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Should've Known It's You

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Business or pleasure? Give me a break.

Business is pleasure.

I traded life on a farm for the glitz of New York City and the flash of a Rolex on my wrist.

Don’t get me wrong, I’m still a country boy.

I’m just rich now.

Imagine my surprise when a bridesmaid at my sister’s wedding turns my head—and then my world upside down.

She’s the sweetest thing I’ve ever tasted.

I thought it would just be one night, but the universe had other plans.

Now that we’re in business together she’s everywhere I turn.

My office, my bed, and my dreams.

Speaking of, she has her own dream, and I have the means to help her.

If she’ll let me.

I fell in love with a bridesmaid. Now it’s time to make her a bride.

Baby, I should’ve known it’s you from the start.

526 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 30, 2024

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About the author

Ali Parker

367 books2,108 followers
Hi! I’m Ali Parker, a USA Today bestselling author who has been writing contemporary and new adult romance for over a decade, creating heartfelt, swoony stories that give readers a place to escape and feel a little lighter. Every book I write starts with a simple “what if” and is crafted the old-school way; with imagination, long nights, too much coffee, and a deep love for storytelling (no AI here, just heart and a dedicated human team I treasure like family).

I left my career as a CPA to follow that calling, inspired by the power one great story can have to bring hope and joy. These days, I live in Tennessee with my husband (my real-life book boyfriend), our family, and my sweet grandbabies who make life even sweeter. When I’m not writing, I’m dreaming up new stories, crafting A LOT, and soaking up every moment with the people I love most. Oh, and drinking way too much coffee. Don’t judge.

Welcome to my stories, your escape, your adventure, and maybe even your next favorite love story.


Website- http://aliparkerbooks.com/
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5 stars
143 (62%)
4 stars
62 (27%)
3 stars
18 (7%)
2 stars
2 (<1%)
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2 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
9,377 reviews141 followers
November 2, 2024
This is a well written book with strong characters in Austin and Kennedy. The author does a great job building their story and paints her scenes perfectly. She continues the "curse" with the two falling for each other at the wedding. She takes you into their lives with steam and love , moves the story fluidly and delivers a terrific read. Loved and recommend reading.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and are freely given.
299 reviews5 followers
November 1, 2024
Manhattan investment banker Austin Merrick returns home to Firefly Grove to be the best man at his sisterJess’s wedding and becomes enthralled with a beautiful brunette bridesmaid named Kennedy Sweet, who when they finally figure it out, is Jess’s longtime wild friend who also current lives in New York. Then, BAM! They collapse into each other and make mad, fervid love in the meadow under the stars and surrounded by fireflies.

Fast forward, Austin and “Kenny” are working on the concept and business plan for her hotel/restaurant so they can secure an investor. They also share sisters who are both pregnant with grandparents who are polar opposites. As they work more closely together, their chemistry explodes, bringing them pleasure and joy, but outside are distrust and misunderstanding fuel vandalism of The Dahlia Hotel and Restaurant Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade float, but they undauntedly commit to finishing the project.

As they climb their way out of the doldrums, Austin and Kenny develop not only a good partnership but a sensuous life as well. But what will happen if they are forced to choose between their romance and the hotel? With so much on the line, they enter another phase of the relationship. Ali Parker offers us rich, detailed descriptions of urban New York, rural Firefly Grove, and exotic Maldives along with a riveting plot that includes not only a beautiful couple but a warm, caring cast of secondary characters. Should’ve Known It’s You is a delightful, thoughtful addition to the Not You Again series, so if you love a steamy romance set during the winter holidays, grab a copy, settle in with your favorite beverage, light the fire, and enjoy this wonderful story.

I received this book as an ARC reviewer and voluntarily leave my honest opinion.
89 reviews
November 2, 2024
Manhattan investment banker Austin Merrick returns home to Firefly Grove to be the best man at his sisterJess’s wedding and becomes enthralled with a beautiful brunette bridesmaid named Kennedy Sweet, who when they finally figure it out, is Jess’s longtime wild friend who also current lives in New York. Then, BAM! They collapse into each other and make mad, fervid love in the meadow under the stars and surrounded by fireflies.

Fast forward, Austin and “Kenny” are working on the concept and business plan for her hotel/restaurant so they can secure an investor. They also share sisters who are both pregnant with grandparents who are polar opposites. As they work more closely together, their chemistry explodes, bringing them pleasure and joy, but outside are distrust and misunderstanding fuel vandalism of The Dahlia Hotel and Restaurant Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade float, but they undauntedly commit to finishing the project.

As they climb their way out of the doldrums, Austin and Kenny develop not only a good partnership but a sensuous life as well. But what will happen if they are forced to choose between their romance and the hotel? With so much on the line, they enter another phase of the relationship. Ali Parker offers us rich, detailed descriptions of urban New York, rural Firefly Grove, and exotic Maldives along with a riveting plot that includes not only a beautiful couple but a warm, caring cast of secondary characters. Should’ve Known It’s You is a delightful, thoughtful addition to the Not You Again series, so if you love a steamy romance set during the winter holidays, grab a copy, settle in with your favorite beverage, light the fire, and enjoy this wonderful story.
169 reviews2 followers
November 1, 2024
A fantastic series by Ali Parker follows the best men and bridesmaids who cross paths at a wedding, and the sparks fly from there. Their stories unfold with memorable twists and heartfelt moments, making it a captivating read.

This standalone novel features Kennedy as Austin's sister's best friend, with a history that dates back to their childhood. When Austin sees Kennedy again at his sister's wedding, he feels an instant attraction. Their one-night stand leaves him wanting more. Austin is a fantastic character who goes out of his way to support Kennedy, who is struggling with her difficult parents and taking on the role of moral support for her sister. She dreams of opening a boutique hotel and restaurant in honor of her aunt but faces numerous challenges until Austin steps in to help. Their journey includes ups and downs, along with some steamy plots, leading to a heartfelt happy ending. Definitely a book worth reading!

I received this book as an ARC reviewer and voluntarily leave my honest opinion.
1,693 reviews9 followers
November 2, 2024
The story of Austin and Kennedy is a must read!

The wedding curse is at it again! Austin and Kennedy hook up at his sister’s wedding; him being the best man and her being the maid of honor. He doesn’t remember her from Firefly Grove when they were younger. He should have known it was her with her bubbly and feisty personality. Austin is an investment banker. Kennedy is trying to get her hotel and restaurant business going, but she needs investors. She ends up at his firm to pitch her idea, but she doesn’t know it’s where he works. What a surprise and a wild ride that first visit is. She doesn’t meet with him at first, but she ends up in his office after flying off the handle at his associate. It’s all in from there, especially for him. Kennedy is not so sure though. The magnetism between them is like no other they’ve ever known. Her past, in more ways than one, keeps her at arm’s length in the love department. Can she ever let go and go all in? I loved this story so much. I also loved all the other characters included as well.
Profile Image for Kari Hansen.
13.1k reviews102 followers
November 11, 2024
Austin left the family farm and is now a successful businessman in NY. When he returns to his hometown for his sister’s wedding, he and Kennedy, one of the bridesmaids, spend a steamy evening together. He never expected to see her again, especially not at the company where he works where she is meeting a co-worker to discuss a business opportunity.

Kennedy has always dreamed of owning a hotel however she is having difficulty bringing it to reality. The night she spent with Austin was unforgettable but now that they are working together she knows it would be best to keep their relationship professional however that is easier said than done.

Family drama, difficult pasts and trying to find a balance between personal and professional may create complications but some things are just meant to be.
Profile Image for Jen.
495 reviews7 followers
November 1, 2024
A great series of books where the best-men and bridesmaids meet up at a wedding and the rest is history. This book is a standalone but Austin’s family are characters mentioned in earlier books and their background covered as a reminder in the story.
Austin is a fantastic and likeable character and goes out of his way to help Kennedy. Kennedy on the other hand has problems with her dreadful parents and it is left to Kennedy to provide moral support to her sister. She is wanting to open a boutique hotel and restaurant in memory of her aunt but is stumbling along until Austin helps out. They have some ups and downs and some steamy make up sessions before they get to their HEA.
Well worth reading.
80 reviews2 followers
November 1, 2024
Austin and Kennedy are both from Firefly Grove where Kennedy was best friends with Austin's sister Jess. Fast forward at Jess's wedding where Austin sees Kennedy (Kenny) and falls hard for her. Things progress between them with the passion being off the charts!!! Kenny has a lot on her plate trying to see after her younger sister who is pregnant and parents whose behavior is off the charts bad. She also wants to open a small hotel and restaurant in honor of her favorite Aunt Dahlia. Austin who comes from an awesome loving family and is the picture perfect boyfriend gives her all the support both emotional and financial that she needs. This is a great read and I promise you won't want to put this one down. Whew, Ali sure knows how to make things hot!
Profile Image for Kathy.
406 reviews5 followers
November 1, 2024
Twists and turns of Austin and Kenny's story is one you don't want to miss! 5 stars all day long! Best man, Austin and bridesmaid, Kennedy hook up at his sister's wedding it's like destiny stepping in and bringing them together with the love of their lives! Oh boy it's the "curse" or as the guys later dubbed it "a blessing" in this series! Her cheating ex fiancé and terrible parents with their uppity lifestyle verse his family so down to earth, even though they hit oil on their farm and are very wealthy! But love conquers all, they try and keep it just business, but it sure breaks both of their hearts when they try. Thank you Ali, for another exciting tale of true love.

I received this book as an ARC reviewer and voluntarily leave my honest opinion.
1,195 reviews3 followers
November 2, 2024
This is an Ali Parker winning story of a bridesmaid/ groomsman. Austin and Kennedy(Kenny) become a great couple as you read their journey. Austin is a Merrick family member who branched out on his own to become a financial advisor. Kennedy has a dream of honoring her late aunt by working in the hospitality industry. Their story seamlessly goes from their past to the present. Austin and Kenny have a rough start as friends to become more. There are some interesting twists that showcase their personalities. The writing kept me reading especially with the captivating storylines. This is a fantastic addition to this collection.

This Bookfunnel ARC is a must read along with the other books in this collection.
Profile Image for Charlene.
1,486 reviews28 followers
November 9, 2024
Should've Known It's You, book seven in the Not You Again series, follows Manhattan investment banker Austin Merrick, and Austin’s sister Jess’s best friend and bridesmaid, Kennedy Sweet. Returning home to Firefly Grove for his sister’s wedding, he never expected to end up in the meadows, making love to the wild woman under the stars. Fast forward and Austin and Kennedy are now partners, working on a business plan for her restaurant hotel to attract investors and their chemistry just keeps growing.. but when a misunderstanding happens, will it end their new relationship before it even has a chance to begin? And what happens when they are forced to choose between their business, or their happiness?
246 reviews2 followers
November 1, 2024
Austin Merrick and Kennedy (Kenny) Sweet make the cutest couple. They knew each other as kids in Firefly Grove, when she was his sister's best friend, before her family moved from the small town farming community to New York City. They hook up at his sister's wedding and things heat up from there. Ali Parker does a fantastic job of depicting Austin as the perfect boyfriend - ultra supportive, considerate, patient, compassionate, and extremely understanding. Every woman would be blessed to have one. The storyline is great and they achieve their HEA without too much anguish. I really liked this book!.
Profile Image for Kristen Lewendon.
8,429 reviews67 followers
November 2, 2024
That was so much fun. I love this series! (And that ending makes me a little bit desperate to discover what will happen next.) Austin and Kenny are absolutely adorable together. I thought their story was delightfully low angst but had a little bit of suspense and a couple of very unexpected twists. And none of that is anything I want to discuss for fear of spoilers. I think I say it at the end of every one, but this might be my new favorite in the series. However, like I mentioned earlier, I’m dying to find out where the author is about to take us with the next book.
I received a complimentary advance copy of this book from the author.
120 reviews2 followers
November 6, 2024
There is something about the way Ali Parker develops her characters. There is a depth to her story telling that is consistently unmatched. Austin & Kennedy are the next ones to experience the “curse” of the wedding party hookup. Its another hit from the “Not You Again” series. Austin and Kennedy both have emotionally scarring from their growing up. Now as adults, both have hope and dreams and have learned from the past that nothing is impossible with positive thinking. This is an uplifting read with all the bells & whistles. Ali Parker did it again. Let’s hope the “curse” lives on for more truly enjoyable reading.
1,848 reviews9 followers
November 8, 2024
This is a brilliant addition to this series.
When Austin meets Kennedy at his sisters wedding and had a perfect night with her he didn't think he would see her again but now he can't stop thinking about her.
Kennedy wants her dream hotel and restaurant but getting funding is not easy. When she meets Austin again it doesn't go well at first but soon he will do anything for her.
I loved how they were together but when her cheating ex won't leave her alone Austin steps up to protect her.
Can she get her dream hotel and the man of her dreams as well.
A must read with a perfect ending.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
Profile Image for Janet Simmons.
737 reviews2 followers
November 2, 2024
Austin is bestman at his sister's wedding. Amongst their group of friends they consider it a curse/blessing if the bestman hooks up with a bridesmaid at a wedding, as he is going to marry her. It has happened a number of times already in their group so they have been warning Austin as he no longer lives locally.
I really like this series and 😍 loved this book. Ali has come up with a cute idea that is different for this theme. The books can be all read as standalones. You won't be disappointed if you buy this book.
Profile Image for Lottie Hildenbrand.
422 reviews2 followers
November 3, 2024
Great wrap up to the Not You Again series!

I thought this book was really good. Although the book is part of the Not You Again series of interconnected standalones, you don’t need to read the other books in the series first. Austin and Kennedy’s story was very heartwarming and so full of emotion. Also lots of laughs and a bit of suspense and heartache. I really love the way Austin and Kenny complement each other and I enjoyed watching the development of their relationship. I thought this book was a great wrap up to the series.
Profile Image for Charmaine Nouwen.
5,468 reviews22 followers
November 5, 2024
Should've Known It's You:A bestfriend brother romance story of Austin and Kenney.. A great read..wonderful,heartwarming,delightful,sweet,steamy with a touch of family drama,angst and romance..He is her bestfriend brother, Manhattan investment banker who left their town for the city and She is the wild BFF of the bride and now live in NY and came home for her BFF's wedding and crossed path with him,the only man who seen her and the only man she felt safe after what she've been through with her cheating EX and her parents choice for her..
361 reviews1 follower
November 1, 2024
What a wonderful book. Ali did it again! I love how she brings other characters and family into the plot. They become an integral part of the story. It also makes the romance so much better! More real! Makes you cry more! The bridesmaid's sister and her fiancé. The family from Firefly Cove was it. Forgive me for forgetting names, I'm on a new book now. Tate! You fall in love with all the characters that you want to and hate those you want to or feel bad for those you want to.I
Profile Image for Vicki Wayne.
161 reviews2 followers
November 1, 2024
Loved this story of Austin & Kennedy...the curse of a bridesmaid and the best man! Even though we know it's a happily ever after, I really enjoyed the ups and downs of this relationship! Money and family generally are both pretty influential bumps in a relationship, and this one has BOTH! I really enjoyed this story - and connected with each of the main characters, as the author always does a great job of helping us understand their feelings. Great job Ali!!
50 reviews
November 2, 2024
It’s another Not You Again Novel and the wedding curse has struck again! The sweet story is Austin and Kennedy is a stand alone follow up to the story of Slate and Jess! Austin is the brother of Jess and reconnects with Kennedy at the wedding of Slate and Jess. he doesn’t remember her from growing up. Kennedy, walks into his investment office weeks later not knowing it would be him. The chemistry between them is off the charts. The characters are amazing!!
Profile Image for Merry Jelks-Emmanuel.
15.6k reviews160 followers
November 2, 2024
Austin is a country boy that moved off the farm to the big city and made it big. When he goes to his sister's wedding, he connects with the bridesmaid that rocks his world. Will Austin get his happily ever after through Kennedy. This delightful story is heartwarming with dynamic characters that drew me in and had me in their corner to get their chance for happiness.
I am volunteering to leave a review for an ARC of this book.
Profile Image for Peggy.
2,377 reviews2 followers
November 3, 2024
Terrific read. Another curse? We’ll see. The story stars Austin and Kennedy (best man and bridesmaid) - they get together at his sister's wedding. They’ve got some issues to deal with: Kennedy’s cheating ex fiancé and let’s not forget, absolutely horrible parents is hard if not heartbreaking especially when she spends time with his amazing you can’t help but feel sad for her. Another great story you’ll love.
973 reviews6 followers
November 5, 2024
Austin was best man at his sister's wedding and had a reception fling with one of the bridesmaid, Kennedy. They met up again in New York City when Kennedy came to see an investment banker at Austin's firm because it was her dream to own a small boutique hotel. The two clashed at first, but eventually became friends, lovers, and business partners. This is the seventh and last book in a series. The stories and the sex scenes were enjoyable.
Profile Image for Anna.
1,102 reviews4 followers
November 5, 2024
Ali has had a huge hit with her Not You Again series. This book is just a wonderful addition you won’t want to miss. Great storyline with all around amazing characters. Kenndy and Austin are great together and their story is sweet. Ali really does a great job helping the reader to be able to visualize the towns and places that the story takes place. Well done and so worth every 5 star.
I received an arc copy of this book and I am freely leaving my review
353 reviews
December 31, 2024
I was happy to see another addition to this series and grabbed it right away. I was not disappointed! Good romance with interesting characters and updates on characters from previous books in the series. It was kind of like quick visits with old friends. The steam level was maybe a 2 but the story was enough to make up for the minimal steam.
I would recommend this addition to the series ....in fact read the entire series!!!
253 reviews
November 1, 2024
Kennedy is Austin's sister best friend. They knew each other since they were kids. At his sister's wedding he saw Kennedy again and was instantly attracted to her. They had a one night stand but that was not enough for him he wanted more. Working together made them grew closer. Will they get a happy ending or will her dreams stand in the way. This is a fantastic must read story. Grab a copy.
81 reviews
November 2, 2024
Highly recommend this book - thoroughly enjoyed it. Story of Kennedy and Austin - both not looking for love but find each other. Lots of highs and lows, tears and laughter - the story follows the best men and bridesmaids "curse" that "meet" at a wedding, and boy, do the sparks fly from there. Their story unfolds with memorable twists and heartfelt moments, making it a brilliant read
2,833 reviews8 followers
November 5, 2024
This is a wonderful story with great characters. Kennedy and Austin meet at his sister's wedding. He is best man and Kennedy is a bridesmaid. To make it work, they will have to deal with an interfering ex and less than pleasant parents. You will be drawn into the story and get lost with the characters.
Profile Image for LeMiliere.
2,989 reviews21 followers
November 5, 2024
I loved this book, Ali Parker has given us a great love story with a bit of everything you could possibly want in a beautiful romance. It's Austin and Kennedy's story, they are another couple who have continued the tradition of meeting their forever at a wedding.

The story flows well, is well-written and has characters who are well-drawn and likeable. This is a book I know I will read again.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews