On Writing Book Reviews

A quick look at BooKecCenTric's book review process and what I look for when I accept books for review. Enjoy!

How do I review a book? Is it a read first, and then make notes, or do I make notes as I go along? It all depends on the book. For some books, I read it all first, then make notes later. For others, I take breaks in-between, make some notes, then continue. I suppose it depends on the level of intensity of the book, and if I need to take a break to mull over some things and take notes.

What am I looking for when I pick a book? I’m looking for connection. If it's fiction, I want to feel connected to the characters… to feel their thoughts, their feelings. I want to know them enough to understand the silly or brave decisions they make even when they don’t understand it themselves. If it’s non-fiction, I want to hear and feel the author’s passion through their words, feel the message they’re passing across in every chapter. I want to feel their attempt to connect with their reader. The writing style is a huge deal for me; the flow of words, structure, the way everything connects together – they all play big roles in my overall rating. Use language within your narration, and let your words have character. All in all, I just want a really good read.

If a fiction book has a great plot, great characters, but the grammar is less than perfect, how do I deal with that? Not all writers are editors naturally. I always implore authors, especially indie/self-published authors, to get their works edited by professional editors. A novel that’s not well edited is a distraction for me as a reviewer, as well as for readers, no matter how great the plot and characters may be. However, I don’t let this completely ruin my overall experience with the novel, provided it has some intensity. I do still mention this flaw in my reviews so readers can expect this, and it certainly affects my overall rating of the book.

What advice could I give to authors looking to get their books reviewed? Check out the sites before you request a review from the blogger/reviewer. Ensure the books they feature is in line with your book genre. Read their review policies thoroughly, and make sure to get their names right before you hit send (I sometimes get wrong names addressed to me!). Then go for it, and ask as many reviewers as you can find. Some may refuse, and that’s okay. Move on to the next. Be ready to take any criticisms you receive with good stride.

If a book hasn’t grabbed my interest/attention by the first five pages, do I put it down? No, I don’t put it down after the first 5 pages; I’ve learned to be patient and give all books some benefit of doubt. So I wait until after the first 20 pages, or end of the second chapter, and if I still feel nothing, I sadly but determinedly put it down and move on to the next.

Any ideas or comments on how readers can ‘filter’ good from bad, aside from reviews? I believe one of the major challenges of self-publishing is that readers get the 'bad' reads as well as the good reads, and there really is no way to tell which is worth the time except through reading reviews. So one idea would be for readers and reviewers to read the synopsis and sample chapters first, and let it be to their discretion which ones they feel is worth a shot.

One final piece of advice to authors and reviewers? To readers and reviewers—enjoy the reading process! Don't turn your reading into a chore just because you're obligated to leave a review. Just enjoy, and if you like it, you like it. If you don't, then you don't. To authors, don't take a rejection for a review too personally. Sometimes reviewers have a lot on their plate, including tons of pending requests. Simply move on to the next request!

Author Interview with Benjamin Nieves Carrasquillo Jr.

Sep. 9, 2025

BooKecCenTriC was privileged to welcome Author Benjamin Nieves Carrasquillo Jr.  to our virtual couch for an interview about his latest book, Through the Lens of An Ancient Yisra’elite Bible Study. Enjoy!

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What's your book about, and what inspired you to write it?

The purpose of this book is to provide insight, highlight biblical interpretations and doctrines that lack a solid Scriptural foundation, and thoughtfully engage with difficult questions that are often overlooked. Writing a book was never my original intention. My initial goal was simply to research, collect data, and develop a study I could teach—primarily at local churches or through online platforms. Over the years, as I shared these studies, participants frequently offered thoughtful feedback and, more than once, encouraged me to consider publishing the material in book form. At the same time, I became increasingly frustrated while attending church, as I observed pastors and leaders consistently avoid certain key topics, interpret Scripture through a modern Western lens, and neglect the historical and cultural context of the biblical text. Much of this, I believe, stems from a lack of understanding of the ancient world in which the Bible was written. I prayed for direction, seeking clarity about what to do next. As more voices echoed the same encouragement to turn the study into a book, it became clear that this was the answer.

Who is your target audience, and why do you think this book will appeal to them?

This book is intended for both men and women, believers and non-believers alike, ages 16 and up. It is also relevant for church leaders seeking deeper insight. Regardless of income level, the primary audience is English-speaking readers. The book resonates with everyday believers because it tackles the kinds of questions many are hesitant to ask—questions that are often met with silence, avoidance, or inadequate answers from church leadership.

What's the one thing you hope readers will remember or take away from your book long after they finish reading it?

This book was a pleasure to read from beginning to end. It is rich in information, presents the facts with clarity, and boldly addresses numerous biblical topics without compromise—many of which are often overlooked, misinterpreted, or dismissed by religious institutions.

Can you share a surprising or little-known fact about your writing process or research for this book?

Researching for this book was a significant challenge. Living in a modern Western culture, we naturally carry certain biases. As a result, there is often a tendency to interpret Scripture through the lens of our own ideologies or preconceived notions—ideas that have been deeply embedded in us from a young age by parents, church leaders, or our broader cultural environment. This bias was something I had to confront repeatedly throughout my research. It was especially difficult to find reliable information on ancient biblical texts within mainstream Christianity, as much of it has been diluted or heavily influenced by Greek philosophy. I realized that if I truly wanted to understand the biblical authors and their original audience, I needed to step outside my cultural framework and approach the text with fresh eyes. This led me to pursue formal education—not only here in the United States, but also at the source: Israel. As I progressed in my studies, I encountered two major dilemmas. First, I observed an invisible wall that many Western Christians have built between themselves and Jewish believers in Christ, particularly Messianic Jews. Second, I noticed another wall—this one between the content commonly preached from the pulpit and the wealth of knowledge available in academic settings. Bridging these gaps became essential to my journey of understanding Scripture more deeply and authentically.

Can you walk us through your favorite scene or chapter from your book? What makes it stand out to you?

I don’t have a favorite chapter or scene in the book because each of the seven sections is richly packed with valuable insights that will benefit any reader. Few books offer such a comprehensive study of the Bible alongside the Jewish culture and ancient traditions, all seamlessly woven together into a single cohesive work.

What's the most memorable or impactful response you've received from a reader, and how has it affected you?

While writing these studies, I made it a habit to share a short biblical topic with my coworkers at least once a week—something I called 'Food for Thought.' I also had meaningful conversations with people who came to my door, often talking for one to two hours. Without fail, I received the same emotional and verbal response: their eyes would light up, and they’d say things like, 'Wow, I’ve never thought about it that way,' or 'That’s amazing—I can really see that.' Seeing people respond like this brings me so much joy. It means the Word of Yahweh is being presented in a way that people can truly connect with and relate to. That’s what keeps me going—offering insights that allow others to explore the truth for themselves. What they choose to do with the information is up to them. But at the end of the day, the gospel is being shared—and it's all for His glory.

What's the one question you wish readers would ask you about your book, and how would you answer it?

What took you so long? It may sound surprising, but Yahweh had a process for me. Not only did I need to humble myself and let go of certain personal traits—with His help—but I also had to learn, according to His guidance and timing, and experience life in its fullness, along with many smaller lessons, to ultimately reach my goal.

What's the best writing advice you've ever received, and from whom?

When writing in this genre, it's important to keep things simple and avoid overcomplicating your message. You can include technical or complex ideas, but make sure to explain them clearly and thoroughly. I learned this principle from one of my art professors during my master’s program. He always reminded us with a phrase I still carry with me: 'K.I.S.S.—Keep it simple, stupid.'

How do you stay motivated and focused during the writing process?

I wanted to avoid burnout—something I’ve experienced before—and once you reach that point, it’s difficult to regain momentum. I was spending several hours a day researching and writing, so I knew I had to be intentional about maintaining balance. To do that, I scheduled breaks throughout the week to recharge. That could mean watching a movie, playing games, or spending time with family—whatever helped me step away and reset. I approached it like a personal Sabbath: a time to pause and disconnect. Taking these breaks made it much easier to stay focused, energized, and motivated when it was time to return to the research and writing process.

If you could go back in time and give advice to your pre-published self, what would it be? 

Stop messing around and start reading the Bible.

Your favorite quote/saying to live by?

Threat others the way you want to be treated.

Any advice to new/aspiring authors?

Like anything worthwhile in life, achieving a goal takes hard work, and becoming an author is no exception. Translating your thoughts onto paper or a computer screen can be challenging, especially since most of us aren’t accustomed to this task. Those who keep a diary or journal can relate—it definitely helps to maintain one. If you decide to pursue writing, be sure to take regular breaks, conduct thorough and unbiased research (especially for nonfiction, biographies, or religious topics), and stay focused throughout the process.

