What do you think?
Rate this book
The Clarissa Bell Mysteries #3
Amulets and Alibis
In sun-scorched 1920s Egypt, archaeologist Clarissa Bell navigates far more than shifting desert sands.Armed with sharp intellect and an unfortunate talent for stumbling into deadly situations, she's fighting to prove herself in a field where men would rather see her cataloguing pottery fragments than making groundbreaking discoveries.
But Egypt's treasures attract more than just legitimate scholars. When priceless artifacts begin disappearing into the shadowy world of international antiquities smuggling, Clarissa discovers that some secrets are worth killing for. Each investigation pulls her deeper into a web of forgeries, blackmail, and murder.
Complicating matters considerably is Benedict Quinn—a charming, enigmatic figure whose dubious connections to the antiquities trade should make him a natural enemy. Instead, their relationship crackles with wit, tension, and an undeniable attraction that threatens to compromise both her professional judgment and her carefully guarded heart.
As murders pile up and artifacts vanish, Clarissa must decode not only ancient Egyptian mysteries but also the deadly modern conspiracies that surround them. With her academic reputation, her life, and her heart all on the line, she'll discover that in Egypt, the past refuses to stay buried—and so do its secrets.
"A gripping historical mystery series 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 Egypt's treasures attract more than just legitimate scholars. When priceless artifacts begin disappearing into the shadowy world of international antiquities smuggling, Clarissa discovers that some secrets are worth killing for. Each investigation pulls her deeper into a web of forgeries, blackmail, and murder.
Complicating matters considerably is Benedict Quinn—a charming, enigmatic figure whose dubious connections to the antiquities trade should make him a natural enemy. Instead, their relationship crackles with wit, tension, and an undeniable attraction that threatens to compromise both her professional judgment and her carefully guarded heart.
As murders pile up and artifacts vanish, Clarissa must decode not only ancient Egyptian mysteries but also the deadly modern conspiracies that surround them. With her academic reputation, her life, and her heart all on the line, she'll discover that in Egypt, the past refuses to stay buried—and so do its secrets.
"A gripping historical mystery series 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."
316 pages, ebook
Published March 1, 2026
About the author
Tracy L. Higley
46 books825 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.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
July 1, 2026
Oh, such a fun book. But, really? Quit postponing Clarissa and Quinn's happily ever after.
March 9, 2026
This was not my favourite book from the series. I did not find the editing as good as with previous books and there were continuity errors from those stories which were annoying. I don't mind if I never have to hear about mathematical equations and acoustic resonance again (it was a lot and I still don't understand) and there enough plot holes to strain pasta Also, I missed Clarissa's constant internal cataloguing. On the other hand, I was pleased to visit the temples along the nile (I have, in fact, visited them) and I enjoyed the 1920's splendour of the steamer as they traveled from Cairo to Aswan. It has been amusing to watch Clarissa and Benedict's relationship evolve. Honestly, I've been rooting for him since she first discovered him in a tomb in Giza. He's just the right side of rascal and whilst not entirely (or even remotely) honest, I do believe he's a good person. Clarissa is finally finding that not everything can be catalogued and she is a much better person for it. I have hope for her too. In summary, a decent ending to this story arc and a hopefully, happy beginning to a great romance. 3.5*
May 18, 2026
I thoroughly enjoyed this entry in the historical mystery series. This book take place primarily on a Nile Cruise heading towards Aswan. Clarissa and Benedict end up on board a private, invitation-only "archaeological cruise." It turns out, people involved with the mysterious incidents they've been investigating are on board, and up to no good.
While I enjoyed this book, I should say it would not work great as a standalone. The mystery picks up characters, mysteries, and hanging plots from the previous two books. As for me, I'm looking forward to the next, as once again many things -- both mysterious and personal -- are at a crossroads.
While I enjoyed this book, I should say it would not work great as a standalone. The mystery picks up characters, mysteries, and hanging plots from the previous two books. As for me, I'm looking forward to the next, as once again many things -- both mysterious and personal -- are at a crossroads.
April 6, 2026
unforgettable
I am glued to this series since I started it a few months ago. It is so well written I feel like I’m a character in the novel myself, and that I am experiencing all the same things that her imaginary characters are experiencing. Her attention to detail is remarkable and only makes the reading so much more enjoyable.
I am glued to this series since I started it a few months ago. It is so well written I feel like I’m a character in the novel myself, and that I am experiencing all the same things that her imaginary characters are experiencing. Her attention to detail is remarkable and only makes the reading so much more enjoyable.
March 20, 2026
Good Addition to the Series
I really enjoyed the development of the relationship between Clarissa and Benedict in this book. The Nile cruise, the artifacts, and the archaeological sites provide a great backdrop for the mystery. The author’s knowledge of both Egypt and the 1920s clearly show in this book. Can’t wait for the next installment in the series!
I really enjoyed the development of the relationship between Clarissa and Benedict in this book. The Nile cruise, the artifacts, and the archaeological sites provide a great backdrop for the mystery. The author’s knowledge of both Egypt and the 1920s clearly show in this book. Can’t wait for the next installment in the series!
May 27, 2026
same old same old
As much as I would’ve like to enjoy this book, I really didn’t. It was the same as the other two books in the series.Clarissa and Quinn perpetually on the cusp of doing something more engaging in their relationship. Ridiculous number of deaths I’ve been in the field for 17 years and encountered one death with had nothing to do with actual archaeology. There’s also a lack of plot twists which make series books more enjoyable. I had high hopes after book one, but I’ve been very disappointed since then clearly she’s laid the groundwork for book four. But I doubt I’ll read it.
As much as I would’ve like to enjoy this book, I really didn’t. It was the same as the other two books in the series.Clarissa and Quinn perpetually on the cusp of doing something more engaging in their relationship. Ridiculous number of deaths I’ve been in the field for 17 years and encountered one death with had nothing to do with actual archaeology. There’s also a lack of plot twists which make series books more enjoyable. I had high hopes after book one, but I’ve been very disappointed since then clearly she’s laid the groundwork for book four. But I doubt I’ll read it.
March 25, 2026
Not my favorite one of the series. I felt like it kind of went in circles and the plot didn’t progress until the very end. I did enjoy the relationship between Clarissa and Benedict. However, I thought this was the final book in the series for some reason so I was hoping for more. Excited to see what’s next for these two.
May 24, 2026
The Verdict: A Gripping Page-Turner That Ultimately Tests Your Patience
Amulets and Alibis is the point where this series finally finds its stride. Once it gets moving, the story is incredibly hard to put down, drawing you in completely with its atmospheric world and compelling character dynamics. Tracy Higley’s writing has clearly matured here; there is a deeper understanding of the world the characters inhabit, and the overall prose feels much more polished and refined.
What Worked
The Atmosphere and Pace: The beginning of the book is fantastic. The writing hooks you immediately, and the evolution of the narrative style makes the world feel incredibly rich and lived-in.
The Historical Detail: You can absolutely feel the author’s genuine passion for archaeology and history bleeding through the pages. The amount of research and knowledge poured into the historical backdrop is truly admirable and adds a wonderful layer of authenticity to the setting.
What Didn't Work
The "Slow Burn" That Turned Frustrating: While a slow-burn romance can be agonizingly beautiful, this one unfortunately crossed the line into ridiculous annoyance and irritation. Towards the end, almost every single chapter teases the reader with an "almost kiss" or a near-romantic moment, only to pull back. Instead of building tension, the constant passing teases became painful and exhausting. Moving forward, there needs to be substantial progress and actual, meaningful romantic moments between the main leads rather than just repetitive teases.
The Mystery Element: For a story involving a "secret society," the villains didn't try very hard to hide it. The investigative elements were incredibly obvious, with things laid out a bit too plainly for the reader. The plot would benefit from a lot more actual detective work and genuine mystery rather than straightforward reveals.
Pacing and Logic Gaps: There were a few pacing issues, including some redundancy within the narration, and a couple of corny moments that broke the immersion.
Final Thoughts
While the ending could have been executed much better, the leap forward in writing maturity makes this a worthwhile read for fans of historical mysteries. If you love deep historical research and don't mind a romance that will make you want to pull your hair out, this is a solid addition to the series. I just hope the next installment brings less teasing and more actual substance for our main duo! It was a decent read but could use some polishing.
Amulets and Alibis is the point where this series finally finds its stride. Once it gets moving, the story is incredibly hard to put down, drawing you in completely with its atmospheric world and compelling character dynamics. Tracy Higley’s writing has clearly matured here; there is a deeper understanding of the world the characters inhabit, and the overall prose feels much more polished and refined.
What Worked
The Atmosphere and Pace: The beginning of the book is fantastic. The writing hooks you immediately, and the evolution of the narrative style makes the world feel incredibly rich and lived-in.
The Historical Detail: You can absolutely feel the author’s genuine passion for archaeology and history bleeding through the pages. The amount of research and knowledge poured into the historical backdrop is truly admirable and adds a wonderful layer of authenticity to the setting.
What Didn't Work
The "Slow Burn" That Turned Frustrating: While a slow-burn romance can be agonizingly beautiful, this one unfortunately crossed the line into ridiculous annoyance and irritation. Towards the end, almost every single chapter teases the reader with an "almost kiss" or a near-romantic moment, only to pull back. Instead of building tension, the constant passing teases became painful and exhausting. Moving forward, there needs to be substantial progress and actual, meaningful romantic moments between the main leads rather than just repetitive teases.
The Mystery Element: For a story involving a "secret society," the villains didn't try very hard to hide it. The investigative elements were incredibly obvious, with things laid out a bit too plainly for the reader. The plot would benefit from a lot more actual detective work and genuine mystery rather than straightforward reveals.
Pacing and Logic Gaps: There were a few pacing issues, including some redundancy within the narration, and a couple of corny moments that broke the immersion.
Final Thoughts
While the ending could have been executed much better, the leap forward in writing maturity makes this a worthwhile read for fans of historical mysteries. If you love deep historical research and don't mind a romance that will make you want to pull your hair out, this is a solid addition to the series. I just hope the next installment brings less teasing and more actual substance for our main duo! It was a decent read but could use some polishing.
April 17, 2026
I really did not want this book to end! I tried slowing down as I got closer to the end of "Amulets and Alibis" because it is so exciting and the kind of dynamic adventure that you are so captivated by you simply don't want the book to get to the end. So I am honored to tell all GoodReads readers that this is SOOOOOOOOOOO good a series that I wish every mystery reader and even those who don't read mysteries to read this book and start with the beginning of the series so you don't miss a moment of the exciting, bold, dynamic and thrilling mystery with suspense and wit and romance and the Nile and the pyramids and the beauty of the setting and the history that really makes this book and the entire series a book that you find hard to stop reading because it makes you feel like Dr.Clarissa Bell's journey and happenings is yours too. It has so much here that is written so beautifully that you really are impressed with Tracy Higley and her writing and the way her words just pull you into the book and transport you to this place and this time. 1924 Egypt. This is a historical mystery romance series. Nothing boring or dull here at all. I am honored to recommend this to Every mystery lover. Clarissa is the kind of archaeologist that inspires and admires and loves having her in our lives. Tracy Higley's creativity and imagination is brilliantly transparent in this Clarissa Bell Historical Mystery Romance Series. "Amulets and Alibis" is a fabulous mystery and is the 3rd book. This Clarissa Bell Mystery series begins with "Hieroglyphs and Homicide" book 1 and continues to "Palms and Poison" book 2 and continues with this book 3. I cannot wait for book 4 to be released. I will have to go back and reread from the beginning because this series is the kind of thrilling mystery you cannot just read one time. You are going to love Dr. Clarissa Bell and Tracy Higley for creating this series. Put this on your reading list and move it to the very next book you will read. It is that awesome and truly has everything that a mystery reader would love. I cannot wait for book 4!!
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.
April 18, 2026
I really enjoyed this book!
I have spent some time in Egypt - first in the 1970's and then a return in 2000. When I saw how much had changed in less than 30 years, I couldn't help but wonder what it was really like when Clarissa was there with Quin.
this made me go back and look at my photo albums from my times there, especially the Philae which she would have seen in situ. By the time I had gotten there, it had been moved to another island to prevent it from being flooded when the Aswan high dam was built. I also "revisited" other temples vicariously through this book and then in my scrapbook filled with photos.
There were some things in this book that made me wonder part way through if Clarissa Bell was only going to be a trilogy like some of the author's other works. I was relieved to see that there is a fourth book in the wings waiting to be published and can't wait to read it.
I have spent some time in Egypt - first in the 1970's and then a return in 2000. When I saw how much had changed in less than 30 years, I couldn't help but wonder what it was really like when Clarissa was there with Quin.
this made me go back and look at my photo albums from my times there, especially the Philae which she would have seen in situ. By the time I had gotten there, it had been moved to another island to prevent it from being flooded when the Aswan high dam was built. I also "revisited" other temples vicariously through this book and then in my scrapbook filled with photos.
There were some things in this book that made me wonder part way through if Clarissa Bell was only going to be a trilogy like some of the author's other works. I was relieved to see that there is a fourth book in the wings waiting to be published and can't wait to read it.
March 10, 2026
ike a Trip to Egypt Without the Sand in Your Shoes
As a devoted fan of Agatha Christie and Elizabeth Peters, I am always on the hunt for a mystery that captures that perfect blend of historical atmosphere and a clever "whodunit." "Amulets and Alibis" by Tracy Higley delivers exactly that!
Having traveled to Egypt myself, I was thoroughly impressed by how Higley captures the heat, the dust, and the vibrant history of the region. It feels incredibly authentic to the time period, echoing the adventurous spirit of the Amelia Peabody series while maintaining the tight, gripping suspense of a Golden Age mystery.
This was such a fun, transportive read that I couldn't put down. I highly recommend this series to anyone who loves a well-researched historical puzzle. I’ve enjoyed every bit of the journey so far and am eagerly looking forward to Book 4!
As a devoted fan of Agatha Christie and Elizabeth Peters, I am always on the hunt for a mystery that captures that perfect blend of historical atmosphere and a clever "whodunit." "Amulets and Alibis" by Tracy Higley delivers exactly that!
Having traveled to Egypt myself, I was thoroughly impressed by how Higley captures the heat, the dust, and the vibrant history of the region. It feels incredibly authentic to the time period, echoing the adventurous spirit of the Amelia Peabody series while maintaining the tight, gripping suspense of a Golden Age mystery.
This was such a fun, transportive read that I couldn't put down. I highly recommend this series to anyone who loves a well-researched historical puzzle. I’ve enjoyed every bit of the journey so far and am eagerly looking forward to Book 4!
May 18, 2026
These books really scratch an archeological adventure itch for me. Plus the developing romance between Clarissa and Quinn EEEEE I just need them together. I’m so happy there’s going to be a fourth. They read like 1920s Egypt episodes of shows like high potential. Just quirky enough just enough background and enough slight romance building. So good. I will be reading more from this author and going down my adventure book rabbit hole. Just trying to space them to savor them.
I will also say the way the author really makes it feel like we are in Egypt is so cool. It’s some place I really want to see someday and how fun I can go there in books till then 😋
I will also say the way the author really makes it feel like we are in Egypt is so cool. It’s some place I really want to see someday and how fun I can go there in books till then 😋
March 19, 2026
An enjoyable entry in the series. Not quite as good as the first two. A little of the plot was a bit over the top, but I like Clarissa and friends. There was good character development, and the relationship between Clarissa and Benedict seems to be developing nicely. I love the atmosphere and visiting the archeological sites. Having just been on a Nile cruise last October, it was wonderful to “visit” them again. Looking forward to the next book.
March 14, 2026
Oh my goodness, what can I say?! It’s funny, it’s Witty, it’s exciting and suspenseful in all the right places. The characters are so rich and endearing. I couldn’t put it down.
What is even better is the undercurrent storyline started in the first book flows seamlessly into book two and three.
If you love Agatha Christy and Indiana Jones, these are definitely for you.
What is even better is the undercurrent storyline started in the first book flows seamlessly into book two and three.
If you love Agatha Christy and Indiana Jones, these are definitely for you.
April 22, 2026
Fun read
I really like this series. The chemistry between the two main characters is fun. The setting is well described. The wrap up of the lingering items from the first two books was well done. All in all I look forward to seeing what happens for Clarissa and Quinn in future installments.
I really like this series. The chemistry between the two main characters is fun. The setting is well described. The wrap up of the lingering items from the first two books was well done. All in all I look forward to seeing what happens for Clarissa and Quinn in future installments.
May 31, 2026
slow burn on a boat
Love the setting of a Nile cruise and the mathematical properties central to this mystery. This third book continues the overarching story of the first two books and adds the fun of a fake engagement and forced proximity. The ending does a great setup for the next book (which I hope is announced soon).
Love the setting of a Nile cruise and the mathematical properties central to this mystery. This third book continues the overarching story of the first two books and adds the fun of a fake engagement and forced proximity. The ending does a great setup for the next book (which I hope is announced soon).
June 22, 2026
just plain fun
I love the realism she weaves into her books. I learned more about Egyptology than I ever would have thought. Having a real picture of the places described in the book really brought the characters alive for me. The heart throb is quite yummy and Clarissa is a hoot.
I love the realism she weaves into her books. I learned more about Egyptology than I ever would have thought. Having a real picture of the places described in the book really brought the characters alive for me. The heart throb is quite yummy and Clarissa is a hoot.
June 24, 2026
I AM SO OBSESSED WITH THIS SERIES! The first book is always slower to introduce everything but VERY GOOD! Think of it this way: every book in this series I’ve read in a few days aka 1-2 days at max. I’m so in love with the growth and evolution of the characters where there are twists and turns at every corner. CAN QUINN AND CLARISSA HAVE THEIR HAPPILY EVER AFTER???!?? IM BEGGING!!
March 13, 2026
Best one of the series so far. Halfway through, I suspected just about every character of being guilty of murder. The author truly kept up the suspense all the way through.
Highly recommended for lovers of murder mysteries.
Highly recommended for lovers of murder mysteries.
March 19, 2026
Great adventure
Clarissa is invited on a Nile archeology cruise and her friend Benedict joins the cruise as her fiance. The cruise starts right off with a murder and Clarissa and Quinn begin investigating. Excellent reading with a nice presentation of Egyptian temples
Clarissa is invited on a Nile archeology cruise and her friend Benedict joins the cruise as her fiance. The cruise starts right off with a murder and Clarissa and Quinn begin investigating. Excellent reading with a nice presentation of Egyptian temples
April 11, 2026
I liked this one more becausew we finally got closure and wrapped up the story. It was getting a bit repetitive between three books in the series. I realize now that this is likely going to be a very long book series. I really wish they would finally allow Quinn and dr bell be together because I’m getting pretty bored of the will they won’t they trope
March 6, 2026
This is my favorite of this series so far!
March 10, 2026
Fun series, full of mystery & intrigue set in Egypt archeological sites. Keeps you guessing until the crazy ending!
March 18, 2026
I love this series. Can't wait for the next book!
March 24, 2026
Great read
This book was definitely a chase for the truth and discerning who was good or bad and stopping the bad guys! Well done!
This book was definitely a chase for the truth and discerning who was good or bad and stopping the bad guys! Well done!
March 30, 2026
I was hooked! can't wait to see more of Clarissa and Quinn's relationship!
August 1, 2026
Enjoyed the book immensely and will wait impatiently for the next one. Had me guessing until the end.
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews