It leaves him vulnerable to the not-too-subtle machinations of the Big Bull guys to get him together with Porter. He doesn't know who Porter is even though they’ve met several times before at gatherings at Miller and Demetri’s. Perhaps it’s Steele’s split focus that makes him somewhat oblivious. Nevertheless, he’s pulled in a million directions by work obligations, his brother Gates’ problems, and the general need to protect and take care of his family and friends. Steele similarly struggles under the weight of owning a small business, although Big Bull is established and doing well. But his twinky, slightly nerdy, often frazzled appearance belies his assertiveness in the bedroom. He’s a self-described “average-looking, mildly adorkable man”. He’s stressed over owning his own business while also feeling the inevitable insecurity that comes from being a new vet. He just recently passed the boards and has taken over his childhood next-door-neighbor/mentor/family friend’s veterinary practice, so he’s feeling in over his head. He needs to make things right for the people he cares about, like his prodigal brother Gates, even if that means his own needs and desires take a backseat. But despite his very burly, tattooed, bear-ish appearance, he’s all heart. Steele is “tall, bearded, and beastly” - to quote Porter. Steele owns Big Bull Mechanics, the series’ titular auto repair shop.

TL DR: If you love Four Bears, you’ll love Crankshaft. You know you’re in a Neuhold book when “You could steal all my pickles” is a love declaration.

It also showcases swoony declarations as only she can craft them. Neuhold’s trademark storytelling is on display with plenty of feel-good found-family dynamics, super hot sexy times, playfulness, rowdy behavior, bawdy language, and irreverent antics. But Crankshaft still maintains its own identity, with a new group of characters who are endearing, wacky, sexy, and sweet. Crankshaft has the Four Bears feel to it and we get to visit with the Four Bears couples as well. Neuhold’s Big Bull Mechanics series, the long-awaited spin-off of her Four Bears Construction series.

Crankshaft by K.M. Neuhold