If you enjoy stories about ruthless conspiracies, strategic royal marriages, and the thirst for power, then The White Queen is definitely worth your attention. This 10-episode British miniseries takes viewers back to 15th-century England, where a fierce battle for the throne unfolds. However, unlike Game of Thrones, this is not a fantasy — these events are rooted in real history. Interestingly, George R.R. Martin has openly admitted that this historical conflict inspired his novel!
The Plot of The White Queen
The series is based on the novels by Philippa Gregory and follows the Wars of the Roses — a prolonged struggle for power between the Houses of Lancaster and York. The main character, Elizabeth Woodville, is a young widow who unexpectedly becomes the wife of King Edward IV. This decision breaks all royal traditions, as kings rarely marry for love. But this is no fairy tale — her choice sparks betrayals, brutal intrigue, and a desperate fight for survival.
A Throne, Blood, and Love Without a Happy Ending
If you expect historical dramas to have clear distinctions between 'good' and 'evil' characters, The White Queen will surprise you. Here, everyone pursues their own ambitions, and there are no purely righteous or villainous figures. Every character is fighting to claim or maintain the throne, willing to go to great lengths to achieve their goals.
The series is packed with emotionally intense scenes — weddings, dramatic farewells, and, of course, executions. At some point, keeping up with the events becomes as challenging as following Game of Thrones — too many contenders for the throne and too few ways to survive.
How Much Magic Is in This Historical Series?
One of the more unexpected elements of the show is its mystical undertones. The women of the Woodville family are depicted as having the ability to foresee the future and even influence the weather. This supernatural aspect adds to the atmosphere but may disappoint viewers expecting a strictly historical narrative. However, some may find this touch to be an intriguing feature rather than a flaw.
Is It Worth Watching?
If you’re prepared to follow complex dynastic intrigues and don’t mind some historical inaccuracies, The White Queen is definitely worth watching. The ten episodes will fly by, and you may find yourself wanting to learn more about what happened next.
It’s worth noting that The White Queen holds a slightly lower IMDb's rating — 7.7 compared to Game of Thrones’ 9.2!
