In Harm's Way

Luce Allen Mystery #1

by Barbara Winkes

A new sapphic detective series from the author of Carpenter/Harding and Lord and

She just wants to bring them home.

Wendy Tillis goes missing after an appointment at the Women’s Health Center, a clinic that has been the target of violent opposition. For Detective Luce Allen, who returns to work days after her own procedure, it’s personal. Soon, the investigation takes a tragic turn, and the detective newly assigned to the case is someone Luce knows all too well.

They soon discover that more women are missing.

Having to navigate hostile witnesses, office politics, and her own personal experience, Luce turns to her friend Dr. Kendra Jones for comfort. Their relationship is on the verge of moving beyond friendship, when Luce gets too close to danger…

Genres: LGBT, Mystery, Crime, Mystery Thriller, Contemporary

223 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 6, 2025

About the author

Barbara Winkes writes suspense and romance with lesbian characters at the center. She has always loved stories in which women persevere and lift each other up. Expect high drama and happy endings.

Discover a variety of genres, serial and standalone. Women loving women always take the lead.

Reviews

[Sandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

4⭐️
The new mystery series by Barbara Winkes features detective Luce Allen.

After visiting the Women's Health Center, pregnant Wendy Tillis disappears without a trace. This clinic has often been the target of anti-abortion activists, who harass and intimidate patients. For Luce Allen, who has just returned to work after a procedure at the same clinic and has been assigned the case, this is almost a personal matter. As she attempts to solve the case with the help of her team, more disturbing pieces of the puzzle emerge. From a single case, it becomes a much bigger affair. A tricky and worrisome case.

Kendra Jones, a doctor at the Women's Health Clinic, is Luce's best friend. She helps Luce come to terms with her personal experiences. And then there is the underlying attraction between Luce and Kendra, which both feel but hardly dare to give in for fear the other might not feel the same way. Who will finally dare to show their feelings?

I liked the development of the relationship between Luce and Kendra. They don't rush things, open up to each other slowly, and don't let themselves be carried away by quick sex, even in emotional and vulnerable situations. Their friendship is too important to both of them to lose it over just a roll in the hay. The fact that Luce's police investigation also involves Kendra is an additional hurdle to overcome.

A promising start to a new series.

Thanks to the author for receiving an ARC for an honest review.

[currentlyreadingbynat · Rating 4 out of 5]

In Harm's Way was a really solid start to a new series by Barbara Winkes. The mystery takes centre stage, with Detective Luce Allen investigating the disappearance of a pregnant woman from a women's health clinic, and the case quickly grows into something much larger and more complex than it first appears.

What worked best for me was the balance between the police procedural and the personal story. Luce is carrying her own emotional baggage, and I thought the book handled the lingering effects of trauma well. Her friendship with Dr Kendra Jones, and the slow evolution of that friendship into something more, felt natural and refreshingly mature. This isn't a romance driven by instant attraction or endless misunderstandings. Instead, it's built on trust, support, and two people carefully considering what they might mean to each other.

The crime plot kept me engaged throughout, and while some of the themes are politically charged, I appreciated that the story remained focused on the human impact rather than turning into a lecture. The romance definitely takes a back seat, but I actually liked that. It feels like the beginning of something rather than a complete love story, which makes me keen to continue the series.

I listened to the audiobook, and Abby Craden's narration was excellent as always. Overall, a promising first instalment with an engaging mystery, a likable protagonist, and a slow-burn romance I'm interested to see develop further.

Many thanks to Netgalley and Tandor Audio for a copy of this audiobook. ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.

[Sam]

From my understanding this is the first book in a series, but I feel likeI am missing vital information here..
Aside from that little hiccup I think maybe this book would have been better for me if I read it instead of listened to it.

I like the suspense and the slow buildup often possible romance. What I don’t like is the repetitiveness of our main character alluding to her feelings. I feel like every mention is the same, or way too similar.

I think this is a fine crime read, for which maybe there is some background that I seem to be missing (and need)
Narration by Abby Craden is skilfully done.

[Lisa · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5⭐️ good start to this new detective series

[Carol Hutchinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dark and Intense!
Luce is investigating the disappearance of a woman who has not been seen since her appointment at a Women's Health Clinic. She’s emotionally connected to this case, having just been through an appointment of her own, but she is soon in danger herself and drawn into it in ways she could not have imagined.

Barbara Winkes has delivered a strong start to a new directive series. I was not expecting this to take some of the turns it did, so it really surprised me, but drove home important messages and showed the extremist measures people take when ruled by their beliefs alone. Luce was doing a great job investigating and I was trying to piece it together along with her. I didn’t know who to trust or be suspicious of but it didn’t take long to realise that Luce’s situation meant she was also a prime target for whoever was behind the disappearances.

There were also some very emotional moments along the way. Both in the case and personally for Luce, and her friend Kendra. They shared an emotional connection and were well suited. Kendra really knew how much support Luce needed and was brilliant at being there for her. This case had a lot to do with fuelling their relationship, especially when it got darker and Luce was in real danger. It was a turning point for them both realising what was at stake and what they could lose by not acting on their feelings.

I am excited for more of this series and cannot wait for what comes next for Luce and Kendra.

[Jess Bullock · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was excited when I saw this series coming to audio. I love a good detective/crime book and add in some sapphic romance and Abby craden's narration and I'm sold! This was a pretty good start to this series. This wasn't romance heavy but there was the start of a relationship that looks like it will build over the next few books. All in all a pretty good read and I look forward to listening to the rest when they come out.

Thank you to NetGalley for the ALC.

[bookster · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5

[Cassie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks to Net Galley for the review copy of the audiobook!

Luce Allen's line of work isn't for the weak of heart. For months now she's been central to the search for a serial seducer and trafficker of young women. It looks like they're close to bringing him in. Unfortunately, reality doesn't care about forecasts. All at once Luce is hit with the suspect's narrow escape, a contractor leaving her house in disarray, and a new case stirring up the unresolved emotional elements of a recent medical procedure.

A woman has gone missing from the Women's Health Center after her appointment. The facility that's been under guard after harassment of of “pro-life” protesters. The very one the woman who has been Luce's best friend and emotional rock works at. The one that she went to herself. Up against time, political and ethical partisanship, mental and physical exhaustion, Luce could be neck high in a situation that could make or break her career and maybe her heart as well.

I suspect “In Harm's Way” will fall into one of two slots for readers. For some it will be too on-the-nose with antagonistic characters that feel like boilerplate right-wing flash points. Something that a reader could already be fatigued or disagree with. The other half of readers will feel this is absolutely timely, cathartic, and maybe a little bit of the hope they need. As this is marketed for its LGBT elements as well, romance readers might be disappointed or grinning madly by the end. For me, it was a mix of both.

Some of the conversations and conflicts lacked the nuance I would have liked to see. Men get results from others over Luce. The DA and department are intimidated by the public perception of bias when high profile or rich people are involved. At length there's an implication that, depending on perspective, right/left is evil with no exceptions and all politicians are corrupt. So how could something that was at times superficial feel so on point?

Lately what I once wrote off as online echo chamber extremism has been leaking more and more into reality. It wasn't so much that I was feeling the topic was stale, but that I was exhausted by a news cycle and emerging personal accounts. Luce's personal reflections are what ultimately won me over, however.

It really put into perspective how trauma can linger. How it's hard to heal when our world constantly stirs memories up. How our ideals can limit our empathy. It's not just right-leaning characters with deaf ears. While many of Luce's impulses are valid, her co-workers and boss have legitimate reasons to slow her down. She needs to be reminded that instincts need to be backed up fact and science in their line of work.

Even if the plot feels familiar, I felt it subverted enough of common mystery staples to be satisfying. It didn't get overly complicated, entwined, and over layered. The resolution of the case and Luce's personal life was gradual. There was no abrupt 'Justice was done! We start a happy ever after! Boom! Here's an emotional bomb to set off the next installment.'

Then there was the romantic aspects of this book. First and foremost – it took a back seat. The main plot came first. I crave this so much in books. Even though I just praised it for being the subplot, along with the importance of self care, the way the relationship was handled was refreshing.

Luce and Kendra are a beautiful example of a slow burn based on support and reasoning rather than sexual tension and dramatic obstacles. Characters really consider and act on long term wishes for their lives look like. There's bisexual representation where Luce's history isn't an issue or invalidated. She isn't having an identity wake-up. She simply has a past that's no more defined by gender than the same way people may usually date more of one 'type' of person. Where the 'problem' of an ex isn't about gender but the role they had in her life.

While some of this story might not have felt extraordinary, this lingered pleasantly when I finished. It was in noway cozy. But the emphasis slowing down and recognizing gestures and accepting support from others left me feeling warm. Tense but tender. An enjoyable read.

[Julie Howard · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed the mystery side of the story but did not connect with the main character. I think her combative nature and habit of doing things on her own meant we did not see her in the best light. Yes I know she had just had an abortion and was going through complicated feeling but she just seemed to rub people up the wrong way, even people trying to help. I think her heart was in the right place and towards the end of the book I was warming up to her. The love interest between her and Dr Kendra is pretty obvious but not much more than flirting and Luce did seem more likeable with her around.

The mystery was good with two cases on the go. The kidnapping of a teenage, where they know who the perpetrator was but find it was hard catching up with him or finding the girl. The second case was the disappearance of a number of woman after attending an appointment at a clinic. This was the main focus of the book as Luce struggled to find out who was responsible. They was plenty of suspects to keep you guessing and listening.

Luce should be taking it easy after a medical procedure to terminate an unwanted pregnancy but with a missing teenager and protest at a clinic leads to a missing pregnant woman, she can't afford to. As she investigates she learns that a number of woman have gone missing after attending the same clinic she visited just says ago. Time does run out for one of the women and Luce boss brings in help from the last person Luce wants to see right now. Investigating the partners of the missing woman and the
Protesters means she needs all the help she can get. Can they find the woman alive? When the attention turns to Luce and her home is broken into she turns to her friend Dr Kendra for support but it's to late she already has a target on her back.
The narrator had a pleasant enough voice but I did find there wasn't a big range of voices and the female characters tended to sound the same.
I was given this free review copy audio book at my request and have voluntarily left this review.

[Tierney Moore · Rating 4 out of 5]

In Harm’s Way by Barbara Winkes is a compelling series opener that immediately establishes a gritty, atmospheric tone.

I enjoyed this ARC on audio: as usual Abby Craden’s narration is flawless, providing a textured, gravelly depth that perfectly suits the tone of the narrative.

I should note that, at least in this initial volume, the framing story—centered on the high-stakes, plot—takes precedence over the romantic elements. While the potential for romance is present, the narrative is primarily driven by the central mystery and the immediate threats facing the characters. This focus allows the author to build a sturdy foundation for the series, though readers primarily seeking a romance-heavy plot should adjust their expectations accordingly.

That being said, the protagonist, Luce, is interesting: she is undeniably tough and uncompromising, and you might find that, like me, it’s a little hard to bond with her. She’s been deliberately written to be not automatically likeable, I suggest, here in this series opener, and her abrasive edges may prove challenging for some. However, this grit feels authentic to her situation, and it serves as a strong starting point. I found that as the narrative progressed, my respect for her resilience grew. This is an assertive, promising start to the series, and I look forward to watching Luce’s character continue to evolve in future installments.

Thank you to the author and publisher and to NetGalley for the chance to fall in walk in Luce’s shoes in this ARC.

[Kayleigh · Rating 3 out of 5]

Wendy is pregnant and kidnapped after an appointment at a women’s health clinic and Detective Luce Allen, days post her own procedure, is on the case and personally invested. They quickly learn that more women and girls are missing and they have to figure it out.
Luce quickly teams up with Dr. Kendra Jones, her best friend and physician at the clinic to see if they can piece together the missing women and in the forced proximity and time, they question feelings for one another.
While this is predominately a problem solving novel, there is a lot of sapphic content within these < 300 pages. Luce and Kendra are almost a slow burn until you remember how quickly this whole story unfolds.
Winkes does a good job keeping the storyline moving, including some twists and turns that I didn’t see coming. It felt incredibly relevant given how reproductive healthcare and access is currently being treated in the united states.
2.75 stars, rounded to 3 for goodreads and I would definitely pick up another one of these books to see where it goes. Abby Craden is a consistently good narrator and kept this police procedural moving quickly.
In Harm’s Way was originally published July 2025- the audio version is due to be released June 9, 2026 and I received an advanced audio copy from Netgalley in exchange for my review.

[Nancy · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars, rounded down to 3 for Goodreads.

This audiobook pulled me in from the very beginning. The mystery is tense, emotional, and full of twists that kept me guessing, and I never felt completely sure who to trust. One of my favorite aspects, though, was the relationship between Luce and Kendra. Their connection develops naturally throughout the story, providing moments of warmth and comfort that balance the darker themes of the investigation.

Luce is an engaging protagonist, determined, intuitive, and personally invested in the case in a way that adds emotional depth to the story. I especially enjoyed seeing others gradually begin to trust her instincts as the investigation unfolded. Kendra was a great complement to Luce, and I appreciated how their relationship was allowed to grow organically rather than being rushed.

This was my first book in the Luce Allen Mystery series, and I was pleasantly surprised to discover there are more books to follow. By the end, I was invested in both the characters and their relationships and am interested to see where the series goes next.

Abby Craden's narration was excellent. She kept the story moving at a steady pace while bringing the characters and emotions to life.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an advance listening copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Corrie · Rating 4 out of 5]

In Harm's Way is the first in the new Luce Allen Mystery Series by author Barbara Winkes.

Detective Luce Allen is just getting back on the job after a recent procedure when a familiar case takes a dark and unexpected turn. What began as a routine investigation suddenly becomes deeply personal—and far deadlier—than she ever anticipated.

As Luce digs in, she must navigate office politics, hidden agendas, and her own vulnerabilities to protect others—and herself—from a threat that hits closer than she thought.

First books in a series always take a bit of time as we get to know the characters. I’m not that familiar with what the author has published so far, so I was missing some context about a few side characters mentioned in passing, but it wasn’t a big deal. I think I’ll need to read the next one to see if it really clicks for me. I’m also curious to see where the (very) new romantic situation between her and her best friend Dr. Kendra will go.

3.7 Stars

[Theresa C · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a shorter book, but it did not lack in intensity. I found myself invested in the story throughout - even wishing it was longer. There are some heavy topics covered in this book. which centers around a women's clinic and the unfortunate dangers associated with the place even existing. Outside of that, some pretty serious crimes are part of the main plot. So if you're sensitive to any of that, this isn't the book for you.

Where this one missed for me was the character development. I felt like we didn't get far enough into the weeds with Luce, the dynamics with her prior relationship, nor the development of her feelings for Dr. Jones. And we know little-to-nothing of Dr. Jones' past, for her being such a big part of the story. Perhaps since this is a series, we'll get to that in future books. I would be willing to pick up the next title in the series to give it a try.

An audio version of this book was provided to me by NetGalley, thank you!

This book was narrated by Abby Craden. She was outstanding, as usual.

[Liz Richardson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Luce is a detective that has a day prior had an abortion where this story begins. Little does she know that soon she’ll learn multiple women have disappeared after going to the same women’s clinic. This story is a crime mystery book that’s topics center around abortion and how political rhetoric can lead to extremism and violence. There is some back plot that has Luce interested in a sapphic relationship with her friend, Kendra. A doctor that works at the women’s clinic who she has grown a reliable friendship with over the last year. I wouldn’t call this a sapphic romance however. The most spicy moment was some kissing dialogue. Overall I enjoyed reading this book. It does have some heavy topics and I wouldn’t recommend for someone who is looking for some light reading material. This was thought provoking and substantive women’s fiction. I read and listened to this book being narrated by the great Abby Craden. I won’t hesitate to read and listen along to the next book of this series.

[Vibeke · Rating 5 out of 5]

Story: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨ (4.5/5)

Narration: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5/5)

In Harm’s Way by Barbara Winkes, beautifully narrated by Abby Craden, is a gripping romantic suspense that kept me engaged from start to finish.

Barbara Winkes does a great job balancing danger, intrigue, and romance. The mystery unfolds at a steady pace, with enough twists to keep the story interesting without overshadowing the emotional connection between the main characters. The chemistry feels natural, and the relationship develops in a believable way amidst the suspenseful circumstances.

As always, Abby Craden elevates the audiobook experience. Her narration brings the characters to life, giving each a distinct voice and personality. She handles both the tense moments and the quieter emotional scenes with skill, making it easy to become fully immersed in the story.

A compelling audiobook for fans of romantic suspense, made even better by Abby Craden’s outstanding performance. Highly recommended

[Marybeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. I have been a fan of Carpenter/Harding for a long time and was hopeful this would be as good. It is! And I love the nod to them in the book. This story is so complex. I don't want to give too much away as the slow unfolding is part of what makes the novel delicious. Luce is a hard character to understand but once you get some backstory, it does make sense. Her decisions are very consequential and relevant to the book. Luce and Kendra are so careful with each other but I was happy with the way it turns out. This book combines suspense and romance into an intoxicating mix. The side characters are well developed and complex. I walked away wondering what I would have done and thought about this book for a long time. A definite read!

[Shauna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Outstanding!!!

Be prepared to immediately drop into curiosity about Detective Luce Allen, and into a case with tragedy, suspense, action. Be ready to slowly come to know, then suddenly to love, Luce Allen. And hold on tight for the story inside the story that is so relevant, deep, important, and a horrific illustration of wrong. Of course, there is that can't-stop-reading tension and suspense with surprise that unsettles. This book is filled with humanity- secrets, pain, stoicism, and emotion. I adore when series intersect and old friends appear, and I'm hooked - on another series, and two more women. I can't wait for more! Thank you, Barbara!

[Sabra · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is the first book I’ve read by this author, and it was a bit of a disappointment. The author was very vague as far as the relationship between Luce and Tyler was concerned. It took me a while to figure out that they had sex a couple of times, and Luce ended up having an abortion. I don’t agree with her decision, but it’s fiction, after all.
The kidnapping and murder portion of the book was well written, and I was anxious to find out who the culprit was. I admire Luce’s determination to solve the crimes, and her tenacity to keep going. She had many doubters in her orbit, but she eventually persevered.

[spaxmoids · Rating 4 out of 5]

4/5 • - this audiobook was received as a netgalley arc - this story really scratched that detective itch, where the mc was really capable, but not in that omnipotent way many other books struggle with. it was satisfying when she kept her composure, as well as when she didn’t. it felt very human and i feel like not many novels really hit that nail on the head quite like this one. the mc is messy in their personal life, while managing a torrent of exhaustive efforts to find the missing women she’s intent on saving. the only trouble i had came with following the story sometimes, some things going quick with only a sentence of prelude before jumping into it. being as i listened to the audiobook, i found myself having to rewind a few times, just to realize i’d missed something that prefaced the situation the character was suddenly in. overall, it was a really enjoyable read, and i’m glad to have been granted the arc for it!

[Katie Cleek · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this ALC from NetGalley and it was an enjoyable, quick listen. This was the first book I’ve read by this author and I look forward to continuing this series. I was intrigued by the murder/abduction case and how characters were connected. I wish the growing relationship hadn’t been fade to black…that’s what prevented a 5* for me. BUT I will absolutely continue with this series. OH!!!! Abby Craden. No other words necessary. I wish the audiobooks for this series were already available with her narration.

[A · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this audiobook for free from Netgalley & Tantor Media.

This was relatively quick listen – 4 hours and 21 minutes. Sometimes, it felt like I was missing some information, but I was certainly intrigued by the plot, so I kept listening. Not much on the romance, but a solid quick crime novel.

On to the narration, it's Abby Craden, she knows her onions, and I've yet to be disappointed by her work.

I'll certainly give this a relisten to get through the bits I missed, and maybe my rating might change.

[Anne · Rating 4 out of 5]

A nicely paced, well written addition to Ms Winkes extensive collection of characters. Luce Allen is a flawed, dedicated, gifted detective who might be developing feelings for her best friend. She’s also fragile, headstrong, and a bit opinionated. Just perfect, in other words, to carry a complex story of missing women, abortion activists, and corrupt politicians.

I hope Ms Winkes is busy writing. This series or Carpenter and Harding ~ I don’t mind, I’ll read it!

[Jamie (TheRebelliousReader) · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars. Holy hell was this intense. I’m a big fan of Winkes’s writing so I was excited to get to this new release. I was not disappointed. Luce is a fascinating and multifaceted main character. She felt real which I liked. The case in this was intriguing and kept me hooked and while there is no romance in this there is a bit of a tease of one between Luce and Kylie. I can’t wait for book two to see where things go from here. Great read.

[Bean Can · Rating 3 out of 5]

this was very meh to be honest I liked the main characters but I feel like the story overall could have been developed more and have more detail. for example when she was hit by another car it was described in absolutely no detail we were just told it happened. Also I feel like there were too many names to remember in the story I only remember Luce's name and Kendra's name and I've only just finished it!

[Rosemary Pizzullo · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story started as slow-burning. However, as the story progresses, the pace has picked up. I could see Luca's dilemma. Not only does she believe she is right, but she has had little success in convincing her partner, her superior officer, and the D.A.

Also, it keeps the reader guessing about how she is going to prove her theory and bring justice to the guilty's victims.

I looked forward to reading Barbara Winkes' next installment of the Luce Allen Mystery.

[Looby Lou · Rating 5 out of 5]

Detective Luce Allen is working the case of a missing girl when she has another case added to her workload. Someone is missing after going to see a Dr at a place that also offers abortions for women.
What follows is a case that is quite chilling alongside another the old one that also is another facet of the degradation of some humans and the evil that they do.
Brilliant.

[Michael Wells · Rating 5 out of 5]

for a good cause

Luce it’s a detective and is given a very strange case. Women go into an abortion clinic of being kidnapped and she has to find out why. I like the characters in this book as it shows both their strengths and weaknesses. I like to plot and it took to the end of the book to realize what was happening. I recommend this book for thriller readers.

[Cynthia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was hooked from the very first page. Luce Allen is a compelling lead tough yet vulnerable and the way the book weaves together a tense missing-persons investigation with her own emotional journey is masterful. The sapphic element feels organic and refreshing. This is a smart, socially aware mystery that still delivers page-turning suspense.

[Brandy · Rating 4 out of 5]

The first Luce Allen Mystery audiobook was absolutely captivating. Its gripping narrative, emotional depth, and brilliant, unpredictable twists kept me utterly engrossed. Abby Craden's phenomenal narration brought every character vividly to life, creating an unforgettable and immersive experience. I'm now a devoted fan, eagerly anticipating the next installment!