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The Mediator
From the Wall Street Journal bestselling author of Rich Justice and The Boomerang comes a gripping thriller about a disgraced lawyer facing the legal battle of her life as she tries to redeem herself—and save her son.
Max Ringo was once a courtroom star at an elite law firm. Then a car accident left her addicted to painkillers, and her life dissolved into shambles. Now fresh out of rehab and making a comeback as a mediator, she gets her shot at redemption when she is appointed to handle a high-stakes divorce.
But as Max begins negotiations between the two notorious power players, the trap is already sprung. The husband kidnaps her teenage son, Nathan, and gives her a chilling settle the case on his terms…or the boy dies.
Over three relentless days, Max must resolve a cutthroat legal battle while pursuing a covert mission to rescue Nathan. She’ll risk everything—her career, her freedom, her life—to beat a ruthless adversary at his own game. Even when a shadowy syndicate enters the fray and bodies start to drop, only one thing matters. She must bring her son home, whatever the cost.
Max Ringo was once a courtroom star at an elite law firm. Then a car accident left her addicted to painkillers, and her life dissolved into shambles. Now fresh out of rehab and making a comeback as a mediator, she gets her shot at redemption when she is appointed to handle a high-stakes divorce.
But as Max begins negotiations between the two notorious power players, the trap is already sprung. The husband kidnaps her teenage son, Nathan, and gives her a chilling settle the case on his terms…or the boy dies.
Over three relentless days, Max must resolve a cutthroat legal battle while pursuing a covert mission to rescue Nathan. She’ll risk everything—her career, her freedom, her life—to beat a ruthless adversary at his own game. Even when a shadowy syndicate enters the fray and bodies start to drop, only one thing matters. She must bring her son home, whatever the cost.
343 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 12, 2026
About the author
Robert Bailey
13 books1,368 followersRobert Bailey is the bestselling and award winning author of the McMurtrie and Drake Legal Thrillers series, which includes The Final Reckoning, The Last Trial, Between Black and White, and The Professor, as well as the Bocephus Haynes’ series, which debuted with Legacy of Lies. He is also the author of the inspirational novel, The Golfer’s Carol.
Robert was born in Huntsville, Alabama, the son of a builder and a schoolteacher. From the time he could walk, he’s loved stories, especially those about Coach Paul “Bear” Bryant and his beloved Alabama Crimson Tide football team.
Robert obtained a Bachelor of Arts in History from Davidson College in North Carolina. Law School at the University of Alabama followed, where Robert made Law Review, competed on the school’s trial team and managed to watch every home football game.
For the past twenty-one years, he’s been a civil defense trial lawyer in his hometown of Huntsville. He and his wife, Dixie, have three kids.
Robert was born in Huntsville, Alabama, the son of a builder and a schoolteacher. From the time he could walk, he’s loved stories, especially those about Coach Paul “Bear” Bryant and his beloved Alabama Crimson Tide football team.
Robert obtained a Bachelor of Arts in History from Davidson College in North Carolina. Law School at the University of Alabama followed, where Robert made Law Review, competed on the school’s trial team and managed to watch every home football game.
For the past twenty-one years, he’s been a civil defense trial lawyer in his hometown of Huntsville. He and his wife, Dixie, have three kids.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
April 10, 2026
4 solid ⭐️
Max Ringo was once a courtroom star at an elite law firm. Then a car accident left her addicted to painkillers, and her life dissolved into shambles.
Her addiction resulted in a divorce and suspended license from the Alabama State Bar, so she starts a career as a mediator, which allows her to still work in the legal field.
She’s assigned to a high profile divorce case by her friend who is also a judge.
But as Max begins negotiations between the two notorious power players, the trap is already sprung.
The husband kidnaps her teenage son, Nathan, and gives her a chilling ultimatum: settle the case on his terms…or the boy dies.
Over three relentless days, Max must resolve a cutthroat legal battle while pursuing a covert mission to rescue Nathan. She’ll risk everything—her career, her freedom, her life—to beat a ruthless adversary at his own game. Even when a shadowy syndicate enters the fray and bodies start to drop, only one thing matters. She must bring her son home, whatever the cost.
As soon as I read all of the glowing reviews for this book, I knew that I wanted to read it.
It was a quick read because once I started reading I didn’t want to stop!
It’s only over a period of three days, but A LOT can happen in three days!
Although I know nothing about Hunstville, Alabama, I was impressed by how the author mentioned real places in the book.
I have this weird habit of looking up venues, neighborhoods, etc mentioned in books to see if they are a real or fictional place and everything I Googled checked out.
This book was definitely as good as all of the four and five star reviews that I read.
It was my first read by Robert Bailey and definitely not my last!
I couldn’t help but love Max, the way this book ended…let’s just say I’m already eager for the next one because I know it’s going to have more suspense and excitement!
Thanks to NetGalley, Thomas & Mercer and Robert Bailey for proving me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Pub Date: May 12, 2026
Max Ringo was once a courtroom star at an elite law firm. Then a car accident left her addicted to painkillers, and her life dissolved into shambles.
Her addiction resulted in a divorce and suspended license from the Alabama State Bar, so she starts a career as a mediator, which allows her to still work in the legal field.
She’s assigned to a high profile divorce case by her friend who is also a judge.
But as Max begins negotiations between the two notorious power players, the trap is already sprung.
The husband kidnaps her teenage son, Nathan, and gives her a chilling ultimatum: settle the case on his terms…or the boy dies.
Over three relentless days, Max must resolve a cutthroat legal battle while pursuing a covert mission to rescue Nathan. She’ll risk everything—her career, her freedom, her life—to beat a ruthless adversary at his own game. Even when a shadowy syndicate enters the fray and bodies start to drop, only one thing matters. She must bring her son home, whatever the cost.
As soon as I read all of the glowing reviews for this book, I knew that I wanted to read it.
It was a quick read because once I started reading I didn’t want to stop!
It’s only over a period of three days, but A LOT can happen in three days!
Although I know nothing about Hunstville, Alabama, I was impressed by how the author mentioned real places in the book.
I have this weird habit of looking up venues, neighborhoods, etc mentioned in books to see if they are a real or fictional place and everything I Googled checked out.
This book was definitely as good as all of the four and five star reviews that I read.
It was my first read by Robert Bailey and definitely not my last!
I couldn’t help but love Max, the way this book ended…let’s just say I’m already eager for the next one because I know it’s going to have more suspense and excitement!
Thanks to NetGalley, Thomas & Mercer and Robert Bailey for proving me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Pub Date: May 12, 2026
May 16, 2026
The story introduces Max Ringo, a flawed former defense attorney fighting her way back from an addiction.
“You were a badass, Max. Mean. Ruthless. Unafraid to hurt feelings.” He lowered his voice. “I didn’t trust you…and I was a tad scared of you.”
Max's first major mediation quickly turns into a terrifying nightmare when one of the parties kidnaps her teenage son and threatens to kill him to force a favorable settlement. The story takes place over a tight, three-day timeline.
She knew she’d have to embrace her inner crazy if she was going to settle the Strassburg divorce and save her son.
I always appreciate a well-developed setting in a book, and this one really delivers. The setting adds a lot to the story. Huntsville is Robert Bailey's hometown and where he still lives, and he uses real places, moving the action from the corporate downtown near Redstone Arsenal to the quiet, rural backroads of New Market. He includes local spots like Catacomb 435 speakeasy, the Dallas Mill Deli, and MoonPie John's Mercantile. Using these real places makes Max's race against time feel authentic.
Readers of Bailey's previous book series will also spot familiar characters, like Jason Rich and Satch Tonidandel. This book connects the pressure of the legal mediation with a mother's desperation to keep her son alive. Even with familiar tropes like a ticking clock and a military muscle sidekick, the non-stop tension kept me hooked all the way to a final twist.
“You were a badass, Max. Mean. Ruthless. Unafraid to hurt feelings.” He lowered his voice. “I didn’t trust you…and I was a tad scared of you.”
Max's first major mediation quickly turns into a terrifying nightmare when one of the parties kidnaps her teenage son and threatens to kill him to force a favorable settlement. The story takes place over a tight, three-day timeline.
She knew she’d have to embrace her inner crazy if she was going to settle the Strassburg divorce and save her son.
I always appreciate a well-developed setting in a book, and this one really delivers. The setting adds a lot to the story. Huntsville is Robert Bailey's hometown and where he still lives, and he uses real places, moving the action from the corporate downtown near Redstone Arsenal to the quiet, rural backroads of New Market. He includes local spots like Catacomb 435 speakeasy, the Dallas Mill Deli, and MoonPie John's Mercantile. Using these real places makes Max's race against time feel authentic.
Readers of Bailey's previous book series will also spot familiar characters, like Jason Rich and Satch Tonidandel. This book connects the pressure of the legal mediation with a mother's desperation to keep her son alive. Even with familiar tropes like a ticking clock and a military muscle sidekick, the non-stop tension kept me hooked all the way to a final twist.
January 3, 2026
Robert Bailey has done it again! I've read and loved all his books and couldn't wait to read this one. Set in North Alabama close to my hometown, Max Ringo, Book One, is the first book of a new series. Max was a very talented lawyer at a very prestigious law firm in Huntsville Alabama until a terrible car accident left her addicted to painkillers. Fresh out of rehab having lost her law license Max is starting over as a mediator. Just a few cases into her new career she is assigned to a nasty divorce mediation between two power players plus a power hungry father in law. The husband has kidnapped Max's teenage son and has threatened to kill him unless his terms are met. How will Max convince the two parties to come to an agreement while also finding and rescuing her son? I love how she gets help from two of my favorite characters of the author's earlier series. This thrilling storyline takes place over only three packed days. This book has surprises up until the very end. I think I am going to love this new series and I can't wait for the next book. Thanks @NetGalley for the ARC of this book. I loved it!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Another great novel by Robert Bailey. Having read and loved The Boomerang. I had very high expectations, and if anything, they were exceeded.
This story featured Max Ringo, former attorney, recovered drug addict, mother of Nate. She is now a Mediator trying to work her way back up in the legal system in Huntsville, Alabama.
Max has been recommended by her former bestie Judge Caroline Parker to meditate a divorce settlement between two parties who have a lot to lose/gain. The book covers a three day period in which much transpired and the parties involved seem to take no prisoners.
Bailey's deep characterization of Moe is brilliant. We see how broken she is and how much her past continues to impact her decisions and actions. I will say there were a few unnecessary players-seemed to complicate the plot more than it needed to. For this reason, I gave the read a 4.5 rating rounded up to 5.
Other characters are not as developed, but that supports plot development and adds to the "whodunnit". So much so that I sat up and said out loud "really?" Never who have got that one.
Shout out to NetGalley and Publisher Thomas & Mercer on exchange for this honest review.
This story featured Max Ringo, former attorney, recovered drug addict, mother of Nate. She is now a Mediator trying to work her way back up in the legal system in Huntsville, Alabama.
Max has been recommended by her former bestie Judge Caroline Parker to meditate a divorce settlement between two parties who have a lot to lose/gain. The book covers a three day period in which much transpired and the parties involved seem to take no prisoners.
Bailey's deep characterization of Moe is brilliant. We see how broken she is and how much her past continues to impact her decisions and actions. I will say there were a few unnecessary players-seemed to complicate the plot more than it needed to. For this reason, I gave the read a 4.5 rating rounded up to 5.
Other characters are not as developed, but that supports plot development and adds to the "whodunnit". So much so that I sat up and said out loud "really?" Never who have got that one.
Shout out to NetGalley and Publisher Thomas & Mercer on exchange for this honest review.
May 12, 2026
This review was originally posted on Books of My Heart
Review copy was received from NetGalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
4.5 hearts
Robert Bailey has become an author I always try to read. I was thrilled to find this new Max Ringo series connects to the Jason Rich series. Max has had a rough time. She was a very successful lawyer. Until she was in a car accident and had many injuries, getting addicted to pain killers. She is just out of rehab. She is divorced, has lost most custody of her teen son and is starting a new job.
Max is working now as a mediator. This case is a contentious divorce. The husband, and father of the wife are in business together and have huge egos. Both have money problems and are in over their heads. One of them kidnaps her son, who she is caring for since his dad is out of town, to blackmail her into getting things settled their way.
Max has to deal with the battling parties, their lawyer, and worry about the condition of her son. She has just started to build trust in having some custody and doing well at a new job and this is a train wreck. But Max is made of strong stuff and has some good friends. She is incredibly smart at handling the case details and learns more than the parties want her to know.
Things are coming down to the wire and she is still trying to settle the case. I was relieved to find she had some friends helping her. The ending is clear, with a shocking betrayal for Max. I loved this and can't wait for more.
Review copy was received from NetGalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
4.5 hearts
Robert Bailey has become an author I always try to read. I was thrilled to find this new Max Ringo series connects to the Jason Rich series. Max has had a rough time. She was a very successful lawyer. Until she was in a car accident and had many injuries, getting addicted to pain killers. She is just out of rehab. She is divorced, has lost most custody of her teen son and is starting a new job.
Max is working now as a mediator. This case is a contentious divorce. The husband, and father of the wife are in business together and have huge egos. Both have money problems and are in over their heads. One of them kidnaps her son, who she is caring for since his dad is out of town, to blackmail her into getting things settled their way.
Max has to deal with the battling parties, their lawyer, and worry about the condition of her son. She has just started to build trust in having some custody and doing well at a new job and this is a train wreck. But Max is made of strong stuff and has some good friends. She is incredibly smart at handling the case details and learns more than the parties want her to know.
Things are coming down to the wire and she is still trying to settle the case. I was relieved to find she had some friends helping her. The ending is clear, with a shocking betrayal for Max. I loved this and can't wait for more.
May 13, 2026
Imagine being a well respected top lawyer only to have an accident that destroys everything! Max Ringo, a female lawyer, had the kind of career people would kill for- She’s well respected and always in control. Unfortunately, a devastating accident leaves her in constant pain, and she quietly becomes addicted to pills meant to help her heal. She’s now out of rehab, but instead of being in the courtroom, she’s stuck in high pressure rooms as a mediator, trying to make impossible deals happen. She is dealing with a case that is both complicated and dangerous! The reason I could only give 4 stars is because when her son is taken, she still goes about doing her regular tasks such as going to the gym and dining out. This bothered me so much because the average person would be losing their minds. Other than that, this was a great legal thriller that is messy, intense, and has you wanting to know the answers as to what in the world is going on with this case! This was a “new to me” author and left me wanting to try some of his other books!
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas and Mercer for an advanced listener copy in exchange for an honest review!
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas and Mercer for an advanced listener copy in exchange for an honest review!
May 12, 2026
This was my second book by Robert Bailey, and it definitely won’t be my last. The story is a cutthroat legal drama mixed with a tense cat-and-mouse game that kept me on the edge of my seat from beginning to end. What made it even more intense was that most of the book took place over the course of a two- to three-day mediation session, which gave the story nonstop momentum and suspense.
The novel does a great job showing the lengths people will go to in order to protect the ones they love. It also highlights the corruption that can exist when people have enough power and money to manipulate the system. Along with the legal thriller elements, the story also explores addiction, recovery, and the idea of second chances, which added even more emotional depth to the book. Beneath it all was an underlying message about health, death, and end-of-life decisions that made the story feel even more impactful.
Overall, this was a solid and gripping read, and I’m looking forward to reading more books by Robert Bailey.
Thank you MBC Publishing for the ARC!
The novel does a great job showing the lengths people will go to in order to protect the ones they love. It also highlights the corruption that can exist when people have enough power and money to manipulate the system. Along with the legal thriller elements, the story also explores addiction, recovery, and the idea of second chances, which added even more emotional depth to the book. Beneath it all was an underlying message about health, death, and end-of-life decisions that made the story feel even more impactful.
Overall, this was a solid and gripping read, and I’m looking forward to reading more books by Robert Bailey.
Thank you MBC Publishing for the ARC!
May 16, 2026
“‘When you were a trial lawyer, what would you do to win?’ Max felt her stomach tighten. ‘Anything it took.’ ‘That’s right.’ Jason’s eyes were wide. Excited. ‘Anything it took.’”
Woah! Holy hell was that last half a page flipping, stress inducing, wild what-in-the-hell-is-going-to-happen book!
4.5 stars rounded up! This book started off a bit slow, having me wonder where it was going. Max, back from rehab and struggling to find her footing again in the world of law, was just not gripping. She was weak, meek, and very damaged. But once that grit came out in her new job as a mediator I was rooting for her so hard. There is so much tension and drama in this story that, by the end, I was avoiding adult responsibilities just to finish. Max ended up being the very fierce bad ass I imagined she’d be. What a ride!
I read The Boomerang by @rbailey32 last May and gave it 5 stars, making me jump at the chance to read his newest. That book still sits with me and I think of it with some regularity. After this one I can now add another auto-buy author to my list!
Thank you to @mbc_books, @amazonpublishing, and the author for the gifted copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Woah! Holy hell was that last half a page flipping, stress inducing, wild what-in-the-hell-is-going-to-happen book!
4.5 stars rounded up! This book started off a bit slow, having me wonder where it was going. Max, back from rehab and struggling to find her footing again in the world of law, was just not gripping. She was weak, meek, and very damaged. But once that grit came out in her new job as a mediator I was rooting for her so hard. There is so much tension and drama in this story that, by the end, I was avoiding adult responsibilities just to finish. Max ended up being the very fierce bad ass I imagined she’d be. What a ride!
I read The Boomerang by @rbailey32 last May and gave it 5 stars, making me jump at the chance to read his newest. That book still sits with me and I think of it with some regularity. After this one I can now add another auto-buy author to my list!
Thank you to @mbc_books, @amazonpublishing, and the author for the gifted copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 12, 2026
Max Ringo was a brilliant lawyer until a car accident derailed everything for her. Pain killers took the rest. Newly in recovery, she is piecing herself back together, only to discover she’s facing the fight of her life. Her son has been kidnapped. The ransom? Her cooperation on a high-profile, cutthroat divorce case she is handling as a mediator.
What follows is an absolute wild ride. It’s fast paced, full of action in the three day period of the book, loaded with hidden agendas and perfectly timed twists. I genuinely did not want to put this one down.
I loved the comeback aspect of Max’s story. She has been through it. Hit rock bottom, clawed her way back, and now has another major battle on her hands with the highest possible stakes. She simply refuses to lose her son after fighting so hard to get back to him. Watching her utilize every bit of her legal skills and weaponize her sheer desperation made me cheer for her. You know the saying, do not count out someone with nothing to lose. Max Ringo is exactly that person.
The ending left me hoping this is not the last we see of her. Robert Bailey, please give us more Max!
If you are looking for an intense, high stakes thriller about how far a parent will go for their child, this one delivers.
I received a free copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
What follows is an absolute wild ride. It’s fast paced, full of action in the three day period of the book, loaded with hidden agendas and perfectly timed twists. I genuinely did not want to put this one down.
I loved the comeback aspect of Max’s story. She has been through it. Hit rock bottom, clawed her way back, and now has another major battle on her hands with the highest possible stakes. She simply refuses to lose her son after fighting so hard to get back to him. Watching her utilize every bit of her legal skills and weaponize her sheer desperation made me cheer for her. You know the saying, do not count out someone with nothing to lose. Max Ringo is exactly that person.
The ending left me hoping this is not the last we see of her. Robert Bailey, please give us more Max!
If you are looking for an intense, high stakes thriller about how far a parent will go for their child, this one delivers.
I received a free copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
May 12, 2026
Max Ringo, fresh from rehab, is trying to put her life back together. Not able to practice law, she is starting over as a mediator. Her current case is a divorce mediation of a wealthy power couple. It turns personal very quickly, when Max's son is kidnapped and she is forced to mediate a favorable settlement for the other party.
Max is a great character, flawed but tough. She would do anything to saver her son. This story is fast paced and completely addictive. I thought I was reading a legal thriller, but this was something else, more dark and brutal. But not in a bad way, though.
This is the first book in the series, and I can't wait to read more.
Thank you NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for a copy of this book.
Max is a great character, flawed but tough. She would do anything to saver her son. This story is fast paced and completely addictive. I thought I was reading a legal thriller, but this was something else, more dark and brutal. But not in a bad way, though.
This is the first book in the series, and I can't wait to read more.
Thank you NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for a copy of this book.
May 15, 2026
The Mediator is a fast-paced, well-written legal thriller with added depth, thanks to issues related to trauma and addiction, and a sympathetic FMC. Really enjoyed this one.
Ann Marie Gideon did an excellent job narrating the audiobook.
Thanks to Robert Bailey, Thomas & Mercer, and Brilliance Audio for the gifted book. All opinions expressed are my own.
Ann Marie Gideon did an excellent job narrating the audiobook.
Thanks to Robert Bailey, Thomas & Mercer, and Brilliance Audio for the gifted book. All opinions expressed are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
What a thriller!
The Mediator
by Robert Bailey is the first book in the Max Ringo legal thriller series. Set in Huntsville, Alabama, Max was once a courtroom star at an elite law firm. Then a car accident left her addicted, and her life went to pieces. She’s clean and making a comeback as a mediator. Handling a high-stakes divorce is her big chance.
However, as negotiations begin between two power-players in the area, one of them kidnaps her teenage son, Nathan. She’s told to settle the case on his terms or her son dies.
Max’s suspension as a lawyer is up in a month, but a law license isn’t required for mediators. She’s known to be tenacious, detail-oriented, unafraid of confrontation, and smart. Can she get those skills back and rescue her son? If so, she will need to use empathy, psychology, and negotiation to resolve the conflict. Will this work?
The story takes place in three days and the action, both physical and verbal, is intense. The sense of urgency kept me rapidly turning the pages with gripping scenes, action, danger, and fantastic writing. The atmosphere was suspenseful and left readers wondering what would happen next. With twists, turns, and action, the story unfolds at a rapid pace. The ending is impactful and insightful. There are threads at the end of the novel that could lead to the next book in the series. Themes include addiction, respect, secrets, threats, power, greed, choices, divorce, kidnapping, pride, and much more.
Overall, this is a gritty and suspenseful high-stakes thriller that has an outstanding premise and is also thought-provoking and filled with extraordinary, but flawed characters. This is the second book I have read by this author and I can’t wait to read the next one. I highly recommend this novel and the author.
