kids, five dogs, two cats, and four goats. Outside of being a mom, Brett loves to read books, scrapbook, play sports, train in long-distance running, beer tasting, catch up with friends, and hang out with her pets. Brett has a serious love for chocolate and will hide it in the cupboard from her kids, so she doesn't have to share. Be sure to follow Brett on Instagram: @brettneythompsonauthor. Don't forget to leave a review on Goodreads or wherever you purchase your book!

Reviews

[Dana · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved the Victoria, British Columbia setting!

Also, I agree with Blake - stuffing is the superior Christmas dish! YUM!

Side note, I think these characters alone were funding the alcohol industry! What a bunch of lushes! HAHA!!

[Cailey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVED this book! I have been in a bit of a reading slump lately and this brought me right out of it. I Knew You Would Be Trouble was the perfect slow burn. I felt really connected to both Blake & Alec, and found myself desperately rooting for them from the beginning! This was witty, hilarious & really beautifully written. I’m left with that warm and fuzzy feeling that everyone wants from a good rom com. Great read 👏

[Brettney Thompson · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 star read. Little biased being the author but what can I say.

[Renee Gagnon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book! The story was funny, romantic and a nice easy read.

[emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book provides and portrays the emotional life, capturing the warmth and real-life experiences. I appreciate how the author explains the complexities of both family and romantic relationships.
The story revolves around a woman who is facing challenges of school, love, family, and friendships, making her journey relatable, practically for women struggling to find their place in life.
For a poignant read, consider I knew you would be in trouble, a story highlighting the
transformative power of rare friendships

[Ruchi Vishwakarma · Rating 5 out of 5]

"I Knew You Would Be Trouble" by Brettney Thompson is a great read if you enjoy slow-build relationships which stems from profound friendship.

Also, the character development in this book is awesome. You get to understand Alec and Blake on a deeper level, their internal turmoil since they're loyal to their committed romantic partners but gradually getting drawn towards each other. You can relate with the complexity of their relationships.

[Ujwal Kamdi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved the slow-burn between Alec and Blake. The line “You make me feel like I’m finally home” hit me right in the heart. I think their friendship felt so authentic, it made the romance even better. Made me miss my Group.

[Kiara Boccia · Rating 4 out of 5]

It took me a minute to get used to the writing style, but I ended up really enjoying this book! This was a bit of a slow burn and it was worth it.

The main characters, Blake and Alec were so likable and I found Blake’s inner monologue to be quite relatable. They were both in unhappy relationships, but found each other through friendship. Their friendship was one to be envied, which means their relationship is also swoon worthy!

PS. Is it too early to hope for a sequel with Audi and Riley?!

[Jessica Alvarez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Warmed my heart from start to finish!

I absolutely loved this book. The story line really gave me insight to the characters, their sense of self and the things they wanted and needed. It was a story about truly knowing what you deserve and the pure bliss and joy when you find it. The last few chapters had me smiling from ear to ear and I just couldn't put it down.

This story really personified that when you know, YOU KNOW. Alec and Blake hold such a special place in my heart because their story resembled a lot of aspects of my own story with my fiancée. Five stars all around!!

[Cassia Carter · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a charming read! I love the setting of Victoria, BC - such a beautiful and unique city. Always a sucker for duel POVs, I enjoyed getting into both Blake's and Alec's heads. From navigating breakups, to jealous girlfriends, relationships that have hit a wall, and the challenges of everyday life, Blake and Alec are so relatable. Their relationship develops naturally from acquaintances to friends to, eventually, something more. If you're in the mood for a heartwarming slow burn romance with compelling characters, adorable dogs, and hockey, this book is a must-read!

[Tammy Makortoff · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really liked "I Knew You Would Be Trouble" by Brettney Thompson. The story was relatable, even the jealousy and rollercoaster relationships. It was a quick and easy read that was great for a rainy day to snuggle in with. I found this book extremely easy to relate to. The characters and the story were very believable, and I could easily see myself as either neighbor. The story flowed easily from one character to the next, making it easy to follow along. I definitely recommend this book for your next read.

[Planet Renee · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you love Emily Henry, you'll love this book! It's been months since I read it and I still think about the characters often.

[Ultimate World · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book Review: I Knew You Would Be Trouble by Brettney Thompson

In I Knew You Would Be Trouble, Brettney Thompson delivers a heartfelt, slow-burn tale of friendship, loyalty, and the complicated nature of love. Set against a Canadian backdrop, with hockey rinks and dog parks adding charm and relatability, this contemporary romance weaves an emotionally grounded story about two people finding comfort and connection in unexpected ways.

Alec Kohl, a dedicated RCMP dog handler, seems to have his life together—complete with a committed relationship and a career he loves. But when Blake Taylor moves in next door, her spirited personality and infectious energy shake up his world in the gentlest of ways. What starts as a neighborly bond deepens into a genuine friendship filled with mutual support, laughter, and shared passions—particularly their love for dogs and hockey.

Thompson writes with a sincere, steady hand, allowing Alec and Blake’s connection to unfold naturally. Their emotional honesty with each other feels real and raw, and readers will find themselves rooting not just for romance, but for their individual growth. The tension that brews as their respective relationships falter is delicately handled, raising the question: can deep friendship survive the temptation of something more?

Verdict:
This is a tender, character-driven story that explores emotional intimacy and the lines between platonic and romantic love. I Knew You Would Be Trouble will appeal to fans of slow-burn romance and stories where love blooms from a solid foundation of trust and companionship. Thoughtful, heartfelt, and quietly compelling.

[Amal · Rating 3 out of 5]

✨ Book Review ✨

We often come across similar stories a boy and girl fall in love, face a misunderstanding, and eventually get their happy ending. But rarely do we see characters in separate relationships, living their own lives, only to realize later that the first person simply wasn’t “the one.” This book brought such a refreshing twist to that idea, and I truly enjoyed it.

The story follows Blake, a bold and unapologetic nursing student with tattoos and a strong personality, and Alec, a cop who also happens to be her neighbor. They form a beautiful friendship from playing ice hockey together to sharing little moments of fun while still navigating their own relationships. At one point, both are faced with a choice: to repeat past mistakes or move on. Blake takes the brave step forward, and Alec eventually follows (I’ll let you read and find out how 😉).

What stood out most for me was their friendship and the natural way it grew into something deeper. The ice hockey scenes were my absolute favorite! Among the side characters, Colin seemed nice but his constant busyness felt like a red flag, while Heather was downright exhausting I don’t know how Alec survived that relationship for so long. Blake, however, stole the show for me. The way she handled her breakup, her confidence, and later her heartfelt confession bravo! She’s definitely a character I’ll remember.

The ending wrapped everything up beautifully (I couldn’t stop smiling 😭) Blake and Alec with three kids and their adorable dogs, Merc, Chip, and Guinness, who honestly felt like matchmakers in the story. Without them, Blake and Alec might never have had their start! 🐾

If I had one critique, it would be that the story could have been stronger if more focus was kept on Blake and Alec instead of Colin and Heather, who sometimes felt like they overshadowed the main leads. Still, I absolutely loved the journey, the dogs, and the wholesome happy ending.

Another big plus: it’s a smut-free book, making it a perfect recommendation for anyone looking for a light, heartwarming read. Definitely give it a try if you want a refreshing love story that feels both real and sweet.

[Christopher · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the story of Alec, a police dog handler, who becomes close friends with his new neighbor, Blake. Alec has a girlfriend, but he feels very much connected to Blake. They laugh together, assist each other, and become really good friends. When their own relationships begin to falter, they start becoming even closer. This is a sweet and tear-jerking story. It illustrates the way friendship can be developed into something more. The characters are genuine and nice, and the dogs add to the story even further. It's a pleasant, effortless read on love, friendship, and finding the right one.

[Nazia Sultana · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book felt like reading someone’s real, messy, and emotional life unfold. It talks about Blake Taylor, a strong but down-to-earth woman managing school, love, family, and friendships. Her story is relatable, especially for women who are struggling & trying to figure life out. The writing is easy, with real like character. Blake’s connection with Alec, the neighbour, grows and becomes one of the best parts of the story.
If you enjoy heartfelt, character-development stories with romance, friendship, and a bit of drama, this book is worth reading. It feels honest, warm, and real.

[Sejal Warwatkar · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very relatable story.
You can actually feel the toxic relationship between Alec and Heather. Heather's immature silent treatment for Alec is so problematic. Similarly, Blake is never a priority for Colin, seems like he takes Blake for granted.

