Defending Our Dagger

by Tanya Lynn

They're the last men she should trust. They're also the only ones who can keep her safe. Racheal has spent three years avoiding the Durham Daggers' infamous twin brothers—charming, relentless, and notorious for treating women like conquests. She's built a quiet life behind the bar at Kent's, healing from a past that refuses to stay buried. Until her ex finds her new address.
Logan fell for Racheal as soon as she rolled into town. The clumsy, loyal twin has given up on other women, spending his nights with her favourite romance novels just to see what makes her tick. Adam—rough, dominant, and terrified of getting hurt again—isn't far behind.
When their "whatever it takes" campaign accidentally makes Racheal's stalker problem infinitely worse, the twins have to show her that two off-ice players might be exactly what she needs: the kind of love that proves family isn’t blood, but who shows up when you’re bleeding.

Paperback

Published May 22, 2026

Reviews

[Lauren Head · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lynn absolutely shattered every expectation and delivered a story that hit with full force. Between the chaos of the twin brothers, the intensity of the hockey world, and the addictive tension woven through every chapter, Defending Our Dagger was impossible to put down. This book consumed me completely. So much so that I devoured it in a single sitting, unable to tear myself away for even a second. Every twist left my mind spinning, every moment had my emotions in a chokehold, and by the final page I was left completely blown away. Without a doubt, this was one of the most unforgettable books I’ve read in a long time, and I regret absolutely nothing.

[PleaseGoAwayImReading · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to read this in advance and really enjoyed it. It was fun to watch Rach and the boys gravitate towards each other while getting glimpses into their private thoughts and feelings about one another. The tension and anxiety over embarking on a possible new relationship after experiencing betrayal was very real. So was Rach’s insecurities and consistently needing attention from them and affirmations/valudation as well as Adam’s fears that Rach was going to choose Logan because of his charm and worshipful nature towards her. The little speed bumps in the road of their progress due to lack of/poor miscommunication was another element that made the characters and their story feel more real.

[Bookaholic__Reviews · Rating 3 out of 5]

I feel like this one just didn't resonate with me as well as some in the past from Lynn have. It was okay. I just don't really enjoy sports/ hockey dark romance. It wasn't bad, it just wasn't my thing.

I also feel like I missed out by not reading all of the books on the Durham Daggers prior. Idk, maybe I would have connected more to the character and story.

If you enjoy why choose, sports romance, brothers and found family this may be a good match for you.

I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Melissa Mejia · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had the pleasure of receiving this as an e-ARC and voluntarily will be giving my honest review. This was definitely an emotional roller coaster but in a good way! If you love sports romances (hockey) you will love this one! The tension and relationship build up was phenomenal!!

“They're the last men she should trust. They're also the only ones who can keep her safe.
Racheal has spent three years avoiding the Durham Daggers' infamous twin brothers—charming, relentless, and notorious for treating women like conquests. She's built a quiet life behind the bar at Kent's, healing from a past that refuses to stay buried. Until her ex finds her new address.
Logan fell for Racheal as soon as she rolled into town. The clumsy, loyal twin has given up on other women, spending his nights with her favourite romance novels just to see what makes her tick. Adam—rough, dominant, and terrified of getting hurt again—isn't far behind.
When their "whatever it takes" campaign accidentally makes Racheal's stalker problem infinitely worse, the twins have to show her that two off-ice players might be exactly what she needs: the kind of love that proves family isn’t blood, but who shows up when you’re bleeding.”

[Neapolitan670 📚🖤 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Pucker up ya’ll it’s a twinsy ride 🏒

Rachael’s turned her life around, new place, two jobs and leaving behind an ex. Tending the bar where the ice hockey players and her best friends meet, she has liked the twins for so long but they are players in more sense than one and she doesn’t want to get hurt again…

"𝐼 𝓀𝓃𝑜𝓌. 𝐼 𝒽𝒶𝓋𝑒 𝓉𝑜 𝒻𝑜𝓁𝓁𝑜𝓌 𝓂𝓎 𝒽𝑒𝒶𝓇𝓉, 𝒷𝓊𝓉 𝓁𝑒𝓉 𝓂𝓎 𝒷𝓇𝒶𝒾𝓃 𝒶𝒸𝓉𝓊𝒶𝓁𝓁𝓎 𝓉𝒽𝒾𝓃𝓀."

