Rate this book

Clear rating

1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars

To Ride a Púca

by Heather McCorkle (Goodreads Author)

4.29 of 5 stars 4.29 · rating details · 41 ratings · 17 reviews

Invaders are coming to take what isn't theirs, again. Neala wants to stand and fight for her homeland, but as one of the last druids, she may be standing alone. Persecuted, hunted down, forced to live in obscurity, the druids have all but given up. Can the determination of a girl who has barely come into her power bring them together? Or, just when she finally finds her pl...more

Hardcover, First Edition, 332 pages

Published May 2012 by Compass Press

more details... edit details

Get a copy:

More…

Friend Reviews

To see what your friends thought of this book, please sign up.

Lists with This Book

A Great and Terrible Beauty by Libba Bray

A Curse Dark As Gold by Elizabeth C. Bunce

YA Historical Fantasy

7th out of 125 books — 189 voters

Fall in Love With the Cover

80th out of 808 books — 514 voters

More lists with this book...

Community Reviews

(showing 1-30 of 630)

filter | sort: default (?) | rating details

Jul 28, 2012 Rachel rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

When it comes to fantasy books, I'm a pretty hard critic. The one thing that I absolutely need to have in these sort-of books is to be able to lose myself in a completely new and unusual world. That's a big thing to ask from an author, I know. But now that I've read To Ride a Púca and it met my criteria, I can fully recommend both this book and the wonderful author behind it!

What else can I say but I absolutely LOVED Neala's world! The world-building was, put simply, exquisite! I was in awe. In...more When it comes to fantasy books, I'm a pretty hard critic. The one thing that I absolutely need to have in these sort-of books is to be able to lose myself in a completely new and unusual world. That's a big thing to ask from an author, I know. But now that I've read To Ride a Púca and it met my criteria, I can fully recommend both this book and the wonderful author behind it!

What else can I say but I absolutely LOVED Neala's world! The world-building was, put simply, exquisite! I was in awe. In awe. All I can do now is thank the amazing author who created it! I literally did not resurface the whole time I was reading. I was just completely caught up in the whole world and never wanted to leave. Can you blame me? Would you like to leave a world full of faeries, brownies and magic? And by brownies, I mean the magical creatures, not the treats. ;)

The main character, Neala was very admirable in the way she was always ready to stand up and fight for what she believed in. Multiple times throughout the book she showed her bravery and I loved her for it. She was a strong heroine, not one who constantly needed to be rescued which, by my standards, make the best female leads.

The only slight criticism I have with this book is the romance. It started off with Bren. First impressions: I loved him. But as everything progressed and he started changing, I started going off him. Enter Tyr. I LOVED Tyr. He was so sweet. Then came the next suitor. It wasn't quite a love square... but it was. I know I just contradicted myself but I really can't describe it any other way. I just felt like too many possible love interests were introduced only to be knocked down at the end.

Overall, I really enjoyed To Ride a Púca. I adored the world-building and the main character. Only the romance let me down a little. It wasn't that the love interests were terrible characters, it just felt a bit too much. However, that didn't affect anything that badly! So overall, yes, I highly recommend this book. How can you resist such a beautiful cover anyway?!(less)

1 like · like · see review

Sep 26, 2012 The Cover Contessa rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: own, fantasy, 2012-reads

I would like to thank author Heather McCorkle for providing me with a digital copy of this book to read and give an honest review. I have heard such great things about Heather's books, I jumped at the chance to read and review this one!

Blurb from Goodreads:
Invaders are coming to take what isn't theirs, again. Neala wants to stand and fight for her homeland, but as one of the last druids, she may be standing alone. Persecuted, hunted down, forced to live in obscurity, the druids have all but give...more

1 like · like · see review

Jun 10, 2012 Debbie (at) I Heart YA Books rated it 5 of 5 stars

I have really enjoyed and loved reading Heather McCorkle’s The Secret of Spruce Knoll series. So I was excited to hear McCorkle had written another novel in this series. To Ride A Puca is an amazing Historical/Fantasy adventure about the Druids of Ireland, and the war they’re waging against the barbaric people known as the Dane, who are trying to take their land and kill all Druids. I loved McCorkle’s first two novels in this series, but To Ride A Puca was special. Being able to go back in histo...more I have really enjoyed and loved reading Heather McCorkle’s The Secret of Spruce Knoll series. So I was excited to hear McCorkle had written another novel in this series. To Ride A Puca is an amazing Historical/Fantasy adventure about the Druids of Ireland, and the war they’re waging against the barbaric people known as the Dane, who are trying to take their land and kill all Druids. I loved McCorkle’s first two novels in this series, but To Ride A Puca was special. Being able to go back in history and get to know and have more of an understanding of the first Druids of Ireland gave me better insight into the first two novels that are written for today's time.

Neala is sixteen, and her parents have sheltered her and lied to her about their Druid heritage and her warrior power. When she meets Bren (Brendan), who is also a Druid warrior, he begins to teach Neala how to use her warrior power even if it goes against her parents’ wishes for her. The only thing Neala has thought about since her brother Lorcan died fighting in the war is to learn to fight and to defend herself against the barbaric Danes, so she can also keep her home land. The only two things they brought back to Neala of her brother's when the Dane kill him, was his sword and a black horse. But this horse is a very special horse. This horse, who's name is Dubh, has waited three years to share his secret with Neala…and hopefully his heart.

Being sheltered as she was, Neala has never known boys or had a boy like her, but all that's going to change now that she’s met Bren. Not only Bren, but also Tyr, who is a Dane warrior and Donal who fought by her brother’s side in the war. Now Neala has no problem with guys liking her, she just has a problem with the one she’s in love with and who will be her Druid bond. This was hard for me, because I fell in love with Tyr, and even thou I know why Neala went the way she did and I also like who Neala's true love is, I still love Tyr. But I always have had a soft heart for the guy who losses.

To Ride A Puca is an awesome, mature YA Historical Fantasy adventure. McCorkle writes such fantastic characters in this story that I love them all, especially the horse, Dubh. I recommend To Ride A Puca as a must read.
(less)

2 likes · like · see review

Sep 06, 2012 Sarah rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: loved, read-in-2012

A thank you to Heather McCorkle for providing me with a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.

I love books based on mythology and legends and this one is no exception.

Neala has lived a sheltered life, and has been lied to about her Druid heritage. Until Dane Warriors invaded Ireland and Neala's world is turned upside down.

I loved the characters, Neala is a strong, brave female. Just the kind of girls that I like! I loved Bren, but I also loved Tyr.

This book was a highly engagin...more

1 like · like · see review

Apr 24, 2012 Christine Fonseca rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012-reads

This is a fabulous YA historical paranormal romance that is as sexy and dark as it is fantastical. Set against the history of the druid clans near the end of its time, this story examines young love, coming of age, and reconciling that which you have learned from your parents vs that which you discover on your own. I enjoyed the characters of the story, as well as the mythology woven intricately throughout the story. And yes, this is definitely a sexy story that stayed with me for days afterward...more

2 likes · like · see review

Apr 27, 2012 Karen rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: indelible-books-all, favorites

Advance read this one. Be jealous. ;)

Hold onto your horses. To Ride a Puca is an exhilarating ride through a magical world filled with secrets and danger at every turn. Just like the legend, this wild tale of love, family, and friendship will leave you forever changed--in a wonderful way.

3 likes · like · see review

Aug 03, 2012 Stephanie rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012

WOW WOW WOW WOW WOW......... I don't really know what else to say. Thank you so much Heather McCorkle for allowing me to read this AMAZING book. well as you can tell I loved this book so let me just tell you a few things but I don't want to give awat to much because everyone on earth should read this book okay here goes...
Neala is a druid they are hunted and killed by the Danes because of their power she has lived sheltered by her parents after her brother dies fighting to protect their land and...more

1 like · like · see review

Aug 03, 2012 Sylvia (Heinzypop) rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: bad-boys-for-the-red-room, faeries-fey, fantasy, indie-authors, nice-guys-who-definitely-deserve-th, august-reading-challenge-2012, historical-romance, read-2-review, young-adult

First of all I want to thank Heather McCorkle for providing me with a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review. I am utterly grateful and thankful that I put my hand up when Heather was offering. All I can say is WoW! I'm actually quite saddened that the story is over. I had grown quite attached to the characters and to the beautiful and haunting world of Irelands past. The image that will forever remain in my mind is of the Dane Tyr, sitting mounted up on his horse on a hill, watching...more First of all I want to thank Heather McCorkle for providing me with a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review. I am utterly grateful and thankful that I put my hand up when Heather was offering. All I can say is WoW! I'm actually quite saddened that the story is over. I had grown quite attached to the characters and to the beautiful and haunting world of Irelands past. The image that will forever remain in my mind is of the Dane Tyr, sitting mounted up on his horse on a hill, watching the ship with the Druids sailing off, leaving Ireland. It actually leaves an ache in my heart and brings tears to my eyes. It's completely poetic and mesmerising. I cannot say enough great things about this book.

