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The Girl Who Would Be Sheriff #Related
Tough and Lovely
A mother's death.
A daughter's reckoning.
Sadie September discovers her mother murdered. The man who shot her has fled into the mountains of West Virginia and Sadie vows to catch him herself. Eighteen-years-old and headstrong, she doesn't understand the demands of a manhunt. To save Sadie from herself, a kind police detective and a wily bounty hunter agree to join her mission. The unusual trio loads up and heads out, in search of the fugitive, who has taken refuge in the ranks of the Hells Angels motorcycle gang...
Starring Detective Andie Stackhouse, this is a book of mystery, love, and deadly shootouts.
A daughter's reckoning.
Sadie September discovers her mother murdered. The man who shot her has fled into the mountains of West Virginia and Sadie vows to catch him herself. Eighteen-years-old and headstrong, she doesn't understand the demands of a manhunt. To save Sadie from herself, a kind police detective and a wily bounty hunter agree to join her mission. The unusual trio loads up and heads out, in search of the fugitive, who has taken refuge in the ranks of the Hells Angels motorcycle gang...
Starring Detective Andie Stackhouse, this is a book of mystery, love, and deadly shootouts.
238 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 3, 2025
360 people are currently reading
136 people want to read
About the author
Alan Lee
34 books269 followersYour favorite mystery author for the next twenty years.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
March 8, 2025
Alan Lee has reached a new plateau of creativity with Tough and Lovely
Tough and Lovely marks a new level of creativity. In this new novel, Lee has captured our hearts with the most special new set of characters (both hero and villains).
In doing so, he has (without spoilers) created an authentic voice for his narrator that never fails in authenticity.
The Defective Stackhouse saga continues with Lee’s most engaging and inspiring protagonist leaving readers longing for more.
Tough and Lovely marks a new level of creativity. In this new novel, Lee has captured our hearts with the most special new set of characters (both hero and villains).
In doing so, he has (without spoilers) created an authentic voice for his narrator that never fails in authenticity.
The Defective Stackhouse saga continues with Lee’s most engaging and inspiring protagonist leaving readers longing for more.
March 8, 2025
His best stories just keep on coming…
Alan Lee’s characters are multi-faceted, complex, and believable (and the pure-in-heart find their own versions of redemption). This story is fast-paced, oddly humorous, and deeply satisfying.
Alan Lee’s characters are multi-faceted, complex, and believable (and the pure-in-heart find their own versions of redemption). This story is fast-paced, oddly humorous, and deeply satisfying.
March 6, 2025
Great storytelling
I could not wait to write this review. Alan Lee is the king of clever fast paced dialouge. I am imagining the ink on his computer quotation mark keys, have totally faded. This novel was written like a "24" TV show..... If you know what that means. (Read the book and you'll understand). This was, a brilliant undertaking. One very long, page turning chapter. Can't wait for more Stackhouse. Great job Alan. Great job.
I could not wait to write this review. Alan Lee is the king of clever fast paced dialouge. I am imagining the ink on his computer quotation mark keys, have totally faded. This novel was written like a "24" TV show..... If you know what that means. (Read the book and you'll understand). This was, a brilliant undertaking. One very long, page turning chapter. Can't wait for more Stackhouse. Great job Alan. Great job.
March 7, 2025
Modern True Grit
A great story told by a successful young woman with autism—my kind of people! I love Stackhouse and Tough and Lovely does not disappoint. Read them all. I have. Then read the Mackenzie Augusts—again, I have. I’m starting on Atlanta Burning and then onto Manny’s series. What a gem of a multi-verse. Thank you Alan Lee!
A great story told by a successful young woman with autism—my kind of people! I love Stackhouse and Tough and Lovely does not disappoint. Read them all. I have. Then read the Mackenzie Augusts—again, I have. I’m starting on Atlanta Burning and then onto Manny’s series. What a gem of a multi-verse. Thank you Alan Lee!
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July 25, 2025Great story, thoroughly enjoyed reading this.
July 31, 2025
So well written!
March 8, 2025
Andie’s a world-wind!
Wow! You couldn’t ask for more action, or for more twists in the plot! Plus it was funny to boot!
Wow! You couldn’t ask for more action, or for more twists in the plot! Plus it was funny to boot!
March 7, 2025
A non-stop page turner.
I have read all of Alan’s books. Great stories, great writing and great entertainment. Thanks, Alan. This was an amazing story.
I have read all of Alan’s books. Great stories, great writing and great entertainment. Thanks, Alan. This was an amazing story.
March 7, 2025
Awesome. All of his books are great but this one blew me away. His storylines are always a combination of humor and crime solving at its best. Can’t wait for the next books.
March 30, 2025
Sadie September is a revelation!
I have read almost everything Alan Lee has written and loved it all, but this one was my favorite. Sadie September is incredibly richly imagined and honestly written. How thoroughly Alan Lee got into the head of an 18 year old neurodivergent girl is nothing short of amazing. I can’t imagine what it took to write this, but Lee always makes it look easy.
Andie Stackhouse was in fine form, as always, and it was nice to see Val Farmer too. I love that Lee named a judge after himself.
Olympus is another character who was well-fleshed out. I don’t want to give too much away, but I hope we meet Olympus again, and that he has had two showers.
Because we are in Sadie’s fascinating head, there was never a dull moment in Tough and Lovely. It was tight.
Alan Lee has always been good, and he just keeps pushing the envelope and getting better and better.
I have read almost everything Alan Lee has written and loved it all, but this one was my favorite. Sadie September is incredibly richly imagined and honestly written. How thoroughly Alan Lee got into the head of an 18 year old neurodivergent girl is nothing short of amazing. I can’t imagine what it took to write this, but Lee always makes it look easy.
Andie Stackhouse was in fine form, as always, and it was nice to see Val Farmer too. I love that Lee named a judge after himself.
Olympus is another character who was well-fleshed out. I don’t want to give too much away, but I hope we meet Olympus again, and that he has had two showers.
Because we are in Sadie’s fascinating head, there was never a dull moment in Tough and Lovely. It was tight.
Alan Lee has always been good, and he just keeps pushing the envelope and getting better and better.
March 8, 2025
I've read all the Mackenzie August Killer Series, all the Manny Sinatra books (We need a new one, Alan!), and the previously available Stackhouse books. With "Tough and Lovely," I am firmly placing the author in my extremely excusive "Fantastic writer, PERIOD, Club."
Your descriptive scenarios, hilarious situations in the face of danger, great character builds, and very difficult circumstances often wrapped up in kindness, keeps me reading, and reading, and reading, and asking for more. I'm not a fan of violence, but you make those parts so palliatively true that it's sometimes necessary in this world, as well as manageable to understand, accept, and believe.
May Stackhouse continue to be fascinatingly tough and lovely.
Your descriptive scenarios, hilarious situations in the face of danger, great character builds, and very difficult circumstances often wrapped up in kindness, keeps me reading, and reading, and reading, and asking for more. I'm not a fan of violence, but you make those parts so palliatively true that it's sometimes necessary in this world, as well as manageable to understand, accept, and believe.
May Stackhouse continue to be fascinatingly tough and lovely.
March 9, 2025
I have been a fan of Alan Lee's since book 1 (The Last Teacher) but this book is exceptional, possibly his best yet. I personally have no experience of anyone on the Autism scale, but how on earth a man managed to write this story from inside the head and with the voice of a teenage girl who was, is incredible to me. Although this is, technically a Sheriff Stackhouse book, the principle character is Sadie September, a track sprinter and maths prodigy whose Mama is shot in the heart by a tenant at her apartment block just days before Sadie should be getting ready to start camp at Virginia Tech. Alan Lee says this story is loosely based on the book True Grit - with biker gangs. It is a book that I could not put down and would recommend to anyone.
August 2, 2025
Wild and entertaining…
This is an atypical story with atypical characters that draw you in. It seems a bit far-fetched but who knows? I haven’t lived in that neck of the woods. That’s what makes reading so intriguing – you never know where the pages may take you. The writing brings the story to life in a unique way enabling you to “feel” what these characters are all about. It gets a bit nasty. These folks don’t hesitate to take the law into their own hands. Sadie is endearing and Detective Andie Stackhouse is certainly strong-willed and determined to look out for Sadie. Along with a bounty hunter and gangster bikers there is plenty of action – a good read!... I am grateful to have had the opportunity to read and offer my honest and voluntary review.