Do you have any more books in the works?

Yes. I’m currently working on two fantasy adventure graphic novel that weaves in several biblical themes, with a particular focus on the ancient Jewish wedding tradition. I'm also developing a sequel to the Bible study, which will explore the book of Revelation through a first-century historical and cultural lens.

How can readers get in touch with or follow you?

Website and Goodreads are on the works; you can find me on YouTube and Rumble under the username “evolsdoom.” You can reach me at: benjamin.n.carrasquillo.jr [at] gmail.com.

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Benjamin Nieves Carrasquillo Jr., born and raised in Bayamón, Puerto Rico. He holds a BA in Visual Communications and Digital Art and an MA in 3D Animation and Visual Effects. He completed courses at the Israel Institute of Biblical Studies, Awakening School of Theology, and Liberty University. A disabled U.S. military veteran, he served in the Army National Guard and Navy. An ordained minister and teacher, he shares Yahweh’s word online and locally. Married for 34 years, he and his wife, whom he met during active duty at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, have four children and three grandchildren and live in V.A.

Author Profile: William Roushey, author of ‘The Race Against Time'

 Aug. 21, 2025

BooKecCenTriC was privileged to welcome Author William Roushey to our virtual couch for an interview about his latest book, The Race Against Time. Enjoy!

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What's your book about, and what inspired you to write it?

My book is called The Race Against Time. It is a fictional story based on true events set in 1979 involving a college student, Carson, who is determined to make his senior year count.  A friend challenges him to join the cross-country team, which Carson does on a whim. What begins as a last-ditch bid to earn a varsity letter unleashes a series of life-changing and often unexpected events. It is a nostalgic and heartfelt story of faith, friendship, unexpected love and the pressure to outrun regret.

My wife, Patty, is the inspiration behind this story. I wanted to capture the essence of how we first met some forty-five years ago.

Who is your target audience, and why do you think this book will appeal to them?

I wrote this book intending to reach a wide audience. The Christian fiction crowd love to read stories with a message that can bolster their faith. I believe the book will also appeal to those who like sports stories, readers who pull for the underdog and cheer when someone is able to overcome adversity. Lastly, I believe readers of romantic fiction will enjoy the twists and turns of the relationship between Carson and Paige. It may begin as a sports story in a university setting but it quickly becomes a story of unexpected love.

What's the one thing you hope readers will remember or take away from your book long after they finish reading it?

I hope this book inspires readers to explore the life-changing power of forgiveness and that it’s never too late to run towards the person you were meant to become.

Can you share a surprising or little-known fact about your writing process or research for this book?

I really thought this book was going to be difficult to write as I was fleshing out the outline.  Afterall, I was writing a story based on an experience that happened to me forty-five years ago.  To overcome this, I immersed myself in my college yearbook, the college’s student newspaper, old photographs, my wife’s scrapbook and a playlist of 1970s music. Eventually, useful memories came flooding back.  Most of the dialog came to me as I was out walking and listening to music. I recorded my thoughts on the Note app on my iPhone as I exercised.

What's the most memorable or impactful response you've received from a reader, and how has it affected you?

What began as me trying to capture the essence of my cross-country running experience turned out to be a 52,000-word love letter to my wife. She had been reading the chapters as finished them and would comment on how well they were written. I began to wonder if I had missed the mark with such a generic compliment. When she finally had a chance to read the complete edited manuscript, she paid me the biggest compliment I could ever have hoped for when I looked over and saw her crying her eyes out because she was so moved by the story.

What's the one question you wish readers would ask you about your book, and how would you answer it?

"The story you wrote is fiction; how much of it is based on true events?" 

Virtually all of the events in the book happened, especially the races I ran in and my finishing times. I took some liberties with how the relationship between Carson and Paige unfolded.  The antics involving Carson and his roommate were also mostly true.

Do you have any more books in the works?

There is the possibility of a sequel to The Race Against Time if enough readers call for one. The Race Against Time limits itself to how Paige and Carson met. I am interested in writing historical fiction novels and consider The Race Against Time as a dress rehearsal for diving into that genre.

What's the most challenging part of the writing process for you, and how do you overcome it?