I maybe should have read the previous books but I picked up the gist pretty quickly, and I mean who doesn’t like being a twin filling 🤭 Let’s just say there is a lot of spicy times as there should be with two buff guys, we are privy to some of her past when it comes back to haunt her. I enjoyed the camaraderie between them and the pranks they played, the build up of their relationship and most of all the fact they learned to communicate.

[Anna Stone · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you like reading about twin brothers and hockey you will enjoy this one.

[Angie · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
❤️‍🩹❤️‍🩹

✅Funny
✅Sweet
✅Touching
✅Spicy
✅emotional growth

Adam & Logan are so similar yet so different. Who hasn’t wanted to be in the middle of a twin sandwich? And the lines they use. OMG

“I’d do just about anything, you know.” Logan smirks. “I’d get sprayed by a skunk just to flip your mattress, so your back always felt good.”

“You know, I’d lick the men’s bathroom clean just to polish yer floors for ya.” Logan slowly smiles and waits a beat, but when I say nothing, he shrugs. “One of these days, eh? It’s gonna happen. I’m going to make you mine.”

That Adam was willing to walk away and let Rachael have his brother. You can’t tell me that there was no emotional growth and sacrifice for the two people he loves the most.
Adam has struggles and hid them so well from everyone around him. When he finally asks for help it’s to actively become a better version of himself for her.

Rachael grows as a person as well, she communicates more with the twins and she doesn’t hold back her personality or wants. She finally has a support system in her new friend family. They FULLY embrace her and do whatever they can to make her life easier

Logan is more of the optimist. He knows that the three of them can have a beautiful and loving relationship. He can see that his softness and Adam’s rough edges are exactly what Rachael needs. Also how clumsy he is is incredibly endearing. Plus his pick up lines an Rachael are GOLD!

[Charlene's Bookish Archives · Rating 4 out of 5]

This one really surprised me with how much emotion was packed into the story. Racheal has been through enough to make trusting anyone difficult, so watching her slowly let Logan and Adam into her life was probably my favourite part.

I really liked the contrast between the twins. Logan has that softer, more loyal side, while Adam is rougher and more guarded, but both of them genuinely care about Racheal. Logan reading her favourite romance novels just to understand her better was such a cute touch, and honestly, points for effort! 😂

The suspense surrounding Racheal's ex added another layer to the romance, and I liked that the story wasn't just about the relationship. There was also this strong theme of finding people who show up for you when life gets ugly. The idea that family is about the people who stand beside you rather than simply sharing your blood really came through.

There were definitely moments where I wanted to yell at the characters to stop and think for a second, especially when their attempts to protect Racheal made things even more complicated. But that also kept the story moving and gave it plenty of drama.

Defending Our Dagger was an emotional, suspenseful and entertaining read with plenty of chemistry, protective heroes and a heroine who deserves to finally feel safe and loved. Another fun read from Tanya Lynn, with just the right amount of chaos thrown into the romance.

[Tanya · Rating 4 out of 5]

Defending Our Daggar, by Tanya Lynn, is book four of the Durham Daggers series and explores connection and resilience. This dark romance sucked me in and kept me engaged the entire time.

The story centers on Racheal, a young woman seeking a fresh start, and the twin brothers Adam and Logan, who transition from casual admirers to devoted, protective partners. Rachael is on a journey to rebuild and lead an independent life while struggling to escape the traumatic events of her past. Rachael moves to a new city to escape this toxic and abusive past, trying to establish her own space and identity - all while having a stalker.

We watch as Adam and Logan slowly shift from casual fascination to attentive and protective. As Rach slowly allows the twins into her life, their dynamic is tested by internal fears and vulnerabilities. Dealing with jealousy and insecurity, they move into an MMF Why-Choose relationship. Together, they face the stalker's disturbance, which firmly establishes their place in her life, proving it was more than physical attraction.

This story shows that the healing process is not an individual task but a collaborative one, despite past wounds. I enjoyed this spicy hockey dark romance - who wouldn't?!

Thanks to Tanya Lynn for gifting me an eARC of Defending Our Daggar. I am leaving this review voluntarily. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was so excited when Tanya announced that she was getting back into this world.

Adam and Logan fell head over hills for Racheal as soon as she came into town. They had to really work on their player ways before she would even think about giving them a chance. Racheal has had a rough past and a very crazy ex boyfriend that makes her cautious to the twins. She didn't want to become another one of their conquests. The friend group finally opened her eyes to how much they have changed over the last year or so since she met them. The crazy ex finally made an appearance and the twins made their move to protect Racheal. Once that happened their relationship started to happen and I was so happy for the twins. Racheal definitely deserves the best love and they can give her what she needs. Logan is more of the romantic and Adam is more of the dominant. Racheal gets the best of both worlds with these two.

I am sad that their story ended so short but I did enjoy finally getting back into the Durham Dagger world. Can't wait to read the next guys story.

Thank you Tanya!
I received this book as an ARC.

[Darkstellarlove · Rating 4 out of 5]

Defending Our Dagger by Tanya Lynn is the 4th book in the Durham Daggers series, a hockey romance world built on found family, loyalty, and emotionally intense relationships. This installment leans fully into an MMF dynamic, raising the stakes with two heroes and one heroine navigating love, healing, and devotion together.
This book feels like chaos wrapped in comfort. The twin MMCs bring that perfect mix of playful energy and fierce protectiveness, while the FMC’s journey—especially coming from a toxic past—adds a softer, emotional depth that balances the spice. What stood out most to me was how the relationship didn’t feel rushed or superficial. There’s real care in how trust is built, how boundaries are tested, and how all three characters learn to choose each other again and again.
The hockey setting is there, but the heart of the story is the connection—those quiet moments, the teasing banter, and the overwhelming “we’ve got you” energy. It’s intense, a little messy, but in the best way possible.
If you love emotionally charged romance where the characters feel like home just as much as they feel like chaos, this one really delivers.

[sycokittykat - Stefanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Touch her and 💀 with twins

Let me Let me preface this by saying this is the only book I have read in this series and I have no idea who any of the characters are. I definitely feel like you might want to read all of the others prior to this since they seem to be closely linked with the characters.

I was definitely intrigued by the dynamic between the characters. I liked the opposite mentalities of the twins and the way they worked well with Rachel. I will say the story did not have a lot going on after the thing with the ex.

Since the twins were already in love with her it kind of made the rest of the story anticlimactic. Perhaps for those who have read more into who these characters are it was more interesting. Aside from a couple of interesting scenes there was not a lot exciting in this book for me.

The story was not bad I just felt like I didn't connect with it and I think that's because I've only read the 1 book.

[Theresa Murray · Rating 3 out of 5]

Defending Our Dagger is a well-written story with an engaging premise and a lot of interesting ideas throughout. I enjoyed the overall concept and found the writing easy to follow, with enough intrigue to keep me curious about how everything would unfold. It’s a solid read with a lot of potential, and there are definitely elements that work well in building the world and character dynamics.

At times, the pacing felt a bit more uneven and episodic, which made it slightly harder for me to fully sink into the emotional depth of the story. I also found myself hoping for a bit more focus on the “defending” aspect, as it felt more secondary to the plot. That said, I still appreciated the direction of the story and think readers who enjoy this style of storytelling will get a lot out of it, even if I personally would have loved a bit more emphasis on the central conflict.

[Meesh Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Tanya said she was finally writing the twins & Rachael, i SQUEALED!!

Those playboy, sweet talking, sexy ass twin hockey players who stole my heart from the very first Durham Daggers book were going to swoon Rachael? Oh man I knew we were in for it.

But what we got? Was nothing short of incredible.

Rachael’s backstory was absolutely heartbreaking, and the care in which our boys took with her, even when she pushed them away. They still came back. They still loved her in the way she deserved to be loved.

And Our boys? So different in so many ways, but so beyond deserving of love and admiration in their own rights.

Let’s not forget the spice. Phewwww mama. Those boys know how to lay it DOWN for their woman.

10/10. 5⭐️. No notes.

[Athena, the goddess of books · Rating 4 out of 5]

You know that feeling when you arrive at a party where everyone already knows each other and you’re the newcomer? That’s exactly how I felt at the start of this book. But after a while, I was really glad I stuck with it, because who doesn’t want a really good “twin sandwich”? Add a bit of ex-related drama, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for an entertaining read. The conlusion is that it is a fast-paced, spicy story about finding safety in the arms of two men who are willing to do whatever it takes to defend the woman they love.

