Philippa Gregory, born 9 January 1954, is an acclaimed English historical novelist, widely recognized for her profound contributions to the genre since her debut in 1987. Perhaps best known for her novel The Other Boleyn Girl (2001), Gregory has achieved significant acclaim, with the book winning the Romantic Novel of the Year Award from the Romantic Novelists' Association in 2002 and being adapted into two films. Esteemed for her meticulous research and captivating storytelling, she is often hailed as "the queen of British historical fiction" by critics and readers alike.

Gregory's journey into the realm of historical fiction began with her first novel, Wideacre, written during her pursuit of a PhD in eighteenth-century literature. This marked the start of a new era for historical fiction, showcasing her unique ability to blend historical accuracy with rich imagination. She has since penned numerous bestsellers, including The White Queen, further cementing her status as a leading authority on women's history.

Philippa Gregory graduated from the University of Sussex and earned a PhD from the University of Edinburgh, where she has been honored as Regent and Alumna of the Year in 2009. She holds honorary degrees from Teesside University and the University of Sussex and is a fellow of the University of Edinburgh, acknowledging her invaluable contributions to literature and historical understanding.