Mesopotamia, 1930: When Agatha Christie invites fellow members of the Detection Club to witness the famous excavations at the ruins of Ur, Dorothy L. Sayers, her quick-witted assistant Eliza Baker, and Theo Sharp expect ancient wonders – not fresh corpses.

But when an archaeologist is found dead in the sand, whispers of a deadly curse sweep through the camp. Eliza suspects something far more dangerous than superstition. Amid glittering artifacts and fragile alliances, every guest harbors secrets: the Woolleys, whose marriage is shadowed by tragedy; a journalist hungry for scandal; even academic Max Mallowan, whose loyalties are not what they seem.

As theft, forgery, and coded messages surface, the line between archaeology and espionage blurs. And when Eliza and Theo find themselves in danger, they must face not only the truth about the murder – but also the truths they’ve long denied about each other. Can they uncover the killer before the desert claims another victim? Or will this dig unearth secrets too dangerous to survive?

Praise for Kelly Oliver:

'Sharp, witty and full of surprises!' Clara McKenna

'A fast and fun-filled mystery that checks every box. If you're new to the series, it stands on its own as an action-packed novel that's leavened with the dry wit of its indomitable heroine. A 2024 must-read.' Lori Robbins

'A fun, mix of whodunnit and thriller!' T. A. Williams

'Fast-paced, tongue-in-cheek spy romp. Enjoy the ride!' Frances Evesham

'Will keep you turning the pages and laughing all the way!' Dianne Freeman

'Perfect for fans of Downton Abbey and Maisie Dobbs.' BookTrib

'A pure delight! A bold, original sleuth, a devilishly charming adversary and a plucky Pekingese.' Mariah Fredericks

'Tantalizing and riveting with a good dose of humor.' The Los Angeles Post

'Fiona reminds me so much of Miss Fisher. Humor, action, and intrigue.. thoroughly entertaining.' Urban Book Reviews

'A perfect blend of wit, fun, and intrigue.' Debra Goldstein ​ 'Smart, sneaky, and full of surprises... A fun whodunit that will keep you turning the pages!' Cathi Stoler

'Rich with historical details, and perfectly laced with humor and high jinks. Brilliant!' Margaret Mizushima

'Lushly layered in period detail, this mystery delivers twists in a lighthearted tale of suspense and derring-do.' Muddy Rose Reviews

'A delightful English countryside mystery with two handsome suitors and twists and turns worthy of Agatha Christie herself!' Amanda Flower