3 books to keep the magic of Medieval Times alive between trips to the castle

I have been a fan of Medieval Times since I was a child and got the opportunity to go with my Girl Scout Troop. That love has carried on to adulthood, especially once the Scottsdale castle opened and I could go on a more regular basis. In fact, my brother and I made sure we went to the very first show of our local castle, and have gone multiple times a year since then. So in honor of my latest trip to Medieval Times last weekend, I have compiled a list of some book recommendations that help me keep the spirit alive between my trips to the castle.

1. By Any Other Name by Jodi Picoult

Logically, I know the time this book takes place in is hundreds of years too late. However, I am going to include it anyway because the vibes are exactly the same. It is full of high drama, court intrigue, celebrations, and theater - the exact things you'll see at a Medieval times show. And while By Any Other Name might make you think differently about Shakespeare, you'll also be able to imagine yourself in a world

By Any Other Name is available through Penguin Random House

2. The Dark Queens by Shelley Puhak

A little-known historical fact: two women helped shape the Medieval world. However, history did as history does, and tried to erase them so nobody would remember the two women who shaped politics. However, Shelley Puhak pulls back the curtains on these two women, and allows us to learn their impact on Medieval society - and the ripples that can be seen even today. It's an important look at the time the show is set in and provides a fascinating insight into a world we rarely learn about.

The Dark Queens is available through Bloomsbury Publishing

3. The Bright Sword by Lev Grossman

Everyone knows the main reason anyone goes to Medieval Times is to see the Knights compete in the tournament. This book has jousts, tournaments, fighting, and adventure - all while aiming to show off the core traits of the Knights of the Round Table. The Bright Sword explores the lesser-known Knights of Arthurian Legend, and in the process, allows us to imagine what life would be like if we were a fictional knight.

The Bright Sword is available through Penguin Random House