Spare The Rod

by Lewis Allan

After years in the trenches of big city criminal defense, Mason Mitchell left his practice behind for a new life in remote Door County. Now, far from the misery and trauma of his old world, he enjoys a semi-retired existence in the Cape Cod of the Midwest.

Haunted by his alcoholic past and burned out on the justice system, Mason keeps most people at bay, preferring the company of his aging dog, Clyde. But when an October blizzard blows in off Lake Michigan and seven-year-old Jacob Hawkins goes missing, Mason is drawn into the mystery against his will.

As the search continues, new evidence comes to light that exposes the chilling truth behind the disappearance. This peaceful corner of Wisconsin is thrown into turmoil, with Mason compelled to defend an unexpected client and make sense of an unspeakable crime.

Can he find a way to confront the sins of a community and win justice for a child with nowhere else to turn?

Genres: Mystery

395 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 15, 2025

About the author

Lewis Allan is the pen name of Atty. Russell Jones & writer Jason Wrubell, creators of the Mason Mitchell legal thrillers—character-driven stories grounded in WI courtroom experience and emotional truth, bringing readers into the heart of every case.

Reviews

[Michelle Havas · Rating 5 out of 5]

While the subject matter is horrifying, the book is so good. I devoured it. Lewis Allen did a wonderful job capturing the complexity of a guilty client who is not just his crime but so much more. I felt as if I knew Mason and Lori through their character development and am anxious for another book featuring them. Loved it!

[Jim Nowlen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read, a definite page turner.

[Audrey · Rating 3 out of 5]

The subject matter may be triggering, but the writing was great and overall it was a book worth reading. Hard. Realistic. Flawed. Troubled. But Attorney Mitchell is an attorney worth routing for. He's as human as anyone else, not a hero, but at the end of the book a decent man.

[Diane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mason Mitchell has left the pressure of his criminal defense practice and moved to small Door County, seeking peaceful enjoyment of life with the hope of conquering his alcohol dependency.

Unfortunately, his reputation precedes him. A friendly card game with the local political elites, followed by news of a missing child, and a seemingly innocuous agreement to act as a Guardian Ad Litem lead to more than Mason bargained for.

Now, the fate of a young boy’s life is in Mason’s hands. Can Mason convince this tight-knit community to look past the facade of pious public service into the private darkness of religious extremism and abuse?

[Emma Gravelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m not usually drawn to legal thrillers—or fiction in general—but I genuinely couldn’t put “Spare the Rod” down. I’ve both read the book and listened to it again on Audible, and each time it somehow gets better. Lewis’s writing kept me on the edge of my seat in every chapter, and David’s narration in the audiobook is nothing short of phenomenal. I couldn’t recommend this book highly enough and would give it a 6/5 stars if that were possible.

[Laura Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn’t put Spare the Rod down. Mason Mitchell is such a real, flawed, and relatable character, and the story pulled me in right away. The mix of mystery, emotion, and small-town Wisconsin atmosphere made it feel authentic and unforgettable. It’s not just a crime story — it’s about redemption, truth, and second chances. One of those books that stays with you long after you finish.

[Courtney Pityer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I won this in a giveaway

[Katie Kegel · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is like an old friend. It feels familiar and easy to catch up, even putting the many (accurate!) Wisconsin references aside. It’s a perfect by the fire, cozy blanket, winter read.

[Angelica Zielinski · Rating 5 out of 5]

I devoured this book in one weekend! I just couldn't put it down!!! It's beautifully written and harrowing, in the best way. Every aspect of this story will draw you in, and keep you guessing, impatient for more! Looking forward to the next Mason Mitchell thriller!