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The Clarissa Bell Mysteries #1
Hieroglyphs and Homicide
Step into the sultry heat of 1920s Egypt, where ancient secrets hide beneath the shadow of the Great Pyramid.Dr. Clarissa Bell came to Giza to prove herself a serious archaeologist, not to sort pottery while her male colleagues claim the glory.
But when she discovers a mysterious scribe's palette stained with rare blue pigment, she uncovers more than just an artifact—she stumbles into a deadly conspiracy.
Armed with nothing but her Cambridge education, an alarming tendency toward sarcasm, and a talent for finding trouble in supposedly empty tombs, Clarissa navigates a world where British imperial power meets ancient Egyptian mysteries, taking her from the bustling streets of Cairo to the steaming bathhouse and glittering auction houses of the colonial elite.
And what about the enigmatic Benedict Quinn? Charming, mysterious, and far too handsome for her peace of mind. Her carefully ordered world is beginning to crumble like ancient limestone.
But when professors pack pistols and black market dealers have government connections, the only thing Clarissa can trust is her own sharp wit—and her ability to sort pottery under pressure.
"A gripping historical mystery that blends Agatha Christie's puzzle-solving with the exotic danger of 1920s Egypt—perfect for fans of atmospheric period adventures and clever heroines who refuse to stay safely on the sidelines."
But when she discovers a mysterious scribe's palette stained with rare blue pigment, she uncovers more than just an artifact—she stumbles into a deadly conspiracy.
Armed with nothing but her Cambridge education, an alarming tendency toward sarcasm, and a talent for finding trouble in supposedly empty tombs, Clarissa navigates a world where British imperial power meets ancient Egyptian mysteries, taking her from the bustling streets of Cairo to the steaming bathhouse and glittering auction houses of the colonial elite.
And what about the enigmatic Benedict Quinn? Charming, mysterious, and far too handsome for her peace of mind. Her carefully ordered world is beginning to crumble like ancient limestone.
But when professors pack pistols and black market dealers have government connections, the only thing Clarissa can trust is her own sharp wit—and her ability to sort pottery under pressure.
"A gripping historical mystery that blends Agatha Christie's puzzle-solving with the exotic danger of 1920s Egypt—perfect for fans of atmospheric period adventures and clever heroines who refuse to stay safely on the sidelines."
322 pages, Paperback
Published September 30, 2025
About the author
Tracy L. Higley
46 books826 followersTracy Higley has been attempting to time travel through the pages of books since she was a child. She started her first story at the age of eight, and has since authored nearly twenty books, including the acclaimed Seven Wonders Series, and the Time Travel Journals of Sahara Aldridge. She earned a Master’s Degree in Ancient and Classical History, and has traveled to Egypt, Greece, Jordan, Israel, Italy, and Turkey, researching her books and falling into adventures. Peruse her travel journals and learn more fascinating history at www.tracyhigley.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 126 reviews
June 21, 2026
Loved this so much! So many fascinating tensions—not only murder and government conspiracy, but an ongoing mystery, Clarissa’s own struggles as a female academic and with her father, Quinn’s hidden and apparently remarkably diverse past, and British colonial interests v. Egyptian desire for independence and control over its own artifacts and history. I can’t wait for Book 2, which has a sadly looong wait in Libby.
November 13, 2025
This is the first in another historical mystery (about 1925) set in Egypt! This series features the daughter of a wealthy New York businessman, Clarissa, who years ago decided she wanted to be an Egyptologist, and now has the PhD from Cambridge to prove it. However, her fellow Egyptologists (mostly men) all discount her brilliant articles, and figure she only has the position on a dig near the Giza Pyramids due to her father.
Mysterious things begin happening on the dig, and artifacts go missing. Clarissa begins to investigate (she's being blamed for things) and gets caught up in a mysterious, dangerous plot involving politics, colonialism, and most of all valuable Egyptian artifacts. She also becomes involved with a very mysterious man. Is he the master criminal (sorry, my Amelia Peabody love is showing) or is he something else?
While some of the mysteries are solved in this book, there's an overarching thread that apparently continues into the next. I will definitely be reading it!
Mysterious things begin happening on the dig, and artifacts go missing. Clarissa begins to investigate (she's being blamed for things) and gets caught up in a mysterious, dangerous plot involving politics, colonialism, and most of all valuable Egyptian artifacts. She also becomes involved with a very mysterious man. Is he the master criminal (sorry, my Amelia Peabody love is showing) or is he something else?
While some of the mysteries are solved in this book, there's an overarching thread that apparently continues into the next. I will definitely be reading it!
January 1, 2026
I’m at a loss for more words because it’s so good! 😊
Best lines: “I met my reflection's eyes directly. The woman looking back wasn't just the dutiful academic, cataloging by color. She was someone else too—someone willing to risk everything for truth, for justice, for the messy, gloriously complex reality of the past.”
"If I wished to murder my way to archaeological prominence," I dabbed at the perspiration forming on my upper lip, "I would have started with Dr. Bradford and his insufferable mustache, not Dr. Sutherland, who was one of the few people who actually respected my work."
"Why do you care so much about these artifacts? Beyond the academic interest." I considered this. "Because it could be that someone is using them to rewrite history. To erase evidence of accomplishments that don't fit their preferred narrative.”
Best lines: “I met my reflection's eyes directly. The woman looking back wasn't just the dutiful academic, cataloging by color. She was someone else too—someone willing to risk everything for truth, for justice, for the messy, gloriously complex reality of the past.”
"If I wished to murder my way to archaeological prominence," I dabbed at the perspiration forming on my upper lip, "I would have started with Dr. Bradford and his insufferable mustache, not Dr. Sutherland, who was one of the few people who actually respected my work."
"Why do you care so much about these artifacts? Beyond the academic interest." I considered this. "Because it could be that someone is using them to rewrite history. To erase evidence of accomplishments that don't fit their preferred narrative.”
September 25, 2025
I loved the Sahara Aldridge series and so was excited for this new adventure. An overlooked lady archaeologist and a shady antiquities dealer are on the hunt for stolen Egyptian treasures. There are a lot of characters and none of them are what they seem. I love the way Clarissa internally catalogues everything as if it were a pottery sherd, some of her musings were hysterical. The atmosphere was evocative and Higley's descriptions make you feel you are there.
In her search for the truth, she finds herself and maybe a connection with the enigmatic Benedict Quinn.
This book completes the initial investigation which will continue in book 2
In her search for the truth, she finds herself and maybe a connection with the enigmatic Benedict Quinn.
This book completes the initial investigation which will continue in book 2
June 24, 2026
Okay, this was an unexpected delight. With the humor and setting of Amelia Peabody in a younger protagonist a couple of decades later, this first Clarissa Bell mystery kicks off what I expect will be a favorite series.
Character wise? Higley makes the "not like other girls" work in a way that surprises me. I think it's because she has such personality AND is truly flawed. Too often the "not like other girls" blends in with a bit of a Mary Sue character-- so morally superior she doesn't fit in the world in which she was born. Higley gave Clarissa the sort of personality that fits in her area of expertise and has it also work against her at times. YES!!!
The mystery itself was good. Lots of red herrings that could be plausible. You like that the murderer is who you want it to be... AND NOT... at the same time. Well done.
All in all, I'm eager to read the next. ASAP.
Character wise? Higley makes the "not like other girls" work in a way that surprises me. I think it's because she has such personality AND is truly flawed. Too often the "not like other girls" blends in with a bit of a Mary Sue character-- so morally superior she doesn't fit in the world in which she was born. Higley gave Clarissa the sort of personality that fits in her area of expertise and has it also work against her at times. YES!!!
The mystery itself was good. Lots of red herrings that could be plausible. You like that the murderer is who you want it to be... AND NOT... at the same time. Well done.
All in all, I'm eager to read the next. ASAP.
October 16, 2025
Hilarious! Dr. Clarissa Bell is off on an adventure to prove herself a true archeologist on her first dig.
Her sarcasm shines. She classifies everything, including her reactions.
"I cataloged my options: Option A: Alert Bradford (Common Resolution, Colonial Period, known to cause severe academic apoplexy) Option B: Follow suspicious stranger alone into dark tomb (Rare Example of Archaeological Idiocy, Modern Period) Option C: Pretend I hadn't seen anything (Cowardice, Well-Preserved Example of Career Preservation) After my spectacular contribution to pottery destruction this morning, I couldn't risk being wrong."
Her only option when things go wrong, as in her first major find disappears, is to join forces with Benedict Quinn, an 'archeological specialist' in his words.
"You want me to work with Benedict Quinn? The man you just called a ‘tomb robber in a tailored suit?’” The man whose eyebrows arch in that infuriating way whenever he thinks he's being clever?
Higley has hit her pace with this written artifact.
Her sarcasm shines. She classifies everything, including her reactions.
"I cataloged my options: Option A: Alert Bradford (Common Resolution, Colonial Period, known to cause severe academic apoplexy) Option B: Follow suspicious stranger alone into dark tomb (Rare Example of Archaeological Idiocy, Modern Period) Option C: Pretend I hadn't seen anything (Cowardice, Well-Preserved Example of Career Preservation) After my spectacular contribution to pottery destruction this morning, I couldn't risk being wrong."
Her only option when things go wrong, as in her first major find disappears, is to join forces with Benedict Quinn, an 'archeological specialist' in his words.
"You want me to work with Benedict Quinn? The man you just called a ‘tomb robber in a tailored suit?’” The man whose eyebrows arch in that infuriating way whenever he thinks he's being clever?
Higley has hit her pace with this written artifact.
June 1, 2026
Really needed both a line editor and a copy editor. The back cover said she went to Cambridge but NOPE! It was Oxford. A lot of grammar typos. Ranked up half a star since being self-published is still a major a accomplishment.
January 2, 2026
A tale of two halves: Frustrating start, but a finish that hooked me.
I have such mixed feelings about Hieroglyphs and Homicide. To be honest, I really struggled to get through the first half of this book. After coming off a prequel that felt rushed and cluttered with info-dumping, I started this one already a bit annoyed—and the slow pace didn't help.
The Struggle:
The first 50–60% of this book dragged significantly. There was so much redundant, unnecessary information that it felt like the plot was at a standstill. Then there was Clarissa. I understand she’s meant to be naive, but at times, she just came across as annoying.
Also, can we talk about the "big words"? The constant use of high-level vocabulary and "analysis" felt a bit "show-offy" and pretentious. We get it—the characters are smart and educated! It felt unnecessary and took me out of the story.
The Turnaround:
However, once the story finally found its rhythm in the second half, it actually got really good. It felt like I was reading a completely different book!
The Dynamics: I loved the chemistry between Clarissa and Quin, and Annie was a great addition.
The Plot: The central conspiracy is a fantastic concept; I just wish it hadn’t taken so long to get to the point.
The Ending: The finale was strong enough that it actually salvaged the experience for me.
Final Verdict:
I’m not completely won over yet, but the ending was intriguing enough that I’m going to continue to the next book—albeit with some hesitation. I’m genuinely curious to see how the investigation continues and how the relationship between Clarissa and Quin grows.
If you can push past the slow burn and the "thesaurus" moments, there is a good story hidden in here!
I have such mixed feelings about Hieroglyphs and Homicide. To be honest, I really struggled to get through the first half of this book. After coming off a prequel that felt rushed and cluttered with info-dumping, I started this one already a bit annoyed—and the slow pace didn't help.
The Struggle:
The first 50–60% of this book dragged significantly. There was so much redundant, unnecessary information that it felt like the plot was at a standstill. Then there was Clarissa. I understand she’s meant to be naive, but at times, she just came across as annoying.
Also, can we talk about the "big words"? The constant use of high-level vocabulary and "analysis" felt a bit "show-offy" and pretentious. We get it—the characters are smart and educated! It felt unnecessary and took me out of the story.
The Turnaround:
However, once the story finally found its rhythm in the second half, it actually got really good. It felt like I was reading a completely different book!
The Dynamics: I loved the chemistry between Clarissa and Quin, and Annie was a great addition.
The Plot: The central conspiracy is a fantastic concept; I just wish it hadn’t taken so long to get to the point.
The Ending: The finale was strong enough that it actually salvaged the experience for me.
Final Verdict:
I’m not completely won over yet, but the ending was intriguing enough that I’m going to continue to the next book—albeit with some hesitation. I’m genuinely curious to see how the investigation continues and how the relationship between Clarissa and Quin grows.
If you can push past the slow burn and the "thesaurus" moments, there is a good story hidden in here!
May 7, 2026
Immediately I was pulled into twenty-six-year-old Clarissa Bell's story, through her wit and charm. (Plus, I just think her name is too cute!) I've heard about Tracey Higley's books for years, and now, I can honestly say, I don't know what took me so long to jump on the Higley train! This is exactly my kind of book! A solid historical read; early 1900s are always a favorite. A smart and chipper heroine -- defying society at every turn, not out of spite, but out of need to be herself. And what a sense of humor this gal has! I was giggling just every minute or two, from her off-hand thoughts and remarks, scientific social classifications, and how she views the world.
Her observational skills and internal cataloging system are superb, sublime, and always refreshingly surprising. And now her finely educated mind is learning about another level of archeological finds... that takes her into the dark alleys of Alexandria and dusty tunnels in Cairo... and against her will, into deep conspiracies about the darkest of criminals -- archeological thieves.
If you like this story, you should also check out Jocelyn Green's The Metropolitan Affair.
Her observational skills and internal cataloging system are superb, sublime, and always refreshingly surprising. And now her finely educated mind is learning about another level of archeological finds... that takes her into the dark alleys of Alexandria and dusty tunnels in Cairo... and against her will, into deep conspiracies about the darkest of criminals -- archeological thieves.
If you like this story, you should also check out Jocelyn Green's The Metropolitan Affair.
January 13, 2026
3.75/5, Very enjoyable. A light romp with a good sense of time and place. I enjoyed the characters of Dr. Bell and Benedict Quinn and the author did a good job of playing them against each other. Romance isn’t my usual genre but I like murder mysteries and stories of early 20th century archaeology in Egypt so this was a good choice for me. The editing wasn’t perfect with some phrases and clichés repeated throughout the book (how many times can you say “his smile didn’t reach his eyes” in one chapter? And there was a lot of one smell combined with another smell imagery. Not bad , it’s just once you notice that something’s being used over and over again it can be distracting, but overall it didn’t detract too much from the pleasant read. And to be fair, the author is very good at creating atmosphere. will read the next book in the series soon.
May 10, 2026
Eh... mixed feelings. Did not think it was very good at the start. Clarissa was a very annoying character as was the writing style with her little classifications. I just don't think people think like that. But I am really not a fan of first person narrative for this very reason. Still, it did pick up in the second half. Overall, too much Egyptology info dumping on page and very hard to suspend disbelief for a convoluted plot but I did start to see the vision and appreciate Clarissa getting some character development.
July 20, 2026
I have been waiting for this book for months!!! Seeing posts that it's similar to Amelia Peabody Emerson? Not even close. :(
I really, really wanted to like it, but the writing is so choppy. It's so abrupt in places... as if the editor axed whole sections, or else the writer stopped mid-thought and picked up a new thread weeks later. Seemless segways? Not here.
Clarissa's character has the same tired trope of "Look at me! I'm a strong, independent female with a brain! But I don't stop to actually use it or have common sense..." in order to carry the weak plot semi-forward. Disappointing.
Of course the mysterious, morally gray MMC is immediately attracted to the heroine and willing to risk life and limb for the "spunky" (aka bratty) FMC.
Knowledge of Egyptian history and artifacts is about the only good thing going for the story. That at least was well done.
The plot had so much potential, but alas was hastily written and poorly edited... and it shows. :(
I really, really wanted to like it, but the writing is so choppy. It's so abrupt in places... as if the editor axed whole sections, or else the writer stopped mid-thought and picked up a new thread weeks later. Seemless segways? Not here.
Clarissa's character has the same tired trope of "Look at me! I'm a strong, independent female with a brain! But I don't stop to actually use it or have common sense..." in order to carry the weak plot semi-forward. Disappointing.
Of course the mysterious, morally gray MMC is immediately attracted to the heroine and willing to risk life and limb for the "spunky" (aka bratty) FMC.
Knowledge of Egyptian history and artifacts is about the only good thing going for the story. That at least was well done.
The plot had so much potential, but alas was hastily written and poorly edited... and it shows. :(
October 9, 2025
This is an excellent first book in a new series about Dr Bell, an American archeologist with a Cambridge degree, her sweet 'maid' (sent by her wealthy father in New York) Annie, and Quinn, an enigmatic, charming, knowledgeable and immensely capable fellow who is also something of a mystery - can he really be trusted? They find themselves immersed in deadly circumstances involving a murder and ancient artifacts with blue symbols and hieroglyphics. It's exciting and fast paced, with unexpected twists and just enough romance to keep one's attention. ::grins::
This first book resolves some of the mysteries our characters are grappling with, but also sets up book 2 with a bigger challenge (and probably greater danger). The setting, in 1920s Cairo, Alexandria and the dig is marvellously drawn with sights, sounds, scents and the very texture of materials and the grit of dust on the wind. One falls into the story and I couldn't put it down. Lol, I've already pre ordered books 2 and 3. Ms Higley, congratulations - you have another hit series on your hands. I could even see this one made into a Netflix or Prime or BBC miniseries.
This first book resolves some of the mysteries our characters are grappling with, but also sets up book 2 with a bigger challenge (and probably greater danger). The setting, in 1920s Cairo, Alexandria and the dig is marvellously drawn with sights, sounds, scents and the very texture of materials and the grit of dust on the wind. One falls into the story and I couldn't put it down. Lol, I've already pre ordered books 2 and 3. Ms Higley, congratulations - you have another hit series on your hands. I could even see this one made into a Netflix or Prime or BBC miniseries.
July 2, 2026
เป็นอีกเล่มที่อยาก DNF คาดหวังว่าจะได้อ่านแนว Cozy Mystery อ่านสบาย ๆ ฉากหลังในยุคที่อียิปต์บูม ๆ แต่เจอศัพท์แสงวิชาการจนนึกว่าอ่านธีสิส ยอมรับว่าปวดหัวมาก อ่านแล้วขมวดคิ้ว ไม่เพลิดเพลินเลย ส่วนเนื้อเรื่องเราไม่แย่ อ่านได้เรื่อย ๆ ตัวนางเอก Clarissa เป็นนักโบราณคดี ดูเป็นนางเอกแบบแบน ๆ หน่อย มีความยึดมั่นในความถูกต้อง มีการจัดการความคิดแบบขาว ดำ แบ่งแยกอะไรชัดเจน ก็ออกจะดูน่าเบื่อนิดนึง มาเจอกับ Quinn พ่อหนุ่มที่ทำธุรกิจสีเทา ๆ เกี่ยวกับวัตถุโบราณ ก็มีความ Enemies to Lovers อยู่
December 31, 2025
Great easy read
I was hooked from the beginning. I really enjoyed the adventure and the knowledgeable aspect of Egypt’s history. I really loved the archaeology aspect and the intrigue of it all and the relationships that occur occurred between the main character and the people around her
I was hooked from the beginning. I really enjoyed the adventure and the knowledgeable aspect of Egypt’s history. I really loved the archaeology aspect and the intrigue of it all and the relationships that occur occurred between the main character and the people around her
April 1, 2026
A little cheesy but definitely interesting. I may have to try the next one to see what happens.
July 31, 2026
Enjoyed this romp through the Valley of the Kings, Cairo, and Alexandria with this intrepid duo. Clarissa and Benedict slowly build a trusting relationship as they discover what is really behind the stolen blue artifacts and the death of one archeologist.
April 22, 2026
Finished my second March mini-challenge of the 52 book Club’s 2026 mini-challenges:
Mystery Case 2 - Prompt #20 - Title starts with the first letter of the author‘s last name 
Hieroglyphs and Homicide by Tracy Higley 
This is a really cute read. It’s about an amateur detective in 1920s Egypt solving mysteries related to ancient Egypt. It’s got a little bit of historical fiction, a little bit of mystery, and it’s just fun.  I’m glad that there is now a series with Clarissa Bell. I will be reading them! 
2026 book total: 20
Mystery Case 2 - Prompt #20 - Title starts with the first letter of the author‘s last name 
Hieroglyphs and Homicide by Tracy Higley 
This is a really cute read. It’s about an amateur detective in 1920s Egypt solving mysteries related to ancient Egypt. It’s got a little bit of historical fiction, a little bit of mystery, and it’s just fun.  I’m glad that there is now a series with Clarissa Bell. I will be reading them! 
2026 book total: 20
July 16, 2026
At first I really loved the humor of this book. It definitely doesn’t take itself seriously. And I love the time period and setting. But, by the end it was all getting a little tiring. And then, the book does not end. I feel like I wasted my time. I want a satisfying ending when I’m reading a murder mystery. I just left the book feeling frustrated. I’m giving 3 stars even though I’m frustrated with it because I did enjoy the wit and humor.
November 11, 2025
A good start
I liked the main characters, the setting and the premise, but found there was way too much naval gazing and introspection. While I can accept some of this from Clarissa as she's young, she's also an Oxford PhD, wealthy and beautiful, it caused the story to lag.
I liked the main characters, the setting and the premise, but found there was way too much naval gazing and introspection. While I can accept some of this from Clarissa as she's young, she's also an Oxford PhD, wealthy and beautiful, it caused the story to lag.
May 27, 2026
I'm torn about this one. I think the series has potential. I agree with a lot of the reviews that said the tempo of the book picks up after a poky start, but honestly, I have found that to be so with most first books in a series. I also agreed with folks who found the constant classifications used by the main character to be pretty irritating. I get that the author wants us to see her character has a quirk, but there is no need to bash us over the head with it multiple times in a chapter. I ended up skipping over those by midway through the book. I hope that fades a bit in the next book.
I thought this book would benefit from a professional editor: There are some grammatical errors and typos that need to be fixed. And there were multiple instances of a word or phrase that the author used to describe a particular person or element of the setting and then repeat verbatim a page or so later. This happened often enough that I'd do a double-take: "Wait, didn't she just say that? Or did I accidently go back an reread the last couple of pages?" A good editor could help with unnecessary repetition.
Anyway, I may pick up the second book and give the series another chance.
I thought this book would benefit from a professional editor: There are some grammatical errors and typos that need to be fixed. And there were multiple instances of a word or phrase that the author used to describe a particular person or element of the setting and then repeat verbatim a page or so later. This happened often enough that I'd do a double-take: "Wait, didn't she just say that? Or did I accidently go back an reread the last couple of pages?" A good editor could help with unnecessary repetition.
Anyway, I may pick up the second book and give the series another chance.
May 2, 2026
An interesting mystery, reminiscent of the Amelia Peabody series by Elizabeth Peters but not quite up to her writing. While this was exciting, it was a bit choppy too as it jumps from suspenseful scene to scene. For example, the companion Annie suddenly appears almost like a deus ex machina, to advance a plot point. What was she doing at other times? Just waiting in the wings to appear and then disappear?
Don't get me wrong, the author does create very suspenseful scenes and a lot of distractions as to who is or isn't the villain. The main character's inner snarky dialogue and application of scientific classification to almost everything that is happening is entertaining. Amidst all the drama, the author does a good job of conveying the scenes, so you can almost feel the heat, dust, and tension.
"Nothing says 'I'm beginning to trust you' quite like 'Want to prevent my possible murder in Alexandria'?"
Don't get me wrong, the author does create very suspenseful scenes and a lot of distractions as to who is or isn't the villain. The main character's inner snarky dialogue and application of scientific classification to almost everything that is happening is entertaining. Amidst all the drama, the author does a good job of conveying the scenes, so you can almost feel the heat, dust, and tension.
"Nothing says 'I'm beginning to trust you' quite like 'Want to prevent my possible murder in Alexandria'?"
June 23, 2026
Gorgeous book! I have seen that many books claiming to be either Indiana Jones or The Mummy, but usually I end up disappointed and longing for more. However, this book was one of the few books in the sub where they deliver. I haven’t seen much on this book and I’m sad that many people haven’t found this book. The protagonist is a rigid rule follower archaeologist, Dr. Bell, but throughout the book you see her changing and she finds herself in a lot of adventure in danger and she thrives on it. She’s often under estimated and she has moments of doubt, but overall keeps true to herself while allowing herself to grow. Quinn is a mystery. We kind of a glimpse of who he is but not really too much and he is charming and man. Oh man has me swept off my feet. We have Annie, who is Dr. Bell’s assistant and she doesn’t show up a lot on the book however, I absolutely adore her and made her mark, and I hope I see more of her. The end suggest more mystery more action and more danger and there’s two other books out mainly to be about a four book series. Not sure while the end was not exactly what I wanted it to be (not in a bad way I’m just a hopeless romantic) and I’m glad that Clarissa held ground and demanded answers before things changed. She is insanely smart and reminds me a lot of Evie from the mummy and Quinn a lot like Rick but Rick has much less secrets.
July 7, 2026
I was drawn to the Clarissa Bell mystery series because of the blurb’s comparison to the Amelia Peabody mystery series also set in Egypt. The Clarissa Bell series is set somewhat later (the 1920s) and carries the post-World War I paranoia about spies and various countries getting the technological jump on others. I ended up reading the three books available in the series so far (Hieroglyphs and Homicide, Palm Trees and Poison, Amulets and Alibis) as well as the prequel novella (Murder in the Museum) available if you sign up for author Higley’s newsletter.
Clarissa is the daughter of a wealthy American family. Her father allows her to study Egyptology in Britain, hoping that she’ll give up her interest in such unwomanly ideas and settle down and marry well. Instead, she becomes an archeologist. Though she is limited by the men on her dig to categorizing pottery sherds, she nonetheless has many adventures and becomes involved in multiple mysteries that tie into an all-consuming nefarious plot. Soon after her arrival at the dig, she encounters Benedict Quinn, a man whose dubious morals and links to the illegal antiquities trade should make him persona non grata; however, their relationship is marked with a powerful attraction, held in check by Clarissa’s inability to full trust him and his inability to be honest with her. Each adventure sees them growing closer.
Clarissa is a more modern heroine than Amelia Peabody, and newer series covers more contemporary issues such as cultural appropriation and repatriation of archeological artifacts. The author does a good job showing upper crust expatriate life in Egypt and their sense of utter superiority to Egyptians. There is enough technical jargon (such as pottery glazes and how to date them) to make this read true. One of the most enjoyable aspects to this series is Clarissa’s compulsion to catalog everything, even her own emotions. For example, “Specimen: Career Opportunity (Dubious), featuring collaboration with irritatingly handsome antiquities dealer. Notable elements include complete destruction of professional dignity…”
I enjoyed the first two novels but found a plot hole in the third (Amulets and Alibis) that drove me crazy. In Chapter 16, while on a Nile cruise, Clarissa begs a set of master keys from Freddie, her maid’s boyfriend; however, he doesn’t actually board the boat until Chapter 17. The “Murder in the Museum” prequel sets up Clarissa’s love for Egypt, but lacks the sparkle of her cataloging compulsion. Surely that characteristic was present at seventeen as well as a few years later. There is, however, a nice character arc for both Clarissa and Benedict as she realizes that not everything can be categorized and that ambiguity is part of human nature.
Clarissa is the daughter of a wealthy American family. Her father allows her to study Egyptology in Britain, hoping that she’ll give up her interest in such unwomanly ideas and settle down and marry well. Instead, she becomes an archeologist. Though she is limited by the men on her dig to categorizing pottery sherds, she nonetheless has many adventures and becomes involved in multiple mysteries that tie into an all-consuming nefarious plot. Soon after her arrival at the dig, she encounters Benedict Quinn, a man whose dubious morals and links to the illegal antiquities trade should make him persona non grata; however, their relationship is marked with a powerful attraction, held in check by Clarissa’s inability to full trust him and his inability to be honest with her. Each adventure sees them growing closer.
Clarissa is a more modern heroine than Amelia Peabody, and newer series covers more contemporary issues such as cultural appropriation and repatriation of archeological artifacts. The author does a good job showing upper crust expatriate life in Egypt and their sense of utter superiority to Egyptians. There is enough technical jargon (such as pottery glazes and how to date them) to make this read true. One of the most enjoyable aspects to this series is Clarissa’s compulsion to catalog everything, even her own emotions. For example, “Specimen: Career Opportunity (Dubious), featuring collaboration with irritatingly handsome antiquities dealer. Notable elements include complete destruction of professional dignity…”
I enjoyed the first two novels but found a plot hole in the third (Amulets and Alibis) that drove me crazy. In Chapter 16, while on a Nile cruise, Clarissa begs a set of master keys from Freddie, her maid’s boyfriend; however, he doesn’t actually board the boat until Chapter 17. The “Murder in the Museum” prequel sets up Clarissa’s love for Egypt, but lacks the sparkle of her cataloging compulsion. Surely that characteristic was present at seventeen as well as a few years later. There is, however, a nice character arc for both Clarissa and Benedict as she realizes that not everything can be categorized and that ambiguity is part of human nature.
November 23, 2025
This has all the tropes of romantic mystery crossed with historical fiction. We get an insider’s view of the cut-throat (literally) world of antiquity dealing in the early 20th century. What fun to see the Roaring Twenties through the eyes of seemingly proper British professionals.
Repeatedly accused of ”feminine archaeological hysteria,” Dr. Bell fights for her place on the archaeology team, especially after accidentally breaking a significant piece of whole pottery. Every time she discovers a deep, hidden fact about the ancient Egyptians, someone else either publishes it under their name, or steals the artifact she is cataloging. And cataloging—from people to situations—is what she does best!
Refusing to be deterred by any form of opposition, she repeatedly faces down Benedict Quinn—never quite sure if the brilliant antiquities dealer is trustworthy or not. However, when murder comes to visit and she and Benedict are both prime suspects, she is obliged to set aside her distrust and work more closely with him, especially if she wants to survive.
The historical setting, the complexities of Egypt and archaeology, and the drama of the murder make this a fascinating read.
Repeatedly accused of ”feminine archaeological hysteria,” Dr. Bell fights for her place on the archaeology team, especially after accidentally breaking a significant piece of whole pottery. Every time she discovers a deep, hidden fact about the ancient Egyptians, someone else either publishes it under their name, or steals the artifact she is cataloging. And cataloging—from people to situations—is what she does best!
Refusing to be deterred by any form of opposition, she repeatedly faces down Benedict Quinn—never quite sure if the brilliant antiquities dealer is trustworthy or not. However, when murder comes to visit and she and Benedict are both prime suspects, she is obliged to set aside her distrust and work more closely with him, especially if she wants to survive.
The historical setting, the complexities of Egypt and archaeology, and the drama of the murder make this a fascinating read.
April 21, 2026
Hieroglyphs And Homicide was the absolute perfect book to read about Egypt. This was my first somewhat cozy mystery about Clarissa. She is a British gal Egyptologist, who lands in the Valley of the Kings during the King Tut dig.
Almost immediately, she was pulled into a cloak and dagger mystery involving lost pieces from King Tut’s tomb, antiquities dealers, and of course, a handsome counterpart Dr. Quinn.
This was an easy and read enjoyable read. It had fun characters and flirty elements wrapped around an ancient mystery. I loved all of the details about ancient Egypt. I especially appreciated the way the author described the ancient sites and merged those into the story. Clarissa was educated and smart. She understood how to read hieroglyphs, and was determined to prove her value to the dig. This author had a great handle on Egypt’s social and political perspective, that came across in the plot that detailed the struggle between Egypt and Britain regarding the sale of ancient Egyptian antiquities.
I thought this was a fun historical romance and will definitely read another book in the series.
Almost immediately, she was pulled into a cloak and dagger mystery involving lost pieces from King Tut’s tomb, antiquities dealers, and of course, a handsome counterpart Dr. Quinn.
This was an easy and read enjoyable read. It had fun characters and flirty elements wrapped around an ancient mystery. I loved all of the details about ancient Egypt. I especially appreciated the way the author described the ancient sites and merged those into the story. Clarissa was educated and smart. She understood how to read hieroglyphs, and was determined to prove her value to the dig. This author had a great handle on Egypt’s social and political perspective, that came across in the plot that detailed the struggle between Egypt and Britain regarding the sale of ancient Egyptian antiquities.
I thought this was a fun historical romance and will definitely read another book in the series.
May 30, 2026
Usually, I hate Facebook ads, but today I bless them as it was a Facebook ad that let me discover this delight. I highlighted more of this book than any book I've read. I love Tracy L. Higley's sense of humor, her wordplay, and her zaniness. I laughed out loud several times and giggled and grinned quite often. Here are just a few of the things I highlighted:
At this rate, I'd arrive at the dig site looking less like a serious archaeologist and more like something recently excavated.
stood amid the pottery pieces, mentally composing my own funerary text. "Here lies Clarissa Bell, who survived twenty-six years of life only to be murdered by an angry archaeologist with a surprisingly violent mustache. May Anubis judge her heart lightly, as her brain was clearly missing to begin with."
And what was one more catastrophically bad decision in an evening already featuring a dress without a single practical pocket?
October 19, 2025
This was such a fun little escape! It’s got all the good stuff — Egypt in the 1920s, hidden tombs, danger, and a gutsy heroine who refuses to stay on the sidelines. Clarissa Bell is smart, stubborn, and determined to prove herself in a field full of men. I liked her right away.
The setting was one of my favorite parts. You can almost feel the desert heat and hear the market noise. It has that “old adventure movie” vibe, but with a strong female lead instead of a guy in a fedora.
The mystery itself isn’t super twisty — it’s more of a steady, enjoyable ride than an edge-of-your-seat thriller — but I didn’t mind. It’s got charm and atmosphere, and I love when a story makes me want to go digging around in history books afterward.
If you like archaeology, a hint of romance, and stories that whisk you away to another time, this one’s worth a read. It’s light, a little sassy, and totally satisfying with a cup of coffee on a quiet afternoon
The setting was one of my favorite parts. You can almost feel the desert heat and hear the market noise. It has that “old adventure movie” vibe, but with a strong female lead instead of a guy in a fedora.
The mystery itself isn’t super twisty — it’s more of a steady, enjoyable ride than an edge-of-your-seat thriller — but I didn’t mind. It’s got charm and atmosphere, and I love when a story makes me want to go digging around in history books afterward.
If you like archaeology, a hint of romance, and stories that whisk you away to another time, this one’s worth a read. It’s light, a little sassy, and totally satisfying with a cup of coffee on a quiet afternoon
Did Not Finish
August 10, 2026DNFed at page 43.
It might be me and my mood, but the language is overwrought. Too many quirky similes and analogies. It’s just too extra.
Here are four consecutive sentences near the beginning of Chapter Six that made me realize I wasn’t in the mood for this: “On the street in front, smoke from hookah pipes curled through the air like ancient apple-scented tomb gases. I trailed Quinn toward the entrance, cataloguing our descent into archaeological impropriety. The cafe reeked of intrigue, over-steeped tea and questionable life choices. I had already filed the experience under ‘Catastrophically Bad Ideas, Early 20th Century, Egyptian Subdivision.’”
If future me decides that’s not too much, I’ll come back to it. The fact that the publisher is simply an indie distributor does not fill me with optimism.
It might be me and my mood, but the language is overwrought. Too many quirky similes and analogies. It’s just too extra.
Here are four consecutive sentences near the beginning of Chapter Six that made me realize I wasn’t in the mood for this: “On the street in front, smoke from hookah pipes curled through the air like ancient apple-scented tomb gases. I trailed Quinn toward the entrance, cataloguing our descent into archaeological impropriety. The cafe reeked of intrigue, over-steeped tea and questionable life choices. I had already filed the experience under ‘Catastrophically Bad Ideas, Early 20th Century, Egyptian Subdivision.’”
If future me decides that’s not too much, I’ll come back to it. The fact that the publisher is simply an indie distributor does not fill me with optimism.
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