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Golden Gate Love Stories #3
Chasing Eddie
January 29, 2019
Eddie Smith is a chubby bear of a guy who lives in Daytona Beach and doesn't work much anymore but isn't retired.
Whit Hall has just retired as a tight end for an NFL expansion team and lives in San Antonio.
At 52, Eddie feels at home with himself and has learned how to roll with life. He's happy enough where he is and doesn't expect much to happen anytime soon.
At 35, Whit is ready for a life that put less of a strain on his body. He's banked plenty of dough but doesn't know what to do next.
. . .
About to sit down to his favorite take-out lasagna, Eddie gets a call from a friend who wants to hire him to help Whit figure out what's next in his life.
Eddie is a kinda, sorta life coach and might be able to help but seriously doubts it.
Reluctantly, he climbs aboard his friend's private jet and flies to San Antonio. Once he arrives, he ends up getting a whole lot more than he bargained for. Whit Hall is aggressive, he's angry, and he's under a lot of pressure.
It's a good thing Eddie (sorta) knows what he's doing!
. . .
Now that he's retired, Whit is looking for the next thing.
He's set, with plenty of bank. And he's doing what he can to deal with his parents, who are all up in his business. A lot.
Then, one Wednesday morning, he opens his front door. Before he knows it, Whit is chasing Eddie Smith out of his house, down the street, and even further.
It's a good thing Whit is (kinda) in shape for this new type of chase!
. . .
Neither man wants to go far...
But unexpected changes are chasing them both...
Wherever they end up going, and whatever ends up happening, this will be the beginning of something new and wonderful for them both.
. . .
This 45K word stand-alone contemporary male/male (MM) romance involves a chubby bear guy and a retired professional football player.
Included:
Some tension...
Hints of a coming-out story...
Medium-heat sexual descriptions...
Slightly nerdy details...
Some metaphysics...
And a HEA (that's a happily-ever-after)...
Not included:
Much angst...
Graphic sexual descriptions...
A cliff-hanger...
This story is the beginning of a series of contemporary romantic adventures. It ends with the start of one of those, so there are some loose plot points but no cliff-hanger.
Topics: virgin, virgin hero, out for you, first time romance, mid-life transformation, innocent first timer, late bloomer
. . .
Golden Gate Love Stories are all about the lives and loves of men who fall in love with each other and find the one they were waiting for.
Set in the same universe as the Nick Williams Mystery Series and the Daytona Beach Book Series, these love stories focus on the men who come together, find true love, and really do live happily ever after.
- GenresM M RomanceLGBTGay
186 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 10, 2019
22 people are currently reading
40 people want to read
About the author
Frank W. Butterfield
123 books106 followersFrank W. Butterfield, not an assumed name, loves old movies, wise-cracking smart guys with hearts of gold, and writing for fun.
Although he worships San Francisco, he lives at the beach on another coast.
Born on a windy day in November of 1966, he was elected President of his high school Spanish Club in the spring of 1983.
After moving across these United States like a rapid-fire pinball, he currently makes his home in a hurricane-proof apartment with superior water pressure that was built in 1926.
While he hasn't met any dolphins personally, that invitation is always open.
Although he worships San Francisco, he lives at the beach on another coast.
Born on a windy day in November of 1966, he was elected President of his high school Spanish Club in the spring of 1983.
After moving across these United States like a rapid-fire pinball, he currently makes his home in a hurricane-proof apartment with superior water pressure that was built in 1926.
While he hasn't met any dolphins personally, that invitation is always open.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
April 25, 2020
This is the third installment in the author’s Golden Gate Love Stories, which is a spinoff of the Nick Williams Mysteries. I’ll be honest, so far these have not worked fo me, and I’ll probably stop at this one, because taking a whirl at other reviews, I’m clearly in the minority opinion. Perhaps these stories are not for me, and I’m at peace with that. I love the component parts: non-traditional MCs, age difference, MCs with bodies that don’t conform to IG six-pack models, but the 'couple' stories have not felt true to me. Not liking these more makes me sad. I can feel that the author is coming from a good place, a good heart, and has based his characters in the real world. Sadly the writing and progression of the story doesn’t bear out the wished for results.
