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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 books1,406 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 150 reviews
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.
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
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!
June 2, 2026
"The Boomerang" was a top book of last year, so I was beyond excited when I saw Bailey coming out with a new release this year and a new protagonist in Max Ringo. And while I did enjoy this one, and it was told once again in Bailey's captivating and pulse-pounding prose, this felt a little same-y as his Jason Rich series, or at least A LOT of crossover, so it just didn't hit with the freshness that "The Boomerang" did... I am still chasing that high! While this was a quick, immersive read, I also felt that the novel didn't go "all the way there" and something continued to hold back a little, even despite the premise being a hostage negotiation, so it was certainly very high stakes! Can't put my finger exactly on it.
That being said, this book is firmly set in Huntsville, AL and I have a lot of familiarity with that area and loved all the places he names - restaurants, buildings, intersections, and landmarks that really added to the richness of the novel.
That being said, this book is firmly set in Huntsville, AL and I have a lot of familiarity with that area and loved all the places he names - restaurants, buildings, intersections, and landmarks that really added to the richness of the novel.
June 5, 2026
Max Ringo is trying to remake a good life as a mediator after drug addiction rehab. Once a star attorney, Max’s life was broken by a car accident, painkiller addiction, divorce, and job loss. As Max begins a divorce mediation case, she is threatened by one party whose minions have kidnapped Max’s son. Settle the mediation on his terms or Max’s son will die. Max realizes she cannot trust her son’s safety to her antagonist, so she begins an off hours pursuit to find her son.
Bailey delivers a strong plot that benefits from the urgency of circumstances. While the story quickly draws one in, it delayed my decision to become invested in Max. As the story unfolds, we learn more about Max and understand her relationship with her son.
The husband, wife, and father-in-law are all players in the negotiations. Although the three are business and real estate partners, each has their own secrets. Bailey did a great job unreeling the information throughout.
Bailey is somewhat gritty in describing an addict’s sexual activity and also some teenage sexual angst.
3.5 Stars rounded down
Bailey delivers a strong plot that benefits from the urgency of circumstances. While the story quickly draws one in, it delayed my decision to become invested in Max. As the story unfolds, we learn more about Max and understand her relationship with her son.
The husband, wife, and father-in-law are all players in the negotiations. Although the three are business and real estate partners, each has their own secrets. Bailey did a great job unreeling the information throughout.
Bailey is somewhat gritty in describing an addict’s sexual activity and also some teenage sexual angst.
3.5 Stars rounded down
May 23, 2026
Loved this book!! Robert Bailey is a great author!! Can’t wait to read the next book.
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.
June 19, 2026
A Mediation With More Going On In The Background
Nathan Ringo stops at a gas station store on the way to school. This store does not ask questions. He buys some very powerful marijuana laced gummies, a candy bar, and an energy drink. He leaves the store, gets behind the wheel of his car, and closes the door. Suddenly, a chloroform rag is over his mouth and nose. He was out like a light. With this kidnapping, a very complex divorce mediation begins where more is going on outside the mediation rooms.
Only one main storyline, which is the mediation. What makes this one interesting is that the plaintiff, the defendant, her father, and the mediator have serious issues that endanger the mediation’s success. The mediation’s first chess move was made by Perry Strassburg, who had the mediator’s son kidnapped to ensure the mediator would obtain the settlement he wanted. Then, he instructs her to go and do whatever she needs to get his settlement. On the defendant’s side are the wife, Stephanie, her father, Dagger, and her lawyer, who was a colleague of Max Ringo. Over the first day and evening, the reader will learn about the vulnerabilities and urgent needs of both Strassburg and Dagger. Perry’s position clearly would require Dagger’s approval. Also clear, Dagger would never approve it. At this point, the first major twist occurs. I really was interested to see how this twist would play out. My attention now was fully engaged. The action outside the negotiation rooms is heating up. Several major twists occur before the end, where the largest twist in the novel occurs.
Max Ringo's character development was very good. Most of the novel, she is in a very stressful situation. A B-storyline with her and Perry Strassburg shows how she acts under pressure. Her background before being selected as the mediator is provided in great detail. The threads on Strassburg, Stephanie, and Dagger provide excellent background on those characters. I found the novel's background interesting, and it enhanced my reading enjoyment.
No intimate scenes are present, but references are made to what she had to do to survive when she was at the nadir of her drug addiction. There is a noticeable presence of objectionable language, including vulgar and impious language. Given the high stakes and pressure that all the main characters are under, its use did not raise a red flag for me. While there is high tension throughout the novel, there is little violence until near the end, when it becomes deadly and is described in detail as it occurs. This was edgy. This novel appears to be the first in a series, so there are no issues with events from previous novels. Most readers should be able to read and enjoy this novel with minimal issues.
What I disliked in the novel was the twist at the end, which left me wondering about the nature of the organization Perry Strassburg was using and the one he would partner with if he received everything he wanted from the divorce settlement. I like the inclusion of characters I really liked from a previous series, though I would have liked a bit more participation in this novel. While I was basically happy with the ending, I would have liked a little more information about that organization. As for my history with this author, I have read five DRCs and two that I purchased. I highly recommend reading this novel. He is one of my Must-Read authors. Also, I noticed today that the next novel in this series, titled The Judge, will be published in early 2027, so I may get my answer then. I will be eagerly waiting for that novel. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this novel and rate it five stars.
I received the free, pre-publication e-book version of this novel from Thomas & Mercer through NetGalley. My review is based solely on my own reading experience. Thank you, Thomas & Mercer, for the opportunity to read and review this novel.
Nathan Ringo stops at a gas station store on the way to school. This store does not ask questions. He buys some very powerful marijuana laced gummies, a candy bar, and an energy drink. He leaves the store, gets behind the wheel of his car, and closes the door. Suddenly, a chloroform rag is over his mouth and nose. He was out like a light. With this kidnapping, a very complex divorce mediation begins where more is going on outside the mediation rooms.
Only one main storyline, which is the mediation. What makes this one interesting is that the plaintiff, the defendant, her father, and the mediator have serious issues that endanger the mediation’s success. The mediation’s first chess move was made by Perry Strassburg, who had the mediator’s son kidnapped to ensure the mediator would obtain the settlement he wanted. Then, he instructs her to go and do whatever she needs to get his settlement. On the defendant’s side are the wife, Stephanie, her father, Dagger, and her lawyer, who was a colleague of Max Ringo. Over the first day and evening, the reader will learn about the vulnerabilities and urgent needs of both Strassburg and Dagger. Perry’s position clearly would require Dagger’s approval. Also clear, Dagger would never approve it. At this point, the first major twist occurs. I really was interested to see how this twist would play out. My attention now was fully engaged. The action outside the negotiation rooms is heating up. Several major twists occur before the end, where the largest twist in the novel occurs.
Max Ringo's character development was very good. Most of the novel, she is in a very stressful situation. A B-storyline with her and Perry Strassburg shows how she acts under pressure. Her background before being selected as the mediator is provided in great detail. The threads on Strassburg, Stephanie, and Dagger provide excellent background on those characters. I found the novel's background interesting, and it enhanced my reading enjoyment.
No intimate scenes are present, but references are made to what she had to do to survive when she was at the nadir of her drug addiction. There is a noticeable presence of objectionable language, including vulgar and impious language. Given the high stakes and pressure that all the main characters are under, its use did not raise a red flag for me. While there is high tension throughout the novel, there is little violence until near the end, when it becomes deadly and is described in detail as it occurs. This was edgy. This novel appears to be the first in a series, so there are no issues with events from previous novels. Most readers should be able to read and enjoy this novel with minimal issues.
What I disliked in the novel was the twist at the end, which left me wondering about the nature of the organization Perry Strassburg was using and the one he would partner with if he received everything he wanted from the divorce settlement. I like the inclusion of characters I really liked from a previous series, though I would have liked a bit more participation in this novel. While I was basically happy with the ending, I would have liked a little more information about that organization. As for my history with this author, I have read five DRCs and two that I purchased. I highly recommend reading this novel. He is one of my Must-Read authors. Also, I noticed today that the next novel in this series, titled The Judge, will be published in early 2027, so I may get my answer then. I will be eagerly waiting for that novel. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this novel and rate it five stars.
I received the free, pre-publication e-book version of this novel from Thomas & Mercer through NetGalley. My review is based solely on my own reading experience. Thank you, Thomas & Mercer, for the opportunity to read and review this novel.
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.
June 2, 2026
I LOVED IT! The latest thriller by Robert Bailey and I devoured it. We're introduced to the first book featuring Max Ringo. Max, former badass attorney, fresh out of drug rehab is starting over as a mediator. Trying to redeem herself, she has two days to settle a high stakes contentious divorce case. Max is immediately threatened and her teenage son kidnapped by one of the power players in the upcoming divorce case needing the outcome to go his way. What transpires over those 2 days is tense, nerve wracking, explosive and deadly. I did a big whoop of joy when two of my favorite characters, Jason Rich and "The Colonel"/Satch Tonidandel show up (Jason Rich trilogy). This was a wild ride to the very end filled with shocking surprises. I loved every minute of it. Anxiously looking forward to book 2.
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.
June 16, 2026
Fine. Reminded me of James Patterson books. Not really a compliment.
July 4, 2026
The story has a lot of drama about a divorce mediation and greed. But different for sure.
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.
May 31, 2026
As a fan of Robert Bailey I found this book disappointing. The plot was not believable and the main character wasn't very likeable. In fact most of the characters were not likeable. I will continue to read Robert Bailey's other series but Max Ringo doesn't do it for me.
June 8, 2026
This review originally published in Looking For a Good Book. Rated 3.5 of 5
Max Ringo had been a tremendous courtroom lawyer until she'd been in a car accident and subsequently became addicted to painkillers. The addiction destroyed her career and personal life but she's been given the chance for some work that could begin to restore her name and credibility. From a list of potential mediators offered to the two parties in a divorce settlement, Max is the only person that both sides agree to work with.
Max is grateful for the opportunity, but she recognizes that the two sides are big time players in the business community and the husband has worked in the company that the wife's father built. There's a lot of bad blood and the parties are suspicious of one another - if someone wants something, the other side doesn't want to give it to them just because they suspect there's a financial reason for it.
And there is. The husband is willing to give up everything for controlling ownership in the business that he helped turn into the success that it is. But he's also promised some even more powerful people that he will do more once he gets controlling ownership. But of course the father of the wife doesn't want him to control the business he, himself, started.
To make sure things go his way and that Max will go above and beyond to see that he gets what he wants, the husband in the case has Max's teenage son, Nathan, kidnapped and promises to kill the boy if the mediation isn't completed successfully (in his favor) within three days. She can't go to the police and she has few friends, given her previous issues, but there's one person who might be able to help. In the meantime, she has to try every possible angle to get the wife and her father to agree to the husband's requests.
I never expected to be a fan of legal thrillers but I've found that I really enjoy author Robert Bailey's work, which can really only be classified as legal thrillers. The stories have rich characters (that's a pun that Bailey readers will pick up on) a strong premise, and plenty of fast-paced action that probably involves firearms of extraordinary caliber. I look forward to opening a Baily novel and I know I'll be in for an enjoyable ride with some great characters.
This is the eighth book I've read of Mr. Bailey's (how did I miss three?!) and I'd have to say it's my least favorite of the bunch (which is still better than most authors' works).
I struggled with the initial concept - kidnapping a teen and threatening to kill him over a divorce case. Of course it's about more than a divorce, but reasons behind it are hidden too long and never really feel as necessary as they were made out to be.
The back and forth of the two parties, and Max's trying to point out why her offers made sense, grew repetitive. There were only three days to find a settlement, but it seemed like we went through this more than three times (maybe it was only three, but it sure felt like more).
The climactic action relied on a lot of luck (what made Max, who was busy in mediation, decide that SHE had to suddenly rescue her son, even though someone else was already on the case?) and I couldn't believe that a former lawyer, trying to put her life back together, agreed not to involve the police regarding a number of dead bodies and buildings being burned to the ground because they'd not want to spend much time investigating and simply pin it on her to make their lives easy.
Overall, this was the most formulaic of the books I've read by Bailey and our central character, while appropriately flawed but making an attempt to straighten herself out, just didn't command the readers' interest. Still, it was adventurous and exciting and moved along well. For me this is a true 3-1/2 stars book. Of course I can't award half a star on Goodreads so I'll have to choose whether to bump that up or down the day I make the post.
\Looking for a good book? Robert Bailey is back with another legal thrill, this one, The Mediator, centers around a once disgraced, female attorney now looking to make her come-back, starting as a mediator in a big stake divorce settlement.
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher, through Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
Max Ringo had been a tremendous courtroom lawyer until she'd been in a car accident and subsequently became addicted to painkillers. The addiction destroyed her career and personal life but she's been given the chance for some work that could begin to restore her name and credibility. From a list of potential mediators offered to the two parties in a divorce settlement, Max is the only person that both sides agree to work with.
Max is grateful for the opportunity, but she recognizes that the two sides are big time players in the business community and the husband has worked in the company that the wife's father built. There's a lot of bad blood and the parties are suspicious of one another - if someone wants something, the other side doesn't want to give it to them just because they suspect there's a financial reason for it.
And there is. The husband is willing to give up everything for controlling ownership in the business that he helped turn into the success that it is. But he's also promised some even more powerful people that he will do more once he gets controlling ownership. But of course the father of the wife doesn't want him to control the business he, himself, started.
To make sure things go his way and that Max will go above and beyond to see that he gets what he wants, the husband in the case has Max's teenage son, Nathan, kidnapped and promises to kill the boy if the mediation isn't completed successfully (in his favor) within three days. She can't go to the police and she has few friends, given her previous issues, but there's one person who might be able to help. In the meantime, she has to try every possible angle to get the wife and her father to agree to the husband's requests.
I never expected to be a fan of legal thrillers but I've found that I really enjoy author Robert Bailey's work, which can really only be classified as legal thrillers. The stories have rich characters (that's a pun that Bailey readers will pick up on) a strong premise, and plenty of fast-paced action that probably involves firearms of extraordinary caliber. I look forward to opening a Baily novel and I know I'll be in for an enjoyable ride with some great characters.
This is the eighth book I've read of Mr. Bailey's (how did I miss three?!) and I'd have to say it's my least favorite of the bunch (which is still better than most authors' works).
I struggled with the initial concept - kidnapping a teen and threatening to kill him over a divorce case. Of course it's about more than a divorce, but reasons behind it are hidden too long and never really feel as necessary as they were made out to be.
The back and forth of the two parties, and Max's trying to point out why her offers made sense, grew repetitive. There were only three days to find a settlement, but it seemed like we went through this more than three times (maybe it was only three, but it sure felt like more).
The climactic action relied on a lot of luck (what made Max, who was busy in mediation, decide that SHE had to suddenly rescue her son, even though someone else was already on the case?) and I couldn't believe that a former lawyer, trying to put her life back together, agreed not to involve the police regarding a number of dead bodies and buildings being burned to the ground because they'd not want to spend much time investigating and simply pin it on her to make their lives easy.
Overall, this was the most formulaic of the books I've read by Bailey and our central character, while appropriately flawed but making an attempt to straighten herself out, just didn't command the readers' interest. Still, it was adventurous and exciting and moved along well. For me this is a true 3-1/2 stars book. Of course I can't award half a star on Goodreads so I'll have to choose whether to bump that up or down the day I make the post.
\Looking for a good book? Robert Bailey is back with another legal thrill, this one, The Mediator, centers around a once disgraced, female attorney now looking to make her come-back, starting as a mediator in a big stake divorce settlement.
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher, through Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
May 24, 2026
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy from the Publisher. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
The Mediator by Robert Bailey is addictive and vindictive.
Will Max Ringo effectively mediate the high-profile divorce and get her life back?
Max Ringo
Our main character is Max Ringo. She went from being a star trial attorney to an oxy addict, hitting rock bottom, to completing rehab, to mediating cases while trying to get her law license back, and reentering her son's life. Let's say that she is a highly flawed individual with great promise. She has hidden strength, and her character growth throughout the story is inspiring. I really couldn't find anything about her that I didn't like. Max is humble. I think she is going to really get things turned around.
The Mystery
The story is set in Alabama, near a large military base. Many parts of the mystery come together at the end. There is a huge plot twist, so prepare yourself. It was hinted at, and I know I briefly thought about it, but didn't see the significance at the time. Anyway, Max is hired to mediate a divorce with lots of money and property at stake. She has read all of the background information and is ready, then the plaintiff, who is an attorney representing himself, has Max's son kidnapped. The plan is that Max will be so determined to get her son back that she will make the mediation go in his favor.
I am not sure if Perry Strassburg or Dagger Richardson is the bigger baffoon. I felt completely sorry for Stephanie. There are other characters who are heavily involved, but my favorite is the Colonel. Again, Mr. Bailey gives us true characters with warts and all.
Five Stars
My rating for The Mediator by Robert Bailey is five stars. The story stuck with me, and I kept thinking about it when I wasn't reading. I highly recommend this book to all you thriller readers out there.
Thank you for dropping by! I hope you enjoyed this review of The Mediator by Robert Bailey.
Until the next time,
This review was originally posted on Baroness' Book Trove
The Mediator by Robert Bailey is addictive and vindictive.
Will Max Ringo effectively mediate the high-profile divorce and get her life back?
Max Ringo
Our main character is Max Ringo. She went from being a star trial attorney to an oxy addict, hitting rock bottom, to completing rehab, to mediating cases while trying to get her law license back, and reentering her son's life. Let's say that she is a highly flawed individual with great promise. She has hidden strength, and her character growth throughout the story is inspiring. I really couldn't find anything about her that I didn't like. Max is humble. I think she is going to really get things turned around.
The Mystery
The story is set in Alabama, near a large military base. Many parts of the mystery come together at the end. There is a huge plot twist, so prepare yourself. It was hinted at, and I know I briefly thought about it, but didn't see the significance at the time. Anyway, Max is hired to mediate a divorce with lots of money and property at stake. She has read all of the background information and is ready, then the plaintiff, who is an attorney representing himself, has Max's son kidnapped. The plan is that Max will be so determined to get her son back that she will make the mediation go in his favor.
I am not sure if Perry Strassburg or Dagger Richardson is the bigger baffoon. I felt completely sorry for Stephanie. There are other characters who are heavily involved, but my favorite is the Colonel. Again, Mr. Bailey gives us true characters with warts and all.
Five Stars
My rating for The Mediator by Robert Bailey is five stars. The story stuck with me, and I kept thinking about it when I wasn't reading. I highly recommend this book to all you thriller readers out there.
Thank you for dropping by! I hope you enjoyed this review of The Mediator by Robert Bailey.
Until the next time,
This review was originally posted on Baroness' Book Trove
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.
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