I’m really happy I picked this one up, because now I’m definitely going to dive into the author’s other books to learn more about her universe.

P.S. The preview of the next story in line is HOT, HOT, HOT!

[Aliza Wagner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Those playboy, smooth-talking, outrageously sexy twin hockey players who stormed into my heart from the very first page—were they really going to sweep Rachael off her feet? Oh mate, I knew we were in for one hell of a ride.
But what we ended up with? It was nothing short of miraculous.
And our boys? So different in a thousand ways, yet each one utterly deserving of love and admiration in their own right. Who wouldn’t be drawn to the brooding, morally grey rebel and the honeyed, golden retriever energy of the other?
And let’s not forget the spice—holy hell, those boys know exactly how to turn up the heat and lay it all on the line for their woman. Damn, I was hooked from start to finish.

[Mystitism · Rating 4 out of 5]

**Some Spoilers!!**

I give this book 3.5 stars. The last hour I found myself skimming waiting for it to grab my attention again. I felt like this book was a lot of waiting. Waiting for more taboo. Waiting for there to be more. The writing was good though I wasn’t a fan of the repeated use of “digits”. The last hour like I mentioned was mostly skimming though I did enjoy that the parents were a healthy family and embraced the MFC. I did like the nicknames though up until closer to the end I found it a bit hard to tell the twins apart. I would be up for giving this author another shot when another book comes out bc you can tell they write well! The premise had a lot of promise but also a bit left to be desired.

[Tracy Booktalk · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful romantic romance! My wish is for everyone to find, read and fall in love with Tanya’s writing as I have. I have read everything this author has written but this series is the best, by leaps and bounds. You will fall in love with the characters, even the side characters. I truly hope that this is not the last time we hear from Logan, Adam and Racheal. It is an “awww” 🥰 🥰 book from beginning to end.
I loved Logan and Adam. Who wouldn’t love a man who would read your favorite books and annotate them just to feel closer to you. 😍 😍 😍
One of my favorite genres is Suspense and this one has it in spades. The trauma poor Racheal goes through makes you want to take out her ex in the most brutal, excruciating way.
The way Tanya writes Racheals relationship with her friends made me smile frequently during the many important parts. They were absolutely there for her and the feelings I had made me warm all over. I wish we all had friends like this. Friends you can always turn to, no matter what!
I cannot finish this review without mentioning the spice, perfection!! Oh yes yes yes please. Tanya can write spice like no other.
I recommend this book 1000% It is part of Durham Daggers but you can read each book separately.

[Roie_Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

The infamous twins, Logan and Adam. One, a golden retriever, the other, a Doberman. Rachel is learning to love again, they are learning that communication takes time, effort and everyone to do it right. But our twin hockey players aren’t the only watching Rachel. And that’s all you’re getting out of me. They banter, there are little pranks and tricks, and oh a few spicy scenes 🤭😉.

I know, world’s vaguest arc review, but hey, how else am I gonna get you to pick it up! I want to thank Tanya Lynn for allowing me to be an arc reader and I need to go back and read the first book. I, somehow, missed that one!

[shadowarc13 · Rating 5 out of 5]

"I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.” Defending Our Dagger is a gripping, high-stakes contemporary romance centered on healing and protection. The story follows Racheal as her past catches up with her, forcing her into the orbit of the Durham Daggers twin brothers, Logan and Adam. The story masterfully balances Logan’s loyal devotion against Adam’s protective, dominant nature, creating a compelling dynamic as they unite to shield her from an escalating threat. It is a powerful story about vulnerability, found family, and overcoming trauma. I love every bit of it. A must read. 💛

[Danielle ♡ Cirque des Morts · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨️ARC REVIEW✨️

If you love a why choose, you will love this.

I absolutely adored the dynamics of Logan and Adam with Racheal- complete opposites! Love this trio!

Logan is your golden retriever who will worship you, Adam is rough around the edges and holds dominance. Racheal is sassy and just wants to be loved!

The story was great, the spice was amazing! I loved the friendship dynamics and the relationship building between the trio!

If you love hockey romance, why chose situation (with twins😉), protect her always vibes, then you will love this!

