Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Coastal Elite

Rate this book
Jordan Kaisall has problems.
Business problems, political problems, cheating ex-girlfriend problems. He knows that a week away from the Washington D.C. Beltway won't do a damn bit of good for those problems, but his beach house in Montauk is exactly where he needs to be right now.

April Veach has plans.
Work plans, travel plans, try-everything-once plans. Montauk is keeping her plenty busy this summer between decorating wedding cakes and teaching yoga, and busy is good. But busy is also a lonely bed, and that wasn't part of her grand plan. After a weekend together, his problems and her plans take them in an unexpected direction.

146 pages, ebook

First published March 7, 2017

475 people are currently reading
1108 people want to read

About the author

Kate Canterbary

47 books5,549 followers
USA Today Bestseller Kate Canterbary writes smart, steamy contemporary romances loaded with heat, heart, and happy ever afters. Kate lives on the New England coast with her husband and daughter.

To get in touch with Kate, please email kate@katecanterbary.com

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
877 (34%)
4 stars
899 (35%)
3 stars
586 (23%)
2 stars
141 (5%)
1 star
37 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 325 reviews
Profile Image for AJ.
3,243 reviews1,070 followers
March 9, 2017
3.5 short, sexy, intriguing stars

The Walshes series made Kate Canterbary an insta-buy author for me, and I’ve been really excited to read this book – a standalone spin off. Jordan is the best friend of Will Halstead, and Will and Shannon both feature in this book – however you do not need to have read The Walsh series prior to reading this book (though you should, because it’s awesome!).

Jordan Kaisall is an ex-SEAL who was honourably discharged service after an injury left him medically unfit for service. In the years since he has thrown himself into setting up a security firm with Will, and he has become a workaholic as he relentlessly works to build the business. When his work is suddenly full of problems and his personal life starts to implode, he escapes to his beach house in Montauk, and there he meets beautiful local, April Veach.

April sees Jordan physically struggling with his injury and offers her help – she is a holistic therapist. Jordan has little faith that she will be able to help him with his pain, but he’s more than willing to put himself under her hands at any opportunity. Luckily, she feels the same and their chemistry explodes into a passionate and intense affair. Jordan falls hard and fast for free-spirited April, quickly realising that he feels more for her than he has for any other woman in his life, and wanting more and more of her.

She was all that I wanted. It was irrelevant whether it had been two days or two years. There was a weight in my chest, a gravity associated with finding someone who brought levity to my spirit and fire to my soul. It was all in there, gathering volume and intensity, and I didn’t know how I’d lived thirty-nine years without experiencing this.

I love April! She’s strong and opinionated, and she gives as good as she gets in the bantering and flirting with Jordan. She seems just as smitten with him as he is with her, and their raging lust quickly turns into a whole lot more as emotions become involved.

“You’re gonna break me,” she whispered, her words cracking on a sob.
“Only if you want me to break you,” I replied, peppering her forehead and cheeks with light kisses. “I promise I’ll always put you back together, honey.”
… “Always?” she asked. “No matter what?”
“Always,” I vowed.

There’s a great mix of fun, flirting, playful and sweet moments, and as the time approaches for Jordan to get back to real life, letting go seems like it’s going to be impossible.

I wanted to love this woman, and I wanted her to let me.

I really enjoyed the set up to the story. The characters were fantastic, and I loved their banter, flirting and obvious chemistry – and of course the sexy time was really hot. The direction of their story was enjoyable and really surprising, the book had twists and turns that I didn’t see coming, and I thought it was so clever! The book has a bit of a mystery/suspense edge to it as it becomes apparent that Jordan’s security business appears to be the target of sabotage, and there are some great twists and turns as it all unfolds. But it’s the romance that drives the book, and there’s a great balance between the two.

The reason I’m not rating this book higher is because it felt so rushed. This was a really quick read (only 146 pages) and actually felt more like a novella, so I didn’t feel like I got the opportunity to really delve into the story as much as I would have liked - and there is so much happening! The relationship moved super-fast with very little build up, and though Jordan and April were clearly feeling it, unfortunately I didn’t. I love losing myself in a romance, but it all happened so quickly that I didn’t get as invested as I want to, and I felt a bit disappointed because the set up was great, the characters were wonderfully complex and the potential was there for Jordan and April’s story to be something truly amazing. It just felt to rushed to me.

But it’s a good read, and a great story, and I’m so glad I read it.

3.5 stars.

An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.

Profile Image for Anne Boleyn's Ghost.
388 reviews69 followers
April 23, 2019
2.5 stars. The half star is for the "twist", which I can't discuss without spoiling the book. Disappointing because said twist was the best thing about the book.

Coastal Elite follows Jordan, a former Navy SEAL turned security specialist, as he seeks a temporary respite from personal and business disasters. It features strong writing, a first-person male POV that was (gasp!) quite relatable, humor, and a dash of intrigue.

The story worked when it didn't focus on the relationship between Jordan and April. And in a romance novel, that's a problem for me. They meet on the beach, she offers an acupuncture session, and they start banging during the procedure (can we say unprofessional?). The insta-lust on steroids annoyed me, and even as they began their non-relationship relationship, I never felt the chemistry or believed in the burgeoning feelings. The lack of April's POV was fairly necessary for the twist, but it made me less inclined to believe or connect with her.

Had Coastal Elite been longer and retained the same twist and a less rushed coming together, I would have liked it more. While I enjoyed certain features of the author's writing, I unfortunately didn’t really enjoy the book.

Read for SBTB April - June 2019 Quarterly Challenge: A book set during a vacation.
Profile Image for Ivy Deluca.
2,377 reviews329 followers
March 11, 2017
I did a joint review for Afterdarkbooklovers.com with my blogmates Michelle and Rachel (eee!) but in the meantime...

description

I really enjoyed this (relatively) short full length romance. This spinoff of the Walsh family series has a good mix of romance and light suspense. If you haven’t read Kate Canterbary’s books, I encourage you to try out her Walsh family series, If you have read her, this is a slight variation, but with all the key qualities you expect in a Canterbary tale - strong characters, smart-funny banter, good chemistry and a little surprise twist here or there to keep you on your toes. It weaves seamlessly into the main series, without needing it to function as a standalone. I would have liked a bit more time spent on the intrigue, but for the length of story, it still works and I closed my kindle on a happy sigh. I can’t wait for more from this spinoff series. I think it has alot of potential.

**ARC provided by author for review**

For more reviews, visit
description
description description description description description description
Profile Image for Melanie (mells_view).
1,929 reviews395 followers
January 2, 2018
Sweet and Unexpected.

A super serious and dedicated retired SEAL who now works in big time serious security, and a laid back acupuncturist from Montauk. Doesn’t sound like the perfect pair, but it absolutely is. Kate Canterbary somehow manages to bring together Jordan & April and makes you feel their connection and love in just 200 pages. Such a great read.

If you’ve enjoyed her Walsh family series and the vibes you get in those books, you will love this story, but Coastal Elite even has a little added surprise!
Profile Image for Inna.
1,678 reviews372 followers
May 14, 2022
3.5 stars. A decent book, but I had to take off a half star and round down for the hero calling the heroine “ma’am” … she’s younger than him, and idk if that’s a thing that southerners do, but it really didn’t work for me. He used ma’am essentially as a form of endearment. His Ma’am-ing took me out of the story every time.

Also, there was too much of the OW (his ex g/f) in this story for me. The hero didn’t have a strong connection to her or anything, but she was mentioned frequently (it was almost entirely in a negative context) and then she made an appearance in the epilogue. At that point in the story, I didn’t want to think about his past relationship and wanted the focus to be on the MCs.

Safety is fine, no virgins, heroine celibate for 2 years, no mentions of her past beyond that. The hero is a serial monogamist and was in a relationship with the above mentioned OW, he caught her cheating when he returned back from a work trip (there’s an on page scene of her sucking OM off) and then he meets the heroine a couple of days later. He wasn’t hurt by the OW cheating, but was more taken aback by it. No scenes with OM/OW, no cheating.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Emma.
295 reviews31 followers
March 8, 2017
Have to say I'm a bit disappointed. It's hard to believe this is the same author who gave us the Walsh family series. Unfortunately Coastal Elite was a bit of a flop for me!!
Profile Image for Jan.
1,100 reviews246 followers
August 2, 2020
3.5 stars. There was a twist in this story that I did not see coming! I also did not realise it was a novella till I was more than half-way through. LOL.
Profile Image for Bookgasms Book Blog.
2,863 reviews1,564 followers
March 13, 2017
Whenever a Kate Canterbary title hits my kindle it is a cause for celebration as I absolutely 100% know that my world will be rocked by a hot alpha, sassy heroine and that the sexy times will only be bested by the out of this world snarky banter. Yes folks. I already know this BEFORE I start the book. How? Either I'm psychic like that or this author is just that damn good ;) Pretty much givens in life: The sky is blue, the grass is green and Kate Canterbary will once again rock my world with her new book. And you know what? She delivers each and every time.

Coastal Elite was a slight departure from her Walsh world as this novel tells the story of Will Halstead's business partner, Jordan Kaisall and a random and mysterious woman he meets in Montauk. To define April Veach would be a crime as she is a woman of many facets and talents. Their chemistry was combustible and in classic Canterbary style, their banter was fiery and super charged. While Coastal Elite was a slight departure from Canterbary's usual style, it was superbly written as per usual but with an element of suspense that was unexpected and surprising yet wholeheartedly welcome.

