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Scratched Off: A Fast-Paced, Intense Mystery Novel Featuring an FBI Agent and a Serial Killer
Failure means more people die.
“The Big One” could make Sam’s career or … break him.
FBI Special Agent Samuel Kerman has been tasked to catch a wildly erratic serial killer dropping bodies in Pennsylvania state parks. The victims differ, and the manner of murder changes every time.
Amid the mountains of physical evidence, only a mysterious gray dust and declarations of guilt or innocence link the crimes. It’s not much to work with, and the case drags on for months.
Then, things go from bad to worse when the killer makes it personal. Family, friends, strangers … everybody’s in danger of being scratched off.
“The Big One” could make Sam’s career or … break him.
FBI Special Agent Samuel Kerman has been tasked to catch a wildly erratic serial killer dropping bodies in Pennsylvania state parks. The victims differ, and the manner of murder changes every time.
Amid the mountains of physical evidence, only a mysterious gray dust and declarations of guilt or innocence link the crimes. It’s not much to work with, and the case drags on for months.
Then, things go from bad to worse when the killer makes it personal. Family, friends, strangers … everybody’s in danger of being scratched off.
278 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 6, 2018
113 people are currently reading
623 people want to read
About the author
Julie C. Gilbert
127 books298 followersJulie C. Gilbert teaches high school chemistry and writes Young Adult, science fiction, fantasy, mystery/thriller, poetry, and Christian stories.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
October 4, 2023
3.5 Stars
Scratched Off is certainly a different book from any I've ever read. I liked FBI Special Agent Samuel Kerman a lot and I felt for him as he chased after an erratic serial killer who was dropping bodies in Pennsylvania state parks. In the beginning, we're told who the killer is and we get a look into what his twisted mind plans next, which was always creepy.
There is a bit of romance thrown in between Sam and a physician he meets on a dating app. I normally don't read books that have romance in them but in this case, I felt it gave the reader a much needed break from the gruesome killings!
The big twist at the end was one I didn't see coming. I do wish there had been an explanation as to why the killer became the psycho he was.
Scratched Off is certainly a different book from any I've ever read. I liked FBI Special Agent Samuel Kerman a lot and I felt for him as he chased after an erratic serial killer who was dropping bodies in Pennsylvania state parks. In the beginning, we're told who the killer is and we get a look into what his twisted mind plans next, which was always creepy.
There is a bit of romance thrown in between Sam and a physician he meets on a dating app. I normally don't read books that have romance in them but in this case, I felt it gave the reader a much needed break from the gruesome killings!
The big twist at the end was one I didn't see coming. I do wish there had been an explanation as to why the killer became the psycho he was.
June 25, 2021
Scratched Off is a stand alone psychological thriller by Julie C. Gilbert. I’ll be honest, when Chapter 1 clearly stated who the serial killer was, by name, I was really worried that this wouldn’t be a mystery or very suspenseful. I was wrong. So, so, wrong.
Instead – regularly hearing Andrew’s thoughts and plans juxtaposed with the victims’ and other character’s in the story created an almost constant tension while listening. The closed door romance between Andrew’s sister, Melissa and FBI Agent Sam Kerman added another level of depth to the story – but in very unpredictable ways.
Like most good mystery/thriller books – it’s hard to share what I enjoyed about it without giving anything away. The most descriptive praise I can give is that it was full of surprises and I truly enjoyed listening from beginning to end. I’m looking forward to checking out more of Gilbert’s work.
Content Note: While the romance is closed door and there is no explicit language, this is a book about a serial killer and some of his killings and their aftermath are described in detail.
Narration:
This was also my first experience listening to Rick Struve. He did a fantastic job with a variety of voices, personalities, and emotions. I felt completely drawn into Gilbert’s writing and truly enjoyed his performance.