[Neia Quaintance · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rachel has been crushing on the twins Logan and Adam forever, and they are playboys never wanting to settle down they treat women like conquest until Rachael now they wanna be better and prove to Rachel that they can. When Rachael's ex Blaine finds out where she lives, the twins are the only ones that can keep her safe. But can her heart handle bein near them for so long. This was definitely a roller-coaster ride 4sure, but it was so good, and their friend circle is the best, and the pranks they play on each other are hilarious.

[Peta Schwartz · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm gonna be honest, I haven't read the other books in this series and I was kinda lost to begin with. After a bit I got the gist of the friends group dynamics but it would have been better if I read the previous books.

BUT, the twin sandwhich was great. I really liked that Racheal got everything she needed in a relationship between both Adam and Logan and they got everything they needed from her.

The spice was spicen and there were feels and drama and chaos. It was a good read.

[iesha Bright · Rating 4 out of 5]

Why choose
Twin MMCs
Protective
Stalking ex boyfriend
Hockey players

tanya does it again with another great book. this book can be read as a standalone but is part of a interconnected series which is one of my favorites honestly. if you were looking for a book where twin bros love the same woman then look no further this is the one for you. i mean what more could a woman want right... two men who compliment each other. what one lacks the other has and vise versa.

[Dee Layton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again Miss Tanya Lynn managed to kick butt and knock it out of the park. With twin brothers as well as hockey as well as some spicy things too. She outdid herself defending our dagger was absolutely just the most bestest book I've ate up in a long time. I read this book from start to finish in one city and could not put it down. My mind was blown I was extremely happy and do not regret anything in any form of fashion.

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

How can you put a such a well written love story in under 300 words??? As become my trend lately, I jumped into the middle of series rather than the first book. But I loved Rachael, Adam and Logan's story. The spice was off the chart and the plot was well written. I would have finished this in one reading but had to sleep but it took me less than 24 hours to read. Now to read the other books in the series and wait for the next one.

[Coco Fischer · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you are a fan of why choose this book is for you.
Sexy set of twins yes please!
Horrible ex boyfriend yep he shows up.
Rachel doesn't want to give Adam or Logan a chance, I mean why would she they are known to be players.
Is one night enough to change things?
You have to read it to find out!
I honestly laughed pretty hard at some parts of the book.

[Anitaloves_her_books · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have read many books Tanya Lynn and this book does not disappoint. I was glad to see the twins getting a book. It was so good. The plot twist. Love it. Gideon 's book has been my favorite of this series but now. These boys are running a close first

Thanks Tanya Lynn for surprising us with yet another amazing storyline..

[Jody Vogler · Rating 4 out of 5]

Defending Our Dagger is the fourth book in the Durham Daggers series... And while it can be read as a interconnected standalone, this story had me so invested I now want to go read the other three books in the series.

The tension, the protectiveness, the emotional healing mixed with the sizzling chemistry… it all worked so frikkin well together. Racheal’s fear and hesitation when it came to opening herself up again felt relatable, especially after everything the poor girl has been through. As someone who’s experienced a awful relationship before, I really felt for her and understood why trusting again was so hard.

And then there’s Logan and Adam… honestly, they really do balance each other perfectly. Logan is the ultimate golden retriever twin who absolutely worships Racheal, while Adam is rough around the edges, dominant, and protective in a completely different way. Together, they give her everything she’s been missing, and I loved seeing her slowly realize she deserved that kind of love.

This friend group is what made me want to immediately go back and read the earlier books because everyone felt so connected and fun. Even as a standalone, this story pulls you right into their world. I totally wish I was part of this book club! Them talking about scenes they want to act out is so hilarious and I'm jealous!

And that spice? SOoOo gooood . The chemistry between all three of them was intense, emotional, and ridiculously hot. Add in TWIN hockey players who would do absolutely anything for the woman they fell in love with, and I was SOLD immediately. Honestly… who wouldn’t want two hotties completely obsessed with them?

[Samantha Abram · Rating 4 out of 5]

Have you ever read a book with a golden retriever MMC and loved him but wished he was a little more Doberman, or vice versa?

Well, the solution to that is this book. Twin hockey player MMCs that are polar opposites! The two of them combined were exactly what Rach needed!

You get banter, spice, and a love story all in one!