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Pros and Cons Mysteries #3
Deception
Sometimes, coming home is beautiful. Other times, it's fatal.
Private investigator Olive Sterling never wanted to return to Oasis, Texas. But when an old flame asks her to investigate a beloved local teacher who claims to have terminal cancer, she reluctantly agrees to help. While the community rallies around Rebecca Roberts with prayers and financial support, something about her story doesn't add up.
As Olive digs deeper, disturbing patterns emerge. Then there’s the mysterious man on a motorcycle who’s watching her every move. For Olive, whose own father was a master of deception, this case hits dangerously close to home.
When threatening messages start arriving, Olive realizes this investigation is stirring up secrets someone would kill to keep buried.
Private investigator Olive Sterling never wanted to return to Oasis, Texas. But when an old flame asks her to investigate a beloved local teacher who claims to have terminal cancer, she reluctantly agrees to help. While the community rallies around Rebecca Roberts with prayers and financial support, something about her story doesn't add up.
As Olive digs deeper, disturbing patterns emerge. Then there’s the mysterious man on a motorcycle who’s watching her every move. For Olive, whose own father was a master of deception, this case hits dangerously close to home.
When threatening messages start arriving, Olive realizes this investigation is stirring up secrets someone would kill to keep buried.
- GenresMystery
Kindle Edition
Published March 18, 2025
560 people are currently reading
105 people want to read
About the author
Christy Barritt
340 books1,675 followersChristy Barritt is an author, freelance writer and speaker who lives in Virginia. She’s married to her Prince Charming, a man who thinks she’s hilarious—but only when she’s not trying to be. Christy’s a self-proclaimed klutz, an avid music lover who’s known for spontaneously bursting into song, and a road trip aficionado. She’s only won one contest in her life—and her prize was kissing a pig (okay, okay… actually she did win the Daphne du Maurier Award for Excellence in Suspense and Mystery also). Her current claim to fame is showing off her mother, who looks just like former First Lady Barbara Bush
When she’s not working or spending time with her family, she enjoys singing, playing the guitar, and exploring small, unsuspecting towns where people have no idea how accident prone she is.
When she’s not working or spending time with her family, she enjoys singing, playing the guitar, and exploring small, unsuspecting towns where people have no idea how accident prone she is.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
March 20, 2025
Such a wonderful mystery. Olive returns to her hometown under the disguise of doing a documentary to see if a teacher really has cancer or is a scammer. We learn more of Olive's backstory in flashbacks and what her father was like. Jason helps Olive with the investigation after showing up and rescuing her from an attacker. This mystery had a well-crafted plot line and engaging storyline with twists and turns and danger. I enjoyed the continuation of Olive searching for her family members' killer and hope Jason and Olive will finally give each other a second chance.
March 25, 2025
3.5 stars
"The case: A Woman in Oasis could be defrauding the community of their money to satisfy her own greed."
The curious part of this case for private investigator Olive Sterling was that it would take her back to one of the many locations where she had lived as a child, where she had met the one love of her life, Jason Stewart, who in an ironic twist, had hired her to uncover the potential fraud facing this small Texas town. A very popular member of the Oasis community was continuing to raise thousands of dollars to support her family's needs due to her dire cancer diagnosis. The blaring question? . . . is Rebecca Hansen actually sick?
In the meantime, Olive continues to receive cryptic messages about her own family's tragic demise. And then there is the matter of a "motorcycle man" trying to thwart her efforts, . . . . because of her current case or her past history in Oasis? To top it off, Jason arrives to assist. . . . . will he serve as a handsome distraction . . .or a welcome asset. . . . to be continued.
Clearly, the plot is thickening and you won't want to miss a single detail!
"The case: A Woman in Oasis could be defrauding the community of their money to satisfy her own greed."
The curious part of this case for private investigator Olive Sterling was that it would take her back to one of the many locations where she had lived as a child, where she had met the one love of her life, Jason Stewart, who in an ironic twist, had hired her to uncover the potential fraud facing this small Texas town. A very popular member of the Oasis community was continuing to raise thousands of dollars to support her family's needs due to her dire cancer diagnosis. The blaring question? . . . is Rebecca Hansen actually sick?
In the meantime, Olive continues to receive cryptic messages about her own family's tragic demise. And then there is the matter of a "motorcycle man" trying to thwart her efforts, . . . . because of her current case or her past history in Oasis? To top it off, Jason arrives to assist. . . . . will he serve as a handsome distraction . . .or a welcome asset. . . . to be continued.
Clearly, the plot is thickening and you won't want to miss a single detail!