This is an atypical story with atypical characters that draw you in. It seems a bit far-fetched but who knows? I haven’t lived in that neck of the woods. That’s what makes reading so intriguing – you never know where the pages may take you. The writing brings the story to life in a unique way enabling you to “feel” what these characters are all about. It gets a bit nasty. These folks don’t hesitate to take the law into their own hands. Sadie is endearing and Detective Andie Stackhouse is certainly strong-willed and determined to look out for Sadie. Along with a bounty hunter and gangster bikers there is plenty of action – a good read!... I am grateful to have had the opportunity to read and offer my honest and voluntary review.
March 15, 2025
I enjoyed this first-person narration by Sadie, a recent high-school graduate deep on the spectrum. While not everyone on the autism spectrum is a savant, I saw many of my students’ personalities highlighted in her thoughts, reactions, and need for routine. I was afraid for her as she trusted those she probably shouldn’t…and was wary of those she could. I especially loved the way Mr Lee crafted the 4Runner roof scenes. Holy Moly!!!
March 9, 2025
Another great entry in the Stackhouse series. This is a little different in that the story is told by Sadie, an 18 year old girl with autism. The story moves from Richmond to West Virginia with plenty of action. Good character development, especially with Sadie. Stackhouse is still a major part of the story.
Alan Lee has written another great story. Recommended
Alan Lee has written another great story. Recommended
March 12, 2025
Unbreakable
This was one of the best of Alan Lee's books, and I've read them all. The prosaic style helps the reader to think like the young protagonist. The characters are incredibly well written and developed. If I'm ever in need of the police, I hope there's an office like Detective Stackhouse around.
This was one of the best of Alan Lee's books, and I've read them all. The prosaic style helps the reader to think like the young protagonist. The characters are incredibly well written and developed. If I'm ever in need of the police, I hope there's an office like Detective Stackhouse around.
March 14, 2025
It’s terrible to have to wait for the next book!
Bravo, another wonderful story.! Alan Lee became my favorite author when I read the first in the August Mackenzie series . These books are so enjoyable. It’s always a happy day when a new one is released. Keep them coming Mr Allen!
Bravo, another wonderful story.! Alan Lee became my favorite author when I read the first in the August Mackenzie series . These books are so enjoyable. It’s always a happy day when a new one is released. Keep them coming Mr Allen!
July 14, 2025
I HAD JUST GOT INTO THIS BOOK BUT MY MIND KEPT THINKING ABOUT "TRUE GRIT" AFTER READING THE LAST PAGE I SEE I WAS RIGHT. I LOVE ALL OF MR. LEES' BOOKS I LOVE HIS CHARACTERS NAMES THEY'RE SO COOL. ALL I CAN SAY IS YOU'VE DONE IT AGAIN MR. LEE, MR. LEE, OH MR. LEE (I loved both old songs by the Bobbetts). LOOKING FORWARD TO MORE BOOKS. ;D
July 21, 2025
It’s crazy to think that this book took place over like a week? If that? Anyway- what a sweet little thriller about a girl w a touch of the tism seeking justice for her mama and finding a new makeshift family on the way! But tbh some of this book was gruesome as fuck and had me feeling a little lightheaded ngl!
July 21, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book was so creating and always kept me guessing!
I thought that Sadie was such an interesting character to follow with her (not so subtle) autism and OCD.
Although it tied up in the end, I thought the breaking of the forth wall was in some places unneeded especially with so many “…if you understand what I’m saying” moments.
This book was so creating and always kept me guessing!
I thought that Sadie was such an interesting character to follow with her (not so subtle) autism and OCD.
Although it tied up in the end, I thought the breaking of the forth wall was in some places unneeded especially with so many “…if you understand what I’m saying” moments.
July 31, 2025
Great read 📚
First Alan Lee book I've read and I love love loved it. Loved all the characters and the storyline.
Sadie is just brilliant, and the interaction between her and Andie was special.
Some people might say it's a bit far-fetched, but aren't stories supposed to take you out of the rut. The ending was superb. And I couldn't put it down.
More please. 10/10 🌟
First Alan Lee book I've read and I love love loved it. Loved all the characters and the storyline.
Sadie is just brilliant, and the interaction between her and Andie was special.
Some people might say it's a bit far-fetched, but aren't stories supposed to take you out of the rut. The ending was superb. And I couldn't put it down.
More please. 10/10 🌟
August 7, 2025
One of the better books I have read in a long time! It was sensitive, emotional and was very good at explaining someone caught in the “syndrome” which is often the label nowadays! Highly recommended from someone NOT in the “syndrome”. It will make you a better person when you understand the thoughts that went through Sadie September’s mind and what a marvelous job her mother did raising her!
October 10, 2025
Highly recommend. Love, love, love Alan Lee!
Like all of his books, Tough and Lovely was nearly impossible to put down. I love Lee's style. It feels like talking in my head. You never really know where his story will lead until you get there. And, living the Roanoke area, it's fun to recognize places mentioned in his books.
Like all of his books, Tough and Lovely was nearly impossible to put down. I love Lee's style. It feels like talking in my head. You never really know where his story will lead until you get there. And, living the Roanoke area, it's fun to recognize places mentioned in his books.
March 15, 2025
Terrific
Alan Lee is a great writer, and he keeps getting better. This book is amongst the best of his books to date. I lose a lot of sleep because I can't put his books down, but it's so worth it.
Bravo!
Alan Lee is a great writer, and he keeps getting better. This book is amongst the best of his books to date. I lose a lot of sleep because I can't put his books down, but it's so worth it.
Bravo!
March 15, 2025
Alan Lee is awesome.
I’ve read a ton of books by Alan Lee. Absolutely one of my favorite writers. His stories are well written, fast paced, hard to put down. It’s wonderful light fiction. Can’t wait for the next!
I’ve read a ton of books by Alan Lee. Absolutely one of my favorite writers. His stories are well written, fast paced, hard to put down. It’s wonderful light fiction. Can’t wait for the next!
March 16, 2025
Stackhouse is Tough and Lovely!
Stackhouse did it again! She saved the day and gained more admirers. Among them, a lovely college student who needed help to catch her Mama’s killer, and a bounty hunter with a heart of gold.
Stackhouse did it again! She saved the day and gained more admirers. Among them, a lovely college student who needed help to catch her Mama’s killer, and a bounty hunter with a heart of gold.
March 16, 2025
Great!
Another wonderful read by Mr. Lee. His books, I have read them all at least once, read smooth as silk. His twist on the genre is refreshing. I love the way he overlaps the characters. Keep them coming. I'm still wondering what happened in Atlanta.
Another wonderful read by Mr. Lee. His books, I have read them all at least once, read smooth as silk. His twist on the genre is refreshing. I love the way he overlaps the characters. Keep them coming. I'm still wondering what happened in Atlanta.
March 25, 2025
This is a MUST READ!
Alan Lee has created another unique character in addition to Andie Stackhouse and Mackenzie August! You're going to love Sadie September, as different and interesting as anyone you've ever met! Don't miss this addition to the "The Girl Who Would Be Sheriff."
Alan Lee has created another unique character in addition to Andie Stackhouse and Mackenzie August! You're going to love Sadie September, as different and interesting as anyone you've ever met! Don't miss this addition to the "The Girl Who Would Be Sheriff."
March 25, 2025
Sadie and Family
Wow!! I did love this book! Sadie is such a refreshing young lady and she calls it like it is! Stackhouse and Olympus worked so hard to help her put her Mama’s murder to rest and created a lifetime friendship with Sadie.
Wow!! I did love this book! Sadie is such a refreshing young lady and she calls it like it is! Stackhouse and Olympus worked so hard to help her put her Mama’s murder to rest and created a lifetime friendship with Sadie.
March 26, 2025
Sadie September is a kick-ass adult
Wonderful story of finding justice! Sadie teams with Stackhouse and Olympus, a mountain of a man to find the fugitive who shot her mama in the heart.
Wonderful story of finding justice! Sadie teams with Stackhouse and Olympus, a mountain of a man to find the fugitive who shot her mama in the heart.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews