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Stone Circle #1

The Borderlands Princess

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Princess Sorcha has always been destined to unite the Fae and human kingdoms, so when her betrothal to the High King of Fae becomes official, she accepts her destiny wholeheartedly-that is, until she meets the gallant Lord of the Borderlands. Lord Conall makes her question her future and want more for herself than a marriage-of-alliance. But, when exposed secrets torch her plans, she must choose between upholding her duty or following her dreams. One mistake, one wrong choice and it's not just her heart that will suffer, it's her entire kingdom...

318 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 28, 2022

1186 people are currently reading
8596 people want to read

About the author

Ophelia Wells Langley

15 books138 followers
Ophelia Wells Langley spent her formative years as a writer shaped by a mild obsession with Celtic mythology, a strong taste for romantic fantasy, and a penchant for escapism. Her goal is simple: create steamy, character-driven stories that are inclusive and diverse. She writes spicy adult fantasy romance with lush worlds and whimsical lore. Most of her stories feature stone circles as portals that connect you to other characters within her fantasy universe.

You can follow her on Instagram @opheliawlangleyauthor or on Tiktok @opheliawellsauthor. For exclusive stories, art, and a great community become a member on her Patreon by searching Ophelia Wells Langley.

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5 stars
419 (22%)
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538 (29%)
3 stars
580 (31%)
2 stars
237 (12%)
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74 (4%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 236 reviews
Profile Image for Aoife - Bookish_Babbling.
393 reviews403 followers
Want to read
June 30, 2023
*******

Pre-review - nabbed for FREE until 30/6/23 thanks @StuffYourKindle for putting it on my radar with the keywords: "fated mates, diverse cast, forbidden love, forced proximity, high fae, epic fantasy, elemental magic, mythical creatures, M/F, curvy FMC, older FMC, only one horse, you're injured, strong FMC"

The "only one horse" trope is now my new fav and will get it's own GR shelf to rival all those "only one bed" reads cos duh 🐴 🦄 will obvs be the superior trope...I can actually think of a few books previously read which can also slot on to that shelf already 🤭
And to think I almost bypassed this because of my bias against *shudder*fated mates*shudder* - I'm going to try to overcome it on this occasion 🤞🤞🤞 the cantankarous cynic that lives rent free within me and 🙄 can be kept at bay
Profile Image for Erin Mainord.
Author 3 books346 followers
October 12, 2022
This was a fun and thrilling read following Sorcha, a 30 something protagonist, on her journey in taking her place as queen of the fae while quickly learning her perception of the world around her may not be exactly as it seems.
I appreciated that the characters in this book are aged a tad older than what is common in most books of this genre, and Conall was all the more delicious of a love interest because of his wiser nature.
This world is one easily lost in with vivid details and little clues to try to piece together the bigger puzzle of what is really going on.
Thank you to author, Ophelia Wells Langley, for providing me with an ARC to read before The Borderlands Princess releases in late November.
Profile Image for Florien (flofairytales).
168 reviews4 followers
December 9, 2023
Teeny spoiler towards the end! (Will be pointed out in the review).

I came across this book through instagram. One of those little gems tugged away between all of the ACOTAR and Empyrean overload...

And boy was I surprised by this one.

A 30+ y/o woman on her way to meet her future husband to ensure peace between the Fae and Human world.

Sorcha is truly a breath of fresh air in the middle of these 17 year old assassin rude drop dead gorgeous girls, we see absolutely almost everywhere nowadays.

What I love about this book is that it's not too long and not too short. Nothing is dragged out unnecessarily. The build up between Sorcha and her bodyguard Conall is paced at the right speed.

The author, Ophelia, manages to capture the world beautifully as well as the magic.

The only little dot of criticism I have is mainly about the writing quality in the beginning. Some sentences contained a massive about of the same use of nouns/adjectives/adverbs. It was a bit clonky to read and I would have preferred if Ophelia had used some synonyms here and there just to let the words flow more.
This was merely in the beginning and I didn't encounter anymore later on in the book.

Now for the teeny spoiler part, where I will mainly be bashing other reviewers...
I've read some reviews from people conplaining about the timeline in the story?
And all I can say that if you'd just read the book properly...as in actually read and not scan the sentences...
You will figure out why Sorcha's p.o.v. chapters are chronologically different compared to Conall's p.o.v. chapters.