April 12, 2025
At first, when Olive gets the call from Jason, she's reluctant to answer. She's been trying to put him out of her mind ever since she left Chicago, and talking to him won't help. But when she discovers he needs her help to find out if someone is defrauding the citizens of their hometown their hard earned money. Local school teacher Rebecca has been going viral for her cancer battle, raising thousands of dollars in the process. Jason's sister has reason to believe Rebecca doesn't really have cancer though, and it becomes Olive's job to prove it. Proving it is harder than she thought though. Both Rebecca and her husband are incredibly convincing, and while she can find evidence that appears its all a hoax, she also find evidence that makes it appear its all real. When someone seems to be targeting her for her past connection to the town as well, it makes the whole case far more high stake than originally expected.
I liked this as a continuation of the series, and I'm still team Jason, but I feel like there was a couple of continuity errors from the first book. Overall, I'm excited to see what happens next
I liked this as a continuation of the series, and I'm still team Jason, but I feel like there was a couple of continuity errors from the first book. Overall, I'm excited to see what happens next
April 1, 2025
Barritt cranks up the intensity in this third installment of the Pros and Cons Mysteries. Olive returns to her hometown of Oasis, Texas—something she never thought she'd do. The case? Investigate a beloved teacher who claims she’s dying of cancer. But things don’t add up, and what seems like a cut-and-dried scam quickly unravels into something far more dangerous.
Olive not only faces a tricky investigation, but she’s also forced to confront the shadows of her past. Threats start rolling in, and there’s a mystery man watching her every move. The stakes felt higher in this book, and the emotional weight deeper.
It was great to see her relationship with Jason back in focus. But nothing prepared me for the mic drop cliffhanger at the end—I didn’t see it coming at all! The twists kept me guessing, and I had no idea who the true antagonist was until the reveal.
Fantastic read. Now I really need to know what happens next.
Disclaimer: I did receive this book from the author, but was under no obligation to provide a review. All opinions expressed here are my own.
Olive not only faces a tricky investigation, but she’s also forced to confront the shadows of her past. Threats start rolling in, and there’s a mystery man watching her every move. The stakes felt higher in this book, and the emotional weight deeper.
It was great to see her relationship with Jason back in focus. But nothing prepared me for the mic drop cliffhanger at the end—I didn’t see it coming at all! The twists kept me guessing, and I had no idea who the true antagonist was until the reveal.
Fantastic read. Now I really need to know what happens next.
Disclaimer: I did receive this book from the author, but was under no obligation to provide a review. All opinions expressed here are my own.
April 30, 2025
Olive returns to one of the many places she lived with her family as a favor, to investigate a woman who may or may not have terminal cancer. She knows that if she discovers the situation is just an elaborate scam, many people who have given generously of their time and money will be hurt. On the other hand, if she comes down too hard on a very sick woman, Olive will be viewed as a horrible person. Throughout her investigation, Olive was also dealing with a stranger watching her and threatening messages. This story kept me guessing. One minute I was sure it was a scam, then next I was sure she was really sick, but I won't spoil the ending for you. I am enjoying this series and look forward to Book #4.
March 20, 2025
Join PI Olive Sterling as she takes a case in a town she lived in as a teen. Going back to her former opens the door to danger and drama. She not only tries to solve her current case, which someone seems determined to keep her from doing, but explores her own family history and her deceased con artist dad’s past. With so much swirling around her, will Olive find her way through the investigation or will evil win out? This fast-paced suspense won’t let you go. I’m eager for the next book in this series, which should definitely be read in order. I received a copy from the author. All opinions are my own.
March 15, 2025
I had a BETA Copy of this book, but this is my voluntary and honest opinion. Private Investigator Olive Sterling is back in her home town posing as a film documentarian to find out if one of the local teachers being supported financially by the community really has cancer, or is scamming the good people. While there she visits her old home and is attacked. Her former boyfriend, Jason shows up to rescue her and assist with the investigation. This book keeps you guessing to the end as to who is pulling the strings behind everything, If you like suspense and mystery this is the book for you.
August 16, 2025
Deception
Another suspenseful mystery by Christy Barritt in the Pros and Cons series. Private Investigator Olive Sterling returns to Oasis, Texas where she and her family lived for about a year under the pretense of doing a documentary on woman who is supposed to have cancer. In reality, she is trying to determine if the woman is committing fraud. The community seems to rally around the woman but there are more nefarious things happening as well. Will Olive be able to learn the truth before anyone dies? I recommend this book for an incredible read.
Another suspenseful mystery by Christy Barritt in the Pros and Cons series. Private Investigator Olive Sterling returns to Oasis, Texas where she and her family lived for about a year under the pretense of doing a documentary on woman who is supposed to have cancer. In reality, she is trying to determine if the woman is committing fraud. The community seems to rally around the woman but there are more nefarious things happening as well. Will Olive be able to learn the truth before anyone dies? I recommend this book for an incredible read.
September 9, 2025
Suspense @ it’s best!
Once again Olive has been tasked with another mystery to solve - this one @ Jason’s request! Complicating manners is the location - one of the many towns she had grown up in - where she had met Jason. The mystery - was Rebecca seriously ill or was she a scammer swindling the very ones who sought to help her? Also Olive begins to receive cryptic texts about her past - why? Does someone know who murdered her family? Why taunt her? Mystery & suspense abound - great clean read - you won’t want to put it down!
Once again Olive has been tasked with another mystery to solve - this one @ Jason’s request! Complicating manners is the location - one of the many towns she had grown up in - where she had met Jason. The mystery - was Rebecca seriously ill or was she a scammer swindling the very ones who sought to help her? Also Olive begins to receive cryptic texts about her past - why? Does someone know who murdered her family? Why taunt her? Mystery & suspense abound - great clean read - you won’t want to put it down!
March 27, 2025
Ok so now Olive is trying to find guilt on a woman who has terminal cancer. What will she do next? Her old flame from years ago hires her to do this. What she discovers is seriously a high stakes situation. Also he wants to pick up where they left off, but of course Olive is a woman and she’s confused! The on again off again feelings she has , just make her crazy. Focus on work is her motto! You can’t go wrong in reading this series!!
March 28, 2025
Another good story, but still not a Christian story
This was another excellent addition to the series. Lots of plot twists and difficult to figure out who done it. Sadly, still little of God. One prayer does not make it a Christian story, as Amazon advertises it is. Ms. Barritt has written some good Christian books, but these first three of the series aren't among them. Still recommend them as good, clean mysteries.
This was another excellent addition to the series. Lots of plot twists and difficult to figure out who done it. Sadly, still little of God. One prayer does not make it a Christian story, as Amazon advertises it is. Ms. Barritt has written some good Christian books, but these first three of the series aren't among them. Still recommend them as good, clean mysteries.
January 1, 2026
Rivoting
I love a good mystery. This book definitely fits that category.
Olive had me hooked at the very beginning. The characters are very believable. I fell in love with Jason. I kept waiting for Olive to give in to her feelings and was surprised she had such self control. I was thrilled toward the end when they reconnected with a slight kiss. Just to be disappointed when they went their separate ways- again!
Excellent writing Christy Barritt!
I love a good mystery. This book definitely fits that category.
Olive had me hooked at the very beginning. The characters are very believable. I fell in love with Jason. I kept waiting for Olive to give in to her feelings and was surprised she had such self control. I was thrilled toward the end when they reconnected with a slight kiss. Just to be disappointed when they went their separate ways- again!
Excellent writing Christy Barritt!
March 21, 2025
P I Extraordinaire!
I would make a lousy PI. I never saw the villain coming.
As always, I really enjoyed the ride I went on as Ms. Barritt brought Olive through another dangerous adventure to expose the criminals. I often feel as if I am on a ride-along, and sometimes glad I actually am not! Good read!
I would make a lousy PI. I never saw the villain coming.
As always, I really enjoyed the ride I went on as Ms. Barritt brought Olive through another dangerous adventure to expose the criminals. I often feel as if I am on a ride-along, and sometimes glad I actually am not! Good read!
March 26, 2025
Christy Barritt's knockout series continues with high stakes Deception. As Olive confronts skeletons from her childhood woven with suspicious activity in the town left behind, danger appears behind every corner. It's the perfect escape with intrigue and evasive clues.
I received a complimentary copy of the book without obligation. This review is my opinion.
I received a complimentary copy of the book without obligation. This review is my opinion.
April 2, 2025
Another terrific read by Christy Barritt
This has been a great series. I really enjoy following the same characters through several books and story lines. This is full of suspense, danger, and potential for love. It was hard to put down once I started. The mystery of Olive’s life keeps me guessing and going for more. Looking forward to the next one.
This has been a great series. I really enjoy following the same characters through several books and story lines. This is full of suspense, danger, and potential for love. It was hard to put down once I started. The mystery of Olive’s life keeps me guessing and going for more. Looking forward to the next one.
July 4, 2025
Good Read
These Pro and cons book serious is one of Christy Barritt best work. I've read every book serious she's written and I have never been disappointed. I read book 4 then went back a read one through three. I'm looking forward for book five. Got to find out what Jason dad is up to?
These Pro and cons book serious is one of Christy Barritt best work. I've read every book serious she's written and I have never been disappointed. I read book 4 then went back a read one through three. I'm looking forward for book five. Got to find out what Jason dad is up to?
October 29, 2025
Wow!!!!
I love Ms. Barritt's books. I try to keep up with all her series and this is one of her best yet! Danger and excitement from the first page, her heroine is brave and complicated but full of compassion. I am thankful I started with the first book and can't wait to read the next.
Thank you, Christy for such fantastic stories.
I love Ms. Barritt's books. I try to keep up with all her series and this is one of her best yet! Danger and excitement from the first page, her heroine is brave and complicated but full of compassion. I am thankful I started with the first book and can't wait to read the next.
Thank you, Christy for such fantastic stories.
January 9, 2026
Incredibly Thrilling and Creative Novel
This story gets into your mind and your heart! The way Christy inter weaves Olives past life and the life of this supposed cancer victim and her suspected monetary gain from defrauding people keeps the suspense building until the very end! A great story that keeps you turning pages without stopping until the end!
This story gets into your mind and your heart! The way Christy inter weaves Olives past life and the life of this supposed cancer victim and her suspected monetary gain from defrauding people keeps the suspense building until the very end! A great story that keeps you turning pages without stopping until the end!
March 20, 2025
Excellent storytelling
I liked the characters and the entertaining writing. A strong female lead makes this book even better! Highly recommend it you like to read clean mysteries with a hint of romance.
I liked the characters and the entertaining writing. A strong female lead makes this book even better! Highly recommend it you like to read clean mysteries with a hint of romance.
March 20, 2025
can you imagine
Adults faking terminal cancer? Fleecing people out of their hard earned money. You grew up with them and went to school with them. But how can you prove it when you can’t get to their medical records. This book you can’t put down. Enjoy.
Adults faking terminal cancer? Fleecing people out of their hard earned money. You grew up with them and went to school with them. But how can you prove it when you can’t get to their medical records. This book you can’t put down. Enjoy.
March 24, 2025
Figured it out
My last review, on book 2, I couldn't figure out what was going on. Now I realize it's a series and it's going to be a long time before we know what happened to her family. I'll keep reading!
My last review, on book 2, I couldn't figure out what was going on. Now I realize it's a series and it's going to be a long time before we know what happened to her family. I'll keep reading!
March 24, 2025
Kept me on edge of my seat.
I have really enjoyed these books so far. I haven't guessed the ending yet. Kept me wanting to finish to see who was the bad guy. I also like the mystery of Olives family that keeps you wondering.
I have really enjoyed these books so far. I haven't guessed the ending yet. Kept me wanting to finish to see who was the bad guy. I also like the mystery of Olives family that keeps you wondering.
March 25, 2025
Deception is coming to easy for Olive
Her past is creeping into her present and being around Jason isn't helping.
Olive is an excellent investigator and draws you into the story. The story is written to where you can't find a stopping point. I look forward to the next one out.
Her past is creeping into her present and being around Jason isn't helping.
Olive is an excellent investigator and draws you into the story. The story is written to where you can't find a stopping point. I look forward to the next one out.
March 25, 2025
olive works for a pi firm that is hired to look into a lady that says she has cancer and is receiving lots of money and help from the town she is from. her team goes into town to check it out and the more she talks to people the more she is threatened. this is a good suspense story
April 3, 2025
Wow. an absolutely spellbinding adventure
Christy Barrett’s writing seems to improve with each book. The Deception was excellent. Looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
Christy Barrett’s writing seems to improve with each book. The Deception was excellent. Looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
April 21, 2025
Such a good story
This is one fast paced story. I love how they wade through all their events and evidence to find the truth. I also like the secondary story woven through the series appearing through Olive's memories.
This is one fast paced story. I love how they wade through all their events and evidence to find the truth. I also like the secondary story woven through the series appearing through Olive's memories.
July 22, 2025
Mysteries throughout the story
I love mysteries and it was hard to take breaks while reading it. So many different things going on with so many people made it even more interesting to keep reading and trying to figure out who the bad people really were.
I love mysteries and it was hard to take breaks while reading it. So many different things going on with so many people made it even more interesting to keep reading and trying to figure out who the bad people really were.
November 4, 2025
And the plot thickens...
Wow! What a concept... someone faking cancer to take advantage of people with compassion! This story is full of twists and turns... and a whole lot of questions that need to be answered. I didn't see the ending coming, though! So good!
Wow! What a concept... someone faking cancer to take advantage of people with compassion! This story is full of twists and turns... and a whole lot of questions that need to be answered. I didn't see the ending coming, though! So good!
December 6, 2025
exciting read!
Book kept me on the edge of my seat, great reading👍I’d
Figured I knew what was going to happen but the book didn’t end that way. Excited to read the next of the series👏
Book kept me on the edge of my seat, great reading👍I’d
Figured I knew what was going to happen but the book didn’t end that way. Excited to read the next of the series👏
December 8, 2025
Suspenseful
Mystery and suspense fill the pages of this story. #3 in the series of Pros and Cons. Wonderful characters, both good and evil move this story along. Definitely worth the read.
Mystery and suspense fill the pages of this story. #3 in the series of Pros and Cons. Wonderful characters, both good and evil move this story along. Definitely worth the read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews