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Bad Apple

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A flirty standalone novel* from New York Times and international bestselling author Elle Kennedy!

One night with him will change her life...

Between her waitressing job, volunteer work, and college classes, there are never enough hours in Maggie Reilly’s day. Especially not for a relationship. Luckily, she’s got the perfect arrangement: a lover she meets three or four times a year. But when she shows up at the hotel expecting to hop into bed with one man, she accidentally ends up with another—Ben Barrett, Hollywood’s most notorious bad boy.

Ben, determined to lay low after another scandal, just wants some much-needed sleep. What he gets is a scorching make-out session with a gorgeous, naked redhead. He won’t accept her apology, but what he will accept is a place to hide out…and if there’s some hot, no-strings sex involved, why the heck not?

But Ben soon discovers that one week with his sassy, bed-hopping waitress is definitely not enough. He wants more. A lot more.

Now he needs to convince relationship-averse Maggie that a bad boy might be oh so good for her—and the best thing that’s ever happened to both of them.

* Previously published in 2008, Bad Apple (formerly Midnight Encounters) features almost entirely new content, including a point-of-view switch. Enjoy this new version of an old favorite!

236 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2008

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About the author

Elle Kennedy

187 books89.5k followers
A New York Times, USA Today and Wall Street Journal bestselling author, Elle Kennedy grew up in the suburbs of Toronto, Ontario, and holds a B.A. in English from York University. From an early age, she knew she wanted to be a writer, and actively began pursuing that dream when she was a teenager.

Elle currently writes for various publishers. She loves strong heroines and sexy alpha heroes, and just enough heat and danger to keep things interesting!

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 717 reviews
Profile Image for Jen.
1,655 reviews1,164 followers
August 20, 2019
Another wonderful story written by Elle Kennedy! So far I have thoroughly enjoyed any book I have read of hers. “Bad Apple “ is about a workaholic woman who schedules her sex life... basically twice a year a guy she doesn’t truly know comes into Maggie’s town and they get together for a bootie call! There are no strings attached and emotions get left at the door!
When Maggie goes to the hotel for her night of sex, she ends up in the right room but quickly finds out it is the wrong guy in the bed with her! I loved the first encounter between her and her hero!!! Priceless!!!!

I highly recommend this book if you are looking for a low angst, feel good story! My only complaint was that I would have liked to have had an epilogue. It would have been nice to see what the future held for our couple! Other than that it was an entertaining read!
Profile Image for Christy.
4,549 reviews35.9k followers
July 6, 2020
3 stars

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Bad Apple is a stand alone romance by Elle Kennedy and it has the famous hero/ordinary heroine troupe. From what I can tell, Elle wrote this book back in 2008 and re-released it with some edits, which is probably why I hadn’t heard of it until recently. I enjoyed reading about Maggie and Ben finding love. It was sweet, sexy, and had an interesting meeting between the two of them. This was a book I liked, but not one I fell in love with. I think I have really high expectations for Elle Kennedy books and this one was good for me, just not great. If you’re looking for a low angst romance, check this one out.
Profile Image for ❥ KAT ❥ Kitty Kats Crazy About Books.
2,628 reviews10.9k followers
August 4, 2019
Image and video hosting by TinyPic Image and video hosting by TinyPic 'BAD APPLE:' Is a standalone romance novel by Elle Kennedy. Previously published as 'Midnight Encounters' it's had a whole new makeover with complete new content added. Image and video hosting by TinyPic
I never read the previous released version of this so this was a complete new read for me, what can I say!?! Other than how much I really enjoyed this one!!
The giggles, the swoony moments, the characters themselves, all made for a riveting read, this was such a fun story to get lost in. Once started I was hooked!! This author is such an amazing story teller, each book she releases always has me coming back for more.

Maggie, was such a relatable character, a hardworking sassy female, free time never existed in her life, from her waitressing job, to studying and her volunteering work doesn't leave much time left over for anything else in her life which is why she's happy with her two time arrangement she has with Tony. He flies in twice a year, they hook up and go their separate ways. No emotional attachments and no awkward moments afterwards.

Ben, is Hollywoods burnt out action movie star with a bad boy image that's stuck to him. But don't be deceived Ben Barrett is such a likable character.

So imagine these two characters surprise when Maggie is expecting to meet up with Tony but accidently meets Ben instead. The shock of it all had me giggling and falling under this authors spell straight away. Such a unique way to start us off with..

From start to finish the outside world ceased to exist. From the cover 🙌 🔥 🙌to the words within, I was in my happy place, the only gripe I have with this book is that I wish it was longer. I just wanted to spend more time with these two characters they were utterly perfect for each other, such a great story to get lost in!! Highly recommend!!

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Profile Image for MELISSA *Mel Reader*.
1,396 reviews1,508 followers
August 13, 2019
4.5 Stars!
(ARC provided by author)

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Maggie Reilly grew up in foster care, and is an independent woman who has learned she can only rely on herself. Between work, school, and volunteering, there are never enough hours in a day, so she definitely can’t fit in dating or a relationship. Men are just complicated and distracting anyway, so she’s perfectly content with an arrangement she made with a fellow workaholic. They are lovers who meet up 2-3 times a year to have a good time. This is about all she can handle with her busy schedule since her focus has to be on her goals and responsibilities. Then a mix up lands her in an awkward predicament with a sexy stranger, and her predictable life is suddenly thrown into chaos.