All in all I loved this book and cannot wait for her next one. Bravo! 5 stars! ~Ratula
Profile Image for Marieke ~ Marieke's Books.
454 reviews25 followers
March 13, 2017
I know Kate Canterbary for her ‘Walsh Series’, the interconnected books about the Walsh Family. I like the sweet books with a dose of emotion, angst and great characters. Coastal Elite is the author’s latest book and tells the story of Jordan and April. It has a bit of a twist and I like it.
“The world, it wasn’t black and white. It wasn’t a clean dichotomy of good and evil, right and wrong. It was shades upon shades of gray, and I owned that gray.”

Jordan is a former Navy Seal who now owns a private security business, together with his Seal buddy Will. Two bullets ended his Seal career, but that didn’t slow Jordan down. He’s a hardworking man who likes his work; the ‘boring’ routine security stuff and the more hidden activities of their firm. Being away from home for weeks on end isn’t good for a healthy relationship, so Jordan doesn’t do serious relations. Meeting April makes him to want more. More than a week here and there, just more.
“She was all that I wanted. It was irrelevant whether it had been two days or two years. There was a weight in my chest, a gravity associated with finding someone who brought levity to my spirit and fire to my soul. It was all in there.”

The moment Jordan meets April he’s attracted to the easy-going woman. She’s the total opposite of his last ‘girlfriend’, and he can’t stay away from her. Things heat up very quickly, but it feels right, and sexy, and hot… Despite their very different lives they just match. For Jordan, it’s clear their fling isn’t something temporary, but before he and April can really be together they have a few hurdles to tackle…

It has been a while since I’ve read a book by this author, and I’m not sure why… I like her books; they’re well written and the right combination of a great leading couple, a bit of angst, and of course emotions. Coastal Elite is no exception. Well, there’s one difference. Unlike her other books Coastal Elite is almost entirely written from Jordan’s POV. Given what happens throughout the book I was curious for April, for her feelings and motivations. I really like Jordan, but April remains a bit of a mystery.
“Yes, because I love you for always,” I said, sighing when my hands met the small of his back. “Yes, because I don’t need a ring or vows to be happy but I want my forever with you.”

I’ve enjoyed reading Coastal Elite, I give it 4 stars.


www.mariekesbooks.com
Profile Image for Mazmum.
1,685 reviews14 followers
March 17, 2017
Book Review - Coastal Elite by Kate Canterbary - 4 and a half I’d Climb Jordan like a Tree Stars

Ah Jordan Kaisal, the Laurel to Will’s Hardy, The Salt to his Pepa finally gets his own book.

Do we get a wallflower as Jordan’s significant other - no, because as we know and love, Kate writes kick ass female characters and I think she might have excelled herself with April’s awesomeness.

Known for my abhorrence of instalove, I really had no issues with these two. Firstly, because it was really instalust as first, and who can blame them, and secondly, because alongside the proclamations we have oodles of back and forth, of salty, pithy banter and innuendo by the bucket load. To me, the two balance each other out nicely, so that I’m not asking to borrow the bucket back to cope with the love declarations.

The following is one of my favourite lines, and show’s the sparks flying between the two, upon Jordan fitting April security lights:

“Just because I like my zen and my namaste doesn’t mean I can’t kick some ass,” she continued. “Honestly Jordan, the worst thing I’ll encounter in that alley is a raccoon. Maybe a skunk.”

“Well, now you’ll be able to see them coming,” I said wryly.

See - bouncy and perfect. Human and flawed they both are. We see the physical and emotional wounds in this book and how they are dealt with when a relationship is so new. There is pain and then there are brutally honest conversations to be had. I found them to be a perfect balance to each other.

Throw in my favourite of Kate’s couples - Will & Shannon - and I was bouncing happily on the balls of my feet. It’s always great to catch up with Will, whether he’s fussing over Shannon or bouncing scenarios around with his business partner - Will’s one liners are pretty hard to beat. In fact I was so gone in the story, that before I knew it I had damn near reached the end of the book, and I almost shook my kindle as it wasn’t enough. Yes, this was a lot shorter than the other stories, and I do think there could have been more written within the confines of the business angle of the story. I felt bereft when it finished and went back to read the whole thing again. Unfortunately, I then got ill and that re-read has taken a damn sight longer than sitting one. The plus side of this, was reading so slowly, really made me appreciate the quality of the words writer lady produces again. She really is a talented wordsmith.

This is another corking tale from Kate, I’m just greedy for more, so can’t wait for May when we finally get our hands on young Riley.
Profile Image for pageswithpayten.
623 reviews76 followers
March 26, 2024
What do you get when you mix a cupcake decorating acupuncturist and an ex-SEAL turned private security agent? A lot of steam, plenty of swoon and even a little stabbing.
.
I was desperately in need of a quick read to pull me out of a looming slump and I decided trying a new book from an author I already loved was the best place to start. I was not disappointed! This was somehow a novella that felt like a full length novel. The attraction was instant and the chemistry between the mmc, Jordan, and the fmc, April, simmered from their first meet up, but the story never felt rushed. And the twist! Let me tell you, I absolutely did not see that one coming and it was laid out perfectly. It’s been a long time since I’ve picked up a suspenseful romance and couldn’t guess the plot, so cheers Kate, you truly have a gift!
.
BLURB:
Jordan Kaisall has problems.
Business problems, political problems, cheating ex-girlfriend problems. He knows that a week away from the Washington D.C. Beltway won't do a damn bit of good for those problems, but his beach house in Montauk is exactly where he needs to be right now.

April Veach has plans.
Work plans, travel plans, try-everything-once plans. Montauk is keeping her plenty busy this summer between decorating wedding cakes and teaching yoga, and busy is good. But busy is also a lonely bed, and that wasn't part of her grand plan. After a weekend together, his problems and her plans take them in an unexpected direction.
Profile Image for Gisele.
374 reviews26 followers
March 16, 2017
3,5 - 4,0 stars

I adore Kate Canterbary's books. The Walsh series is one of my favorites and when I heard she was releasing a kind of spin-off of the series I was most excited. It is a shame the book was so short. Don't get me wrong, I liked it, but it had all the potential to be awesome! That's why I'm sad.

I loved Jordan, his story, and his work. I LOVED the Halsted family cameos - Will, Shannon, and Froggie, you're in my heart forever and ever - April was great too, that twist, in the end, was awesome, I really didn't see that coming! And it just made more apparent how much we needed April's POV. Her side of the story would have added so much depth...

As the book was so short, we didn't have time to create a deeper connection with the MC. Their love declarations felt rushed and I'd like a bit more time for them to build their trust in one another - after that twist, it was needed!!

I'm pushing 4 stars here because of Will and Shannon. They gave the familiarity I needed to buy the story and Jordan's feelings. If you're a fan of the Walsh series you'll enjoy this book, it is always good to see some of our favorite characters going on with their lives. <3
Profile Image for Red Cheeks Reads.
2,278 reviews373 followers
March 10, 2017
OMG! OMG! Kate Canterbary can write her ASS off! Every single book I read by her just proves that she is unlike any other! Her stories are unapologetically smart, sexy and witty. Her men are alpha and her females are always strong women.

"That you're able to carry on a conversation with me right now indicates that my clit licking game needs work."

Coastal Elite was just everything I had hoped it would be. Jordan is a too sexy for his own good former Navy Seal who currently runs a security company with his best friend, Will. April is a free spirit who stumbles upon an injured Jordan on the beach and an unforgettable weekend follows. They had chemistry and heat in spades and the underlining action packed storyline kept everything interesting and fast paced.

"if you get into that bed and open yourself to me, I'm never letting you go. I might leave, April, but I'm never leaving you."

Kate Canterbary  just cannot disappoint and I really hope she puts out more of these Walsh Family Stories!

~miranda
Profile Image for Danielle.
466 reviews31 followers
April 12, 2017
5 STARS!!

Kate Canterbury is a genius, no two ways about it. Her writing is always so smart and clever and witty. She stealthily sneaks in some serious smut, and it all comes together in a stellar romance. She's a no-fail, never-let-me-down, auto-buy author for me.

I'm going to be super careful here as I really do not want to spoil anything. So I'll just say that Coastal Elite was, in part, exactly what I had hoped for - a light and breezy, super sexy and romantic love story. But there was definitely a healthy does of the unexpected. This twist had me shooting up in my seat, mouth hanging open, as I devoured the remainder of the story. I didn't see any of this coming, it was a total surprise, and it left me absolutely gobsmacked in the best way. It was fantastic.

It's this kind of story from the astoundingly talented Canterbary that keeps me coming back for more. Her ability to give readers what they want and expect in one of her stories but delivering it with plenty of the unexpected. A Kate Canterbary novel is an experience unlike any other. Loved it!!
Profile Image for A Rush Of Emotions.
1,398 reviews4 followers
September 1, 2017
Loved it

Spoilers ahead...
...
...
...
...
I'm not one to write big reviews, so I'll just day that I loved this quick read. Didn't feel like anything big was missed though it was a shorter book than usual. Didn't see the twist coming where April disappears. That put a nice twist on it, and at first I was mad at her for fooling him, and almost wanted him to cold-shoulder her a bit longer...But I got over it lol. I love when couples click, and these two sure did. Also loved the double epilogue...Give me more double epilogue Kate!!!
Profile Image for Jess.
3,590 reviews5 followers
November 3, 2019
So, I was going to say that I thought there were probably ethical violations in a heroine who is treating the hero for pain sleeping together, even if it wasn't an official treatment regimen, and then the twist happens and instead I think the hero is a moron for keeping it going, proving once again that I am way less forgiving than your typical romance novel protagonist. The two stars are mostly for getting to see the Halsteds, tbh. Because the rest of this was kind of a mess. A compelling mess, to be sure. But still a mess.
Profile Image for Nomims.
1,793 reviews12 followers
March 17, 2017
3 stars

This book was nice but boring. I don't know if it's because i've just read some intense books but, yes, i was a little bored and don't feeling it.
I don't understand how they fell in love and i didn't felt the chemistry.
The story pick up in the last chapters with a twist i didn't see coming. It was a little hard to believe but it was, well, nice ...

Profile Image for Michelle Rodriguez.
907 reviews27 followers
April 2, 2020
Triple review by yours truly, Ivy and Rachel.

Coastal Elite by Kate Canterbary

Review by Michelle, Ivy and Rachel

Michelle’s rating: 5 Stars
Ivy’s rating: 5 Stars
Rachel’s rating: 5 Stars

Michelle: Hey Ivy, look who is joining our little Kate Canterbary worshipping, our Rachel. Granted, she Suzie come lately to the party (ahem), and still needs to catch up with the rest of the Walsh clan. And since Coastal Elite is technically, not a Walsh book, we’re giving her a free pass and join the fun.

Ivy: Yay! The more, the merrier. Or in this case, just another chick I have to gif-fight for my book boyfriends, but it’s all good. Anyhoo, I do love that this off-shoot of the Walsh series is a pretty tight little novel, short, sexy and to the point.

Rachel: I know I know. I'm a little late to the party but hey, at least I made it! And I am SO FREAKING HAPPY that I did because Kate Canterbary is an amazing writer. I love the sense of humor that she infuses into her writing. Lucky for me this book can be read as a standalone. Coastal Elite is perfect if you're looking for a short sexy read that still packs a really good punch.

Michelle: I could not wait to dive into this baby and started without the girls. Oh Jordan, oh Jordan. For those of you who read The Cornerstone, we got a glimpse of him and his interactions with Will. Besides the obvious, total Alpha, hard worker, but his love for his Mama Trish, swoon. I love a man that’s a closeted mama’s boy lol

Ivy: LOL I did enjoy that little surprise. To me, it was the way he deals with his feelings that made me love him. He loves that connection with April and he pursues it full throttle, which was sexy. And girl, he needs to cook for me Just. Like. That.

Rachel: I adored his relationship with his mother. It was a surprising and endearing quality for an alpha male like Jordan, and who doesn't love a tough ex Navy Seal who knows how to treat his mama? Gets big bonus points from me on that.

Michelle: I have a serious girl crush on April Veach! A Jill of all trades if you will, I fell in love with her from her first mention in the book. She meets Jordan during a wipeout session with the waves, she offers her acupuncture services. The funny one-liners and comebacks April had for Jordan is just a little piece of how April won me over.

Ivy: She was definitely a Walsh heroine - complicated, smart with plenty of heart. I loved that she was not shy, and her pickup game was on point! Seriously, the double entendres were great.

Rachel: April’s ability to throw out puns and innuendos was one of my favorite things about her. She was smart and witty and not the least bit intimidated by Jordan. She gave just as good as she got and I adored her for that. She was a free-spirit who could do just a little bit of everything. I found myself wanting to be friends with her.

Michelle:​ Funny banter aside, some fans of Ms. Canterbary may have a little issue with the insta-chemistry, I most certainly did not. When it’s there, it’s there. Jordan and April had chemistry out of this stratosphere.

Ivy: Actually I didn’t think of it that way at all. I think there should be an instant attraction between the characters. I didn’t see it as insta-love. He was open to love, wasn’t all cynical about it (and LORD knows he has reason to be), and best of all, he is NOT a manwhore. That is super sexy to me as a reader. He wants that connection with someone and he isn’t about that one night stand, which let’s face it, pair it with that “scary voice?” *sings Nicki Minaj as the panties fly off*
http://31.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_lq4...


Rachel: I'm one of those people that doesn't really do insta-romance but I honestly didn't feel like the instant chemistry between April and Jordan was out of place. For some people attraction takes time, and others can feel it with someone immediately. Jordan was not in a good place physically and April was in a position to help him. While their personalities were different, they complemented each other, and their relationship was fun and sexy and sweet and really hot. It made sense to me that these two people could feel a connection so soon after meeting. And Kate wrote it in a way that even though it might be a little sudden it still felt organic.

Michelle:​ And then boom, the book took a little turn that was pleasantly unexpected. I was waiting for the other shoe to drop in the Jordan/April love feast. I loved that the author gave me something to say “WTF just happened?” “Is this life?” “OMG, oh no she didn’t”. Those were the running commentary in my head.

Ivy: I did enjoy the twist, but I would have liked to have seen a bit more time spent on that reveal and the wrap up was a tad convenient and off-page. It still worked but I wanted a little bit more. Hey, I'm greedy. I acknowledge this.


Rachel: As someone whose favorite genre is romantic suspense I loved the twist! Added a little bit of mystery and intrigue to a story I was already enjoying. It gives it just that little something extra that I wasn't expecting, and I love when a book can surprise me. Seeing as I've only read one other book of hers, The Spire, I'm not as familiar with her writing as these lovely ladies, but if this is something new for her then I always think it's a good idea for authors to stretch themselves and try new things. And I think the angle really worked in the context of this story.

Michelle:​ Fans of the Walsh Series will notice a difference in the story/plot. We still get the hot Alpha dude, the smart/curvy/sexy heroine, that little nugget that happens in Coastal Elite had my heart racing. I’m sure I’m going to see some readers probably complain, so you can’t please everyone all the time, right? My point is, I love when an author pushes their writing limits to see if it works. For me anyway, it worked. The focus wasn’t all on the sexy times, but the story itself. Yes, the book is not very long as Ms. Canterbary’s other books, but it’s still full length. I am guessing the author was testing the limits to see how her readers would react to the storyline. We as readers, have to get out of the same stories we read from our favorite authors, if we do, it becomes stagnant. Having said all that, we do get to see my book husband Will and of course, my spirit animal Shannon. Will’s nickname game is on point and may be giving Riley a run for his money.

Ivy:​ I think it was a solid start to building up this spinoff series. I’m glad that she’s throwing in more of the intrigue, romantic suspense vibe with it, because that is truly the best blend for me, some action mixed with strong character-driven romance. For the page count, I think it packed quite a punch and left me wanting more.

Speaking of, the characterizations were strong, as always the humor dry and at times, punny. And Will is STILL MINE, BITCH. *clears throat, straightens shirt* Ahem, it’s alright, I’m good. Um, where were we?

Michelle: no Suzy also comes lately to the party, Will is mine, I am GIFTING you Jordan so take your grabby little hands and take Jordan!
http://giphy.com/gifs/ill-jXny48gBwXFwk


Rachel: This book had everything I look for in a book. A strong heroine and an interesting a hero. Organic chemistry. Strong dialogue with a sense of humor. Well written sexy times that still manages to include a plot. Nobody wants to read pages and pages of nothing sex. And then BOOM! A twist with some suspense at the end. Having read The Spire and now Coastal Elite is seems that creating interesting characters is something Kate excels at. I love how she has them interact with one another. Because I haven't read any of her other books, I don't know much about Will so I'm not going to fight you ladies for him...yet. The little bit I got of him in Coastal Elite made me adore him! And once I get my hands on him, the gloves will come off. I'm going to start my own little Kate Canterbary Man collection and he's going right next to Nick and Jordan.

Michelle:​ Coastal Elite is just what I needed in prelude to Preservation which will be out in late May. (Ivy: eeee!!!!) If you want to go to Montauk but can’t go, add Coastal Elite to your TBR, it will be as if you’re there with Jordan and April.

Shorties Approved!!!

*An ARC was provided for an honest review.

For more reviews, visit
description
description description description description
Profile Image for Leigh Kramer.
Author 1 book1,417 followers
August 17, 2022
If Canterbary writes another military MMC in the future, I'm making a mental note to just skip it. The casual toxic masculinity doesn’t work for me. It’s too bad because I enjoyed the glimpses of Jordan we’ve gotten in other stories. He was overbearing and sexist here. Characterization choices aside, this plot really did him dirty. There were also major pacing issues. I’m not sure being expanded from a novella would have fixed that but it might have helped.

It was hard to believe Jordan and April were in love after knowing each other three days. I guess it could happen that fast? But the connection didn’t seem strong enough beyond the instalust. Jordan pursued her super aggressively while he was on the massage table, which could have felt predatory in another story. But I also had major qualms about her treating his chronic pain while sleeping with him. Massage therapists/acupuncturists don’t have the same professional ethics as a healthcare provider but it still feels ethically murky to me. Obviously not as murky as

Characters: Jordan is a 39 year old white mixed race (Choctaw-white) covert ops/security firm owner and ex-Navy SEAL. April is a massage therapist, acupuncturist, wedding cake decorator, and yoga instructor. This is set in DC and Montauk, NY.

Content notes: knife wound, MMC’s ex cheats (on page), MMC’s leg is disabled (total knee replacement after he was shot 14 years ago), both MC’s break into each other’s homes, needles (acupuncture), toxic masculinity (uncountered), sexism (uncountered), plastic surgery shaming (uncountered), diet culture, fatshaming insult by villain, murky professional ethics, pregnant secondary character, discussion of blind character in a novel, past childhood poverty, MMC’s mother had him when she was 17, on page sex, alcohol, inebriation, medicinal cannabis, chronic pain, “savage” used as pejorative, genitalia-related insults (uncountered), homophobic insults (uncountered), gendered pejoratives, gender essentialism, ableist language, mentions of human trafficking case, mentions of covert missions, reference to MMC’s father never being involved (later died in Gulf War)
Profile Image for litljen.
1,234 reviews42 followers
March 8, 2017
100% spoiler-free review

Coastal Elite is the new standalone spinoff of Kate Canterbary's must-read Walsh Series. Whenever Canterbary releases a new book, I jump on it because everything this woman writes is perfection. She has a way with words and effortlessly creates worlds that suck readers in and make them fall in love with her characters. I fell ass over elbow for The Walsh family and now, Jordan Kaisall can be added to the list of Canterbary men who own my heart. High strung, mysterious, workaholic and at times scary----these words fit Jordan to a tee. Missing though? Gorgeous and sexy as hell! As a former Navy SEAL, he's a complete enigma. He keeps his friends close and his enemies closer and he trusts very few. When he meets the beautiful April Veach, he isn't sure what to make of her. She is the complete opposite of him and that's why they work so well! Canterbary had me falling for them as they fell for each other. April was the perfect match---she brought out a different side and when he called her "honey"? I think I melted! These two were so sexy and hot together! Their witty banter kept me entertained and invested in seeing what was going to happen between them.

As a Will Halstead lover, I was thrilled to see him and Shannon throughout the story. I loved catching up with them. Jordan and Will are business partners and it was obvious how much they cared for each other and valued each other's friendship even when they were acting like typical SEAL hard asses with each other. Their relationship along with Jordan's relationship with April gave his character more depth as readers really get to see his human side.

The story is not all sunshine and roses---there's an element of mystery and suspense as things take a very different turn towards the end. I couldn't wait to see what would happen and Canterbary really pulled off a fun, intriguing and enjoyable story that sucked me in from the start. Coastal Elite is a quick read and I finished it in under 3 hours. Once I started reading it, I couldn't put it down. Even though there are some characters from previous books, readers who have not read the Walsh series will have no problem following along as Canterbary does a great job filling in their backstories. There are some spoilers for that series though so be forewarned about that if you plan to read it in the future (and read it you should!!!). Overall, Kate Canterbary will thrill her already existing fans and most definitely make new ones with this fun, enjoyable and sexy read.
Profile Image for Louise H's Book Thoughts.
2,036 reviews317 followers
April 11, 2024
4.5 stars of golden wonderfulness.

Something a little bit different but just as wonderful from my favourite contemporary romance author. Other than the epilogue this is entirely written from Jordan's POV which surprised me at first, until I got to THAT twist at the end that pulled the rug out so far from under my feet that my head is still spinning. Then I understood why. Whilst Shannon and Will do make a few appearances in this book, it isn't a 'Walsh book' by another name but stands on its own two feet. It has a different feel to what we are used to from Ms Canterbary but is written with the same skill so that it wraps you up, drags you in and you can't escape from it even after you have read the last line.

I think, by now, that you get the picture that I really liked this book. Jordan is an amazing hero, and whilst he is all alpha he isn't too aggressive or obnoxious with it - just incredibly sexy. As we don't 'hear' April's voice until the end I felt a little less connected to her (and whilst I don't want to spoil things if you know Ms C's work you know that there will be a reason for this .....) but she is a likeable and very genuine character.

With all these books you're waiting for the other shoe to drop and boy when it does you will be blown away. The only thing that would have improved this book would have been if I had felt the angst a little more...I have cried buckets over the Walsh books and this didn't have quite that emotional impact. However it is hugely entertaining, has excellent pace, keeps you gripped from the first page and is extremely well written.
Profile Image for Mari.
2,129 reviews5 followers
March 9, 2017
4.5 stars

Coastal Elite is like your fave cupcake indulgence you can't resist, sweet, satisfying, yummy goodness with every bite. After one you want more. I loved that this dabbled in romantic suspense it's terrific to see people branch out and do it successfully.

Jordan Kaisall has been roughened by his SEAL years, a bit jaded and more skeptical. Focused on his company now he doesn't have time for much despite his ongoing problems and there are a lot of them. Jordan is like a smooth, bold and strong cup of coffee that makes this sweet treat go down easy. A perfect match with his own delicious distinct notes and flavor. Sometimes you need to add an ingredient that to make the right concoction and make it come alive more. While they aren't the same in anyway it's the differences that adds to their blend making it a great combination.

April is a versatile baked good that fits every occasion. She also has this spice, zest about her, hint of zing. She can be the cake you need at certain times with the kind of hidden treasures to fish out. I truly adored this book from start to end. Couldn't stop smiling and smirking, it was a delight the banter is fantastic. Kate Canterbary has a great sense of humor and just well played. I love the parts that the Halsted's play in this story as well much appreciated. The cameos are the lovely of course. Don't deny yourself a cupcake you know you want one. Grab this enjoyable twosome now~
Profile Image for Beth C..
648 reviews62 followers
January 7, 2018
He was my rock, my anchor, my port in the storms of life—all of it, and then some.

I'm just going to say it.

I. Loved. This. Book.

It was short and sweet, quick and dirty—one big story packed into not enough pages. And as much as I wish it were longer, only because I could read Kate Canterbary’s words for hours, it was perfect.

Ms. Canterbary is a favorite of mine for many reasons, but the most important one you need to know is that she writes smart; clever banter and witty words, intriguing stories and true love, and it's easy—so damn easy—to get lost in her books. And Coastal Elite is no exception.

No, it's more like the rule.

From the first page to the last, I was smitten with this novella. It made me smile, made me gasp and took my romantic heart on a roller coaster ride I wouldn't have missed for all the world. As a spin-off of one of my all-time favorite series, Coastal Elite was a little gem—a reminder of all the reasons I love The Walshes with a standalone personality and style all of its own.

And I LOVED it. But then, I already said that, didn't I?

"I want to break you. I do. Take you apart and then put you back together as mine."

~ FIVE Cupcake STARS ~

**RE-READ**
Reviewed on Behalf of KU Book Reviews.
Profile Image for Amanda.
277 reviews24 followers
March 8, 2017
description
If you are in the mood for a strong, sweet, bad arse former Navy SEAL then this is the story for you. This book has it all and then some. The witty banter and innuendos had me laughing out loud several times and highlighting like mad. Jordan is not in the best place when he meets his match, but she has a way of soothe him inside and out. April is a jack of many trades and I loved that about her. She is so awesome and I fell pretty hard for her too. Both of these characters are swoon worthy and something special.

I highly recommend this stand alone story. It is something completely different that the author's previous series and that book is an amazing testament to the storytelling ability of Ms. Canterbary. This is a great foray into her writing and I encourage everyone to check it out. You will not be sorry, so sit back and enjoy the ride.
description
description
Profile Image for Boundless Book Reviews.
2,242 reviews77 followers
March 13, 2017
Coastal Elite is the newest from Canterbary. I really loved it. It had a different feel than her other stories, but I enjoyed the direction it’s heading. It’s branching out from the Walshes and you are able to get a different side of this world she’s created. 

Jordan is a man. One who does what he needs to do and doesn’t stop till it's done. After walking in on a moment between two douche canoes. He decides a vacation is in order. From there he meets April. I loved these together. They were just truly meant for each other. 

This story is full of twists, that you don’t see coming. Those are the best. They keep the page turning. It did take me awhile to finish. Not because it was bad. But because I didn’t want it to be over. That’s always the case with Kate’s books. 

I almost feel that Kate could write any kind of genre. She’s mixed this contemporary romance with military and added a little mystery. Placing Coastal Elite on its own pedestal.

Overall, I can’t help but give this Five Boundless Stars.

http://www.boundlessbookreviews.com

https://www.facebook.com/BBReviews
Profile Image for Christina.
705 reviews
March 8, 2017
I think I say this every time I read one of Kate's books so I have to keep up the tradition. She just gets better every time. I like that she had the courage to branch out into the romantic suspense genre. I like that she wrote a book that included the Walsh/Halstead family but wasn't about them. I think that's one of my favorite things about a series. I like to make sure my friends are ok and life is still good.

Anyway, back to Coastal Elite (love that title!). Jordan and April couldn't be more different if they tried to be. Jordan is a former Navy SEAL who owns a security company and April is an acupuncturist, cake decorator and yoga teacher. Their attraction was fast and HOT. A few twists and turns will keep your attention. I promise. Also, Jordan visits my hometown (shout out to Corpus Christi!) and you basically have another winner by Kate Canterbary.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 325 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.