As I feared Bob & Mario, from Their Own Hidden Island have inherited the mantle from Nick & Carter, but as I said in my review of that story, and continues to be true here, I don’t think they’re worthy heirs or I can’t say we know enough about them to bequeath them honor. The book opens in January 2019 with the titular Eddie, Eddie Smith, getting a call from Bob & Mario . Eddie is, by his own definition:”... a light trance channel which, for some people, sounds all fancy but it really isn’t. It just means that I’ve taught myself how to let another kind of voice talk and write through me.” So. Yeah. Some kind of medium? He occasionally also dabbles as some sort of life-coach and general New Agey type activities. Bob & Mario want him to go to San Antonio, Tx. and perform some sort of coming out intervention for Whitley “Whit” David Hall, a recently retired football player, who they’re not even sure is gay. To complicate things Whit’s parents are leaders of a megachurch in Lakewiew, Tx., which preaches a prosperity gospel , and put me in mind of Joel Osteen & co.. Needless to say that more than complicates Whit’s life. I felt for this man-child who at 35 is struggling be his own person, and I would’ve been interested in his journey but the book is really a love letter/wish fulfillment for Eddie, whom I suspect is a bit of a stand-in for the author or people near and dear to him.
Eddie Smith is 52, 340lbs., and hairy. A bear. But not a muscle bear, though he does work out, and has killer legs, if he says so himself. He’s more like a chub who wears a CPAP mask to sleep. He’s also a bit of a wanderer with “alternative employment". Whit at 35, has football money, is an athlete, and at 6’7” some kind of Texas size demigod, who resembles the book cover model or Rob Gronkowski, I’m hoping for the former. Wishful thinking and dreams are my bag but … I didn’t buy these two as couple. Not within the immediacy of the story. Not in my book. And quite frankly my stumbling block is Eddie. Like someone past a certain age he’s pretty set in his ways, maybe a bit judgemental (yes lefties can be prejudiced too) and I’ll say nothing about his wardrobe choices. He goes to Texas and I can’t say how his conversations with Whit actually helped, rather they were opportunities for Eddie to expound on his opinions, likes, dislikes, and then he leaves. Perplexingly Whit follows him to Florida (that’s not a spoiler, it’s in the super long blurb & title) and suddenly they’re in love. How? Why? Worse yet this ends in a sort of cliffhanger with our love birds running away together and what felt like a tacked-on, preposterous subplot about the church & criminal activity on a honeymoon. I’m sorry. I can believe that Eddie being the first gay man Whit opens up to, he could develop an affection for, but I just didn’t buy the insta “we’re in love”. I believe in insta. Have loved quite a few insta books. But insta must be earned.
If you’re interested their story continues in what seems to be yet another series, Getting to Know You Will I follow them? I dunno.
As I feared Bob & Mario, from Their Own Hidden Island have inherited the mantle from Nick & Carter, but as I said in my review of that story, and continues to be true here, I don’t think they’re worthy heirs or I can’t say we know enough about them to bequeath them honor. The book opens in January 2019 with the titular Eddie, Eddie Smith, getting a call from Bob & Mario . Eddie is, by his own definition:”... a light trance channel which, for some people, sounds all fancy but it really isn’t. It just means that I’ve taught myself how to let another kind of voice talk and write through me.” So. Yeah. Some kind of medium? He occasionally also dabbles as some sort of life-coach and general New Agey type activities. Bob & Mario want him to go to San Antonio, Tx. and perform some sort of coming out intervention for Whitley “Whit” David Hall, a recently retired football player, who they’re not even sure is gay. To complicate things Whit’s parents are leaders of a megachurch in Lakewiew, Tx., which preaches a prosperity gospel , and put me in mind of Joel Osteen & co.. Needless to say that more than complicates Whit’s life. I felt for this man-child who at 35 is struggling be his own person, and I would’ve been interested in his journey but the book is really a love letter/wish fulfillment for Eddie, whom I suspect is a bit of a stand-in for the author or people near and dear to him.
Eddie Smith is 52, 340lbs., and hairy. A bear. But not a muscle bear, though he does work out, and has killer legs, if he says so himself. He’s more like a chub who wears a CPAP mask to sleep. He’s also a bit of a wanderer with “alternative employment". Whit at 35, has football money, is an athlete, and at 6’7” some kind of Texas size demigod, who resembles the book cover model or Rob Gronkowski, I’m hoping for the former. Wishful thinking and dreams are my bag but … I didn’t buy these two as couple. Not within the immediacy of the story. Not in my book. And quite frankly my stumbling block is Eddie. Like someone past a certain age he’s pretty set in his ways, maybe a bit judgemental (yes lefties can be prejudiced too) and I’ll say nothing about his wardrobe choices. He goes to Texas and I can’t say how his conversations with Whit actually helped, rather they were opportunities for Eddie to expound on his opinions, likes, dislikes, and then he leaves. Perplexingly Whit follows him to Florida (that’s not a spoiler, it’s in the super long blurb & title) and suddenly they’re in love. How? Why? Worse yet this ends in a sort of cliffhanger with our love birds running away together and what felt like a tacked-on, preposterous subplot about the church & criminal activity on a honeymoon. I’m sorry. I can believe that Eddie being the first gay man Whit opens up to, he could develop an affection for, but I just didn’t buy the insta “we’re in love”. I believe in insta. Have loved quite a few insta books. But insta must be earned.
If you’re interested their story continues in what seems to be yet another series, Getting to Know You Will I follow them? I dunno.
April 10, 2019
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.25 stars
The age difference in this book is part of what attracted me to it. I think the physical embodiments and life experiences Eddie and Whit bring to the story make for an interesting mix of character elements. Whit is the hot, young, wealthy guy and Eddie is the older, wiser voice of reason. Whit’s career as a professional athlete and his upbringing in a hyper-conservative, hyper-wealthy family have necessarily shaped his world view. He is very image conscious, and it seemed like that was a big reason why he was so reluctant to come out. I find it interesting that despite the fact that Eddie’s got life experience and, if the references to his past experiences “life coaching” others are any indication, a good head for helping others, I thought he lacked any meaningful personality. He’s got a lot of character traits that make him stand out, but him personally? I didn’t feel there was much to go on. The most interesting facet of Eddie’s persona is the fact that he has a sort of alternate personality, named “Paul,” who is actually responsible for much of Eddie’s insight as a life coach…yet this element of Eddie felt woefully underdeveloped.
Read Camille’s review in its entirety here.
3.25 stars
The age difference in this book is part of what attracted me to it. I think the physical embodiments and life experiences Eddie and Whit bring to the story make for an interesting mix of character elements. Whit is the hot, young, wealthy guy and Eddie is the older, wiser voice of reason. Whit’s career as a professional athlete and his upbringing in a hyper-conservative, hyper-wealthy family have necessarily shaped his world view. He is very image conscious, and it seemed like that was a big reason why he was so reluctant to come out. I find it interesting that despite the fact that Eddie’s got life experience and, if the references to his past experiences “life coaching” others are any indication, a good head for helping others, I thought he lacked any meaningful personality. He’s got a lot of character traits that make him stand out, but him personally? I didn’t feel there was much to go on. The most interesting facet of Eddie’s persona is the fact that he has a sort of alternate personality, named “Paul,” who is actually responsible for much of Eddie’s insight as a life coach…yet this element of Eddie felt woefully underdeveloped.
Read Camille’s review in its entirety here.
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October 19, 2019
This was definitely a different book than what I was expecting. Not that that’s bad. I was expecting the whole ‘life coach’, find what makes you happy kind of thing and they move on. But what ended up happening is what made them happy, was being together and one of them finally coming out and being who he wants to be. Not what someone else wanted from him.
Eddie has been asked to go see Whit, a now retired football player. Apparently, he feels at a loss in his life, since he’s only 35. Eddie agrees to do the whole life coach thing, but what was a plan has now turned into a big huge angry mess, because his friends said the wrong things. Whit was thinking Eddie was there for health tips and to lose weight. And when he finds out the truth, it’s not pretty. It’s also made both Eddie and Whit mad, because things were said and they were hurtful. To the point, Eddie walked out and left. Leaving his friends a not nice message. Whit calls the friends, who happen to be his boss, and wants to get to Eddie to apologize. But the problem is they are feeding off each other and not in a good way. Eddie ends up leaving for good and goes home. Whit, eventually, chasing behind. What Whit finally realized is something Eddie had mentioned. He’d been living his life for everyone else, thinking he owed them for one reason or another. But the truth is, you have to live your life for you. And no one else. And when he realized that, he realized what he really wanted. And that was Eddie. But Eddie has been burned before and doesn’t quite know how to trust. But does eventually. After all, you only live life once. But because Whit announced to his mother on speaker phone that he was gay, he had just put his life in danger. Because when Eddie’s friends found out what was really going on in that church and under Whit’s name, without his permission, it was about to get nasty. And now, they’re on the run.
It’s not a bad book. I liked the characters. Especially that they talk to ghosts. But the problem with them is they were just like bulls butting heads instead of really talking or listening. Once they finally got the bullcrap out of the way, then they learned to communicate better. And that made a huge difference. Communication is always key. As well as honesty. It’s not easy. Especially when you’ve lived your life one way for so long. But if you are truly that unhappy, you have to cut the toxicity out of your life. No matter who it is. Because, unfortunately, family can be the worst kind of toxic.
http://lovebytesreviews.com/
February 16, 2019
I love the Nick and Carter mysteries and this contemporary story has the same feeling as the historical stories.
Eddie is an older (52) bear of a man and Whit is a closeted, recently retired American footballer. The story has that detailed feeling that the author uses to good effect in the Nick and Carter books and even has mention of Nick and Carter.
A fun read, with a virgin MC.
Eddie is an older (52) bear of a man and Whit is a closeted, recently retired American footballer. The story has that detailed feeling that the author uses to good effect in the Nick and Carter books and even has mention of Nick and Carter.
A fun read, with a virgin MC.
March 28, 2019
Interesting part of a slightly different series...
March 9, 2019
"Chasing Eddie" takes place in the Nick Williams and Carter Jones universe (the first book in the Nick Williams Mystery series is The Unexpected Heiress set in 1953) and while Nick and Carter have passed, their legacy is being carried on by Bob Jenkins and Mario Ossler who have inherited their massive fortune and charitable inclinations.
If you aren't familiar with the Nick Williams series or have not read the second book in the Golden Gate Love Stories series Their Own Hidden Island, you may be a bit lost reading this one as a stand-alone.
In "Chasing Eddie" Bob is following in Nick Williams' footsteps by playing matchmaker - in this case, 52-year-old life coach Eddie and newly-retired 35-year-old football player Witt Hall. The men share a Texas upbringing, but while Eddie has been out and proud since 18, Witt is deeply conflicted due to his uber-religious parents. Eddie wants to help Witt figure out his sexuality, his relationship with his parents, his post-retirement plans - you know, just a few details here and there.
There's anger and distrust, followed by insta-love and an abrupt coming-out which feels very haphazard given that we really don't know either character. We get Eddie's POV only throughout and neither character seems fully-fleshed out so it is difficult to really buy into their love story nor the ending where the MCs are discussing major future plans within just a few days of knowing one another. Also the plot device that brings Nick Williams into the story feels contrived.
Bottom line - while I enjoy the Nick Williams universe, this particular story just did not work for me and I give "Chasing Eddie" 3 stars.
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Review posted at Gay Book Reviews - check it out!
If you aren't familiar with the Nick Williams series or have not read the second book in the Golden Gate Love Stories series Their Own Hidden Island, you may be a bit lost reading this one as a stand-alone.
In "Chasing Eddie" Bob is following in Nick Williams' footsteps by playing matchmaker - in this case, 52-year-old life coach Eddie and newly-retired 35-year-old football player Witt Hall. The men share a Texas upbringing, but while Eddie has been out and proud since 18, Witt is deeply conflicted due to his uber-religious parents. Eddie wants to help Witt figure out his sexuality, his relationship with his parents, his post-retirement plans - you know, just a few details here and there.
There's anger and distrust, followed by insta-love and an abrupt coming-out which feels very haphazard given that we really don't know either character. We get Eddie's POV only throughout and neither character seems fully-fleshed out so it is difficult to really buy into their love story nor the ending where the MCs are discussing major future plans within just a few days of knowing one another. Also the plot device that brings Nick Williams into the story feels contrived.
Bottom line - while I enjoy the Nick Williams universe, this particular story just did not work for me and I give "Chasing Eddie" 3 stars.
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Review posted at Gay Book Reviews - check it out!
March 5, 2019
As much as I wanted to love this story, it just wasn't for me, unfortunately.
Eddie is a bit of a wild card. He travels a lot, but calls Florida his home. His friends call him a Life Coach, but he doesn't seem big on that term. Honestly, he just kind of does and says whatever he feels like and urges others to do the same.
When his friends ask him to meet with Whit Hall, who just retired from his football career and is not sure how to proceed, things get tangled. Whit may or may not be gay. He is very tied up with his parents who are extremely religious.
I had a hard time with the ghosts that Eddie listened to in his head. I had a hard time with his personality as well. I just didn't really care for him at all. He just seemed overly brash.
There was an insta-love story line that came out of nowhere to me, which just had no emotion or feeling backing it. It was like two strangers professing their love after meeting on a street corner. None of it seemed real to me.
I will say, I did enjoy the writing. It was unique and engaging and fun. I loved the little quips from Eddie about no ice in his water and other cute little quirks. I was entertained by the story, but in the end I just didn't buy into it.
*Galley copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Cross posted to http://gaybook.reviews/ *
Eddie is a bit of a wild card. He travels a lot, but calls Florida his home. His friends call him a Life Coach, but he doesn't seem big on that term. Honestly, he just kind of does and says whatever he feels like and urges others to do the same.
When his friends ask him to meet with Whit Hall, who just retired from his football career and is not sure how to proceed, things get tangled. Whit may or may not be gay. He is very tied up with his parents who are extremely religious.
I had a hard time with the ghosts that Eddie listened to in his head. I had a hard time with his personality as well. I just didn't really care for him at all. He just seemed overly brash.
There was an insta-love story line that came out of nowhere to me, which just had no emotion or feeling backing it. It was like two strangers professing their love after meeting on a street corner. None of it seemed real to me.
I will say, I did enjoy the writing. It was unique and engaging and fun. I loved the little quips from Eddie about no ice in his water and other cute little quirks. I was entertained by the story, but in the end I just didn't buy into it.
*Galley copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Cross posted to http://gaybook.reviews/ *
May 29, 2019
Chasing Eddie (Golden Gate Love Stories 3)
By Frank W. Butterfield
Published by the author, 2019
Four stars
I adored this book; but I’m only giving it FOUR stars because I think that you really need to be part of the Nick & Carter gestalt for this to entirely resonate. The author claims that it’s not so, but I gently disagree. If you’re part of the Butterfield family already, you might find it a five-star read.
This is the story of Eddie Smith, big, bearish, peripatetic life coach and writer from Daytona Beach (hmmmm), and how he basically saves retired football tight end Whit Hall. The book is two parts classic romance, one part magical realism. The magical part is multi-faceted. First, Eddie is guided by a voice he calls Paul. Not a looney-bin voice, but a sort of ungendered spirit guide (who happens to have the same name as Nick Williams’ long-dead great uncle Paul Williams, who acted as his spiritual advisor, so to speak). Eddie’s skill is really all about his ability to get people to look closely at what they really want out of life. He is not without his own internal conflicts and doubts, which only adds to the poignancy of the narrative.
The other magical part of this, for me at least, is that Eddie is called to his task by Bob Jenkins and Mario Ossler – the guys who inherited the WilliamsJones company from Nick and Carter. WTF? (Of course I immediately went and bought “Their Own Hidden Island” to learn about them, a review of which will appear momentarily). Seems that Bob and Mario are now guided by Nick the way Nick was guided by Paul. Nick insists that Eddie needs to help Whit find his path.
I am so damned jealous. I want a spirit advisor.
And so it goes, in Butterfield’s inimitable style, with Nick-and-Carter style romance and adventure involving uniformed staff and private planes and every bit of the 1950s Batman-and-Robin fantasy we have come to know and love. Eddie is a love. Whit is a mess. The author has the neatest imagination, and these books are making large the universe he created for Nick and Carter.
By Frank W. Butterfield
Published by the author, 2019
Four stars
I adored this book; but I’m only giving it FOUR stars because I think that you really need to be part of the Nick & Carter gestalt for this to entirely resonate. The author claims that it’s not so, but I gently disagree. If you’re part of the Butterfield family already, you might find it a five-star read.
This is the story of Eddie Smith, big, bearish, peripatetic life coach and writer from Daytona Beach (hmmmm), and how he basically saves retired football tight end Whit Hall. The book is two parts classic romance, one part magical realism. The magical part is multi-faceted. First, Eddie is guided by a voice he calls Paul. Not a looney-bin voice, but a sort of ungendered spirit guide (who happens to have the same name as Nick Williams’ long-dead great uncle Paul Williams, who acted as his spiritual advisor, so to speak). Eddie’s skill is really all about his ability to get people to look closely at what they really want out of life. He is not without his own internal conflicts and doubts, which only adds to the poignancy of the narrative.
The other magical part of this, for me at least, is that Eddie is called to his task by Bob Jenkins and Mario Ossler – the guys who inherited the WilliamsJones company from Nick and Carter. WTF? (Of course I immediately went and bought “Their Own Hidden Island” to learn about them, a review of which will appear momentarily). Seems that Bob and Mario are now guided by Nick the way Nick was guided by Paul. Nick insists that Eddie needs to help Whit find his path.
I am so damned jealous. I want a spirit advisor.
And so it goes, in Butterfield’s inimitable style, with Nick-and-Carter style romance and adventure involving uniformed staff and private planes and every bit of the 1950s Batman-and-Robin fantasy we have come to know and love. Eddie is a love. Whit is a mess. The author has the neatest imagination, and these books are making large the universe he created for Nick and Carter.
March 11, 2019
Chasing Eddie's an interesting May to December romance by Frank W Butterfield. From the start, I feel for these two amazing men.
Oh man, Whit. I was instantly enamored by the former football player. His controlling family, with their religious beliefs, make it tough for him to be himself. Thus, he's still in the closet at the age of 35.
Eddie. Ahhh, Eddie. He's a sweetie, he's unique, and he's definitely a different kind of guy. A new age type life coach, he's overweight and firm in his ways, at the age of 52. I adore everything about him.
This is a story of taking control of your own life, living it on your own terms, and doing what makes you happy. After 35 years of doing what others want him to do, it's beautiful to see Whit taking charge of his own life.
The age gap is great, along with the physical differences. It's always fun when such physical opposites are attracted to one another. And the age gap is explored perfectly.
The religious aspect is prominent, so avoid if that's a turn off for you. It's well scrutinized, as Whit's father is a preacher, and he was raising believing in abstinence.
I'm an avid fan of stories consisting of closeted athletes, so this one definitely hit the mark for me. The romance is a slow burn and the heat factor is low.
And Big Bertha, oh how I love Big Bertha. I don't want to give anything away, so just read.
Chasing Eddie is a fun romance. A Christian falling for a new age type is an intriguing idea, and Frank Butterfield does a wondeful job of developing this tale. The men are likeable, the plot is realistic, and the delivery is great. I definitely enjoyed this one.
February 13, 2019
This is the first book by this author that I have read and I must say I wasn't disappointed. Eddie and Whit are the main characters with strong supporting characters in Bob Mario and Nick a ghost. Eddie is a medium, but as far as I can tell he really doesn't use the gift very much in the book. Eddy is called upon to help out a retired football player by Bob and Mario. So knowing nothing about his client, Eddy is whisked off to San Antonio in a private jet with it's own personal crew. Eddie is out, but Whit is not. Eddie has no idea how he is supposed to "help" Whit. Being 52 and chubby,, Eddie has had plenty of time to develop walls with the philosophy of look, but don't touch. Whit has his own walls that have been erected over a lifetime of having a famous religious family that includes a father who writes sermons around Whit. Eddy has learned to run when things get emotionally tough. Can he run far enough to escape his desire and attraction for Whit? Will Whit be brave enough to run after him? Will Bob and Mario be able to help them both run far enough to escape danger when it falls in their horny laps? An excellent story and one that has persuaded me to start reading more of the books this author has written. I voluntarily read and reviewed this ARC book.
March 10, 2019
This book was quite unlike any other romance I’ve read, and I was a little unsure going in how it was going to pan out. The more I read though, the more I got hooked on Eddie and Whit and their conversations and their budding relationship. It’s quite a real and honest romance. Eddie doesn’t have ripped abs: he’s a big bear of a guy on the other side of 50 and I could easily see the attraction Whit felt for him. He’s rocksteady and such a calming influence no wonder he turned Whit’s head; he’s just what the man needed at this crossroads in his life being a newly retired NFL player. It had an eclectic and quirky supporting cast which I really enjoyed, and I loved the scene setting here, it was so interesting and really made the book for me. This story doesn’t try hard because it doesn’t need to. It’s a very unique and ultimately refreshing read by a new author to me who I’ll probably pick up again just to see where he takes me.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMG Reads.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMG Reads.
April 7, 2019
Epub (direct from author via Patreon); 123 pages
This series has moved to the present day (2019, US government shutdown, steel tariffs mentioned) but connected to the other series by Daytona Beach and the Bob/Mario couple who met in the previous Golden Gate book and who inherited the Nick/Carter mantle - and some spectral advisors (Nick, of course - and one named Paul who might be... ).
Eddie Smith is a sort of life coach; Whit Hall is a newly retired American football player who isn't sure what he needs to do next. The two meet (a meeting arranged by Bob, since they live some distance apart - Daytona Beach and San Antonio - but engineered by Nick). The two do not immediately hit it off - though both have a sense of something important going on between them.
A charming romance - and somewhat hotter than may be familiar to long-term readers of this author without in any way being salacious. It's almost as if the author, who has previously seemed to be writing in period style as well as carefully researching the history, has adapted his writing to the more modern period in which this book is set.
I look forward as always to the next book - Whit and Eddie need to be a series...
This series has moved to the present day (2019, US government shutdown, steel tariffs mentioned) but connected to the other series by Daytona Beach and the Bob/Mario couple who met in the previous Golden Gate book and who inherited the Nick/Carter mantle - and some spectral advisors (Nick, of course - and one named Paul who might be... ).
Eddie Smith is a sort of life coach; Whit Hall is a newly retired American football player who isn't sure what he needs to do next. The two meet (a meeting arranged by Bob, since they live some distance apart - Daytona Beach and San Antonio - but engineered by Nick). The two do not immediately hit it off - though both have a sense of something important going on between them.
A charming romance - and somewhat hotter than may be familiar to long-term readers of this author without in any way being salacious. It's almost as if the author, who has previously seemed to be writing in period style as well as carefully researching the history, has adapted his writing to the more modern period in which this book is set.
I look forward as always to the next book - Whit and Eddie need to be a series...
May 20, 2019
3.5 stars
A sweet, insta-love story.
Chasing Eddie is the first book I've read by Frank W. Butterfield and I liked it. It's the third book in the Golden Gate Love Stories series. While it can be read as a standalone, I do wish, that I'd read book two, The Own Hidden Island, before I read this one. I think it would have given me a bit more insight into a couple of the secondary characters in Chasing Eddie.
Eddie is a kind of a woo-woo guy; he's sort of a life coach but there are allusions to mystical stuff going on, too. Whit is a recently retired NFL player and the owner of his last team hires Eddie to help Whit figure out what he wants to do next. There have been many rumors about Whit's sexuality.
This was a light and easy read with insta-love – which I don't mind usually but it was *really* fast here. I had a little trouble really feeling the connection between Eddie and Whit. I also would liked the issue with Whit's parents to be more fully resolved.
Overall it wasn't a bad way to spend a couple of hours on a lazy afternoon.
An advanced copy of this book was provided through Signal Boost Promotions but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
A sweet, insta-love story.
Chasing Eddie is the first book I've read by Frank W. Butterfield and I liked it. It's the third book in the Golden Gate Love Stories series. While it can be read as a standalone, I do wish, that I'd read book two, The Own Hidden Island, before I read this one. I think it would have given me a bit more insight into a couple of the secondary characters in Chasing Eddie.
Eddie is a kind of a woo-woo guy; he's sort of a life coach but there are allusions to mystical stuff going on, too. Whit is a recently retired NFL player and the owner of his last team hires Eddie to help Whit figure out what he wants to do next. There have been many rumors about Whit's sexuality.
This was a light and easy read with insta-love – which I don't mind usually but it was *really* fast here. I had a little trouble really feeling the connection between Eddie and Whit. I also would liked the issue with Whit's parents to be more fully resolved.
Overall it wasn't a bad way to spend a couple of hours on a lazy afternoon.
An advanced copy of this book was provided through Signal Boost Promotions but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
March 9, 2019
Eddie is a sort of life coach. Doesn’t do a lot of coaching, it’s more like he talks to people and finds out what they want and helps them get there. He’s kinda chubby, happy with his life, and not overly concerned about where he is going.
