Where to start withThe White Princess
2 versions · originally a book, 2013
Themes: Marriage of Convenience, Political Intrigue, Revenge, Power Struggles, Family Loyalty.
Start with The White Princess (Philippa Gregory, 2013) — the book. The White Princess exists in 2 versions across media, beginning as a book in 2013; each is ranked below by what it does best.
The White Princess explores the treacherous political and romantic entanglement between Elizabeth of York and the Tudor king, Henry VII.
✦ Most fans start here
The White Princess (2013)
The original novel
✦ Start hereThe White Princess
Philippa Gregory · Book · 2013
The White Princess (2013) is the definitive original novel, offering an immersive, internal psychological portrait of Elizabeth of York as she navigates her volatile marriage and complex quest for revenge.
2017 series
The White Princess
Series · 2017
The White Princess (2017) is a visual adaptation that brings the high-stakes royal tension to life, ideal for viewers who prefer fast-paced historical drama and externalized, performative royal conflict.
Common questions
Is The White Princess book or the TV show better to start with?
The White Princess book by Philippa Gregory serves as the original source material for the story. The White Princess television series, released in 2017, provides a visual adaptation of the narrative. You can choose either based on whether you prefer reading the original text or watching the screen adaptation.
What is the release order for The White Princess adaptations?
The White Princess was first released as a novel in 2013. Following the success of the book, The White Princess was later adapted into a television series that premiered in 2017. Both versions explore the same historical narrative centered on the early Tudor period and the life of Elizabeth of York.
Does the 2017 TV show The White Princess follow the 2013 book?
The 2017 television series The White Princess is a direct adaptation of the 2013 novel The White Princess. While television productions often make adjustments for the screen, the show is based on the source material written by Philippa Gregory to depict the events surrounding the rise of the Tudor dynasty.
Should I read The White Princess book before watching the series?
Reading the 2013 book The White Princess before watching the 2017 television series allows you to experience the original source material first. However, since the show is based on the book, you can consume either version independently to understand the historical story presented in The White Princess.