Apley Towers: Books 1-3 by Myra King
In the shade of the Giant's Throne Mountain, and on the coast of the Indian Ocean, Port St. Christopher is home to Apley Towers; a riding school for girls and boys, young or old, who learn what it means to be a true horse rider. Kaela and Trixie call Apley Towers their Neverland. It's the best place in the world - a place for friendship, laughter and learning. But when both girls take on more responsibilities than they can handle, they have to make some tough choices that take a toll on their friendship. Kaela and Trixie call Apley Towers their Neverland. It's the best place in the world - a place for friendship, laughter and learning. But when both girls take on more responsibilities than they can handle, they have to make some tough choices that take a toll on their friendship. Will they have to sacrifice Apley in the end? It takes a girl on the other side of the world to remind them of what's important and that challenges are there to be overcome. As the series continues, a mysterious new rider arrives at Apley and Kaela and Trixie are immediately on the defensive. Not only is she dangerously talented, she insists on wearing expensive sunglasses whilst she rides. Who is this Sunglasses-Girl and why does she persist in pointing out Kaela and Trixie's flaws? It's down to Kaela to solve the puzzle of Angela May, and figure out a few things for herself along the way. Next, Trixie has outgrown her stable horse, Slow-Moe, and realises she has to put the past behind her, and find a new horse to ride. But after a terrifying incident with an advanced horse, she begins to question whether moving on is worth the risk. With a little help from the kodas, Trixie learns that she must face her fears. But will she find her perfect horse? And if she does, will riding ever be the same for her again?Apley Towers is a six-book horse and pony series set in South Africa. These coming of age stories have a strong focus on close friendships and are ideal for readers aged 11+. Shortlisted for the People's Book Prize 2017.