There's only one sided effort in these relationships whereas the friendship between Alec & Blake is healthier than their romantic relationships. They make each other feel genuinely seen, heard, understood, supported which are basic requirements of a healthy, nourishing relationship.

[Avinash Ahuja · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is the ultimate test of patience, because Alec and Blake are walking around with neon signs that scream "soulmates", while stubbornly ignoring them. If you love friendships on the verge of implosion, messy emotions, and just enough drama to keep you hooked—this one's for you.

[Sandhya · Rating 5 out of 5]

I Knew You Would Be Trouble by Brettney Thompson is an engaging and heartfelt read that captures the messy, exhilarating emotions of love, heartbreak, and personal growth.

Thompson’s writing is crisp and relatable, drawing readers into the protagonist’s whirlwind journey as they navigate complicated relationships and unexpected twists.

The characters feel authentic, with vulnerabilities and flaws that make them easy to connect with, and the pacing keeps the story moving without ever feeling rushed.

Beyond its romantic elements, the novel also explores themes of self-discovery and resilience, making it more than just a typical love story.

Readers will appreciate the blend of humor and genuine emotion woven throughout, as well as Thompson’s ability to portray both the highs and lows of modern relationships.

Overall, I Knew You Would Be Trouble is an enjoyable and accessible read for anyone who loves contemporary romance with a touch of drama and depth.

[Erica Rafuse · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lovely romance book that felt like a hallmark movie! 10/10 characters and setting the scene I felt like I was in the room having conversations with them.

[Lauren N · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you’re looking for a feel-good, mature, closed-door romance, look no further! What I loved most about Alec and Blake was how they were each other’s ride or die bestie, they always respected boundaries when in relationships, and they handled their feelings with such maturity. No third act miscommunication in sight. 🙌🏼

What to Expect:
👫🏻Instant best friends
🏥First responders
🏒Co-Ed hockey
🐾Dog walks
🖤Age Gap
👩🏻‍❤️‍👨🏻Friends to lovers
✌🏼 Dual POV
🚪Closed door

[Carol-lee]

I was lucky enough to meet the author and get a signed copy! I look forward to reading this book

[KK · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fun and whitty RomCom. Neighbours, friends, hockey, and dog lovers.... both in other romantic relationships, break-ups and make-ups and one helluva smart mother with amazing intuition....

So extremely proud of this debut novel, the author, my beautiful daughter... Brett, you did a wonderful job capturing a beautiful story. ❤️

[Garima Bhatt · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don’t even know where to begin because I Knew You Would Be Trouble by Brettney Thompson completely stole my heart. I picked it up thinking it’d be a fun, maybe slightly dramatic love story—but I genuinely didn’t expect it to become such a comforting, exciting, and emotional experience for me. This book had everything I crave in a good story: complicated friendships, emotional depth, slow-burn romance, a dog or two, and characters that feel like real people living next door.

What I truly loved was how natural and relatable the characters felt. Blake and Alec weren’t overly dramatized or idealized—they were awkward, funny, charming, messy, and trying to figure out life like the rest of us. I found myself grinning like an idiot during their little moments—hockey games, beer runs, casual flirty banter—and also feeling a bit emotionally wrecked when things got intense. It’s rare to find a book where you feel invited into the characters’ world like this.

Honestly, what made the book helpful for me was how it portrayed transitions—moving, starting over, navigating toxic relationships, learning to listen to your gut. Blake’s internal monologues? So on point. Her moments of confusion, embarrassment, boldness—they just hit home. I found myself pausing and thinking, “Okay, I’ve totally been there.” And Alec… his quiet loyalty, his emotional restraint, his kindness—it really made me rethink the kind of energy I value in people.

Also, I can’t not mention the dogs. Merc and Guinness deserve their own spin-off series. They added such warmth and helped make Blake and Alec’s bond feel even more genuine. The fact that their friendship was built through everyday things—dog walks, shared meals, hockey—made the eventual romance feel earned, not forced.

By the time I reached the epilogue, I had this goofy smile on my face and this deep sense of contentment in my chest. The book didn’t just tell a love story—it told a growth story. It reminded me that love, when it’s right, doesn’t have to be loud or dramatic; it can be steady, honest, and full of tiny, beautiful moments.

