Order of Elizabeth Peters Books

Elizabeth Peters, the pen name of Barbara Mertz, was a prolific author renowned for her captivating historical mystery novels, particularly the beloved Amelia Peabody series, which follows the adventures of a strong-willed Victorian Egyptologist and her family amidst the backdrop of archaeological exploration in late 19th and early 20th century Egypt. Peters was celebrated not only for her vivid characterizations and engaging plots but also for her sharp wit and deep knowledge of Egyptology, seamlessly blending humor with history. In addition to the Amelia Peabody series, she penned the Jacqueline Kirby series, featuring an amateur sleuth with a flair for detecting, and a range of standalone novels that showcased her versatility as a writer. Her contributions to the genre have left an indelible mark, enchanting readers with rich narratives and a penchant for adventure, making her a cherished figure in literary circles.

Elizabeth Peters: Pioneer of Historical Mystery Fiction

Introduction

Elizabeth Peters, born Barbara G. Mertz on September 29, 1927, in Bloomington, Indiana, was an iconic American author renowned for her contributions to the genre of historical mystery fiction. Best known for her beloved series featuring the intrepid archaeologist Amelia Peabody, she adeptly blended adventure, humor, and romance with keen historical detail. Peters also created a variety of standalone novels and the Jacqueline Kirby series, solidifying her legacy as a versatile and influential writer.

Early Life and Education

Peters was raised in a scholarly family; her father was a professor of psychology, and her mother was a teacher. This background instilled in her a love for literature and learning from an early age. She graduated from DePauw University with a Bachelor of Arts in 1948 and continued her education at the University of Chicago, where she earned both her master’s and Ph.D. in Egyptology. Peters' academic prowess in ancient civilizations would later inform her richly detailed historical narratives.

Writing Career

Elizabeth Peters began her writing career in the 1960s, initially publishing under her own name and later adopting the pseudonym Elizabeth Peters for her mystery novels. She made her debut with the 1964 publication of "The Curses of the Pharaohs", which introduced readers to the witty and resourceful Amelia Peabody. The character quickly became a favorite, leading to the creation of a ten-book series that would captivate audiences for decades. The adventures of Amelia Peabody, who navigates the complexities of Victorian society while excavating ancient Egypt, combined Peters' deep knowledge of archaeology with engaging storytelling, creating a rich, immersive experience for her readers.

In addition to the Amelia Peabody series, Peters crafted the Jacqueline Kirby series, which features a somewhat less traditional heroine navigating the world of amateur sleuthing. The first installment, “The Seventh Sinner,” published in 1972, introduced readers to the strong-willed and charismatic Jacqueline Kirby, who would appear in several subsequent novels.

Peters also wrote standalone novels, such as “The Ghosts of the Old Year,” reflecting her stellar ability to blend mystery, humor, and the supernatural. Her unique voice and ability to create complex, well-developed characters distinguished her from many of her contemporaries.

Legacy

Over the course of her prolific career, Peters wrote more than 20 novels under her pseudonym Elizabeth Peters, along with several works as Barbara Mertz, which included historical fiction and nonfiction. Her novels often feature themes of feminism, empowerment, and the exploration of cultural identities, ranging across different eras and settings.

Peters' literary contributions have been recognized with multiple awards, including the Agatha Award and the Anthony Award for Mystery Fiction. Her writing has left an indelible mark on the genre of historical mysteries, influencing countless authors who followed in her footsteps.

Personal Life

In addition to her prolific writing career, Peters was passionate about Egyptology and took numerous trips to Egypt, where she conducted research on ancient sites. Her travels inspired many elements in her novels, enchanting readers with the diverse landscapes and histories of ancient civilizations.

Elizabeth Peters married Dr. Frank D. Mertz in 1950, and they had two children before divorcing in 1969. Eventually, she returned to her roots in Indiana, where she continued to write until her death on August 8, 2013, in Scottsdale, Arizona.

Conclusion

Elizabeth Peters remains a celebrated figure in the world of literature, particularly in the realms of historical fiction and mystery. Her unforgettable characters, particularly Amelia Peabody, have secured a lasting place in the hearts of readers worldwide. Through her unique storytelling and mastery of the genre, Peters not only entertained generations of mystery enthusiasts but also left behind a rich legacy that continues to inspire new writers and avid readers alike.