Reclusive artist Russell Schar enjoys his quiet life in the big house he rents from his best friend, so he’s less than thrilled when a small family moves in next door. Neighbors and their noise do not fit into his carefully constructed routines, but as long as they stay on their side of the property? He’ll work it out. After a series of family traumas, all single-dad Patrick Gillespie wants is to find some balance: school for his seven-year-old son, a full-time job for himself, and a stable place to live while he gets his late mother’s affairs in order. He does not expect his surly, ginger bear of a neighbor to slide right under his skin and stay there. Or for Russell to develop a fast friendship with Patrick’s son. A mild flirtation between Patrick and Russell turns into more than either man expects or knows how to deal with. They both want to protect their damaged hearts, but sometimes it takes a leap of faith to find true love. Leap Year is loosely connected to the Neighborhood Shindig series, but can be read independently. Content warning for discussions of past abuse.