Ben Barrett is a famous movie star who can’t seem to shake his bad boy reputation. He desperately needs a break from Hollywood, and needs to disappear. After he finds himself in the middle of a scandal he needs somewhere to lay low for a while and a place to be anonymous. He heads to New York to hideout, only to realize the vultures followed him. He’s going to go crazy if he doesn’t get some peace and quiet, and a good nights sleep. He finds a place to rest for the night, only to be woken up by a gorgeous redhead in his bed.

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Ben is shocked to find his beautiful mystery woman doesn’t seem to know or care he’s a celebrity. She’s real, genuine, and treats him like a normal human being and doesn’t try to impress him. He likes her and wants to spend time with her. Tired of being hounded and harassed, and causing a media storm anywhere he goes, he needs a place to crash. Their mutual attraction quickly heats up, and soon Ben wants more from Maggie than she may be willing to give.

Maggie has no free time for a love life, and romance isn’t a priority to her, but she can’t deny this hot actor that looks like a model is extremely tempting. He gets to her and makes her feel things. He also makes her dizzy with desire, and before she realizes what’s happened, her heart is in serious jeopardy.

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-He might be sexy as sin, and yeah, his voice gives me shivers that are completely foreign to me, but there's no doubt in my mind that this man is trouble.

-A fire hotter than anything I've ever experienced sweeps over me.

-I'm not sure I'll ever get used to this man's kisses. They're long and intoxicating.

-Every time I look at him, every time he looks at me, the desire is as fierce and potent as it was that first night.

-My head tells me that relying on others is a mistake. But my heart speaks differently.

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Bad Apple (formerly Midnight Encounters) features almost entirely new content, including a point of view switch. It’s a new version of an old favorite that is fantastic! I really loved this fun, flirty standalone novel full of humor and amazing chemistry!

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***NOW AVAILABLE***
https://amzn.to/2Tv6isF
Profile Image for Wendys Wycked Words.
1,590 reviews3,955 followers
August 14, 2019
3,5

I don't know why I didn't read this book when it was first published in 2008 as 'Midnight Encounters', but I am guessing it has to do with my ever-growing TBR list. That and the fact that my only free time to read in 2008, was when I went to the bathroom :P 

reading on bathroom - Google zoeken

Anyways, I am glad I got to read it now, with all the new content.

This was definitely one of those "feel good" reads and I really needed one at the moment, so lucky me :P I had plenty of "laugh out loud" moments, that's for sure.

that's funny gif - Google zoeken

Maggie and Ben were absolutely great together, and I am glad to say that I liked both of them very much. Maggie especially was a very refreshing heroine in my opinion. 

If you're in the mood for a sweet but funny and light romance, then you should definitely give this one a go.

 

An ARC was provided to
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in exchange for an honest review

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Profile Image for Isabella. R.
1,007 reviews2,187 followers
August 18, 2019
4 Bed Hopping Stars ⭐️
 
When Maggie’s booty call goes embarrassingly wrong, she finds herself in the wrong man’s bed.
With barely her pride intact she never expected the mystery man to seek her out with her lost panties in hand.

"Okay, so I molested a man whose name I don’t even know. Big deal. He’d liked it. I liked it too. Nobody was harmed. And we’ll probably never cross paths again, so really, what harm had been done?"

All Ben Barrett wants is some sleep. Is that too much to ask? But as a famous celebrity, it’s a tall order in New York. Although waking to a gorgeous redhead with his dick in hand isn’t a bad way to go, until she flees. Fortunately she left her work details and panties behind. How’s a man to resist?

Finding Maggie is easy but convincing her to give him her time and potentially her bed is another matter.
Maggie does not have the time or inclination for a playboy that speaks in riddles and wants to be her temporary roommate, until he makes his intentions very clear.....

“I don’t want to deflower you. I want to fuck you.” His voice takes on a seductive note. “Eight days. For the next eight days I’ll fuck your brains out. Anything you want me to do to you, I’ll do. Anytime you want it, you’ll have it.”

Bad Apple was a real treat and a great way to spend a couple of hours away from reality. Beneath all the sexy scenes, we get a beautiful story of a girl that’s never known love and a boy that is surrounded by people that pretend to care. With a lot of perseverance, I loved that they both got their HEA.

If you are looking for some reading inspiration, please feel free to check out my website, www.mypinkfairytales.com
Profile Image for Lana Reads.
477 reviews231 followers
July 9, 2020
2,5 stars

Well, the cover is hot. The rest... Maybe because the book was a new retelling of an existing story (which I haven't read), but it felt like parts of it were filled with empty rounds of the same thoughts, rephrased...

She's fresh and different! I want her!! He's a bad boy and oh-so-hot, but I don't have time!!

...and the spaces in-between were filled with clichès and more emptiness. Nothing about the story felt original or authentic, plus the hero's pushiness and heroine's attitude got old very fast. There wasn't much of a connection between them (apart from sex)... And even though the author tried really hard to give some depth to the characters (through quite repetitive inner monologues), they still felt absolutely flat - because... clichès.

Lots of people think it wasn't the best representation of the author's work, so I'm still looking forward to her other series.
Profile Image for Auntee.
1,356 reviews1,472 followers
May 23, 2010
I really, really enjoyed this hot little romance between a bad boy Hollywood movie star and the sassy, work-a-holic New York waitress/ social worker-in-training who rocks his world. I'll admit a Hollywood movie star wouldn't be my first choice for a romance hero, but this guy, Ben Barrett, was just so deep-down sweet and charming, despite his bad-boy image and sometimes arrogant ways, that I totally fell for him. And I love when that happens. It makes the story so much easier to read when you have a rapport with the characters, and I grew to love the heroine, Maggie Reilly too, even though at times she was a little stubborn and inflexible and I just wanted to give her a little push towards Ben.

