Amulets and Alibis

The Clarissa Bell Mysteries #3

by Tracy L. Higley

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."

Genres: Mystery

319 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 6, 2026

About the author

Tracy 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.

Reviews

[Lois · Rating 3 out of 5]

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*

[Gretchen · Rating 5 out of 5]

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!

[Sheila · Rating 4 out of 5]

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.

[Stephanie Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[David Higgins · Rating 5 out of 5]

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!

[David · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Richard Cowart · Rating 5 out of 5]

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

[Gillie Walker · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my favorite of this series so far!

[SUSAN SKOGLUND · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fun series, full of mystery & intrigue set in Egypt archeological sites. Keeps you guessing until the crazy ending!

[TERI MICHEL · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this series. Can't wait for the next book!

[Lizabeth Tarr · Rating 5 out of 5]

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!