Olivia & Daisy with Antonie de Pluvinel - The Old Masters

When Killgregory Horse Trekking Centre in Kerry faces closure, three friends, Olivia, Ella, and Finn, must find a way to save it. The discovery of an old horsemanship book magically transports Olivia to 17th century Paris, where she learns the art of classical dressage from legendary French horseman Antoine de Pluvinel. Armed with his wisdom, she returns to teach her friends, transforming their Connemara ponies into advanced show ponies for a high stakes talent show in Cork City.

But with fierce competition, a broken down trailer, and time running out, can they pull off their daring horse routine and save Killgregory Horse Trekking Centre before it’s too late?

Brimming with horse riding tips, fascinating equestrian history, and a touch of time travel magic, this exciting pony adventure is perfect for horse lovers aged 8 to 14 and is an ideal gift for birthdays and Christmas!

The Old Masters Series

This book is part of the Old Masters series. The Old Masters series is a remarkable historical time travel series, celebrating the famous historical figures including Antonie de Pluvinel, William Cavendish, the first Duke of Newcastle, and François Robichon de La Guérinière. This captivating pony adventure series is written by award-winning Irish equestrian author, Elaine Heney.

Reviews

Olivia and her friends need to find a way to save their local horse trekking centre and their beloved Connemara ponies. Help is found in a very unexpected way from Antoine de Pluvinel, the first of the French riding masters, who has had great influence on modern dressage. I thoroughly enjoyed this story of determination and perseverance in the face of long odds. Wonderful characters, excellent horsemanship instruction and a great book! Tracey G. 

Another excellent adventure in the best of horsemanship. Practical examples of real riding challenges are drawn from the enduring works of Classical Masters. This is a great story of how hard work and trust create their own magic. Highly recommended for anyone interested in supporting young riders, and there are good things between these pages for older riders, too. The best riders keep circling back to foundations. Robert H.

I can’t say enough good things about this book. It’s got it all… great plot development and pacing of the story, a problem that threatens a group of horse loving childrens’ pursuit of what they love best, Connemara ponies, a lot of spunk in those aforementioned children, a little history, a little magic, some snooty girls, a couple of lucky breaks, competition tension…you name it, it’s all here.  Young readers - actually any reader - would enjoy this book, which is part of a themed series that might get young riders interested in learning more about the European masters of centuries ago. Doris Q.

I absolutely loved it, and could see it being taken quickly from our school library! The pace was perfect with a steady build up of tension before the climax which brought a tear to my eye. Overall the themes of friendship and kindness are woven seamlessly through the story and I love the ending which leads the reader knowing another adventure lies ahead but unsure of where that adventure will take place and what discipline it will entail. Fabulous. Jane D.