Maggie Reilly's working as a waitress while trying to balance her college classes in social work and volunteering her time at her local community center. Every minute of her busy day is accounted for, leaving her no time for TV, movies, or even sex. She makes the time for sex with an equally busy man two or three times a year. Tony's a travel writer on the go constantly, but whenever he's in New York he hooks up with Maggie so they each can scratch their itch. This works for Maggie because she has no time for a relationship, nor does she want one. She doesn't want a special someone in her life (that would be a distraction), and because of her tragic and lonely past in foster care, figures the only one she needs and can count on is herself. Her whole life is geared towards getting her college degree and starting her career, and that's about as far into the future she's willing to look. But when Ben Barrett enters her life and won't go quietly away, all her plans go up in smoke.

Ben Barrett's a hot movie star with a bad boy reputation, living large and fast but not enjoying it as much as he once did. He's tired of being pigeon-holed as an action star, getting tired of the easy women who he never has to chase, and is ready for something a little more challenging. When a beautiful redhead mistakenly comes to his hotel room while he's sleeping thinking she was meeting someone else, gets embarrassed after having her hands all over him and realizing he's not the man she was supposed to meet, and practically runs away without even recognizing him, he's intrigued. He tracks her down to her work at a bar, major sparks fly, and he's impressed that she's not impressed with his movie star career. She lays it on the line for him and lets him know that she has no room in her life for a distraction, and Ben Barrett is one big hunk of distraction. Ben weasels his way into getting Maggie to let him stay with her (he's hiding from paparazzi and a big scandal) by convincing her that he will be her "boy toy" for a whole week. Maggie finds this offer hard to resist, but insists that Ben not mess with her work or her career. But he can mess with her (and she with him) all he wants! But what starts out as a sex-only fling soon becomes much, much more, as Ben pulls out all the stops to woo Maggie. As Maggie feels all her emotional walls come tumbling down, she starts to regret ever getting involved with Ben, because he's coming between all her plans. Soon it comes down to what is more important to her, her job or the man she loves? Is it even possible for her to have both?

This was such a fast read, it was over in no time, yet I wanted more! I loved Ben, and didn't care that he was a little cocky, because Maggie always put him in his place. And boy did he have to work for her! I loved the way he tried to take care of her, breaking down Maggie's emotional walls bit by bit. I loved how he pushed her to have a life outside of work and school, and loved how he made her feel special when he whisked her off to the Bahamas for some much needed R&R. I loved how they were able to move beyond just being bedmates, and really start to reveal things about their pasts and connect emotionally. And yes, their sex scenes were white hot and happened everywhere imaginable (the shower, the kitchen floor, a private jet), but what got to me the most was when they were in bed and started to connect emotionally--these were the scenes that brought tears to my eyes. I was just hoping and praying that Maggie had the guts to grab onto the best thing that could possibly happen to her and realize that her life didn't have to be one thing or the other. She could have it all if she was willing to work at it.

The story built to a sweet conclusion, with a short HEA epilogue, but darn if I didn't want just a little more! I guess that's a good sign, and I truly enjoyed Maggie and Ben's love story of two opposites who turned out to have a lot in common after all. Elle Kennedy's beginning to be one of my new favorites, and I'm looking forward to seeing what else she comes up with. If you're looking for a steamy hot, sometimes funny, sometimes very romantic read with two very charming and likable characters, look no further than 'Midnight Encounters'. 4 1/2 stars
Profile Image for Jessica .
2,646 reviews16k followers
August 12, 2019
A new [okay, newly republished] Elle Kennedy book? With a gorgeous cover? Count me in!

Maggie is one busy woman who has no time for anything. Between work to pay for school, school, and her volunteering, there's no time for friends or a relationship. So when her twice-a-year fling calls to say he's in town, Maggie is ready to let off some steam for the night and go back to reality in the morning. Instead of finding her fling in their designated hotel room, she rolls into bed with Ben Barrett, movie star who's trying to evade the paparazzi after a scandal recently broke loose. Maggie is mortified, but Ben is intrigued and is determined to see if Maggie wants to spend more time together.

I had never read this book when it came out in 2008, so I wasn't sure what to expect in this one. This was definitely a pretty short and sweet book, but it definitely delivered on two characters who were each dealing with their own problems with their pasts. I really enjoyed Ben's character and how he just didn't want to deal with the drama going on with the press right now. Maggie was someone he could forget reality with and she wasn't fawning over him like every other female in the world was.

While this wasn't the most amazing romance ever, it was still super cute watching Ben and Maggie spending more time together and liking each other more and more, and watching Maggie freak out about it. I did think it was a bit too insta-lovey at the end, but other than that, this was just a fun romance between an actor and a woman who was too busy with life to look for love.
Profile Image for Wil Loves Books!.
1,565 reviews485 followers
September 5, 2019
Super cute quick read

This was super cute. This is a revamped, rerelease version of an old Elle book called “Midnight Encounters”. It’s a cute story about a movie star that falls in love with a regular New York girl. They meet under some very unusual circumstances and they can’t help but to be drawn to each other. As with all other Elle books, the hero is super swoony and the heroine is strong and awesome. Totally recommend if you’re looking for a quick and hot read!
Profile Image for Michelle.
1,633 reviews173 followers
October 6, 2019
Really enjoyed this book.

Hero 4🌟
Heroine 4🌟
Story 4🌟
Writing 5🌟
Steam 4🌟
Romance 4🌟
Angst 3🌟
Drama 3🌟

Recommend - Yes
Profile Image for JadeC.
358 reviews68 followers
June 12, 2020
4 stars!
i like this! cute and sexy Hollywood romance. also, look at the cover!! damn. 😍

"A complete stranger just slipped into my bed, kissed the hell out of me, got me harder than granite, and now she’s offering me free drinks to make up for it?"

Hollywood Bad Boy Ben Barrett has enough of the paparazzi shit so he decides to go into hiding. he takes refuge in a cheap hotel before waking up to a beautiful redhead fondling him.
Maggie has been abandoned by her family. she is also too busy for love and that's why she has a special hookup arrangement twice every year with Tony. when she finds out that the man in the hotel room isn't him, she's mortified and practically dashed out of the room.

Ben is intrigued by Maggie. She seems to genuinely not recognise him nor care about his celebrity status. when Ben begged Maggie to let him crash at her apartment for just one day, Maggie agreed. and before we know, they became roommates.
Neither of them expected each other, but Ben knows that he wants Maggie. he just needs to convince Maggie that he is the one for her.

overall, i enjoyed the banter between Maggie and Ben. there's a littttle bit of angst with lots of laughter and just beautiful chemistry. not to forget, theres also some delicious hot scenes 🔥🔥
Profile Image for Ari .
933 reviews299 followers
August 12, 2019
*I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review.*

*3.5 Stars!*


Bad Apple is a reissue of Kennedy's previous release, Midnight Encounters. Though it is a re-release, Bad Apple contains new content and an added POV so it's definitely worth a read, or a re-read. Either way, Bad Apple was new to me so I was definitely looking forward to reading it.

Action movie star and notorious bad boy, Ben Barrett, needs an escape from the paparazzi and the scandalous headlines. So he escapes to NYC hoping to catch a break—what he gets instead is a redheaded waitress in his hotel bedroom. Between waiting tables, classes and volunteering, Maggie Reilly barely has a moment to breathe. So when she gets a night to have fun, she accidentally finds herself  in the bed of a famous movie star. Maggie wants to forget the embarrassing night. Ben is hoping that Maggie will help him find the peace and quiet he's looking for. But what happens next is something neither of them is expecting.

I was in the mood for a lighthearted cheesy romance and that's exactly what I got. Set in NYC, Bad Apple starts off with one of the most awkward meet-cutes I've ever read. The second-hand embarrassment was so real but at the same time I couldn't stop laughing. I knew after that moment that this book was definitely going to have a few laugh out loud moments. I liked both Maggie and Ben and the dynamic of their relationship. Ben is Hollywood's bad boy heartthrob while Maggie is struggling student who hopes to achieve her dreams of becoming a social worker. When they first meet, Maggie has no clue that Ben is a famous actor so she kind of treats him like a basic fuckboi. Then she finds out his true identity and still treats him like a basic fuckboi. I just loved that Maggie didn't give any fucks at all. Maggie is also super hardworking who has such a good heart because she wants to work with children and make a difference in their lives. Ben was not what I was expecting. Yes he's super cocky at times, but he's still a small town boy at heart and doesn't forget where he came from. The romance is insta-lusty but honestly I wouldn't have expected anything different since everything takes place between a span of two weeks. The chemistry was definitely there though which is why these two worked so well together. There is a little twist at the end which I wasn't expecting but I liked how the twist played out and helped Maggie and Ben get to their HEA. I definitely feel that since this is a re-issue, it could've been a little longer because the ending does feel a bit rushed. All in all, Bad Apple was a fun read and if you're in the mood for a cheesy romance to help pick up your mood, this re-release may be just the thing you need.
Profile Image for Lacey (laceybooklovers).
2,144 reviews12k followers
July 26, 2019
Soooo good! How does Elle Kennedy do it every time!? I love the way she writes characters that feel so real. Maggie and Ben were so much fun to read. Ben is a famous actor, but he's just a down-to-earth guy who's done with being in the limelight and wants to lay low. Maggie is the perfect person to do so with, and they have their no-strings-attached fun. Their meet-cute is hilarious and quite unique. They have some great banter and chemistry, and though their book is a little on the shorter side, I adored the way these two fell in love. I'm glad EK decided to revamp this – I'd no idea Midnight Encounters existed but I really enjoyed this new edition!
236 reviews2 followers
June 15, 2020
È la prima volta che Elle Kennedy mi annoia 😭

Quello che avevo in mente per tutto il libro è stato: banale, ovvio, scontato, ma lo fanno ancora?!
Ben lontana dal suo solito stile, la Kennedy in questo libro racconta molto poco e riduce le interazioni fra i due protagonisti (fino praticamente alla fine del libro) al sesso. Purtroppo non ho trovato la solita chimica che mi scatta sempre con i suoi personaggi, sono molto piatti, banali e un po’ irrealistici. Sono descritti senza la solita attenzione e profondità e questo ha condizionato tutta la mia lettura, perché se non mi scatta qualcosa con i protagonisti non mi coinvolge più.

“È stato sesso, okay, ma sembra che qualcosa tra noi sia cambiato. Una cosa che mi spaventa e mi esalta allo stesso tempo. Una cosa che non posso spiegare a parole, nè etichettare e tantomeno analizzare. Oh, merda. Per la prima volta in vita mia, mi chiedo se forse non mi stia innamorando.”