Thomas and Mercer and Robert Bailey provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own. The publication date is currently set for May 12, 2026.
----------------------------------
My 4.5 rounded to 5 stars review is coming soon.
However, as negotiations begin between two power-players in the area, one of them kidnaps her teenage son, Nathan. She’s told to settle the case on his terms or her son dies.
Max’s suspension as a lawyer is up in a month, but a law license isn’t required for mediators. She’s known to be tenacious, detail-oriented, unafraid of confrontation, and smart. Can she get those skills back and rescue her son? If so, she will need to use empathy, psychology, and negotiation to resolve the conflict. Will this work?
The story takes place in three days and the action, both physical and verbal, is intense. The sense of urgency kept me rapidly turning the pages with gripping scenes, action, danger, and fantastic writing. The atmosphere was suspenseful and left readers wondering what would happen next. With twists, turns, and action, the story unfolds at a rapid pace. The ending is impactful and insightful. There are threads at the end of the novel that could lead to the next book in the series. Themes include addiction, respect, secrets, threats, power, greed, choices, divorce, kidnapping, pride, and much more.
Overall, this is a gritty and suspenseful high-stakes thriller that has an outstanding premise and is also thought-provoking and filled with extraordinary, but flawed characters. This is the second book I have read by this author and I can’t wait to read the next one. I highly recommend this novel and the author.
Thomas and Mercer and Robert Bailey provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own. The publication date is currently set for May 12, 2026.
----------------------------------
My 4.5 rounded to 5 stars review is coming soon.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Mediator by Robert Bailey is another strong entry from an author whose work I’ve consistently enjoyed. Having read all of his previous novels, especially the Bocephus Haynes and Jason Rich books, I came in with high expectations, and for the most part, this novel delivered.
The story centers on Max Ringo, a former attorney and recovering addict who is rebuilding her life and reentering the legal world as a mediator. When she becomes entangled in what initially appears to be a routine divorce mediation, the situation quickly spirals into something far darker and more complex. The plot is packed with twists and turns, and the story kept me hooked all the way through, including several moments that genuinely blindsided me.
One of Bailey’s consistent strengths, and something I deeply appreciate, shows up again here: his treatment of addiction. Rather than portraying addiction as a moral failure, Bailey presents it as an illness that recovery is possible from. His characters are shown rebuilding their lives, acknowledging both progress and ongoing struggle. It’s a realistic and compassionate approach that adds real depth to the story.
My one significant disappointment was the amount of foul language used throughout the book. Bailey’s earlier works contained very little strong language, which I always appreciated, but this novel includes far more profanity—particularly repeated use of the f-word—than his previous books. It didn’t ruin the story, but it was noticeable enough to detract from my enjoyment at times. Reader beware.
Overall, The Mediator is a fast-paced, twist-filled legal thriller that showcases Bailey’s storytelling strengths while introducing a compelling new lead character. Despite my reservations about the language, this was still an excellent read and one I’d recommend to fans of his work and readers who enjoy intense legal suspense with emotional depth.
**I am grateful for Thomas and Mercer Publishers for an advanced copy of this book.
The story centers on Max Ringo, a former attorney and recovering addict who is rebuilding her life and reentering the legal world as a mediator. When she becomes entangled in what initially appears to be a routine divorce mediation, the situation quickly spirals into something far darker and more complex. The plot is packed with twists and turns, and the story kept me hooked all the way through, including several moments that genuinely blindsided me.
One of Bailey’s consistent strengths, and something I deeply appreciate, shows up again here: his treatment of addiction. Rather than portraying addiction as a moral failure, Bailey presents it as an illness that recovery is possible from. His characters are shown rebuilding their lives, acknowledging both progress and ongoing struggle. It’s a realistic and compassionate approach that adds real depth to the story.
My one significant disappointment was the amount of foul language used throughout the book. Bailey’s earlier works contained very little strong language, which I always appreciated, but this novel includes far more profanity—particularly repeated use of the f-word—than his previous books. It didn’t ruin the story, but it was noticeable enough to detract from my enjoyment at times. Reader beware.
Overall, The Mediator is a fast-paced, twist-filled legal thriller that showcases Bailey’s storytelling strengths while introducing a compelling new lead character. Despite my reservations about the language, this was still an excellent read and one I’d recommend to fans of his work and readers who enjoy intense legal suspense with emotional depth.
**I am grateful for Thomas and Mercer Publishers for an advanced copy of this book.
May 12, 2026
This review was originally posted on Books of My Heart
Review copy was received from NetGalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
4.5 hearts
Robert Bailey has become an author I always try to read. I was thrilled to find this new Max Ringo series connects to the Jason Rich series. Max has had a rough time. She was a very successful lawyer. Until she was in a car accident and had many injuries, getting addicted to pain killers. She is just out of rehab. She is divorced, has lost most custody of her teen son and is starting a new job.
Max is working now as a mediator. This case is a contentious divorce. The husband, and father of the wife are in business together and have huge egos. Both have money problems and are in over their heads. One of them kidnaps her son, who she is caring for since his dad is out of town, to blackmail her into getting things settled their way.
Max has to deal with the battling parties, their lawyer, and worry about the condition of her son. She has just started to build trust in having some custody and doing well at a new job and this is a train wreck. But Max is made of strong stuff and has some good friends. She is incredibly smart at handling the case details and learns more than the parties want her to know.
Things are coming down to the wire and she is still trying to settle the case. I was relieved to find she had some friends helping her. The ending is clear, with a shocking betrayal for Max. I loved this and can't wait for more.
Narration:
This narrator was new to me. I really liked her portrayal of Max Ringo and all the emotion and suspense. Her performance was really storytelling. All the voices were comfortable in tone for the characters, whether male or female. I was able to listen at my newer 1.75x speed.
Listen to a clip: HERE
Review copy was received from NetGalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
4.5 hearts
Robert Bailey has become an author I always try to read. I was thrilled to find this new Max Ringo series connects to the Jason Rich series. Max has had a rough time. She was a very successful lawyer. Until she was in a car accident and had many injuries, getting addicted to pain killers. She is just out of rehab. She is divorced, has lost most custody of her teen son and is starting a new job.
Max is working now as a mediator. This case is a contentious divorce. The husband, and father of the wife are in business together and have huge egos. Both have money problems and are in over their heads. One of them kidnaps her son, who she is caring for since his dad is out of town, to blackmail her into getting things settled their way.
Max has to deal with the battling parties, their lawyer, and worry about the condition of her son. She has just started to build trust in having some custody and doing well at a new job and this is a train wreck. But Max is made of strong stuff and has some good friends. She is incredibly smart at handling the case details and learns more than the parties want her to know.
Things are coming down to the wire and she is still trying to settle the case. I was relieved to find she had some friends helping her. The ending is clear, with a shocking betrayal for Max. I loved this and can't wait for more.
Narration:
This narrator was new to me. I really liked her portrayal of Max Ringo and all the emotion and suspense. Her performance was really storytelling. All the voices were comfortable in tone for the characters, whether male or female. I was able to listen at my newer 1.75x speed.
Listen to a clip: HERE
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is a tense, high-stakes read where nothing is as straight forward as it seems.
📘 INSIDE THE PAGES
Max Ringo is offered a chance at redemption after a very public fall from grace, set in motion by a devastating car accident that led to an opioid addiction and a string of career-ending decisions she can’t take back.
Now working as a mediator on a high-profile divorce case, she’s tasked with getting a hostile couple to the negotiating table and finalizing a settlement neither side wants to make.
But the stakes spiral far beyond the courtroom when one party crosses a line by kidnapping her son and threatening his life unless she closes the deal on his terms.
🌟 MY THOUGHTS
The story unfolds over three intense days of mediation, and Bailey does a great job of ramping up the tension as the clock winds down and the urgency to save Max’s son, Nathan, escalates.
Surrounded by a cast of ethically murky characters, Max is pushed into what feels like an impossible role of needing to force two narcissistic men to reach an agreement neither of them truly wants. On the surface, she’s handling a divorce settlement, but it quickly becomes clear there’s a far more dangerous power struggle underneath, centered on control of a company originally founded by Stephanie’s father and now coveted by her soon to be ex husband.
Both men are operating with hidden motives, while darker forces move in the background, quietly influencing events from the shadows. Several threads weave through the narrative and the richness of the characters backstories is so strong it makes me wish for a prequel to fully explore how everything came to be.
As the first book in the series, it sets things up well for more to come. Max Ringo is a brilliant character to build a series around as she’s flawed, but highly capable, and completely ruthless when the situation demands it.
Many thanks to @lizaroyceassoc for sending me a copy of this book and to NetGalley for the digital copy.
📘 INSIDE THE PAGES
Max Ringo is offered a chance at redemption after a very public fall from grace, set in motion by a devastating car accident that led to an opioid addiction and a string of career-ending decisions she can’t take back.
Now working as a mediator on a high-profile divorce case, she’s tasked with getting a hostile couple to the negotiating table and finalizing a settlement neither side wants to make.
But the stakes spiral far beyond the courtroom when one party crosses a line by kidnapping her son and threatening his life unless she closes the deal on his terms.
🌟 MY THOUGHTS
The story unfolds over three intense days of mediation, and Bailey does a great job of ramping up the tension as the clock winds down and the urgency to save Max’s son, Nathan, escalates.
Surrounded by a cast of ethically murky characters, Max is pushed into what feels like an impossible role of needing to force two narcissistic men to reach an agreement neither of them truly wants. On the surface, she’s handling a divorce settlement, but it quickly becomes clear there’s a far more dangerous power struggle underneath, centered on control of a company originally founded by Stephanie’s father and now coveted by her soon to be ex husband.
Both men are operating with hidden motives, while darker forces move in the background, quietly influencing events from the shadows. Several threads weave through the narrative and the richness of the characters backstories is so strong it makes me wish for a prequel to fully explore how everything came to be.
As the first book in the series, it sets things up well for more to come. Max Ringo is a brilliant character to build a series around as she’s flawed, but highly capable, and completely ruthless when the situation demands it.
Many thanks to @lizaroyceassoc for sending me a copy of this book and to NetGalley for the digital copy.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Max is on her way to recovery, rebuilding her life after drug addiction, license suspension, and divorce, when she's faced with the ultimate decision: be honest and follow the law- what she failed to do before and cost her her job- or do whatever it takes to save her son, Nathan. Has she recovered enough to make the right decisions or is her mind still too addled, putting Nathan in even more danger than just being kidnapped? Max has the length of this single mediation to convince the wife, Stephanie, to agree to her soon-to-be-ex husband, Perry's, terms, but who can she turn to for help after addiction stigmatization left her life in shambles? Does Max have any trustworthy allies or tricks left up her sleeve? If she uses them, will Perry find out and kill her son in retribution?
Stakes get even higher as both parties face unforeseen explosions and attacks. Will this third party ruin everything or actually help Max in the fight against Perry and his team? The Mediator proves that a mother's identity does not stem from her job or health- both of which can be lost in a instant- but her boundless love and how far she will go to fight for her child.
Personally, while I'm not 100% sold that Perry had to kidnap Nathan to get what he wants from the divorce, my suspension of disbelief is strong enough to accept it and move on. Can't wait to read book 2 and learn how Max rebuilds the life she's fought so hard to restore.
Troupes: legal thriller, drugs, troubled hero, ticking clock, moral ambiguity, shocking twist
Spice: 2/5 🌶️ implied, pornography, homosexual references
Gore: 1/5 🩸implied
Language: 2/5
Big thanks to Brilliance Publishing and NetGalley for the ARC!
Stakes get even higher as both parties face unforeseen explosions and attacks. Will this third party ruin everything or actually help Max in the fight against Perry and his team? The Mediator proves that a mother's identity does not stem from her job or health- both of which can be lost in a instant- but her boundless love and how far she will go to fight for her child.
Personally, while I'm not 100% sold that Perry had to kidnap Nathan to get what he wants from the divorce, my suspension of disbelief is strong enough to accept it and move on. Can't wait to read book 2 and learn how Max rebuilds the life she's fought so hard to restore.
Troupes: legal thriller, drugs, troubled hero, ticking clock, moral ambiguity, shocking twist
Spice: 2/5 🌶️ implied, pornography, homosexual references
Gore: 1/5 🩸implied
Language: 2/5
Big thanks to Brilliance Publishing and NetGalley for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Oh wow!
I really enjoyed this book. This is the first book by this author that I have had the privilege of enjoying but if the rest of his books are like this one then it won't be my last.
There was a lot of fast moving parts, from the perspective of a number of the characters. While this gave you a good understanding of what was going on, it did mean you knew why the characters were acting the way they did. Although the author managed to keep a few surprises for the ending. The characters all had there own story to tell, a few of which tugged on the old heart strings. The characters were perfect and invoked the reaction the author was probably aiming for making you either love or hate them.
As for the main body of the story, it was captivating as Max is caught between three sides as they fight to get the next out come for themselves, without compromising. This meant the story took a number of twists and was an explosive read. I hope there is another book in the works.
After addiction made her lose everything, her husband, son and the job she loved, Max hopes to do better now that she is clean. With her first job as a mediator, she is trying to settle a divorce before it ends up in court. No body wants to compromise but with the husband fighting dirty it turns into a nightmare for Max. With her son kidnapped and his life threatened, she has no choice but meditate the divorce in the husbands favour. Unless she can find away to get her son back before both parties sign.
I liked the narrator but did find it a little bit hard to tell the main character and the wife apart. Otherwise she put in a good performance.
I was given this free review copy audio book at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
I really enjoyed this book. This is the first book by this author that I have had the privilege of enjoying but if the rest of his books are like this one then it won't be my last.
There was a lot of fast moving parts, from the perspective of a number of the characters. While this gave you a good understanding of what was going on, it did mean you knew why the characters were acting the way they did. Although the author managed to keep a few surprises for the ending. The characters all had there own story to tell, a few of which tugged on the old heart strings. The characters were perfect and invoked the reaction the author was probably aiming for making you either love or hate them.
As for the main body of the story, it was captivating as Max is caught between three sides as they fight to get the next out come for themselves, without compromising. This meant the story took a number of twists and was an explosive read. I hope there is another book in the works.
After addiction made her lose everything, her husband, son and the job she loved, Max hopes to do better now that she is clean. With her first job as a mediator, she is trying to settle a divorce before it ends up in court. No body wants to compromise but with the husband fighting dirty it turns into a nightmare for Max. With her son kidnapped and his life threatened, she has no choice but meditate the divorce in the husbands favour. Unless she can find away to get her son back before both parties sign.
I liked the narrator but did find it a little bit hard to tell the main character and the wife apart. Otherwise she put in a good performance.
I was given this free review copy audio book at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Max Ringo was once a rising courtroom star at a prestigious law firm, but after a devastating car accident led to addiction, her life spiraled out of control. Fresh out of rehab and trying to rebuild both her career and personal life, Max takes on a high-stakes mediation case that could be her chance at redemption. But when the powerful husband involved kidnaps her teenage son and forces her into an impossible situation, the case becomes far more dangerous than anyone expected. What follows is an intense race against time filled with legal maneuvering, secrets, power plays, and nonstop suspense.
This was my second book by Robert Bailey, and after reading the description and seeing so many positive reviews, I knew I had to pick this one up.
Even though the story takes place over just three days, so much happens during that short time. The pacing was incredibly fast, and the tension never really let up. I thought the characters were developed really well, especially Max, whose struggles and determination felt believable and compelling. The mix of legal drama and thriller elements worked perfectly, keeping me fully invested from beginning to end.
This story is packed with power, greed, crime, illness, family stakes, and suspense, and it constantly kept me wondering what would happen next. I also listened to the audiobook and thought the narrator did an amazing job bringing the story and emotions to life.
Overall, I really enjoyed this read and will definitely be picking up more from Robert Bailey in the future.
Thank you to NetGalley, Thomas & Mercer, and Brilliance Publishing for the advanced copies of this story.
This was my second book by Robert Bailey, and after reading the description and seeing so many positive reviews, I knew I had to pick this one up.
Even though the story takes place over just three days, so much happens during that short time. The pacing was incredibly fast, and the tension never really let up. I thought the characters were developed really well, especially Max, whose struggles and determination felt believable and compelling. The mix of legal drama and thriller elements worked perfectly, keeping me fully invested from beginning to end.
This story is packed with power, greed, crime, illness, family stakes, and suspense, and it constantly kept me wondering what would happen next. I also listened to the audiobook and thought the narrator did an amazing job bringing the story and emotions to life.
Overall, I really enjoyed this read and will definitely be picking up more from Robert Bailey in the future.
Thank you to NetGalley, Thomas & Mercer, and Brilliance Publishing for the advanced copies of this story.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This novel launches a gripping new series by following Max Ringo, a once brilliant attorney whose life has been reshaped by trauma and hard won recovery. Now rebuilding her career as a mediator, she’s thrust into a volatile divorce case that quickly spirals far beyond legal wrangling. When her son is taken hostage as leverage, Max is forced into an impossible balancing act, untangling a vicious dispute while secretly racing against the clock to save him. The entire story unfolds over an intense three day window, creating a relentless pace that keeps the tension sharp and the stakes deeply personal. It’s a setup that blends legal intrigue with emotional urgency, making the narrative feel charged with danger and momentum from the outset.
What elevates the book is the depth given to Max herself flawed, resilient, and shaped by a past she can’t quite outrun. The supporting cast adds texture to the mystery, and even when the plot grows crowded, the twists land with impact. Bailey’s writing shines in the way he layers action, vulnerability, and sharp courtroom strategy, crafting a thriller that’s both propulsive and emotionally grounded. The short chapters, brisk pacing, and escalating threats make it easy to devour in a single sitting. Fans of legal suspense will appreciate the blend of character complexity and high stakes plotting, and the series shows strong promise for readers who enjoy thrillers driven by grit, heart, and escalating tension.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an advanced copy of the book, all opinions expressed are my own.
What elevates the book is the depth given to Max herself flawed, resilient, and shaped by a past she can’t quite outrun. The supporting cast adds texture to the mystery, and even when the plot grows crowded, the twists land with impact. Bailey’s writing shines in the way he layers action, vulnerability, and sharp courtroom strategy, crafting a thriller that’s both propulsive and emotionally grounded. The short chapters, brisk pacing, and escalating threats make it easy to devour in a single sitting. Fans of legal suspense will appreciate the blend of character complexity and high stakes plotting, and the series shows strong promise for readers who enjoy thrillers driven by grit, heart, and escalating tension.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an advanced copy of the book, all opinions expressed are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is a strong start to what will hopefully be a great series. Strong characters, interesting plot and great procedures. I had started with one book in the Jason Rich series last year – I liked it and need to continue that series too.
Max(ine) Ringo has been out of rehab (after a bad accident) for 8 months. She is divorced from Thayer and is trying to make a career in mediation (as suggested by her mentor). She was a successful attorney earlier. Judge Caroline Parker assigns a divorce mediation to her. This is between Perry Strassburg (a corporate lawyer) and Stephanie Richardson. There are many properties and a business which needs to be settled. Dagger is Stephanie’s dad who had entrusted his business Richardson Concepts to Perry, who grew it very well. Nathan Ringo, Max’s son, is kidnapped and she is pressured to settle the mediation a certain way. She is warned against going to the cops.
The author profile at the end mentions that Robert Bailey is a retired attorney and a registered mediator. That shows in the book, as the proceedings are very authentic. There are some excellent characters; especially Max and Colonel Sach, and all others are very well developed as well. The build-up is gradual, but the last sections have a lot of action. I personally felt the final sections had a little too much going on.
Thanks to Netgalley, the publisher Thomas & Mercer and the author for a free electronic review copy.
Max(ine) Ringo has been out of rehab (after a bad accident) for 8 months. She is divorced from Thayer and is trying to make a career in mediation (as suggested by her mentor). She was a successful attorney earlier. Judge Caroline Parker assigns a divorce mediation to her. This is between Perry Strassburg (a corporate lawyer) and Stephanie Richardson. There are many properties and a business which needs to be settled. Dagger is Stephanie’s dad who had entrusted his business Richardson Concepts to Perry, who grew it very well. Nathan Ringo, Max’s son, is kidnapped and she is pressured to settle the mediation a certain way. She is warned against going to the cops.
The author profile at the end mentions that Robert Bailey is a retired attorney and a registered mediator. That shows in the book, as the proceedings are very authentic. There are some excellent characters; especially Max and Colonel Sach, and all others are very well developed as well. The build-up is gradual, but the last sections have a lot of action. I personally felt the final sections had a little too much going on.
Thanks to Netgalley, the publisher Thomas & Mercer and the author for a free electronic review copy.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Many thanks to NetGalley, Amazon Publishing | Thomas & Mercer, and Brilliance Publishing for gifting me a physical, digital and audio ARC of the new crime fiction novel by Robert Bailey, perfectly narrated by Ann Marie Gideon. All opinions expressed in this review are my own - 5 stars!
Max Ringo was once a star at an elite law firm. Then a car accident left her addicted to painkillers. Fresh out of rehab, she is making her comeback as a mediator, and is appointed to handle a high-stakes divorce. But then the husband kidnaps her teenage son, Nathan, and tells Max that she either settles the case on his terms or her son dies.
This book takes place over three days, as the suspense and tension kept ramping up hour by hour. Told from multiple POV, we get the backstories of what led this couple to divorce as well as all the power struggles involved. .Max is a great character - flawed, but trying to do her best for herself and her son. Her addiction was handled respectfully - any one of us could find ourselves in such a situation. This is the first book I've read by this author, but I'm anxious for more. I always like a good legal thriller and this was all that and then some - plus, it's the first in a series starring Max Ringo and I am completely on board for more! The narration was great and I had no issues differentiating characters. I enjoyed listening to it when I couldn't be reading.
Max Ringo was once a star at an elite law firm. Then a car accident left her addicted to painkillers. Fresh out of rehab, she is making her comeback as a mediator, and is appointed to handle a high-stakes divorce. But then the husband kidnaps her teenage son, Nathan, and tells Max that she either settles the case on his terms or her son dies.
This book takes place over three days, as the suspense and tension kept ramping up hour by hour. Told from multiple POV, we get the backstories of what led this couple to divorce as well as all the power struggles involved. .Max is a great character - flawed, but trying to do her best for herself and her son. Her addiction was handled respectfully - any one of us could find ourselves in such a situation. This is the first book I've read by this author, but I'm anxious for more. I always like a good legal thriller and this was all that and then some - plus, it's the first in a series starring Max Ringo and I am completely on board for more! The narration was great and I had no issues differentiating characters. I enjoyed listening to it when I couldn't be reading.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Tense and fast-paced legal thriller, book one in the upcoming series.
The setup alone is incredibly stressful... a recovering addict trying to rebuild her life is forced to mediate a dangerous high-stakes divorce while her son is being held hostage behind the scenes. The ticking clock atmosphere never really lets up, and once things start spiralling, the story becomes impossible to put down.
What stood out most to me was Max as a character. She’s messy, flawed, determined, and constantly questioning herself, which makes her feel very real and relatable. As a recovering addict, I also appreciated the way addiction and recovery were handled here. It never felt exploitative or overly dramatized, it was just honest about how recovery is ongoing and fragile even when someone is trying their hardest.
The twists kept coming, some more predictable than others, but the pacing and rising tension carried me through the entire book. There’s a good balance between legal drama, emotional stakes, and thriller elements without one overpowering the others.
Overall, this was an entertaining, high-stress thriller with strong emotional stakes and a protagonist I genuinely rooted for the entire time.
Thank you so much Thomas & Mercer, Robert Bailey, and NetGalley for the #gifted earc.
All opinions are my own 🖤
The setup alone is incredibly stressful... a recovering addict trying to rebuild her life is forced to mediate a dangerous high-stakes divorce while her son is being held hostage behind the scenes. The ticking clock atmosphere never really lets up, and once things start spiralling, the story becomes impossible to put down.
What stood out most to me was Max as a character. She’s messy, flawed, determined, and constantly questioning herself, which makes her feel very real and relatable. As a recovering addict, I also appreciated the way addiction and recovery were handled here. It never felt exploitative or overly dramatized, it was just honest about how recovery is ongoing and fragile even when someone is trying their hardest.
The twists kept coming, some more predictable than others, but the pacing and rising tension carried me through the entire book. There’s a good balance between legal drama, emotional stakes, and thriller elements without one overpowering the others.
Overall, this was an entertaining, high-stress thriller with strong emotional stakes and a protagonist I genuinely rooted for the entire time.
Thank you so much Thomas & Mercer, Robert Bailey, and NetGalley for the #gifted earc.
All opinions are my own 🖤
May 10, 2026
*audiobook and paperback
“Then roll on cat shit, someone will come along and cover you up.” 😂😂😂
Synopsis: A strong female MC legal thriller!!! This is a comeback story of an elite litigator who gets in a car accident and gets addicts to pain pills. She goes to rehab and comes out but she’s no longer in her litigator role, now she’s a mediator between 2 power players in a high stakes divorce…with a kidnapping. Everything is a stake…can she handle the pressure and come out on top!?
My Thoughts: Max Ringo was such a great protagonist. She has a ton of baggage and her son appears to be following in her footsteps with addiction.
She’s put in a seemingly impossible situation that no mother should ever have to be in and her brain is in overdrive working on how to get herself out of it while causing the least amount of damage to those around her while still protecting her son…and herself.
There are a ton of characters to keep track of, and I would say most of them are just terrible people. So in that sense it was sort of like Max against the world though she does have a few allies in her pocket.
Overall this was a fun read and I would’ve def enjoy seeing more books in a Max Ringo series.
“Then roll on cat shit, someone will come along and cover you up.” 😂😂😂
Synopsis: A strong female MC legal thriller!!! This is a comeback story of an elite litigator who gets in a car accident and gets addicts to pain pills. She goes to rehab and comes out but she’s no longer in her litigator role, now she’s a mediator between 2 power players in a high stakes divorce…with a kidnapping. Everything is a stake…can she handle the pressure and come out on top!?
My Thoughts: Max Ringo was such a great protagonist. She has a ton of baggage and her son appears to be following in her footsteps with addiction.
She’s put in a seemingly impossible situation that no mother should ever have to be in and her brain is in overdrive working on how to get herself out of it while causing the least amount of damage to those around her while still protecting her son…and herself.
There are a ton of characters to keep track of, and I would say most of them are just terrible people. So in that sense it was sort of like Max against the world though she does have a few allies in her pocket.
Overall this was a fun read and I would’ve def enjoy seeing more books in a Max Ringo series.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Maxine Ringo is recovering from addiction to oxy prescribed during recovery from an horrific car crash. She was a fierce trial lawyer, now she's an untried professional mediator. Her former colleagues know how she got addicted and support her in her new career, but Max suffers from nearly crippling embarrassment at her cravenly behavior while addicted.
Max's assignment is to mediate a divorce settlement between the daughter of a rich, influential family, and the brash son-in-law who wants a large share of everything. He wants it so much that he kidnaps Max's teenage son as a lever.
The book is ripping good up till the final chapter when the final acts of villainy are exposed, at which point I ask how the logistics of the crime scene cleanup was managed without engaging an additional troop of criminals that we don't meet. I don't want to spoil anything, but when you finish, ask yourself how it was managed and if there will be repercussions. The book is labeled Book 1 so we know there will be more, but there is no staging for a new gang.
I received a digital ARC from the publisher through NetGalley.com.
Max's assignment is to mediate a divorce settlement between the daughter of a rich, influential family, and the brash son-in-law who wants a large share of everything. He wants it so much that he kidnaps Max's teenage son as a lever.
The book is ripping good up till the final chapter when the final acts of villainy are exposed, at which point I ask how the logistics of the crime scene cleanup was managed without engaging an additional troop of criminals that we don't meet. I don't want to spoil anything, but when you finish, ask yourself how it was managed and if there will be repercussions. The book is labeled Book 1 so we know there will be more, but there is no staging for a new gang.
I received a digital ARC from the publisher through NetGalley.com.
May 12, 2026
This is an interesting start of a new series by this author. I haven't read any of Robert Bailey's other series but I look forward to checking them out. There is a lot going on with this novel but the pace is pretty constant throughout which is neither too fast or too slow. Constant changing scenes and interesting stories that kept the reader engaged. There isn't a lot of "good guys" in this one to root for and there are a couple of scenes with the main character Max's teenage son that I don't know if they necessarily contributed much to the storyline. Perhaps the author wanted to continue to build this character into future novels but he spends a good amount of time pondering his sexuality and there wasn't any more discussion about that in the end so it felt out of place with the rest of the story. I like a strong female lead who has a troubled past that she is trying to overcome and this character brought so much of that. The audiobook narration is really good and even though it's a single narrator, she does an excellent job of creating different character voices within the story. I would definitely recommend this one!
December 22, 2025
Robert Bailey continues to impress me with his writing. Each time I read one of his books, I get excited–knowing it will be an entertaining read.
I was immediately hooked by reading the first page. I knew from that I would be completely locked in. From the colorful, very frayed, and believable characters to the powerful storytelling Robert Bailey provided, I enjoyed reading this book.
What I liked most about THE MEDIATOR was the vulnerability each character had. It will have you emotionally invested. And the storyline was top-notch. You could tell Mr. Bailey researched everything right to the letter. As a reader, I greatly appreciated this.
The ending, though, was chef kiss! It ended as the new book could be in the wings. If so, I will be reading. If not, the story could end there and go into the sunset. Either way, I would be okay with it.
I highly recommend legal thriller enthusiasts add THE MEDIATOR to their virtual and/or physical bookcase. Outstanding storytelling!
I was immediately hooked by reading the first page. I knew from that I would be completely locked in. From the colorful, very frayed, and believable characters to the powerful storytelling Robert Bailey provided, I enjoyed reading this book.
What I liked most about THE MEDIATOR was the vulnerability each character had. It will have you emotionally invested. And the storyline was top-notch. You could tell Mr. Bailey researched everything right to the letter. As a reader, I greatly appreciated this.
The ending, though, was chef kiss! It ended as the new book could be in the wings. If so, I will be reading. If not, the story could end there and go into the sunset. Either way, I would be okay with it.
I highly recommend legal thriller enthusiasts add THE MEDIATOR to their virtual and/or physical bookcase. Outstanding storytelling!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
In the mood for a book that reads like a 90's action thriller? Robert Bailey is your guy! I'm a fan of Bailey's ability to blend a tense legal thriller, the occasional exploding tractor, and characters that are fully dimensional. The story unfolds over the course of 3 days, and the tight timeline and looming deadline really added to the drama of the story. It should go without saying that these pages fly by!
Perfect for fans of: TJ Newman, early John Grisham, Jordan Harper, rich people behaving horribly, and any movie starring Harrison Ford or Sean Connery. I loved The Boomerang by Robert Bailey and now that I've finished The Mediator, Bailey has earned Auto Buy Author status on my shelves. I've decided to go back and get into his backlist, which should keep me busy for awhile. If you're approaching this book from the other direction, look for cameos by Jason Rich and Colonel Tonidandel here!
4.5 stars
Thank you to Thomas & Mercer and NetGalley for the opportunity to read The Mediator in advance of its publication in exchange for this honest review.
Perfect for fans of: TJ Newman, early John Grisham, Jordan Harper, rich people behaving horribly, and any movie starring Harrison Ford or Sean Connery. I loved The Boomerang by Robert Bailey and now that I've finished The Mediator, Bailey has earned Auto Buy Author status on my shelves. I've decided to go back and get into his backlist, which should keep me busy for awhile. If you're approaching this book from the other direction, look for cameos by Jason Rich and Colonel Tonidandel here!
4.5 stars
Thank you to Thomas & Mercer and NetGalley for the opportunity to read The Mediator in advance of its publication in exchange for this honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Max Ringo was once a star lawyer at an elite firm until a car accident led to a painkiller addiction that ruined her career. Fresh out of rehab and working as a mediator, Max is appointed to mediate a high-stakes divorce between two powerful individuals.
During negotiations, the husband (who demands everything be settled in his favor - no ifs ands or buts) arranges for Max's teenage son, Nathan, to be kidnapped. If the case isn't settled in his favor, Max's son will be killed.
The story takes place over three harrowing days, and just reading about it was stressful! I see the author is still having the characters in his books turning the volume up all of the way in their cars and screaming as loudly as they can as they drive. I humbly suggest that it might be time he put that to rest!
I'm not going to say anymore regarding the plot of the book. I WILL say, however, that I liked Max A LOT and that reading The Mediator was nerve-wracking! It felt unrealistic towards the end, but I still liked it very much! Sometimes one must just sit back and go with the flow!!
Thank you, #ThomasAndMercer, for providing this book for consideration and review via #NetGalley. All opinions are my own. The Mediator has an expected publication date of May 12, 2026.
# LegalThriller #Family #Friendship #Series #StrongFemaleProtagonist
During negotiations, the husband (who demands everything be settled in his favor - no ifs ands or buts) arranges for Max's teenage son, Nathan, to be kidnapped. If the case isn't settled in his favor, Max's son will be killed.
The story takes place over three harrowing days, and just reading about it was stressful! I see the author is still having the characters in his books turning the volume up all of the way in their cars and screaming as loudly as they can as they drive. I humbly suggest that it might be time he put that to rest!
I'm not going to say anymore regarding the plot of the book. I WILL say, however, that I liked Max A LOT and that reading The Mediator was nerve-wracking! It felt unrealistic towards the end, but I still liked it very much! Sometimes one must just sit back and go with the flow!!
Thank you, #ThomasAndMercer, for providing this book for consideration and review via #NetGalley. All opinions are my own. The Mediator has an expected publication date of May 12, 2026.
# LegalThriller #Family #Friendship #Series #StrongFemaleProtagonist
May 4, 2026
Ì received an ARC of this book through NetGalley.
I have enjoyed the works of Robert Bailey, ratings several of his books 5 stars. This book is different than my favorites, in that it is more of a thriller than a legal drama. The first 60% of this book is primarily a legal drama and I was enjoying it. But the rest of the book was primarily about people plotting to do harm to each other and fulfilling their plans. My dislike of thriller-type novels caused me to rate this lower than other Bailey novels.
The writing is, of course, great. Straightforward. His new character, Max Ringo (she’s a lady), has recently become a mediator. She is mediating a divorce settlement involving a thriving corporation, valuable Alabama land and lots of money. Above all of that are the egos of the soon-to-be ex-husband and his soon-to-be ex-wife’s father.
The author signals early that this more than a legal drama with the early disclosure that Max’s son has been kidnapped. Besides the result of the mediation, the book concludes with several surprising twists.
I have enjoyed the works of Robert Bailey, ratings several of his books 5 stars. This book is different than my favorites, in that it is more of a thriller than a legal drama. The first 60% of this book is primarily a legal drama and I was enjoying it. But the rest of the book was primarily about people plotting to do harm to each other and fulfilling their plans. My dislike of thriller-type novels caused me to rate this lower than other Bailey novels.
The writing is, of course, great. Straightforward. His new character, Max Ringo (she’s a lady), has recently become a mediator. She is mediating a divorce settlement involving a thriving corporation, valuable Alabama land and lots of money. Above all of that are the egos of the soon-to-be ex-husband and his soon-to-be ex-wife’s father.
The author signals early that this more than a legal drama with the early disclosure that Max’s son has been kidnapped. Besides the result of the mediation, the book concludes with several surprising twists.
Review of advance copy
The Mediator by Robert Bailey. Thanks to MBC for the gifted Arc ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Max Ringo will some get her license back to practice law after an addiction to opiates. In the meantime she’s been selected to mediate a high profile divorce; which she finds odd considering she’s never mediated. As she begins negotiations, she finds that the husband has kidnapped her teenage son to encourage her to settle on his terms.
There was a lot more to this one than a divorce mediation and what meets the eye. It gets pretty deep into some powerful echelons I was not expecting. I loved Max’s back story. There was a lot to it. I know this is first in a series but I wonder if she was in previous books Bailey wrote. There are some very rich characters that really make the story.
“She knew she’d have to embrace her inner crazy if she was going to settle the Strasburg divorce and save her son.”
Read if you like:
-Intense action over a short period of time
-Cat and mouse
-Legal fiction
-Kidnapping plots
The Mediator comes out 5/12.
Max Ringo will some get her license back to practice law after an addiction to opiates. In the meantime she’s been selected to mediate a high profile divorce; which she finds odd considering she’s never mediated. As she begins negotiations, she finds that the husband has kidnapped her teenage son to encourage her to settle on his terms.
There was a lot more to this one than a divorce mediation and what meets the eye. It gets pretty deep into some powerful echelons I was not expecting. I loved Max’s back story. There was a lot to it. I know this is first in a series but I wonder if she was in previous books Bailey wrote. There are some very rich characters that really make the story.
“She knew she’d have to embrace her inner crazy if she was going to settle the Strasburg divorce and save her son.”
Read if you like:
-Intense action over a short period of time
-Cat and mouse
-Legal fiction
-Kidnapping plots
The Mediator comes out 5/12.
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