Divine Dilemma

Tales of the Vanir #3

by Rochelle Wilcox

Dani and Vulryn made a powerful enemy
when they helped rescue Fhord’s dragon.
Now, they’re going to hand themselves over to her.

Dani and her dragon are headed straight to the Dróttning's clutches.

Vulryn has claimed Ziselær, the blue beast who attacked her, insisting he is her drake and will choose her over his allegiance to the Dróttning. But in Vulryn’s zeal to gain that dragon’s loyalty, she’s convinced Dani to offer their freedom, and maybe their lives, to their enemy.

Ziselær's rider, Matthias, is every bit as despicable as Dani expected, treating her as nothing more than a convenient dalliance when their dragons mate. Everything changes, though, when he’s injured during Ziselær and Vulryn’s first flight together, leaving the riders and their dragons stranded as they figure out whether they’re foes, friends … or something more. But despite her growing connection to Matthias, Dani can't deny her inexplicable attraction to Mikkael, or that Mikkael hates her, for good reason.

Can Dani and Vulryn convince two of Vanatia’s fiercest fighters to join their struggle for freedom? And even if Matthias chooses to stay, will Dani and Ziselær choose him or the male the fates intended for them?

Divine Dilemma is the stunning third book in the fantasy romance series, Tales of the Vanir. The battle lines will be drawn in this tale with scorching sexual tension and spice, scrumptious banter and breathtaking betrayals.

Divine Dilemma features a love triangle and ends on a cliffhanger. It will appeal to readers of Fourth Wing (Rebecca Yarros), Crescent City (Sarah J. Maas) and When the Moon Hatched (Sarah A. Parker).

Author's Note: Divine Dilemma includes open-door spice and explicit language, torture and killing of people and dragons, sexual assault and depravity (but not between the main characters, other than a brief episode of withdrawn consent), and genocide (of elves).

Genres: Fantasy, Dragons, Fae, Romantasy

454 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 31, 2025

About the author

Rochelle Wilcox was born and raised in Las Vegas, where she learned at an early age the value of fantasy and escape. Raised by a single mom — one of the first women trained to deal poker in the early 70's — Rochelle spent more time in casinos than most adults. She and her husband decided to leave the desert behind and raise their sons in Northern California, where they spent as much time on the water with their boys as they could.

Despite her lifelong passion for story-telling, Rochelle's path took her to law school and then to a practice focused on media law and appeals. But her love of writing wasn't sated with briefs bound by legal principles and a fealty to facts. And so she set to paper the story that had been playing in her mind for years, based on the Norse mythology she loved as a child. Rochelle retired from her legal practice in 2022 to travel and write.

She released her first book, Lost Long, Book I of The Road to Ragnarök, in 2012, and the rest of that four-book series in 2022. Book IV, Heavy Heart, was named N. N. Light's Book Heaven's Best Romantic Fantasy of 2022, and it was one of three finalists for Best Indie Book of 2022.

Her current series, Tales of the Vanir, is fully drafted and is being rapid released this summer: Sacred Struggle on May 22; Frenzied Fate on June 26; Divine Dilemma on July 31; and Mythical Menace on September 5.

Reviews

[GheridenTheBookBard · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series just keeps getting better. Divine Dilemma is packed with tension, betrayal, and some serious heat. Rochelle Wilcox isn’t afraid to put her characters (and readers) through it.

Sifa and Fhord still own every scene they’re in. Their connection is magnetic, and the emotional undercurrent between them is everything. But this time, Dani really steps forward. She takes on a more central role, and we get to watch her grow into someone fierce, vulnerable, and impossible not to root for. Even if she and Vulryn make a couple of decisions that had me yelling, “What are you doing?” Turning themselves over to the enemy? Bold move!

And then there’s the love triangle. Dani, Mikkael, and Matthias are caught in a slow-burning, sharp-edged web of chemistry, and it is intense. There’s scrumptious banter, betrayals, and a lot of lingering looks and tension that finally explodes. The spice level? Let’s just say it gets pretty dang hot, and I was absolutely here for it.

Matthias is despicable in the best way. He’s cruel, calculating, and you can’t look away when he’s on the page. Mikkael is angry and burdened by the role that’s been forced on him, and his internal war is one of my favorite threads in the book. And yes, there are dragons, and it’s as epic as you'd hope.

The world building is lush and myth-heavy, layered with divine politics, shifting loyalties, and powerful stakes. It feels expansive without ever losing its emotional core. The pacing is solid too, balancing action and tension with quieter, more reflective moments that add real depth to the characters.

Fair warning, this one doesn’t wrap things up neatly. The ending leaves you wound tight and ready for more. I turned the last page feeling a little breathless and very much not okay in the best possible way.

If you’re not reading the Tales of the Vanir, you’re missing out.

[Pà · Rating 5 out of 5]

As always please check your tws. 6 STARS. I CAN’T WITH THIS SERIES. It’s ADDICTING and each book just get better and better and better. This third book, I swear. This book completely took over my brain, in the best way possible. It was one of those reads that pulled me in right from the first chapter and didn’t let go until the last page. The world, as always, felt so rich and alive, I could see every detail in my head. The author did a fantastic job with the atmosphere, and it was like being thrown straight into another universe. Dani was such a chaotic queen, and I adored her energy. She was messy and brave and just real. Her bond with Vulryn was probably one of my favorite parts. I laughed out loud more than once at their dynamic. The tension between Dani, Matthias, and Mikkael brought such a spicy, emotional pull to the story. Matthias started off as a total jerk, but then the story went places I didn’t expect, and suddenly I cared about him more than I thought I would. Mikkael, on the other hand, was pure fire and hate, so naturally, I couldn’t stop thinking about him. The way the story explored fate, connection, and choice made everything feel more layered than your usual fantasy romance. The pacing was on point. The multiple POVs added so much richness. I LOVED the first two books, but this one might be my favorite so far. The cliffhanger left me breathless and kind of mad in the best way. I need the next book like, yesterday. Rochelle Wilcox really nailed it again, and just confirmed herself as one of my favorite authors. Thank you so much to the author and Meg for giving me the opportunity to read the book in advance, I received this for free and I'm leaving an honest review.

[Heather Mynx · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 / 5 ⭐.

I am obsessed with this series. Each of the books just sucks me in and I am so anxious for the next book when it's over. I am so glad this series is on a rapid release schedule and I won't have to wait long for the next book! 👀

Divine Dilemma is packed with tension. From the complications that the Drottnig has caused by forcing dragons to bond with riders that aren't their destined rider, to the simmering tension of a fated pairing that hates each other, to the battle to win the dragons' freedom, I was on the edge of my seat the entire time.

Sifa and Fhord are the best together. I have loved their relationship from the beginning and it's nice seeing the relationship develop now that all the big secrets have been revealed. I love Dani and her dragon. They're both badass characters and I can't wait to see more of their story. The complicated relationships between Dani, Mikkael, and Matthias adds a whole other level of intensity to the story. I loved the banter and found family dynamics.

The one and only reason this book lost half a star for me is it sometimes the spice felt like a distraction from the plot and the rebellion that's brewing. Not really a downside, but I wanted more adventures with these characters and more of the world. I could happily get lost in it for many more hours.

My many thanks to the author and Literary Inspired for the chance to read this as an ARC! As always, while I received this as an ARC all thoughts and opinions are my own. <3

[Chasity Trimble · Rating 5 out of 5]

You guys!!! I cannot even!! This series is so dang good! I keep saying each book gets better….but Each. Book. Gets. Better!! This is book III in the Tales of the Vanir series and follows Frenzied Fate.

I truly enjoy the writing style of the author. It’s like she just grabs me by the shirt collar and yanks me into the story. As I’ve said before, the world building in these books - just top tier! The details are so vivid, I could visualize it all unfolding. I felt so connected to the characters. It’s like being in the background rooting for them.

Easily engrossed in this book and hard to put down. The tensity from trying to rescue dragons, the battles, the betrayals left me with a whirlwind of emotions. This book kept me at the edge of my seat. And ohhh the spice… it definitely hits and it’s so good! 🥵

If you are looking for a fantasy romance series that has page turning action, sexual tension, bantering that has you kicking your feet, shocking betrayals, and heart stopping cliffhangers… this is the series you need to read! So make sure to add to your TBR! You don’t want to miss this one. Now I’m in desperate need of book IV!!

[BlaireReadsTheThings · Rating 4 out of 5]

Can Dani and Vulryn convince two of Vanatia’s fiercest fighters to join their struggle for freedom? And even if Matthias chooses to stay, will Dani and Ziselær choose him or the male the fates intended for them?

Divine Dilemma is the stunning third book in the fantasy romance series, Tales of the Vanir. The battle lines will be drawn in this tale with scorching tension and spice, scrumptious banter and breathtaking betrayals.

If you love fantasy romance with:

🐉 Dragon riders

❤️ Forbidden love

🔥 Slow burn romance

😠 Grumpy, Sunshine dynamics

... then this book by @rochellewilcoxauthor is for you.

Grab your copy today, free on KU!

Thanks @literaryinspired for the ARC love and support!

#LiteraryInspiredARCs #BookLaunch #FantasyRomance #EnemiesToLovers #KUReads #LoveTriangle

I loved this installment! I think it is my favorite so far! I can't wait to read the fourth and final book! Starting Now!!!

[Anna Sarsfield · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dani and Vulryn made a powerful enemy
when they helped rescue Fhord’s dragon and now they'll stupidly hand them themselves over to the Dróttning's herself. Vulryn has claimed Zi, the blue beast who attacked her, as her mate but where does their loyalties lie now? With Sifa or Matthias- the loyal dragon rider of the Dróttning- Zi's rider, Matthias, is every bit as despicable but mating bonds can be difficult to fight and despite Dani's insistence the connection grows untamed and yet she also can't deny her attraction to Mikkael- a fine warrior of Vanatia who seeks vengeance against the Dróttning- hence the overall triangle trope of this book. It's clear this book of the Tales of Vanir series focuses on Dani more than the other characters and maybe that's a good thing since we've already accepted the bond between Sifa and Fhord and need a new love connection enemies to lovers to indulge in, they're still in this book as they gain allies to fight against the Dróttning- otherwise known as Fhord's deviously evil mother.

Divine Dilemma is the stunning third book in the fantasy romance series, Tales of the Vanir. The battle lines will be drawn in this tale with scorching sexual tension and spice, scrumptious banter and breathtaking betrayals. It will appeal to readers of Fourth Wing and When the Moon Hatched.

I’m hooked on the electric chemistry between Dani, Matthias, and Mikkael, all while they battle dark forces and impossible choices. It’s about love, loyalty, and dragons fighting for freedom. Plus, if you love grumpy/sunshine vibes, forced proximity, and badass elves, this is your next fantasy read.

'"You calm me. Waking next to you fills me with a peace, a comfort, I’ve never known before.”' - Fhord about Sifa

'"I belong to you, and if we only have fifty years together, I’ll be grateful for every gods-damned day— every single hour— that I’m with you."' - Fhord about Sifa

'"She’s right. I feel different. I’m not sure if it’s because I nearly died, twice, or because she’s saved me both times. Whatever it is, I am calmer, less restless, than I’ve been in years. I like it."' - Matthias about Dani

'I hear his laugh, a low purr that only adds to the fires he’s setting, as he pauses a moment, lifting his eyes to find mine. “You are so gods-damned delicious, dandy."' - Matthias from Dani POV

'My mind drags up Mikkael’s image, reminding me he’s my mate, but I push him away. Matthias rides Ziselær. That’s not going to change.' - Dani about being caught between the two of them

'I’m supposed to be chasing Johan’s vengeance. He was my best friend, and he deserves that and more-- Dani’s face erupts in my brain, pushing out everything else. I can’t stop. I need her like I need air to breathe.' - Mikkael about hia feelings for Dani

'Matthias must be going crazy. He already was jealous of Mikkael, worried about some stupid fate-ordained bond. But he doesn’t understand the depth of Mikkael’s hatred for me or mine for him.' - Dani about her two love interests

'Matthias satisfies me. But my body craves Mikkael’s touch.' - Dani demonstrating the love triangle trope

'“Hate and love are but sides of the same coin.” Gorm’s lips lift into a half-smile.' - Gorm who is a character who we need more from

Things I liked about this book; Dani is a good character to follow because even when making stupid decisions she has this baddass air around her like Sifa has- the author certainly likes to write most of her females like that- and this is entertaining, Fhord and Sifa are still great in the book and I smile every time they're back, gotta admit calling this an enemies to lovers was the honest truth for both love interests, the action in the background is good, I like the side characters portrayals and the world the author has created is pretty awesome. Things this book didn't need; a swear word in every other dialogue, in the words of Aaron Warner "such unfortunate language. Only those who cannot express themselves intelligently would resort to such crude substitutions in vocabulary" and I didn't like the continued threats of SA from a love interest at the beginning even though he saved her from an attempt by a guard. Things about this book I didn't like; as a reader I was having a enemies to lovers with Matthias myself cuz after he was saved twice its like he had a personality transplant that suddenly made him a decent-ish person, the Dróttning as the villain is getting a little boring book to book, love triangles are a turn off for me since there's always one you like over the other and I like Mikkael best so sorry but not sorry, the repetitive 'I don't want her but I can't stop these feeling for her' is annoying but maybe we'll see an improvement in the final book where Dani's fate is concerned.

Thanks to the author for the ARC, not at all a thank you for the cliffhanger, and can't wait for book 4, the epic conclusion to the series.

However, watch your triggers before diving into this book, it contains scenes that are not suitable for all readers including; extreme violence, mentions and an attempt of assault, open door spice, explicit language, etc

[Shreya · Rating 5 out of 5]

QUICK STATS

𝑅𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑛𝑔: ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️ (4.75/5)
𝒮𝓅𝒾𝒸ℯ ℒℯ𝓋ℯ𝓁: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/10
𝓣𝓻𝓲𝓰𝓰𝓮𝓻 𝓦𝓪𝓻𝓷𝓲𝓷𝓰𝓼: Mentions of Genocide toward Elves, Brief Assault Scene, Violence, Foul Language, Sexual Scenes

For DIVINE DILEMMA trigger list, check out Rochelle Wilcox's website!

┈┈・୨ ✦ ୧・┈┈

Buckle up, it's time for round 3!

Y'all know I LOVED the first two books, so when her Majesty Rochelle Wilcox sent me the ARC for book 3, I was over the moon! Not only was I excited for Sifa and Fhord's journey to continue, but Dani had very quickly won over my heart as my favorite character (sorry Sifa, but Dani is just peak XD). This was my first time in a very long time reading a love-triangle romance, and Wilcox didn't disappoint with Mikkael and Matthias, as well as the angst surrounding their relationship with Dani!

The worldbuilding didn't disappoint either. Wilcox found the perfect balance between describing her settings without being too overbearing, and having the map in the beginning of the story helps immensely. What really blew me away were her fast-paced fight scenes and her description of Ziselaer! He's a magnificent dragon and his interactions with Vulryn, Dani's dragon, are similar to Tindera and Astarot, but also different!

┈┈・୨ ✦ ୧・┈┈

WHAT I LOVED

🐉 DANI!!: Have I said this before? Yes. Will I continue to say it? Absolutely! Dani is just as fierce as Sifa, but her inner demons are different, and somehow, more relatable. She's a soldier strung on strings that are held by monarchs she so desperately wants to be free from, but she's also struggling too come to terms with her identity as a woman, a former soldier for Harald, and a mate. She's found an immense sense of character development in this novel, similar to Sifa, and I enjoyed seeing her grow into herself and, in particular, her relationship with Vulryn!

🐉 Matthias and Mikkail (aka, the love triangle): I won't spoil too much about this, but Wilcox did an incredible job giving Matthias and Mikkael their own voices even though they were both (kind of) minor characters who were entangled with Dani. Mikkael in particular grew on me because of his dry humor and ability to banter swiftly and easily with Dani.

🐉 Khirta: That's all I'm gonna say. Khirta is mentioned in the previous novel, but here, she gets to shine a bit more. She's the sweetest, cutest, most amazing dragon, and if I were in Venir, I would absolutely pray to all the Gods that she would be my destined dragon!

🐉 Wilcox's Prose: I'm sure I've mentioned this before, but what drew me into Wilcox's TALES OF VENIR is that she doesn't bombard her reader with gratuitous descriptions, flowy prose and intense, drawn-out battle scenes. She keeps them concise but impactful, and instead fills her chapters with dialogue that make us connect not only to the characters more, but also, to the world of Venir.

WHAT I WANT TO SEE MORE OF

❤️ MORE Dani! Although Dani was a primary character in this novel, I feel like, compared to Sifa and Fhord, she didn't get a lot of time to shine until the end. I'm hoping that in the next installment, we get more of Dani's backstory and POV! (Is it obvious that I love Dani? XD)

❤️ MORE Intensity! What I mean by this, in particular, are the scenes where a sudden event happens. An example is when the ground shakes and a fissure opens within the rocks (readers will know what scene I'm talking about). It kind of comes abruptly, without warning, and fades just as quickly, so I had to re-read these scenes several times to understand what happened. I think it would have more of an impact (and therefore, help the reader understand its intensity) by honing in on those moments. Give us more description, more setting changes, more characters having internal dialogue that mirrors the fast-pace of these scenes so that we understand that something is wrong.

┈┈・୨ ✦ ୧・┈┈
✨ 𝑄𝑈𝑂𝑇𝐸𝑆 𝑇𝐻𝐴𝑇 𝑀𝐴𝐷𝐸 𝑀𝐸 𝑆𝑊𝑂𝑂𝑁 ✨

◉ “𝐼𝑡’𝑠 𝑦𝑜𝑢𝑟𝑠, 𝑟𝑎𝑏𝑏𝑖𝑡. 𝐸𝑣𝑒𝑟𝑦𝑡ℎ𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝐼 𝑎𝑚 𝑖𝑠 𝑦𝑜𝑢𝑟𝑠. 𝑇𝑖𝑙𝑙 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑒𝑛𝑑 𝑜𝑓 𝑡𝑖𝑚𝑒.”

◉ 𝑅𝑒𝑎𝑐ℎ𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑓𝑜𝑟 ℎ𝑒𝑟 ℎ𝑎𝑛𝑑, 𝐼 𝑝𝑙𝑎𝑐𝑒 𝑖𝑡 𝑜𝑛 𝑚𝑦 𝑏𝑎𝑟𝑒 𝑐ℎ𝑒𝑠𝑡, 𝑒𝑣𝑒𝑟𝑦 𝑏𝑖𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑖𝑛𝑘 𝑠𝑡𝑟𝑖𝑝𝑝𝑒𝑑 𝑎𝑤𝑎𝑦 𝑏𝑦 𝑜𝑛𝑒 𝑐𝑎𝑟𝑣𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑟 𝑎𝑛𝑜𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑟. “𝐴 𝑏𝑙𝑎𝑛𝑘 𝑐𝑎𝑛𝑣𝑎𝑠, 𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑑𝑦 𝑡𝑜 𝑚𝑎𝑟𝑘 𝑜𝑢𝑟 𝑠𝑡𝑜𝑟𝑦 𝑖𝑛 𝑚𝑦 𝑓𝑙𝑒𝑠ℎ.”

◉ 𝐻𝑖𝑠 𝑙𝑖𝑝𝑠 𝑡𝑤𝑖𝑠𝑡 𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑜 𝑎 𝑠𝑚𝑖𝑟𝑘, 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝐼 ℎ𝑎𝑡𝑒 𝑚𝑦𝑠𝑒𝑙𝑓 𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑛𝑜𝑡𝑖𝑐𝑖𝑛𝑔 ℎ𝑜𝑤 𝑓𝑢𝑐𝑘𝑖𝑛𝑔 ℎ𝑜𝑡 ℎ𝑒 𝑙𝑜𝑜𝑘𝑠 𝑤ℎ𝑒𝑛 ℎ𝑒’𝑠 𝑏𝑒𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑎𝑛 𝑎𝑏𝑠𝑜𝑙𝑢𝑡𝑒 𝑎𝑠𝑠ℎ𝑜𝑙𝑒.

⋅•⋅⊰∙∘☽༓☾∘∙⊱⋅•⋅

I don't know if I can say it enough, but guys, THIS IS THE BOOK OF YOUR DREAMS! This has everything! High stakes, passion, romance, drama and angst - and so much more! I already have 2 of the books and I plan to add the 3rd and 4rth to my collection (and everything else that Wilcox writes).

[Brita Mackay · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Dani and Vulryn help to rescue Fhord's dragon
They made a very powerful enemy
Now, they have no choice but to hand themselves over to her.

Dani along with her dragon are now headed straight into danger
they are heading straight into the clutches of Dróttning.

Ziselaer, the blue beast who attacked Dani, has been claimed by Vulryn. He has insisted that he is now her drake and no matter what, his allegiance is to Dani over that of Dróttning. But, in Vulryn's intense fervor to gain the blue beasts' loyalty he may have just made the biggest mistake ever in convincing Dani to give up their freedom and maybe even their very lives, to their enemy.

Matthias, who is Ziisalaer's rider, is just as repulsive as Dani had expected. Mattias treats her like she's just another convenient dalliance when their two dragons mate. Although everything changes, when Mattias is injured during Ziselaer and Vulry's first flight together, and this leaves both the riders and the dragons stranded together, trying to figure out if they are friends, enemies...or if they are now something more. And although Dani has this growing connection to Mattias, she still can't deny that she also has an attraction to Mikkael, or that Mikkael hates her for very good reasons.

Will Dani and Vulryn be able to convince two of Vanatia's fiercest fighters to join their struggle for freedom?

If Matthias does choose to stay, can Dani and Ziselaer choose him or the male the fates had originally intended for them?

Divine Dilemma is the stunning third book in the fantasy romance series, Tales of the Vanir. The battle lines will be drawn in this tale with scorching sexual tension and spice, scrumptious banter, and breathtaking betrayals.

Divine Dilemma features a love triangle and ends on a cliffhanger. It will appeal to readers of Fourth Wing (Rebecca Yarros), Crescent City (Sarah J. Maas), and When the Moon Hatched (Sarah A. Parker).

YOU'RE MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS!!! Please read and pay attention to the author's note with the trigger warnings before you read this book. This book contains scenes that may not be suitable for all readers and could be triggering for others. Always remember your mental health is of utmost importance.

Tropes and Themes: Open-Door Spice, Explicit Language, Violence, and Dragons.

Divine Dilemma is the 3rd book in the Tales of the Vanir series by Rochelle Wilcox. OMG! I am in love with this series, I just can't stop reading it, I can't wait to get it on my trophy shelf. Each book just seems like it gets better and better.

I am so in love with Rochelle's writing style. She just enthralls me from the first page and it feels like she's trying to grab me by the hair and drag me right into the world that she's created.

The world-building is just top notch. I close my eyes and I can see the world that she's built, I can smell it, hell, I can almost taste it. The details that Rochelle has added to this world make it so vivid and it's so easy to visualize everything that's going on around the characters as the story unfolds. It's unforgettable.

Each of the characters has been carefully and masterfully crafted to have their personality, their own quirks, they are all equally strong but they also have their flaws that you can see they are constantly working on and trying to flip and turn into strengths. I love their quick wits, their banter, their, determination, and their resolve. They know what they are fighting for and they believe they are doing the right thing, even if everyone else around them doesn't agree.

Even the secondary characters don't feel as though they are just background characters, they are all there for a purpose, they have been created and crafted with just as much time and care as the main characters and they all help to keep the story moving forward and none of them stall the story in any way what so ever. I can't help but love all the characters that Rochelle has created so beautifully and masterfully, she has given a masterclass in how to write and create the perfect characters for the perfect scenes. And in each of the scenes that the characters are in, you always feel like they are there for a purpose and you feel a connection to them and that is not easy to do.

It is so easy to become engrossed and enthralled in this book and then it is even harder to find the willpower to put it down. From trying to save and rescue the dragons, all the battles, and all the betrayals the left me with whiplash and so many different emotions. Divine Dilemma kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time that I was reading. And then there was all the spice and the heat that came with the spice, it hits all the right spots and it's all so good.

If you are looking for a fantasy series that will give you a page-turning action, sexual tension, banter that will have you giggling, and betrayal that will shock your socks off this is the series you've been looking for.

This is yet another book that will leave you on a cliffhanger so be ready to be left hanging by your fingertips. But, you'll still want to add this book and this series to your TBR yesterday it is just that good.

You need to start this series ASAP, this is a series and a book that I have to recommend over and over again. This is a series that you don't want to miss out on. Rochelle Wilcox has outdone herself and with each book she just makes the series that much better. Now if I could get my hands on the next book I would be in heaven. I need to know what happens next yesterday.

[Courtney (Bookish Blonde Barista) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Divine Dilemma delivers another thrilling installment in the Tales of the Vanir series, blending fantasy, romance, and political intrigue in a story that raises the stakes for Dani and her companions. After helping rescue Fhord’s dragon, Dani and Vulryn make the difficult decision to surrender to the Dróttning, placing their lives—and the fate of their mission—into uncertain hands. What follows is a series of tense confrontations, shifting alliances, and unexpected revelations that test their strength and loyalty.

Dani’s character development shines in this book. Torn between two potential love interests, Matthias and Mikkael, she finds herself at the center of an emotional and political storm. The love triangle brings plenty of tension, though at times it feels like it overshadows the broader narrative. Still, the chemistry between characters is strong, and the emotional turmoil feels grounded in the world’s high-stakes conflict.

The world-building continues to impress, with layers of dragon lore, ancient magic, and Norse-inspired mythology woven into the narrative. The story’s pacing is brisk, with chapters that move quickly and keep the reader engaged. The political tension and moral dilemmas faced by the characters add depth without bogging down the action.

While the romantic elements and character dynamics are strong, some readers may find themselves frustrated by the lack of resolution by the end. The cliffhanger leaves several plot threads dangling, making the wait for the next book feel especially long. That said, the buildup is worth it, and fans of the series will likely be satisfied by the growth in both plot and character.

Overall, Divine Dilemma is a solid continuation of the series that deepens the lore and raises the emotional stakes. With compelling characters, rich world-building, and an ending that leaves you wanting more, it earns a well-deserved four stars.

[Nova McCormack · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can’t get enough of this story and world; they pull me in deeper with every book. I’m drowning. But what a way to go!

Dani chose a damn stubborn dragon, and while that fills her with pride, Vulryn claiming her mate Ziselaer feels like a death sentence.

The pull to Ziselaer’s rider, Matthias, is undeniable. He’s a handsome male, sure, but he’s also the Dróttning’s second—cruel, vicious, and not to be trusted.

Still, Dani has no choice but to follow Vulryn’s lead, trusting that she knows her mate well enough to keep her safe, even as I fly straight into the Dróttning’s clutches, directly into the heart of her nest.

New mission. New characters. New villains. And just like that, I’m right back in a chokehold. This world keeps expanding, and the twists and turns have me clinging to the edge of my seat.

In book three, we still have the characters we know and love, but now with more POVs, more dragons, and more fated mates—with a touch of a love triangle. Throw in some old gods and yet another earth-shattering cliffhanger, and—holy crap—I don’t even know what to do with myself.

Dani and Matthias’s dynamic is laced with tension, suspicion, and anger. It’s chaos, it’s complicated, and it’s so good. And then there’s Mikkail—because let’s be honest, we’ve all been in love with the tension between him and Dani since the very beginning. I think his journey in this book is so delicately done. The feelings run deep, his restraint is held tight, and I can’t wait to see how it all plays out.

I can’t help but fall harder and harder with every book. So much so that this morning, I couldn’t wait to pick it back up… only to remember I’d already finished it. Not gonna lie, that sucked.

I guess that means I’m already ramping up for book four.
Bring. It. On!

Thank you so much to Rochelle Wilcox for this gifted arc, and bringing me into this beautiful world you have built!

[Toni Babcock · Rating 4 out of 5]

Divine Dilemma
Book 3 of the Tales of Vanir Series
ARC Review

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️

Uggghhh, I read this ARC the day I got it, typed up my review on my phone, and saved it for release day. Release day came and I couldn’t find my review. 😭 I’d read multiple fan fictions and some of those soap opera wolf shifter stories in the few weeks between so I had to completely reread Book 3 over the weekend for my review. 🫠

I want to start off by saying I enjoyed Book 3 and I enjoyed the other POVs. I think when we get different POVs you get really unique perspectives that help snap other parts of the story into place. Book 3 moved a little slower for me than Book 1 & 2. That’s okay though! This book did its job in giving us a lot of insight that I feel like we were missing in the first two books and helped us understand more.

I loved getting Dani’s, Mikkael’s and Matthias’s POVs. The only thing I wish is that we had gotten a little more in depth with each. Some of their chapters feel like surface level thoughts and I really wanted to get to dive in, especial Mikkael’s & Matthias’s. ESPECIALLY Matthias’s. We didn’t truly learn that he had definitively chosen to betray Dani and 100% stick with the Dróttning until that moment of betrayal. I feel like from a first person POV we should have seen that and more the whole time.

The spice, as always, is delicious and written well. It’s nothing out of left field crazy, which is a-okay, I enjoy both weird and not weird spice—LOL— but each scene is still fantastic and descriptive which are always my favorite.

I’m super excited and slightly anxious for Book 4. 🫣 I still have sooo many questions at the end of Book 3 and feel like there is just sooo much we don’t know and ALL of it is gonna have to be smooshed into the last book. I can’t wait for the ending. Sifa is by far, my most favorite character. I love her attitude, resilience, and determination.

[Katelyn Delone · Rating 5 out of 5]

Okay you did it once again. Gosh!! What are you doing to me with these books!! First off I love that we got my povs in this book it was nice and secondly thank goodness sifa’s dragon is not well the ending of the last book will tell you because you were going to rip my soul apart. I swear though you’re determined to have me screaming out loud because the ending! The betrayal that was felt when I thought someone could change and nope they couldn’t holy crap, but also thank goodness because no not that twisted person. Ugh and the new dragons we get and stories that are shared, and a dang good start to the rebellion but also I mourn the loss of those who won’t be there for the rebellion dragon and human alike expect for that one person. They deserved it even if it is causing complete turmoil and heartbreak for certain individuals. Also can I just say how much I freaking love Vulryn ugh she is such a sassy, baddie dragon and I love her so much when we get to hear her speak it gives fire to my soul and ugh her mate whose been through so much and found a spark of happiness despite his rude rider I love him and I hope he can come back and realize things needed to happen the way they did and he will be better for it. Now we can’t forgot about Thor the cat oh my gosh the cat I love him even though you said the cat would never die I was still a ball of anxiety but my gosh I love to have a pov of what Thor thinks because he is a trip didn’t even balk when that happened just fought his way and I love it so much. I’m so excited to see where the next one goes because I need some vengeance and justice and to see a heartless monster be brought down please make her end so satisfying!!! Okay I’ll go wait for the next heart attack you bring me. Everyone this releases on July 31 2025 and you don’t want to miss out on this journey!

[N.N. Heaven · Rating 5 out of 5]

No more secrets between Sifa and Fhord, only love and healing. As Fhord continues to heal, the saga shifts to Dani. Dani and her dragon risked it all to save Fhord’s dragon from the Nest. Now they’re being hunted by the Dróttning. Do they align themselves with the enemy, trusting foes and opening themselves for betrayal? Dani is torn as she is thrust into a love triangle. With only one excruciating choice, which one will she choose?

Divine Dilemma is breathtaking book three in this romantasy series and one I couldn’t stop reading. There is so much going on and so many characters involved, I loved every minute of it. The world-building is stunning and rivals Rebecca Yarros. The complexity of the plot stimulated my mind. The descriptive narration had me reading late into the night. But it’s the characters which make Divine Dilemma an intoxicating read.

I’d like to talk about Dani. She is a main character in this installment of the series. She is the star of Divine Dilemma, and it was fascinating to read her story. She’s an elf like Sifa, only with different abilities. She’s also caught in a love triangle which tugged at my heart. Conflicts tear at her heart as she tries to work through her feelings. Rochelle Wilcox writes Dani with writing prowess and plenty of emotion. There were scenes where I gasped, cried, laughed, loved, and raged.

This series keeps getting better and better. If you’re like me and crave romantasy with dark themes and sexy scenes, you’re going to love Divine Dilemma. Note: there is a wicked cliffhanger. But never fear, the conclusion to the series releases in less than a month.

My Rating: 5+ stars

Reviewed by: Nancy

This review first appeared: https://substack.com/@nnlightsbookhea...

[Sam Carr · Rating 5 out of 5]

The third book in this series does not disappoint. This series continues to get better and better. It picks up right where book two finished, right after Dani and Vulryn's help to free Tindera. They have made a huge enemy and at the same time Vulryn has claimed an unexpected mate in the ferocious blue dragon!
I loved that this book focuses on Dani and Vulr part of the story. I loved their introduction in the previous book and had hoped for more from them. We do have the same fantastic cast of characters throughout this book too and I loved seeing how the dynamics develop/change between them all as the story opens up further. The multiple povs help bring depth to the story throughout.
Dani's story arc in this book though is fantastic. She's independent, feisty and doesn't back down from a challenge ever, but we get to see a different side to her as the story progresses. I love that she has found her 'family' and can see that they accept her as she is. There is a love triangle element to her story which doesn't necessarily play out as expected. So many times I shouted at my kindle during some of the scenes between her and Matthias!
Bring on book four! I can't wait to see how this whole adventure is rounded up. I know what I would like to happen but after the ending to this one and some of the twists and turns I didn't see coming, I don't know quite what to expect and I'm here for it!
Thank you to Rochelle Wilcox and Literary Inspired for the privilege of being able to read an advanced reader copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own and honestly given.

[Em · Rating 5 out of 5]

📚✨ Divine Dilemma by Rochelle Wilcox
⭐️5/5 | 🌶️3/5

I CAN’T WITH THIS SERIES. I’m OBSESSED. It’s straight-up addicting, and somehow each book just keeps getting better??? Like how is that even possible?? Book three absolutely took over my brain in the best, most chaotic way. I couldn’t put it down. I didn’t want to put it down. From the first chapter to the final page—completely feral over it.

Rochelle Wilcox writes in a way that just grabs you and drags you straight into the story. The world-building? Next level. It’s vivid and immersive and just so freaking cool. I could picture everything like I was right there, ducking behind boulders and whisper-yelling at the characters. And the characters?? I’m attached. Emotionally invested. Ready to fight for them.

This book was a wild ride—dragon rescues, intense battles, betrayal that had me SCREAMING, and omg the spice??? Yeah. It delivers. It’s a slow burn payoff and it’s SO worth it.

If you want a fantasy romance that will keep you on the edge of your seat, make you laugh, gasp, yell “WHAT” at 2AM, and then cry a little because you have to wait for the next one—this is the series for you. Go add it to your TBR like... now. I’ll just be here, spiraling until book four drops 🐉🔥

📖 Reading Mood: When you're in the mood to disappear into a fantasy world with dragons, angst, betrayal, and deliciously slow-burn tension that leaves you wrecked in the best way.

[Danielle Valdez · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book 3 in the series! This book mainly focuses on Dani and Vulryn.

Vulryn finds her mate and believes the horrible rider Matthias should be Dani's even though the fates destined rider Mikkael is the true rider and mate to Dani. We find so much out about how the Drottning controls the dragons, some new places within their world, some other new surprises too. And Thor! He steals a scene or two as well!

I freaking loathe Matthias and reading his POV really needs a thick skin and stomach. He is an evil person.

At this point in the story, Sifa and Fhord are pretty solid and although there is more to her story, a lot of character development is done for them. I think the next book will obviously wrap some questions in regards to Sifa and her world.

Dani and Vulryn are becoming quite the pair and making more a difference than I think was first expected. I think Dani is settling into who she is and she explores this thing with Matthias to make her dragon happy but can't deny her bond her to Mikkael, even though they hate each other.

I always love found family and this book has so much of that. Lots of spice too. This takes you on a wild ride and a crazy ending. Now we wait for book 4 and the wrap up. I can't wait to see what happens!

[Haali M · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ummmm I am SHOCKED. For so many reasons. In Divine Dilemma, book 3 in the Tales of the Vanir series by Rochelle L Wilcox, we have even MORE b*d*ss dragons and their riders stirring things up. THE EMOTIONS in this book!!! I was stunned on many levels throughout this story, and while I have my opinions about certain characters (ugh, amiright?) the drama they add to the plot is undeniable! And it’s designed that way concourse. IYKYK.

I love getting to experience more of Fhord and Sifa, but I absolutely ATE IT UP that we got to experience Dani and Vulryn in such central roles!!! Talk about cool chicks, feathered or not. The dynamics between the characters in this installment were tricky, and ever changing. But the steadfastness of Sifa will forever be a favorite for me. She’s just such a rock for everyone and it’s so pivotal to her character. I can’t imagine her as anything else!

The rebellion REALLY heats up in this one and I can’t wait to read book 4! Massive thank you to Rochelle L Wilcox for the gifted review copy. I’m so happy to be a part of your team! This was my favorite of the series so far and I can absolutely see why Dani and Vulryn were so much fun for her to write!! I really went through the emotions with Divine Dilemma.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️.5

[Bri (meadow_poppy) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tales of the Vanir continues with even more turmoil, fights, lies, and spicy tension.
Divine Dilemma focuses on Dani and her romantic relations compared to Sifa and Fhord being the romantic lead in books 1&2. There are a few more POVs throughout this book as well.
I rated lower due to repeated push and pull and slow forward movement with the main plot. We figure out one key piece of info mentioned at the very end of book two, but it seems that a great big battle will need to be the center focus in the final(?) book.

I'm not normally a fan of love triangles, but I honestly enjoyed the fact that both men are enemies to lovers with Dani by different means. The spice is less in this book, but the tension is soooo there!

The turmoil of fated mates and fated riders was so troubling, it kept me guessing until the end.
And the ending was so quick! I want to cheer but I'm worried over where we left things... see ya in book 4!

Recommend for darker romance lovers. War is never easy, and dragons graphically fight. It's bad*ss but gruesome. Check trigger warnings before starting this series.

[Natalie · Rating 4 out of 5]

As we continue the fight against the Drottning, This is the story of a love triangle and a Dragon Rebellion!!

I loved the third installment of this series, Tales of Vanir. It has all the elements of an amazing Romantasy. Love triangle, mind powers, betrayal, DRAGONS, and an evil Queen.

Our main characters, Sifa and Fhord take a back seat to the push and pull of the love triangle between Dani, Mikkael and Matthias. I love getting to know these secondary characters and see their relationships develop. Dani is pulled between her fated mate and her dragon’s mate’s usurper rider. Who will she choose in the end? I am team Mikkael all the way!! I do wish that Dani would rise up and be a bit stronger in her initial disgust with Matthias. She seems to fall into him way too easily for such a strong of mind woman.

The action in this book is non-stop and I can not wait for the next book to see what happens next. So far, book 3 is my favorite in the series.

Thank you Rochelle Wilcox and Literary Inspired for the ARC and opportunity to read this wonderful series. The review and opinions are all my own.

[Tonika · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book picks up right where the last one left off, where they have saved Tindera and Fhord. Astarot is not doing well and everyone just found out about Valryn and Dani’s possible mates

There is so much smutt and sexy scenes in this book, but what I love the most is story, the plot, the character growth. It grabs me and drags me around with Fhord and Sifa. They found their safety together, they found a family that supports and loves them. They learned and grew and demonstrated what sticking to the good life has to offer is everything a person needs.

Oh, and that is how you deal with a double crosser! OMG that ending was absolutely phenomenal! Wow!

Each book seems to be getting better and better, and I am not even sure how that happens.

Key points in no particular order
- manipulation, Lies and deceit
- Adventure and secret islands
- Hypnotic plants/drugging
- T0rt-ure/captivity
- Death of a loved one
- Second chances
- Rebellion
- Shifters
- The Old Gods
- Magic
- Extra Spicy 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️

[Jess Pierce · Rating 5 out of 5]

When your mate is the most cruel dragon in the Drottning’s nest and his rider is the one who made him that way…..

When your mate says he feels nothing but hate for you and can’t have his destined dragon…..

A Divine Dilemma indeed…..

Divine Dilemma continues the Tales of Vanir series in much the same way as the first two books…… fast paced, enthralling, and full of secrets.

Wilcox continues her world of dragons, magic, and a group ready to burn the world to save it. As the story continues, there are more secrets to uncover, allies and enemies to sus out, and unexpected bonds that must be tested.

The additional view points of Dani, Mikkael, and Matthias add depth, intrigue, and more entanglements to the story. Deciding who to trust as this plot moves along will keep you guessing from one minute to the next.

Come along as Sifa and Fhord’s story intensifies and the final battle gets closer. You won’t regret joining.

[Sheri · Rating 5 out of 5]

One thing that made this book even more interesting was the multiple POV changes. We still see from Sifa and Fhord but there are a lot from Dani, Matthias, and Mikkael.

I really like Dani and Vulryn. They're the true baddies but admittedly a bit psycho.

I like that this one focuses on another pairing. This one has a bit of a triangle as Dani fights between Mikkael and Matthias.

Good lord it's intense. Nail biting. Constant action or intense spice. Completely unputdownable. One more chapter is a lie you'll tell yourself.

There are so many dragons. And we have lots of conversations with them. Lots of battles. They are very involved and an integral part of everything.

I've said it in reviews for the previous books and I'll say it again - this is better than Fourth Wing, TOG, all those. You've gotta read it!

[HeadCanonHeadCase · Rating 3 out of 5]

While still following Sifa and Fhord, Divine Dilemma focuses more on Dani, Mikkael, and Matthias. It also brings the Nordic inspired elements back into play. The series is building up to an epic reveal and showdown.

Read if you like:
-Dragon Riders
-Fated Mates
-Love Triangles
-Rebels & Rebellions
-Nordic Inspired Fantasy World

I'm so glad the Nordic inspired elements of this fantasy world are back in play! It was one of my favorite parts of book one and then book two didn't have as much. I was also surprised at how much page time Dani, Mikkael, and Matthias received. I was not expecting it, but I was nice to get to know more about the riders with Sifa and Fhord. The love triangle was interesting due to the added element of the dragons. I felt Dani was a little hardheaded about the whole situation, but then again so were the two males.

[Kayla Nowakowski · Rating 5 out of 5]

“He is the radiance in my world, the flame in my gut that burns for him alone, the joy in my life.”

This third book in the Tales of the Vanir series had me in all the feels! I was kicking my feet and squealing, sobbing, and getting ready to throw my kindle at different points. Dani and Vulryn play a very large roll in the story, as do Matthias, Mikkael, and Ziselaer. Our poor group goes through so much and fate is definitely messing with them because there’s no way any normal person has as much bad luck as they all have. Vulryn has quickly become a favorite character (her sass is amazing) and I just want to give her a giant hug. We’ve got more spice, more drama, and a revolution to lead in this installment and I can’t wait to see how everything is going to wrap up in book 4!

[Kianna K · Rating 4 out of 5]

This series has gotten better and better with each book! I love how much everything has developed and the way new characters have been incorporated. The story expands a lot in this book with more POVs.

The MCs are also shifting away from Ford and Sifa and onto a new couple, a couple who I can't wait to see how it works out in the next book.

I don't love love triangles but the story between Dani, Matthias, and Mikkael was unique, with all the different mating bonds and connections coming into play. There's so much hate and love and the fine line between the two.

The end of the book was especially un-put-downable and the cliffhanger ending left me so anxious for the next book! I'm so thankful we don't have to wait long for the next one.

ARC Review 🤍 All opinions are my own.

[Elizabeth Snow · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book 3 in the Tales of the Vanir left me in such a tailspin that I didn’t write this review right away – I had to process my feelings! This whole series has challenged me, being spicier and darker than I tend to read, but this book challenged me in a new way, with a character (a dragon) who doesn’t follow plans, trusting in her own instincts. At first it really bothered me – she’s a vicious gal – but it’s the strength of her character that resonates most strongly almost a month after finishing this story.

I’m excited that Book 4 comes out the beginning of September ’25 and I can continue this adventure! Big changes are now in play for our team and the story is expanding further than I’d even anticipated.

[Zoe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yet another fantastic piece of work by Ms Wilcox!
This novel picks up right where the last left off, following the ever harrowing journey of the MCs. The couple from book 1 + 2 is followed again in this book, as they continue to fight their nature of keeping secrets from one another.
With so much left to learn about one another, they deepen their bond as they go to war with the worst enemy of the land. Along the way, they find new friends (both dragon and human/elven) who dedicate themselves to the cause.
This novel also introduces a new set of fated mates and star crossed lovers. A battle of closely tied love and hate and a battle against fate.
In tune with the rest of the series, your heartstrings will be pulled, tension peaked, and giggles at times too.

[Becky · Rating 5 out of 5]

📚 ARC review 📚

This series is addicting....
In book 3, we get Dani's POV as she learns of dragon, Vulryn, claiming Ziselaer as her mate. She convinces Dani to surrender in order to gain his trust. His rider, Matthias, is an a@@hole. But when he's severely injured during their dragons' first flight, he changes, and Dani feels drawn towards him.
But then there's Miikkael, who hates Dani, but is Ziselaer's destined rider.

I absolutely love the characters in this series, especially the dragons. Dani and Vulryn's relationship makes me laugh every time Dani says " My badass bitch of a beast ".

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

The writing in this series is beyond amazing! It truly speaks to the reader's heart and soul, making it impossible to put down.

The author has this incredible way of drawing you into the story. With her vivid descriptions, you can totally picture everything as it happens, really connecting with the characters. It's like being right there, cheering them on through all their ups and downs.

I totally recommend giving this book a read! Just a heads up to pay attention to the author's note about trigger warnings. Some scenes might not be for everyone and could be a bit much for certain readers. Always make sure to take care of your mental health!

[Stephanie Skiffington · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series is soooo addicting and it just keeps getting better with each book. Rochelle is amazing at world and character building. I actually feel the characters emotions and got quite upset at some points. Dani and Matthias tension is so high, but yet they "hate" each other. I really love how the dragons are described in these books, I can honestly picture them right in front of me. I also want Mikkael and Dani to be together because they are actually pretty adorable. I don't trust Matthias one bit! The big thing that happened towards the end literally made me cry iykyk! I'm so excited to read the last book for this amazing series!