L’autrice ha voluto rendere l’indifferenza di Maggie al fatto che Ben sia un attore del cinema portandola all’esasperazione, idem per la sua indipendenza e la sua assoluta dedizione al lavoro. Ben è dolce e buono, percepiamo la sua solitudine e la sua voglia di avere degli amici sinceri, ma è un po’ fuori di testa: si presentano e lui si trasferisce praticamente a casa sua, così su due piedi, e iniziano una relazione in cui lui la vuole e lei continua a fare la ritrosa con mille problemi.

http://illibrosullafinestra.blogspot....

Profile Image for Jessica Hull.
936 reviews652 followers
July 24, 2019
That feeling you get when you dive into a book that turns out to be a whole lot of yummy, sexy, sweet deliciousness... ughhhhhh. Giddy. I was giddy as I read Bad Apple, an unexpected celebrity romance that took everything I typically expect from the trope and flipped it on its head! 

So often in these dynamics, the celebrity in the relationship has an unattainable quality to them. They're usually larger than life, set upon a mountainous pedestal where their counterpart feels like they're in a constant emotional war with the media, with fandom, with the expectations of fame that follows their romantic interest. But Bad Apple was a delicious role reversal and I think that's why I enjoyed it so very much!

Ben is a movie star. Maggie is a hardworking bartender/volunteer/college student who inadvertently slips into his bed and finds herself instantly catapulted into a crazy arrangement of sorts to help Ben hide out from his ravenous following. But where Maggie holds Ben at arms length, reluctant to entertain any emotional entanglements, Ben is all in from the start, committed to winning his girl. One of the reasons I tend to avoid celebrity romances is because that unattainability, that pillar of fame that always keeps our movie star from feeling like he's completely ours, doesn't always sit nicely with me. I struggle with it and so it was refreshing to read a Hollywood-esque romance where it's not the celebrity out of reach but rather the girl he's trying to woo.

I'm so glad Elle Kennedy decided to revamp this gem from her backlog because it had never hit my radar until now! I don't even know what it all looked like before but the new title, the new cover and all this new content turned out to be the most deliciously satisfying package. It was instant fireworks in my tummy when I saw the gorgeous cover and Elle Kennedy's story lived up to everything I hoped for when I started reading. It's fun. It's so sexy. It's complicated while remaining light and fresh. It's a total escape read, the perfect summer romance, and I enjoyed every bit of it. 
Profile Image for Laura.
471 reviews580 followers
July 24, 2019
description

I was super excited when I got an email about this book and I flew through this story!

I came to really care about the two main characters very quickly, especially Maggie. I adored her the most. Her spirit was so strong and she was so likeable and sweet but also sassy, I loved her.

There were a few issues at the beginning of the book, and I was about to feel kind of uncomfortable with the way our characters met but the progression of it worked well and that took my mind off the first encounter. I can see people having issues with the meeting or rather what happens in that moment, but if they can get pass that, I firmly believe they will find a hot and romantic story about two people needing and bringing the best out of each other.

Bad Apple is, what I like to call, the ultimate contemporary fantasy. These kinds of things usually don’t happen in real life, but don’t I wish for something like this. Or just live in any of Elle Kennedy’s books to be honest.

And while I liked this book a lot, I wish it were longer. The characters could’ve used more depth and the situations could’ve been riskier and that comes with more time to explore and create. 100 or 200 pages would’ve been perfect for our couple to get to know each other more and things to go crazier but nonetheless it was sweet.

I ended up with a huge smile on my face after reading and the more I thought about it, the more I liked Ben and Maggie. Maggie with her strong will and her commitment to make children’s lives better, and Ben… Oh, Ben. That swagger and that wish to always be better. Both of them were swoon worthy material.
September 11, 2019
4 ⭐'s

If you're looking for a short, sweet story by Elle Kennedy, then look no further. Ben and Maggie were really good together and their "meet cute" was hilarious and just a tad awkward!

Ben's an actor in the middle of a scandal and trying to hide out from the paparazzi. Maggie gives him a safe haven in exchange for some nookie. You heard me right...nookie.

Which is no small feat for this ultra workaholic who usually only gets some two times a year. Ben gives it to her and then some but he wants her to relax a little and take her away from things.

The only problem is that his life is waiting for them when they get back and that disrupts Maggie's life...the one thing she didn't want to happen.

So Ben has to make things right and with some good advice from his Mama, he does just that. And it blows Maggie's socks off.

What could have been better? Well, an epilogue or just more at the end would have been so much better. The author got her rights back on this story and reworked some things. I don't know how it was before but it was definitely worth reading now.
Profile Image for Vivi220414.
416 reviews26 followers
December 20, 2020
3.5 stelle
Maggie è una ragazza cresciuta in varie case in affido, il suo sogno è fare la differenza per tanti ragazzi, e per questo, studia come assistente sociale, fa volontariato e lavora come cameriera, lei non ha tempo per l'amore e nemmeno per relazioni che possano distrarla dai suoi obiettivi, ma non ha fatto i conti con Ben, conosciuto a causa di un imbarazzante equivoco, lui è un attore moooolto sexy, al centro di uno scandalo; i patti tra loro sono chiari solo sesso, e non deve intralciare la sua vita, ma Ben vuole farla rilassare, vuole farsi conoscere, e non demorde nel suo obiettivo!!!
Tra giornalisti alle calcagne, mini vacanza rilassante, la vita di Maggie subisce una scossa, i suoi obiettivi sembrano allontanarsi, ma è ancora ciò che vuole, o le sue priorità cambieranno?
Una storia carina e piacevole da leggere, ma sottotono rispetto agli sport romance a cui l'autrice ci ha abituati...
Profile Image for Amy .
3,125 reviews
August 13, 2019
3.5 stars!