To Ride a Puca is a coming of age story set against the harsh realities of yesterdays past, where Dane Warriors invaded Ireland just for the hell of it, slaughtering and killing everyone in their way. They cared nothing for the land or the people, and were hell bent on annihilating the Druids. These Druids remained hidden amongst the clans, in fear that their fellow countrymen would turn on them in order to save their own hinds. One of these Druids is our female protagonist, Neala. She has lived a sheltered life for most of her 17 years. Her parents had kept her Druid heritage and warrior power hidden from her, in fear that she would follow in her brother's footsteps and fight in the war, never to return. Which, sadly is what happened to Neala's brother. In his place, was his sword and a black horse. Dubh, the name of the horse, was not just any old horse. He had a secret, which for almost 3 years, he carried with him, until the right moment presented itself.

While out riding on her trusted Dubh, Neala stumbles and hurts her ankle. With no way of helping herself, she is soon confronted by a handsome young man named Bren. It turns out that Bren is a fellow Druid, which surprises Neala since she never had come across another Druid before. Neala begins to learn about all that has been hidden from her, and soon discovers, with Bren's help that she is a Warrior Druid, just like him. Well, being strong and determined, Neala goes against her parents wishes and trains with Bren. Learning the art of combat and using her power to enhance it. I love Neala's resolve and strength in this story. She is feisty, yet knows her boundaries, and really doesn't like being told what to do, especially by Bren, who often insists that she not fight in battle. Just because she is female, does not mean she cannot defend herself and others. Bren, although I liked him at the start, becomes a little over-possessive and tries to force something with Neala, when her heart is really not in it.

Now, to complicate matters, Neala also ends up meeting two other young men. She went from having no friends, to suddenly had the admiration from three suitors. Besides Bren, we are introduced to Tyr, a Dane on the brink of death. He's father found out that there were Druids in the village, thus being Neala and her family, and demanded that Neala's mother heal him. If they did not, then they were going to kill them all. Even though he is the enemy, Neala can't help befriending him and is quite taken by him and he's ways. He is nothing that she imagined a Dane to be. He was quite friendly, thoughtful, sweet and tender. He was the opposite of the ravaging beasts who murdered thousands.
And then Dorlan enters the picture. He is a young man who fought alongside Neala's deceased Brother Lorcan. He saves her from a terrible accident and suddenly she feels totally drawn and connected to him like no other. It's quite overwhelming the feelings she has for Dorlan, but you can totally understand why as you read on. He comforts her like no other, and treats her as an equal, which is what Neala wants.

Whoa, three young men, vying for Neala's attention and affection, while war rages on. It really is some predicament that Neala has found herself. Who will she bond with? I secretly loved all three in their own right, but deep down my heart belonged to Tyr. I just felt more drawn to him and his was a melancholy story and I much prefer my men tortured *sighs* especially one wielding a long sword *oh my* LOL

To Ride A Puca is a great fantastical story that will take your breath away and catch you unawares. It's captivating and enthralling, and will have you wanting to go riding bare back, through the long grass, feeling the breeze whip your hair and losing yourself. It's savage and raw, and invigorating and honest. I love this book, and I hope you do to.(less)

2 likes · like · see review

Jan 14, 2013 Jules cressall rated it 4 of 5 stars

To Ride a Puca (May 2012 release) by Heather McCorkle takes place in long ago Ireland and tells the coming of age story of Neala, a young Druid girl learning about her powers. Druids are being persecuted to near extinction and she and her family must hide their powers from their neighbors. Sheltered by her parents, Neala must discover her power and her connection to Ireland and decide if it is worth fighting for.

There is a distraction of being wooed by 3 attractive men to take the edge off of of...more

like · see review

Mar 29, 2012 Heather McCorkle rated it 5 of 5 stars · (Review from the author)

I've written novels for fun, for adventure, for good causes, and for love. But this is the first novel I've written because my heart and soul demanded it. Though this novel is certainly filled with magic, adventure, and discovery, it is a bit dark at times in its honesty. It is meant for mature YA and adults.

7 likes · like · see review

May 19, 2013 Lisa rated it 4 of 5 stars

Very well written tale of druids in Ireland at the time when the Danes were attacking and conquering the British Isles. The characters are compelling and the plotline never lags. I appreciated the Celtic and druidic lore, which I admit I know little about. I also liked that part of the plot involves conflicts of emotions when those you think you should be able to trust prove untrustworthy and vise-versa.

like · see review

Nov 16, 2012 Hafiza rated it 3 of 5 stars

YA Celtic Fantasy.
Started out promising - heroine is a Druid.
But as the love interests started piling up, it got too much -3 boys/choices for her!
Heroine at times was a tease and toys with some of boys.
The big surprise was pretty predictable given the title of the book.

like · see review

Apr 05, 2012 Linda Gray rated it 5 of 5 stars

This is a wonderful historical fantasy focused on a Viking invasion of Ireland in the last days of the druids there. A brave young druid warrior, a girl of sixteen, is the protagonist. She discovers her deepest true self, her heart's desire, and love, in the ravages of war. By the end of this book you can't help yearning along with her for the survival of the druids and of the land they love so much. Dark and painful in many ways, the story nonetheless leaves you believing there's no doubt that...more

1 like · like · see review

Jan 15, 2013 Tom Park rated it 4 of 5 stars

Although properly a YA novel, it is a good, albeit quick read. Enjoyed the taste of what I consider old Ireland.

like · see review

Mar 31, 2012 Nata rated it 5 of 5 stars

Love all of Heathers books!
Her words will reel you in and won't let go of you until you have read the last page!

1 like · like · see review

Nov 17, 2012 Leigh Moore rated it 4 of 5 stars

Loads of action, a great love story, AWESOME prequel!
The love interests were a little confusing, but they were all HOT.
Makes you want to have magical powers--great read! Get it~

like · see review

May 17, 2013 Eddy Allen rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: animals-and-children

Invaders are coming to take what isn't theirs, again.

Neala wants to stand and fight for her homeland, but as one of the last druids, she may be standing alone.

Persecuted, hunted down, forced to live in obscurity, the druids have all but given up. Can the determination of a girl who has barely come into her power bring them together? Or, just when she finally finds her place among her kind, will they end up losing a homeland their very magic is tied to?

like · see review

May 20, 2012 Karlene Petitt rated it 5 of 5 stars

To Ride A Puca is a fabulous read! Highly recommend it to anyone...and everyone. Historical fiction with creativity, passion, compassion and all that teens go through. Loved it!

2 likes · like · see review

May 19, 2013 Wendy marked it as to-read

May 19, 2013 Lily marked it as to-read · review of another edition

May 14, 2013 Maureen marked it as to-read

May 08, 2013 Clary marked it as to-read

May 07, 2013 Alyssa Nielson marked it as to-read

May 04, 2013 Maisha marked it as to-read

May 01, 2013 Legato Darksummers added it

Shelves: daddy-dark-s-baby-warrior-list

Apr 26, 2013 Ciera marked it as to-read

Apr 23, 2013 Feige marked it as to-read

Apr 20, 2013 Charlotte marked it as to-read

Apr 19, 2013 Anna marked it as to-read

Apr 17, 2013 Christine marked it as to-read

« previous 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 … 20 21 next »

new topic
Discuss This Book

There are no discussion topics on this book yet. Be the first to start one »

Recommend it | Stats | Recent status updates

combine
Other Editions (2)

Genres

Fantasy

11 users

Young Adult

4 users

Fantasy > Magic

3 users

See top shelves...

Readers also enjoyed similar books

About Heather McCorkle

First and foremost, I love to read! Fantasy, sci-fi, and horror (and all their sub-genres) are my favorites.

I am an author of fantasy, in all its many sub-genres. Living green, saving endangered species, helping other writers, and supporting fabulous authors are a few of my passions. I am also a volunteer for the IS Foundation which works to make the world a greener place. When I'm not volunteeri...more

More about Heather McCorkle...

Books by Heather McCorkle

The Secret of Spruce Knoll (Channeler, #1)

More…

Share This Book

Facebook Twitter Your website

Trivia About To Ride a Púca

No trivia or quizzes yet. Add some now »

title link	preview: To Ride a Púca
avg rating	preview: To Ride a Púca Goodreads rating: 4.29 (41 ratings)
small image	preview: click here [close]
med image	preview: click here [close]
BBCode	[url=http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13563261-to-ride-a-p-ca?utm_medium=api&utm_source=blog_book][img]http://d.gr-assets.com/books/1348519012l/13563261.jpg[/img][/url] [url=http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13563261-to-ride-a-p-ca?utm_medium=api&utm_source=blog_book]To Ride a Púca by Heather McCorkle[/url]

To Ride a Púca

Friend Reviews

Community Reviews

Share This Book

Share This Book on Your Website