Disclaimer note: I know we’re supposed to mention if we received an audiobook for free. For whatever reason, I didn’t make a note about where/why I picked this book (I’m getting better, but have been inconsistent in the past). I *think* it may have been a giveaway in a FB group. So… like everything else, this is my honest review whether or not I received it for free. I did borrow the ebook version via KU to make it easier to take notes.
Instead – regularly hearing Andrew’s thoughts and plans juxtaposed with the victims’ and other character’s in the story created an almost constant tension while listening. The closed door romance between Andrew’s sister, Melissa and FBI Agent Sam Kerman added another level of depth to the story – but in very unpredictable ways.
Like most good mystery/thriller books – it’s hard to share what I enjoyed about it without giving anything away. The most descriptive praise I can give is that it was full of surprises and I truly enjoyed listening from beginning to end. I’m looking forward to checking out more of Gilbert’s work.
Content Note: While the romance is closed door and there is no explicit language, this is a book about a serial killer and some of his killings and their aftermath are described in detail.
Narration:
This was also my first experience listening to Rick Struve. He did a fantastic job with a variety of voices, personalities, and emotions. I felt completely drawn into Gilbert’s writing and truly enjoyed his performance.
Disclaimer note: I know we’re supposed to mention if we received an audiobook for free. For whatever reason, I didn’t make a note about where/why I picked this book (I’m getting better, but have been inconsistent in the past). I *think* it may have been a giveaway in a FB group. So… like everything else, this is my honest review whether or not I received it for free. I did borrow the ebook version via KU to make it easier to take notes.
October 19, 2023
2.5 stars
It had such potential but it was almost too hard to follow and then so rush at the end
It had such potential but it was almost too hard to follow and then so rush at the end
July 24, 2022
This is a well-written, twisted account of a serial killer who kills in order to learn more about killing.
At the very beginning of the book, the author reveals who the killer is, but don't let that dissuade you from continuing to read. The book is told from several POV's, but it is easy to follow the action. The look into the killer's mind is truly horrific and made me cringe many times.
There is also a budding romance between a physician and the FBI agent tasked with finding the killer. The way that all of the characters mesh together is truly unique and I was still surprise at the ending. My only complaint would be that the reader never learns the "why" of the killings, but I guess that's true with real life as well.
The narrator did a pretty good job, but a couple of the voices/accents were a little over the top. All in all, this was a decent way to spend a few hours if books about serial killers are your idea of a good read.
At the very beginning of the book, the author reveals who the killer is, but don't let that dissuade you from continuing to read. The book is told from several POV's, but it is easy to follow the action. The look into the killer's mind is truly horrific and made me cringe many times.
There is also a budding romance between a physician and the FBI agent tasked with finding the killer. The way that all of the characters mesh together is truly unique and I was still surprise at the ending. My only complaint would be that the reader never learns the "why" of the killings, but I guess that's true with real life as well.
The narrator did a pretty good job, but a couple of the voices/accents were a little over the top. All in all, this was a decent way to spend a few hours if books about serial killers are your idea of a good read.
July 18, 2024
2.5 stars. It was so hard to follow at the beginning and there was too many characters which was confusing to remember who everyone was. Definitely got better towards the end but just kinda seemed pointless with all the characters
October 7, 2023
Took me forever to read. I usually read a book in a day or two this one has taken me well over a week. It’s a shame because it started so strong and the after about 35% it just fell flat. I struggled to stay engaged with it. It was incredibly rushed especially the ending.
March 13, 2018
A very cool thriller with a dash of suspense. I loved that I got to read from 3 different main characters to see how they all align up to give a good story that kept me reading until the end. There were a few twists and a major reveal at the end that was fun. Mostly I kept rooting for Sam to catch the killer and get the Doctor as his girlfriend in the end. I thought it was more addicting then I expected. I was glued until the end as I read it in one sitting as I ended up hooked early. A great read that was more fun to read then a dark thriller. I loved it. Entertaining and a good story.
October 10, 2023
Started off really well. Became predictable, though, and the final "twist" was quite anticlimactic.
October 8, 2020
Scratched Off is a thrilling mystery with a good pace and unexpected turns. The characters feel very real and I found myself glued to determining what they will do next, as well as how the serial killer can actually get away with capturing some of these people and putting them in the places he ends up putting them in. The game of cat and mouse between the FBI agent and the serial killer is riveting, and we get to see it from both points of view. The story shows readers very descriptive details like Tess Gerritsen's mysteries, and I found I couldn’t put this book down just like her books. I tend to like to read mysteries in bed at night, and this author, just like Tess Gerritsen, makes me think maybe I shouldn't do that with her book! If you prefer cozy mysteries with less details and softer crimes, this isn't your book. But if you're like me and prefer descriptive, sometimes chilling stories with fascinating plot twists, read this book! It will keep you guessing throughout. I'm looking forward to this author's next page-turning thriller.
March 8, 2024
while I liked reading this….
I found reading a lot of the story perspective from the killer a little off putting, as I found being inside his thought processes quite weak and failed to understand how he could be rigid in his quest to bring down evil or wrong doing people, yet was also relaxed enough to play games with scratchies to see who would live or die and not only when, but also how.
I think it would have been very interesting to have that asked for, but not seen or heard of profile in the story. I feel that would have helped the reader understand he thought process of the killer. To me that was a huge ‘why didn’t we get that report?) moment.
It’s clean, not overly gruesome or bloody, has a sweet romance, some fun family members and overall was a decent enough read.
I found reading a lot of the story perspective from the killer a little off putting, as I found being inside his thought processes quite weak and failed to understand how he could be rigid in his quest to bring down evil or wrong doing people, yet was also relaxed enough to play games with scratchies to see who would live or die and not only when, but also how.
I think it would have been very interesting to have that asked for, but not seen or heard of profile in the story. I feel that would have helped the reader understand he thought process of the killer. To me that was a huge ‘why didn’t we get that report?) moment.
It’s clean, not overly gruesome or bloody, has a sweet romance, some fun family members and overall was a decent enough read.
December 13, 2019
OMG!!!!! This story! What a brain burner! I kept trying to figure it out but believe me...I was SHOCKED! I just ran across this book and decided to give it a shot. I am sooo glad I gave the new to me author a chance.
The story was interesting to me. I loved how I was inside the killers mind. Thinking and seeing how he worked through and delivered for the thrill.
This is a first time author for me. I loved the delivery of the story. The thrill....the suspense and the drama. I wondered where this title came from before I read this book. Now...I LOVE it! I did listen to this on audio. Rick Struve did an amazing job bringing the story to life.
The story was interesting to me. I loved how I was inside the killers mind. Thinking and seeing how he worked through and delivered for the thrill.
This is a first time author for me. I loved the delivery of the story. The thrill....the suspense and the drama. I wondered where this title came from before I read this book. Now...I LOVE it! I did listen to this on audio. Rick Struve did an amazing job bringing the story to life.
May 2, 2024
Mmmmm… it’s not a bad book, per se. It actually was a very fluid read.
The beginning was extremely intriguing. The plot unfortunately became more and more rushed as the book went on.
I would have appreciated a more in depth analysis of the relationship between Psycho67 and our killer; more info about the latest victims outcome; and a better conclusion about the Psycho67 trope.
The main couple, although created through a pretty predictable rouse, was very well followed, and I liked their dynamic. I would have definitely appreciated more of Mel’s presence and active involvement.
Jenn is the best character, definitely. With Josey being a close second.
The beginning was extremely intriguing. The plot unfortunately became more and more rushed as the book went on.
I would have appreciated a more in depth analysis of the relationship between Psycho67 and our killer; more info about the latest victims outcome; and a better conclusion about the Psycho67 trope.
The main couple, although created through a pretty predictable rouse, was very well followed, and I liked their dynamic. I would have definitely appreciated more of Mel’s presence and active involvement.
Jenn is the best character, definitely. With Josey being a close second.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 12, 2018
This story is about a serial killer that uses different methods to kill, and the victims have nothing in common except being left in National Parks and
the gray 'dust' and messages of guilt. Can FBI Special Agent Samuel Kerman figure out the who and why of this case? Then the killer makes things personal.....no one is safe....family, friends, pets. What is up with this killer? You will have to read this wonderfully written thriller to find out. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this story. It is really a great read!
the gray 'dust' and messages of guilt. Can FBI Special Agent Samuel Kerman figure out the who and why of this case? Then the killer makes things personal.....no one is safe....family, friends, pets. What is up with this killer? You will have to read this wonderfully written thriller to find out. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this story. It is really a great read!
October 16, 2023
Outstanding Thriller!
I am delighted to give this talented author highest accolades for this work. Superbly written, with attention to detail that, rather than becoming tedious, adds to the overall feeling of authenticity in a tale that absolutely enjoyable. Excellent character development, obviously well-researched, paced just well enough to hold the readers attention. The ending, to me, was totally satisfying, neatly tying up any lingering tension. Obviously I loved it and will seek other books by this author. Kudos, madam!
I am delighted to give this talented author highest accolades for this work. Superbly written, with attention to detail that, rather than becoming tedious, adds to the overall feeling of authenticity in a tale that absolutely enjoyable. Excellent character development, obviously well-researched, paced just well enough to hold the readers attention. The ending, to me, was totally satisfying, neatly tying up any lingering tension. Obviously I loved it and will seek other books by this author. Kudos, madam!
November 27, 2023
This story had a great plot and I was pretty captivated the whole time. Then as I got closer to the end and noticed my Kindle said I was 85% through, I wondered how on earth could this story be tied up so quickly? The answer is, by rushing the ending. The conclusion to this book is messy with a twist that I had to re-read a few times to make sure it was really going that way. I enjoyed most of the book as well as getting to know the characters, even the serial killer. Overall though, I'd recommend skipping this one.
March 28, 2024
Audiobook: The story started off great. The characters were complex and complicated. The first half of the story kept me on the edge-of-my seat, but then the intensity lost its edge. The "wildly erratic serial killer" became commonplace and less interesting. He changed in ways that made little to no sense to me. There were some unexpected twists, and the story was good, but something was lost as the tale unfolded. Rick Struve's narration was good, and his performance kept my attention. I was given a free copy of the audiobook, and I have voluntarily posted this review.
March 8, 2018
I have read a few of Gilbert's works before, but this one was quite a bit different.
Switching perspectives between an FBI agent, a physician, and a serial killer Gilbert manages to capture each of their personalities. Although not as "hard core" as many thrillers, Scratched Off definitely leans much more towards that genre than her other mysteries.
I was gifted a copy of this to pre-read, but the opinions expressed are my own.
Switching perspectives between an FBI agent, a physician, and a serial killer Gilbert manages to capture each of their personalities. Although not as "hard core" as many thrillers, Scratched Off definitely leans much more towards that genre than her other mysteries.
I was gifted a copy of this to pre-read, but the opinions expressed are my own.
Currently reading
October 5, 2019Dark. Very dark. A serial killer. Graphic details of internal monologue of him. An FBI agent, trying to track him down, much lighter tone in this POV. This story was too dark for me to read all at once, especially when in the serial killer's mind. I've had to put it down several times to read/listen to another book to get my mind on a lighter subject. If you like dark, gritty, and a little disturbing fiction, I'm sure you'll enjoy this.
January 18, 2020
Both the author and narrator were new to me but I thought they did an AMAZING job. The narrator was able to capture each and every character and gave them their own identity and I really love that. I definitely will look for other books written by this author for I definitely loved her way of writing. I know others would feel the same way as I do so, I definitely recommend this novel.
#AudiobookObsessionReviewer🎧RoniF.
#AudiobookObsessionReviewer🎧RoniF.
October 13, 2023
I can’t believe I got this book for free!
I absolutely loved this book. I have never read a book from a serial killers Point of view and it was so good. This book is so well written without being vulgar or sexual. I can’t believe I got this book free for stuff your kindle day. Easily would have paid $50. It is so good, intense, it has twist you won’t see coming, romance. Everything the perfect book needs. Can’t wait to read more by this author
I absolutely loved this book. I have never read a book from a serial killers Point of view and it was so good. This book is so well written without being vulgar or sexual. I can’t believe I got this book free for stuff your kindle day. Easily would have paid $50. It is so good, intense, it has twist you won’t see coming, romance. Everything the perfect book needs. Can’t wait to read more by this author
October 11, 2019
This was a Pleasant surprise as I usually read more extreme horror/thrillers
A well written detective novel that doesn’t rely on violence,sex or profanity opening it to a wider audience
Great narration and twist ending highly recommended
I received a free review audiobook and voluntarily left this review
A well written detective novel that doesn’t rely on violence,sex or profanity opening it to a wider audience
Great narration and twist ending highly recommended
I received a free review audiobook and voluntarily left this review
December 27, 2019
Three storylines from the serial killer the FBI agent and the Doctor. What was the motive behind these three and was there any connection to the killings. Fast paced and the clues and this concept of three views was intriguing. Different from other books I have read by her and good.
Given ARC audio and the narration was good, for my voluntary review and my honest opinion
Given ARC audio and the narration was good, for my voluntary review and my honest opinion
August 13, 2020
This one kept me on my toes.The main characters are an FBI agent and a serial killer. Will the agent be able to stop the killer before it becomes personal? You will have to check out a copy and find out. No spoilers here. I recommend this book. I chose the audio book which made it even more chilling listening to the narrators voice added to the suspense and tense moments.
November 17, 2022
Format: audiobook
Narrator: Rick Struve
A serial killer on a mission to find the perfect way to kill someone, only those that deserve it though unless an innocent needs to die to distract the cops or as collateral damage!
A good psychological thriller with a twist at the end that I didn’t see coming.
Narration was good.
Narrator: Rick Struve
A serial killer on a mission to find the perfect way to kill someone, only those that deserve it though unless an innocent needs to die to distract the cops or as collateral damage!
A good psychological thriller with a twist at the end that I didn’t see coming.
Narration was good.
November 19, 2023
2.5 ish. This was a book I grabbed from stuff your kindle day and it shows. A whole star is for the fact that it’s based in the Philly suburbs. I liked the fact that you got the killer, the FBI agent, and other character’s POV’s but overall I felt like it was cheesy and the ending really fell apart. I never felt myself excited to read this
March 15, 2018
Great thriller! Loved being immersed into three different points of view - presented with rich detail and amazing insights. I will be putting this on my re-read list. Although this may be a new genre for Julie Gilbert, she nailed it!
January 3, 2020
My review is based on the audiobook. A suspense filled thriller that has some twists you won't see coming. The narrator did a great job bringing the story and characters to life. I look forward to more from this author.
August 24, 2020
Boy, I hate to give four stars for a book I couldn't read, but the writing was very good, so good I had to quit reading because it was just too creepy, scary to me. I usually like to share if a book is clean but I didn't get far enough in it to know - I was just too creeped out to keep reading!
October 3, 2023
Fantastic read!!!
Loved the book! Going to check out the author’s other titles! Not gory or graphic or overly descriptive of non essential elements- this book was a great, easy read!
Loved the book! Going to check out the author’s other titles! Not gory or graphic or overly descriptive of non essential elements- this book was a great, easy read!
November 24, 2023
fast moving mystery
A frightening tale that will keep you awake at night. The story is fast paced and the characters are very believable and well developed. There are twists and surprises and a little romance.
A frightening tale that will keep you awake at night. The story is fast paced and the characters are very believable and well developed. There are twists and surprises and a little romance.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews