All About: Beyond the Pale by Barbara Winkes

Beyond the Pale

by Barbara Winkes

Released: May 21, 2026

Genre: Mystery

Why this book and why now?

I had always planned to make the Luce Allen Mysteries a 4 book series. It took me a while to find the time and story for this fourth one, but I thought there were some things that still needed to be addressed. The political backdrop has changed quite a bit since I started the first book, so where do Luce and Kendra find themselves now, regarding their jobs, and their relationships? And, does Luce still have more to say to a certain nemesis of hers? She’s never been one to politely agree to disagree when there’s too much on the line, and I wanted to show that in this final book.

Would you and your main character(s) get along?

Luce and I, yes, I think so. We would have long passionate conversations on a number of issues, likely raise our voices but agree. She loves Kendra, but they have a different approach, and I think that Luce’s might be closer to mine.

How does it feel to finally share this book with readers?

Satisfying! I’ve held back publishing the series for a bit. For a couple of years, I had other series/books that seemed more fitting at the time, and I was worried it might be a little late…but the reception has been great, and I’m so grateful for it!

What TV show would your main character(s) most likely binge watch and why?

I always say Vigil, don’t I? The Pitt, maybe. It touches on a lot of issues that both Luce and Kendra are very much aware of.

One of your main characters is planning a romantic night. Tell us about it.

I think Kendra would book a romantic weekend in a cottage by the sea. Cozy but also a bit rustic, private with gorgeous nature around them. Luce would appreciate it.

If you could spend a day with one character from the book, who would it be and why?

Could it be both of them? A day with Kendra is very likely fun, but I’d probably also relate to Luce more.

If your book had a signature dessert, what would it be?

Tiramisu – the first time we see Luce stay over at Kendra’s, that’s what they have. Luce has a sweet tooth, and Kendra has always indulged it a bit.

Do you have any writing rituals or habits?

That can change all the time, but I try to get a minimum of 10K words a week, Monday to Friday, and I prefer to write in the morning and leave the afternoon or evening to admin stuff. If I’m really good, I turn off Wi-Fi while I’m writing. Other than that, nothing in particular. I just sit down at my computer and write!