If you’re someone who loves character-driven stories, heartfelt connections, and a narrative that wraps around you like a cozy blanket on a cold day, I Knew You Would Be Trouble is the book you need. I didn’t just read this book—I lived it. And I honestly didn’t want it to end.

[Jithendra Jithu · Rating 5 out of 5]

I Knew You Would Be Trouble by Brettney Thompson

Rating:5/5

Review:

👉I Knew You Would Be Trouble by Brettney Thompson is one of those quietly powerful stories that sneaks up on you, tugging at your heart a little more with every chapter. It’s not flashy or overly dramatic—instead, it’s rich with real emotion, tender moments, and a slow-burn connection that feels incredibly authentic.

👉The story follows Alec Kohl, a successful dog handler with the RCMP, who lives with his girlfriend Heather. Enter Blake Taylor, the bold and energetic new neighbor who immediately catches Alec’s attention—not in a romantic way at first, but as someone who radiates life and warmth. As the months pass, their casual neighborly hellos evolve into a meaningful friendship built on trust, shared experiences, and deep emotional connection.

👉What makes this book truly stand out is how it handles friendship. Alec and Blake aren’t rushing into something romantic—they’re learning to lean on each other during personal struggles, opening up in vulnerable ways, and supporting one another without judgment. Their bond feels real. It’s the kind of connection we all hope to find at some point in life—the kind that understands us even in silence.

👉Brettney Thompson does an incredible job painting their emotional journey with nuance. She doesn’t force the story toward a romance but lets it unfold naturally, respecting the complexity of both Alec and Blake’s lives. This story is a celebration of emotional intimacy, and how sometimes, the most unexpected relationships become the most meaningful.

👉The pacing is gentle but steady, and every interaction between Alec and Blake pulls you deeper into their world. You’ll find yourself smiling at their banter, aching with their pain, and rooting for whatever future they’re meant to find—together or apart.

👉If you love character-driven stories that prioritize connection over chaos, and emotional depth over drama, I Knew You Would Be Trouble deserves a spot on your TBR. It’s a heartfelt reminder that sometimes the strongest love stories begin with friendship—and that love doesn’t always have to be loud to be powerful.

Happy reading

[G. W. reviewers · Rating 5 out of 5]

"I Knew You Would Be in Trouble" by Brettney Thompson took a moment for me to get into, but it quickly found its way to my heart. The writing style was initially a bit different from what I’m used to, but once I settled into it, I found myself fully immersed in the story. Alec and Blake's relationship unfolds like a slow burn—there’s this quiet intensity in the way their bond develops, and it makes every small moment between them feel worth the wait. Watching their friendship deepen into something so authentic was heartwarming and relatable, especially in a world where such bonds can be rare.

Blake’s inner monologue really struck a chord with me. Her thoughts and emotions felt raw and honest, making it easy to connect with her struggles and joys. Her relationship with Alec, even while they both navigate the turmoil in their own personal lives, is beautifully grounded. They’re both in unhappy relationships, but rather than finding immediate solace in each other, they build a friendship that's both enviable and deeply supportive. It’s refreshing to see a narrative that takes the time to showcase the value of friendship first, making their connection feel all the more real.

The storyline made me think about those rare friendships in life where you can tell the other person anything, share the unfiltered parts of yourself, and be truly seen. Alec and Blake’s friendship embodies that, and it's swoon-worthy without being overtly romantic, which I found both unique and charming. It’s a reminder of how relationships can evolve slowly, and sometimes the person who understands you best isn’t the one you're with but the one you least expected.

If you’re someone who loves stories with heartfelt connections, slow-burn romance, and characters that stay with you, I wholeheartedly recommend this book. Brettney Thompson has crafted a story that’s both touching and memorable.

[Md Approach · Rating 5 out of 5]

"I Knew You Would Be in Trouble" by Brettney Thompson is like a symphony played in soft whispers and glances, with each note slowly drawing you into a world that feels as tangible as your own memories. The narrative begins quietly, almost like the first sips of a warm drink—unexpected but gradually warming you from within. Alec and Blake's relationship is like a candle flickering in a dimly lit room, casting shadows that grow and shift, revealing hidden depths with each shared silence and small gesture. Their journey from strangers to confidants unfolds in layers, each page peeling back another piece of who they are, until you feel like you know them as deeply as old friends.

Blake’s introspective moments hit with the weight of nostalgia, as if reading the thoughts of a friend you've known forever. Her struggles and insecurities are laid bare, raw as an open wound, making her journey feel deeply human and heartbreakingly relatable. Alec is like a quiet anchor, grounding Blake in a way that only someone who truly listens can. Their friendship is a garden cultivated with care, blooming slowly but with undeniable beauty. There's something undeniably magnetic in their bond, like two halves of a whole slowly finding their way together, not through grand gestures but through the simple, honest connection of souls.

This book is a treasure for anyone who craves the quiet beauty of connections that feel earned. It’s for those who understand the magic in friendships that linger, in love that simmers patiently, and in relationships that feel real enough to touch. Thompson’s story wraps around you softly, leaving you with a sense of belonging, reminding you of the beauty in waiting.

[Samantha · Rating 5 out of 5]

"I Knew You Would Be in Trouble" by Brettney Thompson is one of those books that slowly slips under your skin. At first, the story took a moment to grab me – the writing style was different, like a new melody, and it took a little adjusting. But soon enough, I found myself invested, feeling every subtle emotion that Alec and Blake experience together. Their friendship isn’t instant; it grows with a quiet intensity that feels incredibly genuine, which makes every little moment between them that much sweeter. It’s like watching a flower bloom—gradual, patient, and incredibly rewarding.

What touched me on a personal level was Blake’s inner voice. Her raw reflections on life, love, and friendship spoke to parts of me I hadn't thought about in a long time. It reminded me of times when I leaned on friends during my own rocky relationships, finding comfort not in romance but in a connection that didn’t demand anything in return. Alec and Blake’s friendship felt relatable and rare in a world where so many relationships are rushed. They find strength in each other, and yet they’re also hesitant to cross lines, valuing what they already have.

This book made me think of those friends who have walked beside me through life’s rough patches, people I could rely on without ever needing to pretend. Alec and Blake's bond felt like a tribute to that kind of friendship, where being seen and accepted feels like the truest form of love. Thompson doesn’t just create characters; she weaves connections that remind you of life’s small, meaningful moments.

If you’re looking for a story that explores connection in its truest, deepest sense, this book is a gem. I’d recommend it to anyone who believes in the power of slow-burn friendships, those rare connections that don’t need to rush but instead grow over time. It's heartfelt, honest, and surprisingly touching.

[G. W .Bookreviewer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brettney Thompson’s "I Knew You Would Be in Trouble" surprised me in the best way possible. At first, I was uncertain about the pacing – it seemed like the story wasn’t rushing to reveal anything, which I didn’t initially know how to feel about. But as I read on, I started to appreciate that slowness. Alec and Blake’s relationship is like a fine wine that needs time to mature. Their friendship, in particular, was something that felt familiar to me. It reminded me of my own close friendships, where the bond wasn’t immediate, but over time, became something I couldn’t imagine living without.

What I didn’t expect, but absolutely loved, was how the book highlighted the importance of friendship before anything else. Alec and Blake are both dealing with their own emotional baggage, but they don’t turn to each other for an instant fix. Instead, they allow their connection to evolve naturally, which made their eventual emotional moments feel all the more satisfying. I think this book beautifully captures the idea that real connections take time, and sometimes the best relationships are the ones you don’t rush into.

If you’re someone who enjoys stories that focus on friendship, emotional growth, and the slow discovery of love, then "I Knew You Would Be in Trouble" is a perfect read. It’s heartfelt, it’s real, and it’ll stick with you long after you’ve turned the last page. This is one of those books that makes you appreciate the quiet moments of connection that often go unnoticed in life.

[Shubhadarshani · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the story of 2 neighbours, Blake Taylor and Alec Kohl living in Victoria. Blake is a medical student in her mid 20s and Alec is an RCMP officer with a drug detection dog called Chip.

Alec and Blake greatly bonds with each other as they share common love for dogs and hockey. Their existing relationship with Colin and Heather isn't working well. The understanding and an emotional connect which is missing in their existing relationships gets developed between Blake and Alec, they support each other and most importantly, they're always available for each other like a priority which was a major miss in their existing relationships.

Colin and Heather's characters tell us how much compatibility is important in romantic relationships. You can deeply like someone but still they might not be the right person for you, compatibility is important.