BookPath
Sphinxes
James Patterson

Sphinxes

Quick Answer

"Sphinxes" is an optional companion work. It can be read at any time, though it is usually best enjoyed after reading the first few core novels of the Standalone Novels.

Quick Verdict

🟡 Optional side story — not required for main plot

❓ Can I skip this book?
✅ Yes — Optional

This is a side story that can be safely bypassed without losing any context for the main series.

Verdict Insight: While this short_story provides deeper world-building, it is a standalone story and can be read at any stage.

Is this helpful?
202124 ppShort StoryOptional Side Story
Sphinxes are the wise and cruel creatures of ancient Egyptian and Greek mythology. This high-low title explores the lore behind them. Leveled text traces the origin of the sphinx, how it has changed over time, and how it is portrayed today. Added fun facts, an origin map, timeline, and more burst from the pages, while photos and illustrations provide visual reinforcement to the leveled text.
Next Recommended Book

Steal

Book #127 of 524 in Series

Complete Series Reading Order

Publication Order

Preserves character reveals and plot twists exactly as the author intended.

Chronological Order

May spoil surprises but improves timeline clarity for deep lore fans.

Order Confidence

high Confidence

Why this order?

Our team of curators analyzes publication history, author interviews, and internal narrative continuity to establish the definitive reading sequence. This ensures zero spoilers and maximum narrative impact.

Why This Order Is Confusing

Many reading lists for Standalone Novels conflict because early publishers often labeled short story collections as standalone novels, or rearranged internal chronologies for marketing. This guide follows original author intent and narrative continuity to settle the debate for good.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I skip reading Sphinxes?

This is a side story that can be safely bypassed without losing any context for the main series.

Can I read Sphinxes before Sophia, Princess Among Beasts?

Yes. Sphinxes is an optional side story and can be read at any time without spoiling the main series plot.

Is Sphinxes required reading for the Standalone Novels?

No, it is a companion work that enriches the lore but is not essential to the central storyline.

What comes after Sphinxes in the reading order?

The next recommended book after Sphinxes is Steal (Book #127).