The Old Masters Book Series By Elaine Heney

Aisling & Bluebell with Antonie de Pluvinel:

Twelve-year-old Aisling dreams of showjumping triumph with her cherished Connemara pony, Bluebell. Facing rising livery fees, her only chance to keep Bluebell is to win the upcoming Limerick showjumping competition. Battling bullying at the yard and her own self-doubt, Aisling's life changes when she uncovers an old book that transports her to 1600s Paris. There, she meets the renowned riding master Antoine de Pluvinel, who imparts the true art of horsemanship. With the competition near, can Aisling apply these lessons to secure victory and save Bluebell? Packed with riding insights, rich equestrian history, and a hint of time-travel intrigue, this pony adventure is ideal for horse enthusiasts aged 8 to 14. The Old Masters series, from acclaimed Irish equestrian author Elaine Heney, also explores the lives of historic figures like William Cavendish and François Robichon de La Guérinière, making it a distinguished collection of historical time travel fiction for young readers. 

James & Jigsaw with Antonie de Pluvinel:

Twelve-year-old James finds school dull, history irrelevant, and reading tedious—until his parents enrol him in horse riding lessons in Carlow. Struggling with difficult ponies and strict trainers, he nearly gives up until he stumbles upon an old horsemanship book that transports him to 17th century Paris. There, he meets the esteemed French horseman Antoine de Pluvinel, whose patient guidance motivates James to improve both his riding and his attitude toward school. When James witnesses harsh training methods at his own stable, can he confront these practices, overcome his fears, and demonstrate that true horsemanship is founded on respect rather than force? Filled with practical riding advice, rich equestrian history, and subtle time travel elements, this engaging pony adventure is perfect for horse enthusiasts aged 8 to 14. Part of the acclaimed Old Masters series by award-winning Irish author Elaine Heney, it also highlights historical figures like William Cavendish and François Robichon de La Guérinière.

Olivia & Daisy with Antonie de Pluvinel:

Facing the threat of closure, Killgregory Horse Trekking Centre in Kerry depends on three friends—Olivia, Ella, and Finn—to save it. When Olivia discovers an old horsemanship book, she is transported to 17th century Paris, where she learns classical dressage from the esteemed French rider Antoine de Pluvinel. Bringing his teachings back to her friends, they train their Connemara ponies into skilled show performers for a crucial talent competition in Cork City. With tough rivals, a broken trailer, and limited time, will they succeed in their daring routine and preserve the centre? Filled with practical riding advice, rich equestrian history, and a hint of time travel, this thrilling pony adventure is ideal for horse lovers aged 8 to 14. Part of the acclaimed Old Masters series by award-winning Irish equestrian author Elaine Heney, it also explores historic figures such as Pluvinel, William Cavendish, and François Robichon de La Guérinière.

Grace & Chester with William Cavendish:

Twelve-year-old Grace is eager to compete at the Ballywater Show in Tipperary with her Connemara pony, Chester. When the show committee bans bitless bridles, her excitement turns to disappointment. Unsure how to challenge this rule, Grace’s journey begins when a mysterious pink horsebox and its eccentric owner, Lisa, introduce her to an old book by 17th century English horseman William Cavendish. Transported back in time, she learns invaluable lessons on kindness, skill, and horsemanship from Cavendish. Empowered by this wisdom, Grace returns determined to organize a bitless riding showcase and change minds. Will she persuade the Ballywater Show committee before time runs out? Rich in riding advice, equestrian history, and time-travel intrigue, this engaging pony adventure is perfect for horse fans aged 8 to 14. Part of the Old Masters series by award-winning Irish equestrian author Elaine Heney, it highlights historic figures including Antoine de Pluvinel, William Cavendish, and François Robichon de La Guérinière.

Emma & Buttercup with François Robichon de La Guérinière:

Emma’s lively Connemara pony, Buttercup, has a habit of sudden spooks that have led to dangerous falls. Faced with the prospect of selling Buttercup, Emma’s fortunes change when she discovers an old horsemanship book that transports her to the Manège des Tuileries in 18th century Paris. There, the renowned French horseman François Robichon de La Guérinière teaches her that true horsemanship is rooted in understanding rather than mere control. Challenged to interpret Buttercup’s behaviour, Emma must act quickly to uncover the cause before her parents decide to sell. Rich with riding tips, historical insight, and a hint of time-travel magic, this pony adventure from Co. Meath is ideal for horse enthusiasts aged 8 to 14. Part of the Old Masters series by award-winning Irish equestrian author Elaine Heney, it celebrates iconic figures such as Antoine de Pluvinel, William Cavendish, and François Robichon de La Guérinière.

Mia & Mango with François Robichon de La Guérinière:

At a local Dublin show, twelve-year-old Mia and her Connemara pony, Mango, notice young horses being pushed aggressively in competitions. Troubled by a conversation between trainers about the jumping classes, Mia’s concerns deepen. After borrowing an old horsemanship book from a mysterious mobile library, Mia is transported to the Manège des Tuileries in 18th-century Paris, where she meets the legendary horseman François de la Guérinière. There, she learns about the physical maturity of horses and the importance of responsible training. Motivated by this knowledge, Mia and her friends Kate and Liam enter the national school science competition with a project on horse development and training methods. Despite opposition and sabotage from influential figures in the equestrian world, can they reach the finals? Packed with practical riding advice, rich equestrian history, and an element of time-travel magic, this thrilling pony adventure is perfect for horse lovers aged 8 to 14. Part of the Old Masters series by award-winning Irish equestrian author Elaine Heney, it celebrates historic icons like Antoine de Pluvinel, William Cavendish, and François Robichon de La Guérinière.

Daniel & Dougal with François Robichon de La Guérinière:

Twelve-year-old Daniel and his Connemara pony, Dougal, aspire to win the Handy Pony Class at the Kilkenny Show and receive the “Bob Sanders Cup” in honour of his grandfather. Their journey takes an unexpected turn when Daniel borrows an old horsemanship book from a mysterious pink mobile library and is transported to the Manège des Tuileries in 18th-century Paris. There, he meets the renowned horseman François de la Guérinière, who imparts timeless lessons on kindness, lateral work, and true horsemanship. Bolstered by this knowledge, Daniel and Dougal prepare for the competition, only to face a serious injury just days before the show. Can Daniel discover if true horsemanship means more than winning trophies? Filled with practical riding advice, rich equestrian history, and a touch of time travel magic, this captivating pony adventure is perfect for horse lovers aged 8 to 14. Part of the Old Masters series by award-winning Irish equestrian author Elaine Heney, it celebrates historical figures such as Antoine de Pluvinel, William Cavendish, and François Robichon de La Guérinière.