Why do I do this? I buy books I’m sure I will like, and then I let them sit on the TBR for months (or more). Such was the fate of HelenKay Dimon’s Holding Out for a Hero. Wendy’s review made me think I should pick it up.

Deana Armstrong needs a hero—not for herself, but for the nephew all her money and time can’t seem to get out of jail. Unfortunately, the best hero in all the Hawaiian Islands is set on turning in his badge and getting his excellent butt into another line of work. If that wasn’t enough, Josh Windsor also has a big-time grudge against Deana herself. But if there’s anything being rich, smart, and stubborn has taught Deana, it’s never to settle for second best . . .

Josh has had it with saving people. He’s had it with getting hauled into court. And boy, has he ever had it with Deana. Or well, he hasn’t  had it. Yet. But the more she pops up sounding infuriating and looking good enough to eat, the more her hot bod and her cold case wriggle into his mind. And there’s only so much even a hero can resist . . .

Hmm, where to start? I could start with the cover, which is amazing. LOVE it. And I’m happy to stay the story inside is just as incredible. I tend to read romances for heroes, and Josh definitely doesn’t let me down. He’s both honorable and hot—what’s not to like? And Deana is a fully developed character in her own right.

Holding Out for a Hero is a fine example of Dimon’s trademark witty dialogue and sizzling romance, but it has a few other strong elements I want to mention.

First of all, I’ve read a handful of romances where the hero is hired to prove the innocence of a family member. In every one I can remember, the character’s innocence is clear.

In this book, though, Dimon does something I found fascinating: offers doubt. Maybe Deana’s nephew is innocent. Maybe he’s not. And this ambiguity adds a gripping element to the story. I could feel the part of my brain that enjoys true crime kicking in to try and put together the pieces. I can’t tell you how much I loved the combination of this mystery and the romance.

Another thing I enjoyed: the friendship between Josh and Kane. It felt genuine, like I was really seeing two male friends interact. Not the oddly feminine talk I sometimes see in books between guys.

In short, I loved this book: 4.5 out of 5. And I’ve got some catching up to do—I’ve got a few books and novellas in Dimon’s booklist I haven’t read. I won’t wait so long next time.