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The Other Boleyn Girl

The Other Boleyn Girl is a 2001 historical novel by British author Philippa Gregory, loosely based on the life of Mary Boleyn and the Tudor court of Henry VIII.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

The Other Boleyn Girl is a 2001 historical novel by British author Philippa Gregory, loosely based on the life of Mary Boleyn and the Tudor court of Henry VIII. It became a bestseller and was adapted into a 2003 BBC television film and a 2008 feature film.

Background

The novel was written by Philippa Gregory and published in 2001. It is part of her Tudor-era historical fiction and focuses on a fictionalized version of Mary Boleyn's life at court.

Plot and themes

The story follows Mary Boleyn as she becomes involved with Henry VIII and later observes Anne Boleyn's rise. Major themes include dynastic ambition, rivalry, power, and the position of women in Tudor politics.

Reception

The book sold widely and helped establish Gregory as a major historical-fiction author. It received the Romantic Novel of the Year Award in 2002.

Adaptations

The novel was adapted into a BBC television film in 2003 and a theatrical feature film in 2008. Both adaptations brought the story to a broader audience.

Key facts

  • The novel is loosely based on Mary Boleyn, sister of Anne Boleyn, during the reign of Henry VIII.
  • It portrays court politics, family ambition, and the competition between the Boleyn sisters.
  • The book was first published in 2001 and became an international bestseller.
  • It won the Romantic Novel of the Year Award in 2002.
  • The story was adapted for television by the BBC in 2003 and for film in 2008.

Frequently asked questions

Is The Other Boleyn Girl a true story?
It is a historical novel loosely based on Mary Boleyn and the Tudor court, but it includes fictionalized elements and dramatic interpretation.
Who wrote The Other Boleyn Girl?
It was written by Philippa Gregory.
When was The Other Boleyn Girl published?
It was published in 2001.
What is the book about?
It centres on Mary and Anne Boleyn, Henry VIII, and the political and family rivalries surrounding the Tudor court.
Was The Other Boleyn Girl adapted for screen?
Yes. It was adapted as a BBC television film in 2003 and as a feature film in 2008.

References

  1. Philippa Gregory — https://www.philippagregory.com/books/the-other-boleyn-girl
    Supports: Author page with publication details, synopsis, award, and adaptation notes
  2. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Other_Boleyn_Girl
    Supports: Publication year and description as a historical novel loosely based on Mary Boleyn
  3. Amazon — https://www.amazon.com/Other-Boleyn-Girl-Philippa-Gregory/dp/0743227441
    Supports: Synopsis describing Mary Boleyn, Henry VIII, and Anne Boleyn
  4. Goodreads — https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/37470.The_Other_Boleyn_Girl
    Supports: Synopsis and general reception information