If you’re looking for a quick and sexy read, then Bad Apple is the book for you.

Bad Apple follows the story of Ben and Maggie. Ben is tired of living in the limelight and misses his privacy. After a scandal causes utter chaos in his life, he decides that now is the best time to take a break. All he wants is to forget for one moment that he’s famous. But, what Ben didn’t plan on was Maggie. Maggie is like a breath of fresh air. They meet in the most unlikely of situations and Ben is totally stunned that Maggie has no clue who he is. Fate keeps bringing these two opposites back together and the tension between the two of them burns brighter than ever. Will Ben be able to leave the limelight behind? Will Maggie take a chance on commitment? There is only one way to find out….

Overall, I thought this book was a fun read. Bad Apple is a book that you can easily read in just a single sitting. The characters are a lot of fun and easy to get lost in. I thought Ben and Maggie had terrific chemistry and I just loved their unconventional, first encounter. If you’re looking for a quick, sexy read that is mostly light on the drama and high on the sexy good times, then look no further, Bad Apple is just the book you’ve been looking for.

*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*
Profile Image for Angela Alboreo.
415 reviews
June 22, 2020
4,5 - Dopo una lettura travagliata, leggere Ti ho incontrato a mezzanotte ha suscitato in me la stessa sensazione che la crema lenitiva dona alla pelle appena scottata.
Elle Kennedy ha uno stile di scrittura che punta ad appassionare il lettore e non si smentisce neanche questa volta. Nonostante il libro non sia corposo (conta solo 250 pagine) e sia stato pubblicato in lingua originale ben dodici anni fa (nel lontano 2008), la Kennedy è riuscita a stupirmi e a farmi vivere delle ore di straordinario piacere, facendomi sia divertire e sia coinvolgendomi con la storia di entrambi i protagonisti. Non aspettatevi che vi sia molta introspezione o caratterizzazione perché il libro intreccia molte di quelle che sono caratteristiche tipiche del romanzo breve, ma posso assicurarvi che sarà davvero una piacevole lettura e che scivolerà via come un buon bicchiere di Spritz!.
Non avevo letto nulla di suo fino alla serie Briar U, pubblicata qui in Italia sempre dalla Newton Compton Editori, quindi sono una novellina con le sue storie e sicuramente ho libri e serie intere da recuperare (sigh, lo so che devo recuperare la Off Campus!). Prometto solennemente di avere buone intenzioni, ma nel frattempo prego la casa editrice di continuarci a rimpinzare le librerie con le sue meravigliose storie.
Profile Image for Pick a Book.
464 reviews100 followers
August 2, 2019
English / Português

4 stars

I didn't read the version of this book released in 2008 (previosly named "Midnight Encounters") so this story is new to me; I couldn't compare. I know this version has been expanded and the author has added alternate point of views.

BAD APPLE tells the story of Maggie and Ben, two people who were looking for nothing and ended up getting into a mess that brought them together. With doses of drama and a bit of comedy, Elle Kennedy brings a wonderful story about finding out who you are as a person, beyond your work, and opening your heart to life and love opportunities.

I loved both characters and how they really were what each needed. I don't usually enjoy stories that take place in a short period of time because I find it hard to make the reader believe that there is love there, but Elle Kennedy, as always, hook us in the story and in their daily lives that makes it believable that they really started to like each other.

Besides a quick story and a really good read, BAD APPLE is also very hot! Maggie and Ben together set the pages on fire since their first contact.

I love Elle Kennedy books and this one was no different. I loved that the author decided to release again this book, because if it were not so, maybe I would never know this couple and surely would be missing a great story. I highly recommend it.

* An ARC was provided. Thank you!
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​​English / Português

4 estrelas ​

Não li a versão desse livro lançada em 2008 (com o nome de "Midnight Encounters") então essa história é nova pra mim; não saberia comparar. Sei que essa versão foi ampliada e a autora colocou pontos de vista alternados.

BAD APPLE conta a história de Maggie e Ben, duas pessoas que não estavam procurando por nada e acabaram se metendo uma confusão que os uniu. Com doses de drama e uma pitada de comédia, Elle Kennedy traz uma história super gostosa sobre descobrir quem você é como pessoa, além do seu trabalho, e abrir o coração pra oportunidades tanto de vida quanto pro amor.

Amei os dois personagens e como eles eram realmente o que cada um precisava. Normalmente, não curto histórias que se passam em um curto período de tempo por achar ser difícil fazer o leitor acreditar que ali tem amor, mas a Elle Kennedy, como sempre, arrasa envolvendo a gente na história e no dia a dia deles que faz ficar crível que eles realmente começaram a gostar um do outro.

Além de uma história rápida e gostosinha de ler, BAD APPLE também é bem quente! Maggie e Ben juntos foi fogo no parquinho desde o primeiro contato.

Amo os livros da Elle Kennedy e com esse não foi diferente. Adorei que a autora resolveu relançar esse livro, porque se não fosse assim, talvez eu nunca conhecesse esse casal e com certeza estaria perdendo uma ótima história. Super recomendo.

* Recebi um ARC desse livro. Obrigada!
----------------------
* Pick a Book

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Profile Image for Shawna.
3,803 reviews4,736 followers
July 2, 2009
4 stars – Contemporary Romance/Erotica

What do you get when you take a sassy redhead New York waitress, a sexy-as-sin bad boy, playboy Hollywood movie star, and throw in a hotel room mishap? This fun, hot little number!

Maggie Reilly defines workaholic...She waitresses at a posh Manhattan club called The Olive, volunteers at a center for abused kids, and attends college classes with the intention of becoming a social worker, so the last thing she wants or needs is a messy distraction like a relationship. Maggie thinks she has the ideal arrangement for sexual gratification with her sometimes lover Tony, who’s a travel writer that she meets at a hotel a couple of times a year for some hot between the sheets action.

Ben Barrett is Hollywood’s current top action movie star and most infamous bad boy, playboy caught up in a big scandal. He’s trying to lay low in New York to escape the crazy media and paparazzi blitz and checks into a hotel to hide out and catch up on some much needed rest. When a hotel mistake results in a steamy in the dark make-out session between half-asleep Ben and a very naked, eager Maggie, sparks and sheets ignite! Too bad she thought he was Tony and is mortified when she learns the truth. Instead of accepting her apology, Ben tracks Maggie down and insists on staying with her for a week and being her personal boy toy.

Ben sees the situation with Maggie as a perfect opportunity to hide out from the press, while engaging in some hot bedroom action with a beautiful, fiery redhead who’s clueless about and unimpressed by his movie star career. After much cajoling and persuasion from Ben, Maggie agrees to let him stay in her apartment and be her lover for a week, as long as he agrees that it’s a no-strings, casual fling and not to be a distraction or disrupt her life. Of course, an arrogant hunk like Ben who’s used to calling the shots, being adored, and getting his way won’t be cast aside for long, especially once he realizes that Maggie is exactly what he wants...forever. But can Ben get Maggie to let go of her fear, fierce control, and rigid plans to enjoy life and take a chance with her heart?

This is a quick, fun, spicy read, and I enjoyed it. I liked Ben a whole heck of a lot, but I found Maggie’s stubbornness and outright b*tchiness seriously frustrating. I don’t know many (any) women who would resist a hunky, sweet, doting movie star as a short-term fling and boy toy extraordinaire or for the long-term for that matter...just ain’t happenin’. Still, it’s an entertaining, steamy, romantic story worth reading! 4 stars!
Profile Image for book bruin.
1,530 reviews355 followers
August 13, 2019
Bad Apple is a fun and sexy forced proximity, opposites attract, and celebrity romance. The book was originally published as Midnight Encounters in 2008, but it was revamped and new content was added, along with a new cover and title.

I really enjoyed Maggie and Ben's playful banter and off the charts chemistry. These two are combustible from the very start and their unconventional meet cute had me both laughing and fanning myself! ;) Yes, it's a bit instalove between them, but I think it worked with the story and characters. I liked how they both helped the other achieve their goals and pushed the other out of their comfort zones. The drama and angst was believable given Ben's history and profession, but I appreciated that it was resolved just as quickly as it began. An epilogue would have been great further down the line, but I was happy with how the story wrapped up. If you're looking for a quick and sexy read, you definitely want to check Bad Apple out!

3.5-4 stars

*I voluntarily read an advance review copy of this book*
Profile Image for Alaina.
7,360 reviews203 followers
February 11, 2020
Ugh, love anything and everything by Elle!

Bad Apple definitely caught my eye when I was scrolling throughout my audible app. First, the title and then the cover. So, yeah, it wasn't hard to convince myself to get into it. Luckily for me, the book was actually entertaining.

Not going to lie, loved the characters throughout this book. Definitely get the whole workaholic life.. because what else do I do on a daily freaking basis? I am completely chained to my desk 9-6 Monday to Friday. Barely take lunch breaks away from my computer.. because what if it gets lonely?

HA - just kidding about the loneliness. I do actually eat at my desk every day but that's because I'm crazy busy the entire time.

Back to this book, definitely got along with everything going on. Except for the whole bootie calls. Did live vicariously through these characters though and enjoyed the wild ride from it all. I seriously need another smutty book in my life and can't wait for it.
Profile Image for The Reading's Love Blog.
1,340 reviews187 followers
June 20, 2020
RECENSIONE QUI: https://thereadingslove.blogspot.com/...

description
Si vive per lavorare o si lavora per vivere? Vi è mai capitato di rispondere a questa domanda? Il periodo di quarantena che ci siamo lasciati alle spalle ha comportato uno sfasamento di quelli che erano i nostri ritmi abituali. Personalmente ho avuto la possibilità di lavorare da casa ma nonostante dovessi rispettare determinati orari di lavoro ho dovuto mettere da parte tante altre abitudini che negli anni avevo sviluppato: sveglia alle 6.30, doccia veloce, colazione abbondante e poi di corsa in ufficio. Otto ore davanti ad un computer spezzate dalla classica pausa caffè/tisana con i colleghi e da un pranzo leggero in solitaria. Finita la giornata lavorativa di corsa in piscina e poi finalmente a casa, stravolta e sfinita ma comunque soddisfatta del giorno appena trascorso. La quarantena mi ha destabilizzata, devo ammetterlo, ma mi ha fatto anche riflettere. Riflettere sulla mia vita, sui miei ritmi e sul valore che davo alle piccole cose prima che il Covid-19 sconvolgesse inevitabilmente le nostre esistenze. A voi è capitato? Ed ecco che ritorno quindi alla domanda principale: si vive per lavorare o si lavora per vivere? Maggie ha un lavoro e degli obiettivi da perseguire e non ammette distrazioni di alcun tipo. Una relazione duratura? Non fa per lei e non è opzionabile, non ha né il tempo né la voglia di impegnarsi in qualcosa che non sia laurearsi e ottenere un lavoro ben retribuito che le permetta di vivere una vita dignitosa. Ecco perché si limita ad intrattenersi tre o quattro volte l’anno con un uomo che la pensa esattamente come lei e che non avanzerebbe mai delle pretese in merito a qualcosa di più serio. La persona perfetta con cui sfogare i bollenti spiriti senza però includere il cuore. Il destino però mette sulla strada di Maggie, o forse dovrei dire sul suo letto, il chiaccheratissimo Ben Barret. Segni distintivi? Star del cinema hollywoodiano costantemente sotto i riflettori, non solo sul set ma anche nella vita, bello da morire e, manco a dirlo, sciupafemmine seriale. Ben rappresenta per Mags tutto quello da cui lei, da sempre, rifugge: una complicazione bella grossa! Ecco quindi che anche solo l’idea di intrattenersi con lui non è contemplabile, non può permettersi distrazioni! Peccato che la chimica tra loro sia puro combustibile e il rischio incendio altissimo. Sapranno resistervi o metteranno a rischio i loro cuori accendendo la miccia della passione che li lega? Care readers, ritrovare Elle Kennedy e leggere una delle sue storie è sempre un gran piacere. Questo romanzo nello specifico si discosta molto da quelli letti in passato: niente college americani come sfondo né giocatori di hockey super-sexy a intrattenerci. In compenso però avrete la possibilità di conoscere una star del cinema niente male che vi conquisterà fin dal primo istante. Ben infatti non è il solito protagonista che vi aspettereste: è bellissimo sì, con quell'aria da cattivo ragazzo che non guasta e uno stuolo di modelle e attrici che gli corrono dietro ma è tantissimo altro. Un uomo che, nonostante la notorietà, ha sempre saputo tenere i piedi ben piantati a terra grazie anche al supporto di una madre che non ha mai lesinato nel tirargli le orecchie quando più lo meritava. Ben però è stanco, stanco di una vita fatta solo di sorrisi finti e apparenze, stanco dei continui gossip e di malelingue, e l’incontro con Maggie rappresenterà per lui una boccata d’aria fresca e di vita vera che tanto gli era mancata. Questa ragazza bellissima e genuina come poche è perfetta nelle sue imperfezioni e farà di tutto pur di conquistarla anche stravolgerle la vita. Maggie di contro, non è intenzionata a rischiare, a buttare all'aria anni di impegno e di duro lavoro, anni in cui ha rinunciato a tutto pur di perseguire i suoi sogni. Ben però saprà insegnarle a vivere la vita a pieno e senza rimpianti ma più di tutto le insegnerà ad amare veramente perché diciamocelo, una vita senza amore che vita sarebbe? Attraverso i punti di vista alternati conoscerete i pensieri di entrambi i protagonisti, i loro dubbi, le loro fragilità e paure. Il libro è scritto molto bene, lo stile dell’autrice è ormai ben noto ma è mancata questa volta, a mio parere, una buona caratterizzazione dei personaggi, in particolare di Maggie e del suo passato poco felice. La storia scorre comunque velocemente e finirete per divorarla in un battibaleno fra scene divertenti, notti appassionate e fughe esotiche. Un romanzo dolce che, nella sua semplicità, mi ha fatto riflettere molto. Riflettere sull'importanza di perseguire i propri sogni e di combattere pur di realizzarli, allo stesso tempo però ci insegna a vivere perché, diciamocelo, non sapremo mai cosa ci riserva il futuro, e allora vale la pena fermarsi un attimo, rallentare i propri ritmi e godersi appieno anche le piccole cose, quelle che tanto davamo per scontate o che consideravamo poco importanti.

CONTINUA SUL NOSTRO BLOG. VENITE A TROVARCI
https://thereadingslove.blogspot.com/...
Profile Image for Julie (jjmachshev).
1,069 reviews292 followers
August 22, 2009
An adult fairy tale translated into modern lingo...with hot sex to boot. "Midnight Encounters" is my first full-length (220 pages in trade paperback) read by author Elle Kennedy and it hit just the right mix between fantasy vs reality and serious vs light. In addition, there's no bondage, menage, or anal sex for those who enjoy their romances on the more 'vanilla' side ;) but there IS plenty of hot one man/one woman sex.

Maggie grew up an orphan and has filled her life with work, school, and volunteering. She really doesn't have 'time' for a relationship so she's perfectly happy with her current arrangement with Tony. He's a traveling writer who blows into town two or three times a year and during his short visits they meet at a local hotel to have sex. Then he's gone again and Maggie can return to her life of work, school, and volunteering. But combine a dead phone, a missed phone call, and no lights and Maggie's in for quite a surprise!

She's a workaholic with abandonment issues and he's trying to hide from the paparazzi. Yet this oil-and-water pair can't deny the heat of their attraction. And their proximity quickly leads them to deeper emotions than either is ready, or willing, to admit.

Cinderella and the Prince, writ modern style--that's what this story reminded me of...with lots of hot sex too. There's a bit of depth provided by her childhood as an orphan and status as a volunteer at a women/children's shelter but the author doesn't try to preach...I like that. There's no doubt about how the story will turn out, but then again isn't that part of the beauty of the Cinderella story? We all know she WILL get her prince and they WILL be happy. A fun way to spend a few hours with a book and a fan :)
Profile Image for Lana ❇✾DG Romance❇✾.
2,314 reviews13.7k followers
December 27, 2019
4 STARS
Is it possible to hate a man and want to rip off his clothes at the same time?


Cute and steamy and totally hit the spot for me. A lighthearted and easy romance. Too lazy to write a full review, but really enjoyed this one.

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