Whit is a retired football player. Forced to stay in the closet because he can’t tell his religious parents. He also doesn’t know where his life is going. Then he meets Eddie. I Don’t want to give away the story so no spoilers.
Eddie and Whit were funny and sweet together. Both got a very sudden case of insta-love. I liked the way Eddie saw life. The book did end kind of abruptly. I hope we get more of their story.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads.
Whit is a retired football player. Forced to stay in the closet because he can’t tell his religious parents. He also doesn’t know where his life is going. Then he meets Eddie. I Don’t want to give away the story so no spoilers.
Eddie and Whit were funny and sweet together. Both got a very sudden case of insta-love. I liked the way Eddie saw life. The book did end kind of abruptly. I hope we get more of their story.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads.
February 18, 2019
Based on the book blurb I was excited to read this book. The blurb hinted that Eddie and Whit’s story has a HEA with an interesting ending. It definitely delivered on that statement.
The entire book is told from Eddie’s POV. I would have loved to also have Whit’s POV. I think it would have added a lot to the book. The pacing of the story is really good.
Eddie and Whit’s story is the beginning of a new series and some of the characters are introduced here.
This is the first book that I’ve read by this author and I’m curious as to what happens in the upcoming series.
The entire book is told from Eddie’s POV. I would have loved to also have Whit’s POV. I think it would have added a lot to the book. The pacing of the story is really good.
Eddie and Whit’s story is the beginning of a new series and some of the characters are introduced here.
This is the first book that I’ve read by this author and I’m curious as to what happens in the upcoming series.
August 30, 2021
Good
I really enjoyed reading the story from Eddie's POV. I love not knowing what is going on in everyone's head. It makes the storyline far more interesting. There is a lot of taking between the characters and I prefer more of a story, I did love the banter though, Eddie has quite funny inner dialogue humour. The story is a HFN ending which I didn't know before starting the book. I much prefer a permanent ending, it doesn't even have to be a happy one. All in all, I liked the book but didn't love it.
I really enjoyed reading the story from Eddie's POV. I love not knowing what is going on in everyone's head. It makes the storyline far more interesting. There is a lot of taking between the characters and I prefer more of a story, I did love the banter though, Eddie has quite funny inner dialogue humour. The story is a HFN ending which I didn't know before starting the book. I much prefer a permanent ending, it doesn't even have to be a happy one. All in all, I liked the book but didn't love it.
February 20, 2019
Eddie is the most adorable chubby bear ever! i really loved his character. now Whit, he took me a while to really like. he's a closeted retired footballer...but they can't all be perfect! it was a little angsty and a lot sexy. love virgin MCs! would def recommend.
October 31, 2020
While I love Butterfield's Daytona stories, this one fell flat for me. A rushed combination of insta-love, billionaires and ghostly visions. Too much time spent providing the background on characters not important to the story.
January 2, 2020
I LOVE Eddie. My love is destined to be unrequited since I was born with girly parts, but that's cool. We can just be friends.
I LOVED THIS BOOK, couldn't put it down, even with the risk of being late to work. Eddie is sweet, funny, gutsy, fun to hang out with and, btw, kinda psychic. That aspect of it is very cool and interesting. I had a lot of fun meeting Whit (such a big sweetie) and all the new characters (especially Big Bertha!), reading about new locales, and loved the references to Nick and Carter (past and present). There are so many specific instances I could reel off, but I don't to spoil anyone else's reading of it. (Really hate spoilers) The only thing is -- Frank, there will be future adventures, won't there? Because I'm pretty sure that I've got an Eddie-addiction to go along with my Nick-addiction!
I LOVED THIS BOOK, couldn't put it down, even with the risk of being late to work. Eddie is sweet, funny, gutsy, fun to hang out with and, btw, kinda psychic. That aspect of it is very cool and interesting. I had a lot of fun meeting Whit (such a big sweetie) and all the new characters (especially Big Bertha!), reading about new locales, and loved the references to Nick and Carter (past and present). There are so many specific instances I could reel off, but I don't to spoil anyone else's reading of it. (Really hate spoilers) The only thing is -- Frank, there will be future adventures, won't there? Because I'm pretty sure that I've got an Eddie-addiction to go along with my Nick-addiction!
Read
March 19, 2019DNF
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