FAQ | Katherine Woodfine

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I buy a signed and/or dedicated book?

You can currently pre-order signed and dedicated copies of my forthcoming book Secrets on the Shore from independent bookshop ebb & flo.

What’s the best reading order for the Sophie and Lil books?

The Sinclair’s Mysteries: The Clockwork Sparrow
‘The Mystery of the Purloined Pearls’ (short story included in both the anthology Mystery & Mayhem and in Secrets on the Shore)
The Sinclair’s Mysteries: The Jewelled Moth
The Sinclair’s Mysteries: The Painted Dragon
The Sinclair’s Mysteries: The Midnight Peacock
Taylor & Rose Secret Agents: Secrets on the Shore
Taylor & Rose Secret Agents: Peril in Paris
Taylor & Rose Secret Agents: Spies in St Petersburg
Taylor & Rose Secret Agents: Villains in Venice
Taylor & Rose Secret Agents: Nightfall in New York

Will there be any more books about Sophie and Lil after the Taylor & Rose Secret Agents series? What about mini-adventures or short stories?

At the moment, I don't have any plans to write any more stories about Sophie and Lil - but never say never! I'm very excited to be celebrating the 10th anniversary in 2025.

Is Secrets on the Shore going to become available as a printed book?

Yes! The novella will be included in a new book being published in February 2025, along with 'The Mystery of the Purloined Pearls' and lots of other new material, including author notes and secret case files from behind the scenes at Taylor & Rose, shining a light on the real history of spies and detectives that inspired the series.

Can I listen to audiobooks of the Sinclair's Mysteries and Taylor & Rose Secret Agents?

Yes! All of the books are available in audio format, narrated by Jessica Preddy. The only exception is Secrets on the Shore which is not currently available in audio format.

Where are the Sinclair's Mysteries and Taylor & Rose Secret Agents currently published?

In addition to the UK editions, some or all of the books are currently being published in the USA, Germany, Italy, Poland, Russia, the Czech Republic and Ukraine.

Will there be a TV show or film of the books?

I’d love there to be a TV show or film of the books! You’ll have to cross your fingers and watch this space to see if it may happen in the future.

I want to dress up as Sophie, Lil or one of the other characters. What can I do?

There are some tips on dressing up as the characters here. You might also like to read this post about Edwardian fashion for some ideas.

What are your top writing tips?

Here's three of my top tips for writing - plus check out this post for some advice on researching historical fiction or watch this video for my advice on how to write a mystery.

Can you come and visit my school?

I currently do only a limited number of school visits each term: if your school is interested, a teacher or librarian can contact me (see details here) to discuss a booking. Virtual sessions are available as well as in-person events.

When can I meet you at a book festival or another event?

Check out my events listing for what's coming up next - and be sure to subscribe to my quarterly e-newsletter to stay up to date with all the details of future events!

Can I write to you?

Of course! I’d love to hear from you. You can send me a letter or an email — my contact details are here.