I mean I figured it out and English isn't even my first language 🙃

I digress... all I can say is that this book was a joy to read and I can't wait to start the sequel!
Profile Image for Mel Weisbecker.
185 reviews8 followers
October 24, 2022
Let me preface this post by saying I have become an ARC reader (a surprise to none who know me) in exchange for my honest reviews and it is the best thing ever.

My first opportunity came in #TheBorderlandsPrincess by @opheliawlangleyauthor and OOOOOH wow I was not disappointed by any means. Go follow the author. Go pre-order. You will NOT regret it.

I like a plethora of novels from great literature to fantasy to historical romance to some more… adult content. This is the perfect combo of STRONG heroine, match made in the fates, and the kind of hot content that compels you to keep turning the pages.

Spoilers only in names.

Sorcha is the heroine you want to emulate after watching her development. Conall is the tease we all need more of. Ophelia will keep you guessing where you’re like is that?? Could it be? And you just have to keep reading to find out.

Im also in love with Thorne’s character. You just have to read it. You really do.

10/10. Pacing was great. You got to know the characters and root for them.

I will be re-reading again and can’t wait for the sequels 😩 #borderlandsprincess #bookstagram #arcreader #arcreadersofinstagram #honestreviews #fantasybooks #futurenovel
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for E.C. Garrett.
Author 10 books165 followers
January 5, 2023
OOF! What a magnificent debut novel from OWL! My goodness, this was such a triumph!

Morally grey characters, a lush world, enemies-to-lovers, one horse (swoon), friends-to-lovers, arranged marriage, plus SO MUCH MORE!

The world is lush and the pace is really smooth. There is just enough description on everything.

I love the main character, Sorcha, as well as the side characters. I had some theories of what might happen but I did not at all predict the twists and turns. I was HOOKED and racing to finish it.

The romance is steamy and you'll fall in love with Connall.

I need book 2 right away!
Profile Image for Rae’s Library.
146 reviews4 followers
November 29, 2022
This book was absolutely amazing. I could not put it down. I absolutely loved Sorcha. With her love and acceptance for everyone she meets no matter how different they seem from her. I love that she has such a sense of duty to her people and I can’t wait to see what comes next in the series and continue to see her growth as a person and as the future of monarch. The brownies are my favorite type of fae. I’m so glad they were in here. I am hoping to see a lot more with the brownies. Just even the cute little scenes in there it’s just makes the story so much better.
2 reviews
November 6, 2022
I had the privilege of being an ARC reader for this book and I really loved it. It focuses on Sorcha and her journey through the fae realm to marry the high king. However, her journey takes a turn and I did not see it coming!
This book takes place after her novella, and I really enjoyed the novella because we got to see why the high king is the way he is. Her writing is easy to follow and I just got lost in her world building. Great read!
Profile Image for Jenna Willis.
334 reviews14 followers
July 17, 2023
Loved This Book!!!

I can’t believe I didn’t read this sooner! This book has enriched my soul. The characters are absolutely incredible and the world building…. I could literally picture every single place with ease on this story. The magic and the creatures of all kinds and the fated mates aspect along with the spicy spice was all so so good. I was completely sucked in to this wonderful land and I can’t wait until book 2! Ophelia Wells Langley just became one of my auto buy authors. *clap clap clap* Well Done!!
Profile Image for Kaytlin Sanders.
23 reviews
July 2, 2023
10/5 stars. I devoured this book in hours. The fated mate trope in this book was addicting to say the least. Conall’s character was so attentive and caring and had me drooling over him. I really loved that the MFC was able to handle herself but also needed to be rescued a few times. Thank the good lord for stock your kindle day because I can’t wait to shout from the rooftops about this adult fantasy romance. I am running to Amazon to pre order the second book in this series now!
Profile Image for Becks.
11 reviews1 follower
June 28, 2023
This review will contain SPOILERS!!!

*************

EDIT: a year later, I want to share some thoughts about this book now that it’s had plenty of time to simmer.

This book is still one of my absolute favorite books. It’s not often that I want to go back and annotate, find all of the Easter eggs, and just live in that world. The Borderlands Princess gave me that and more.

While they aren’t necessary to read this book, I highly recommend reading Of Smoke and Shadows and Whispers in the Wings. An already lush and vibrant world comes even more alive as you get to learn more about the other characters.

I can’t wait for the cliffhanger questions to be answered in the second and final book of this incredible duology!


**************



I received an ARC of this book and my only complaint is that means I have to wait longer to read book two!!



I absolutely loved this book from start to finish. The writing has such a nice flow that it’s easy to slip into the world and stay there. The plot kept me on my toes and had me asking questions but in the way that you’re supposed to have questions. It becomes clear early on that our main character’s perception of her reality isn’t what it seems. Through Conall’s POV we see that something is wrong with Sorcha’s timeline and it leaves the reader excitedly looking for bread crumbs and clues regarding what is happening!

I can’t wait to see what answers and twists lie in book two!!
Profile Image for Susan.
15 reviews
November 24, 2024
I picked up Borderlands Princess after speaking with the author, Ophelia, at a book convention and was immediately intrigued with the details of the storyline. When she mentioned the heroine was a mid-thirties, curvaceous woman – I couldn’t own this book quick enough!

Borderlands Princess contains beautiful elements of a fantasy world that come to life in well written detail. The main character Sorcha is written in a way that draws you in, connecting you through her vulnerable thoughts, witty intelligence, and royal demeanor. I was beguiled immediately, and lived the adventure alongside Sorcha, not stopping to rejoin the real world for two days straight. This book is a must read. If you wish to be captivated by a world of magic, mystery, battles with incredible characters that include dwarfs, brownies, nymphs, shifters and fated mates then grab this book to fall into a world you will not want to leave. I have pre-ordered book two and am anxiously awaiting its arrival.

Sidenote – I secretly want a house brownie.
1 review
December 23, 2022
This book rapidly pulls you in from the get-go with it's electric pacing and doesn't let up. Filled with a blend of romance, action and mystery all woven together seamlessly together for a very entertaining read.

One of the challenges many fantasy romance novels have is essentially pausing the story for the sake of world building. Borderlands Princess doesn't have that problem. The nature of magic and the history of the world are peppered throughout the main story without disrupting the flow of the plot. Even the most successful authors struggle with this but this book doesn't and executes very smoothly.

My only nitpick...... VERY MINOR SPOILER ALERT


is that my favorite little brownie in the whole book did not get as much story time as I would've liked. #JusticeforTufts
Profile Image for Sophie.
131 reviews
August 25, 2024
I feel like for me being such an easy person to please with fantasy it’s odd that I just couldn’t get into this book. Around 40% was when I decided I wasn’t going to DNF but it never hooked me and I just can’t get myself to even give the second book a chance. I really liked the concept of the book but for me being such a big character person these characters just were not developed and rounded enough for me to develop any attachment to them. The relationship also had zero development to me and no passion even with them being fated mates. With this book having such good reviews I’m thinking maybe it’s just a me thing? Not sure but this book just wasn’t my cup of tea unfortunately
Profile Image for River Bennet.
Author 7 books84 followers
July 20, 2023
This is one of the best books I've ever read! The world was incredibly rich and I want to just dive in there.

The main character being thirty and curvy was a breath of fresh air and I loved the dynamics between her and Lord Conall.

Achill is truly terrifying, which you know going into the book if you read the prequel novella, Of Smoke and Shadows (which I HIGHLY recommend).

The side characters come close to stealing the show but Sorcha stands tall as a bad-ass FMC.

Can't wait for book 2!!
Profile Image for Sam | Haus of Fables.
223 reviews736 followers
September 9, 2024
This was a very fast paced and quick read. I loved the older FMC (age 30) and the take on the King Arthur reimagining with all the creatures we would expect. I thought I new where the story was going but it did surprise me quite a few times which I love. There was also some quite dark moments, I would highly suggest reading the content warnings before reading them (they are at the back of the book—unfortunately I didn’t realise they were at the back so I was a bit blindsided by a couple)
For a shorter book there was good character growth & interesting plot. I did find some moments seemed to come out of nowhere that I felt could have used with a bit more build up. But overall it is a fun romantasy. I hope to read B2 and finish the duology in the future.

Profile Image for Charlie.
92 reviews5 followers
December 3, 2022
I loved that Sorcha (FMC) was 30 years old, had stretch marks and thick thighs. It's not common that the female mc is plus size and an older character as well and I loved that a lot!
+ In general there’s a lot of good representation and diverse character’s overall which I think is really cool!

You could feel the connection between Sorcha and Conall right away. As they are traveling to the High King's kingdom I loved how they slowly bonded.

Thorne was so quick/witty and I loved them. Definitely my favourite character in the book!
All the creatures were described so well and the brownies were absolutely adorable!

I really enjoyed how the book was written and how descriptive it was. There were a couple times I was a little confused but when I was nearing the end I understood and it was a shock at how the author wrote the plot that well.

I did like the magic system but I wished we could’ve learned more about the kings powers - Although I understand why we don’t.

The spice in the book isn’t not over the top but it definitely adds to the story and this is a fantasy/romance book with a little sprinkle of spice.

Overall: it was a great book that I really enjoyed. I’d recommend it and have also put the sequel in my tbr for when it comes out next year.

Please keep in mind this in a new adult romance and indented for audiences 18+ also be sure to check TWs.

I am extremely thankful to @katieandbreypa & @opheliawlangleyauthor for this arc. 💖💖💖
248 reviews4 followers
October 2, 2024
Ophelia bravely decided to re-edit her book and very kindly gave me an ARC copy to read. I had read the both books in the duology last month and gave them combined 5 stars. I think if I had reviewed them seperately, I would have given The Borderlands Princess 4 stars and The Stone Cirlce Queen 5.

She hasn't changed the overall story at all, but rather tidied up grammer, fleshed out some scenes and other scenes are now much clearer, which overall makes it an easier and smoother read when you're not trying to work out what happens when.

I still love all the characters - Tufts, Hazel, Opal all have a peice of my heart along with mice from Cinderella. I love that Sorcha is "flawed" or what I would call human, she clearly has anxiety, and again a big round of applause for her being 30, curvey and still darn sexy! Thorne is still amazing as they are, and I can't wait to see what will happen in the upcoming novella, she's got planned for them.

The best way I can describe the changes is that the orginal was like a 40s black and white movie, and the new edit is a 90s technicolour action movie - or at least that's how it played out in my brain.

With all of the above, I've decided to give it 5 stars. I think this will become a book I'll re-read over the years, there's just something comforting about it.

I can't wait to see what Ophelia has in store for us going forward, because she and River Bennet have certainly been sharing things that looks sus.
Profile Image for Stephanie.
630 reviews37 followers
February 2, 2023
Short Review

Overall this was a finely written book, the characters were likable, the world-building solid; nevertheless, my attention was not caught.

The book is riddled with overused tropes that sadly detract attention more than attract. The tropes used have been done many times over, and more effectively. And the "banter" between the leads is rather cringeworthy.

The line "see something you like" is used time and time again to the point I rolled my eyes each time it appeared. It didn't measure to romantic banter whatsoever.

Moreover a late game plot twist is introduced, changing much of the previous narrative. For some this may strike well, but for others, including myself, it was more of a head scratcher than exclamation point.

I definitely didn't dislike this one. But it's not a story I intend to continue, sadly.

I hope it is for others though!
Profile Image for realms.of.romantasy (Cara B).
177 reviews29 followers
May 5, 2023
Loved loved loved this book!!

"Not everything is as it seems...." Oh Conall, how I love thee!

I absolutely adored this book! I devoured it all to quickly, twice even! I am so very happy that I took the chance and picked up a book from a "new to me" author!

It made my heart giddy that the FMC is not your typical 20 year old. I love that she is older and curvy and has lived somewhat of a life (albeit sheltered) due to the treaty. Her adventures kept me on the edge of my seat. The end of the book came way too fast and left me wanting more of Sorcha, Conall and Thorne!

I can't wait for the next book!
Profile Image for Amanda.
330 reviews5 followers
July 8, 2023
So first I absolutely love the fact our FMC Sorcha is in her 30s. She knows her own mind and isn't afraid to let people know what she thinks. Sorcha is also able to admit when she doesn't know something and seeks to gain that knowledge. If you love a strong female lead, a fae lord love interest, more fae, shifters, magic and of course some spice please give The Borderlands Princess a read. I am patiently waiting for Book 2 to continue Sorcha's story.
4 reviews
April 11, 2023
Delightful and oh, so good

The Borderlands Princess was a joy to read, full of fun, exciting moments and even made me smile quite a few times. I'm an avid reader and recommend this one to people who enjoy a delightful story.
Profile Image for Lacy Chantell.
Author 15 books93 followers
May 24, 2023
Must Read

The author did an amazing job sprinkling bread crumbs throughout the book and giving you different POVs to grasp onto and trying to guess what is happening. The plot twist is one I didn't see coming.
414 reviews1 follower
May 11, 2023
This book delivered! Morally grey Fae, one horse, fated mates and a discovery of family unknow. I enjoyed every moment of this book, it was so well written.
Profile Image for Helen Garraway.
Author 18 books313 followers
January 14, 2023
An enjoyable fantasy adventure with a touch of a sleeping beauty fairytale retelling which all makes sense by the time you reach the end of the book.

I must admit there were moments that didn't sit quite right with me at the beginning, after all Lord Conall is escorting his King's future wife, but as the story progresses, I warmed to Conall as the desirable shifter that steals Sorcha's heart.

A wonderfully described world, with great characters, and a nice twisty plot, certainly one I didn't expect. Great to see a thirty-something heroine who has lived a bit, even if she is naive about all things fae, and some diverse representation included in the character list. Plenty of action to keep you guessing and some spicy bits to keep the heat level going.

Loved the way Sorcha's magic manifests and the descriptions of how the enviroment around her reacts were lovely. The lesser fae are adorable. Maybe we should all be leaving gifts for our invisible helpers!

Some of the timing could have been integrated more smoothly. It was confusing with Conall incarcerated for a year, but he doesn't seem to be missed, and it doesn't seem as if Sorcha spends a year at the palace fending off the King.

All in all, a well written debut novel which will keep you entertained with characters who will grow on you as the story progresses.
Profile Image for Falling_Into_Ink.
157 reviews
October 16, 2024
If i could give this book more stars I would.
I absolutely devoured this book and I'm refraining from starting book 2 right now just so I can have time to write this review, but as soon as I hit send I'll be starting it)

First of all, if a FMC is independent, sassy, intelligent and most of all IS A GROWN UP and not a 20 something destined to save the world then I am here for it. Sorcha is such an amazing FMC, not only is she all these things she openly admits her inexperience, she's a flawed person (as we all are) and her growth is so fun to be along with.

Conall is equally brilliant, funny, cute, puts his foot in it just like a really person fumbling with their feelings would do, and didn't just have feelings for her because a mate bond said to, you can feel the genuine feelings develop (admittedly from sorchas point of view)

Thorne. There's not enough words for how much I want to know about this charecter. And how happy I was to be told they will get a novella.

Hazel is such an amazing and wonderful side charecter and it shows you dont need to only make your main charecters interesting and fun.

I am itching to read book two and am going to do so right now.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Jennifer Lashbrook.
166 reviews
May 29, 2025
Very interesting read

I enjoyed this book! It was very interesting and can’t wait to read the second! Sorcha is a very strong female character.
Profile Image for TheNorksWife .
270 reviews1 follower
July 7, 2024
I went into this series with low expectations, and I feel like if I went in with any real expectations I probably wouldn’t have enjoyed it as much as I did. The characters were developed beautifully and the story was actually incredibly interesting.
Profile Image for Katalyn Lutkin.
19 reviews2 followers
November 10, 2022
I received an ARC from the wonderful Ophelia and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
First I have to say my excitement for this book was met and so far exceeded! I was not able to put the book down or stop thinking about it for days and while I am prone to make books my entire personality, it doesn’t usually happen so quickly when starting a new series. I was hooked from the start and am already dying for the next book!

The Borderland Princess follows our FMC Sorcha, a 30 something, curvy, woman as she goes to fulfill her part of a treaty signed before she was born. During her travels with Lord Conall to the castle she starts to learn more about life in Fae and forge connections with people she will consider to be her friends. She continues to learn more about life in Fae under King Achill and let's just say I wasn’t prepared for what was going to happen.

I absolutely love that Sorcha was an older MC (and close to my age and body type) as it can be hard to relate to some of the younger MCs in other books (don’t get me wrong I still love the books when they are). I think having Sorcha be more relatable to myself made me love the book even more. I think Ophelia does an amazing job detailing the world, magic, and characters and in a way that isn’t overwhelming like some fantasy books can be. She also has a way of (forgive the irony) making the characters human. She doesn’t hide their flaws or mistakes in her writing (which can be easy to do as I’m sure any author wants their character to be perfect) but rather lets her characters embrace them when necessary and I think being able to do that as an author is so important and helps to make characters more well-rounded and if necessary likable or not.

I also really love that Ophelia included not only trigger warnings with the book but also the good things it includes like body positivity. Please read this book when it comes out at the end of the month! It was so good and I NEED to talk with people about it because that ending has me a bit in a spiral.
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