It would have to be capturing an idea in my head on paper. This usually involves starting with part A and proceeding to part B. I begin by writing out my thought in grade school level sentences that show the progression. I add in context and some basic dialog. Then, I come back to my artistic sketch and start to add the color by upgrading the wording, detailing the scene and expanding the dialog. This process continues several more times until I get to a point where I say, “Wow, did I write that!”

What's the best writing advice you've ever received, and from whom?

The best writing advice I ever received came from a university professor, Dr. Richard Middleton. Over lunch I discussed all the grandiose plans I had to write about heaven, the afterlife and eschatology. He gently picked apart my ideas one by one. I left our meeting more discouraged than you could possibly imagine. But he did leave me with a piece of advice which turned out to be the best advice I ever received. He said, “Bill, write about what you know.”

Your favorite quote/saying to live by?

I believe in divine providence, that God involves Himself in the affairs of men. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6

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What others are saying about The Race Against Time:

“It is said sport is a microcosm of life. The author did a wonderful job of demonstrating such with the tale he threads in this book. It is not often, the sport of cross country running becomes a storyline for a book. The author uses his excellent creative writing and storytelling skills to develop intersecting plotlines that will hold the attention of both the familiar and unfamiliar to the sport of cross country. Running is but part of the setting and not the real story of this book. The author blends the characters’ personalities with their day-to-day struggles of balancing life’s successes and failures, while navigating the mysteries of young love. It is a story of perseverance that conveys many of life’s truths.” 
-- Dr. Craig Hayward, EdD. retired university professor and coach

“The Race Against Time is a heart-warming story of college athleticism, deep love, and, above all, the way God works in the lives of all of His children to guide them to the path He intends for their lives. I thoroughly enjoyed Roushey's narration of the triumphs and pitfalls of competing at a college level, and the Christ-centered romance really takes the cake for me. I think all of Roushey's readers will learn more about the power of surrendering their desires to the Lord and how trusting in Him will always allow things to work out for the best, even if it's not how you expect - I know I certainly have.” 
-- Branwyn M. Wilkinson, MSL, Assistant Director of Alumni Engagement at RWU

“A delightful portrayal of where faith and determination intersect with the sparks of love, and where overcoming one's past often requires a willingness to trust in others who truly know you.  The author takes you on a journey of hope, connection, and fun, while also reaching into the depths of the transformative power of God.” 
-- Kimberly Brittin, Operations Director, Pearce Church

Feature article on 'The Race Against Time': North Chili resident releases first fiction novel – Westside News Inc

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Other books by William Roushey:

Junior’s Hope (2006)

When the Dogs Bark (2023)

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William Roushey lives in Western New York with his wife, Patty, and their two dachshunds. A retired maintenance worker and manufacturing professional, he now writes by the lake, leads Bible studies, and explores genealogy. His books and blog reflect faith, family, and intentional storytelling. Connect with William: www.billroushey.com

Interview with Jasna Kaludjerovic, author of ‘Letters to an Embryo’

 June 12, 2025

BooKecCenTriC was privileged to welcome Author Jasna Kaludjerovic to our virtual couch for an interview about her book, Letters to an Embryo. Enjoy!

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What's your book about, and what inspired you to write it?

Well, at the time of my divorce, there was still one frozen embryo left from my last IVF attempt. On one hand, I couldn’t just leave it there, unborn. On the other, I couldn’t bring it into the world under entirely new circumstances. So, I began to write. Writing was my solution, my way out of trouble.

The book was written over the course of three years, during a period of deep inner struggle. It follows a transformational journey - from uncertainty to clarity, from emotional paralysis to a sense of peace and freedom. Letters to an Embryo addresses modern dilemmas created by advancements in reproductive technology. It gives voice to ethical and emotional questions that many women today silently struggle with.

Who is your target audience, and why do you think this book will appeal to them?

I see two main target audiences for this book. The first are women who are grappling with the questions of abortion or what to do with frozen embryos. As I began writing and later publishing my story, many of my friends opened up and shared their own experiences with abortion—stories I might never have heard if I hadn’t written this book. I realized how many women carry those experiences silently, struggling with the emotional aftermath alone.

My dream as a writer is that somewhere out there, there is a woman wondering whether to go through with an abortion—and she finds my book. And maybe, just maybe, it becomes the reason she decides to give life.

The second audience is anyone who feels stuck in life. Because on a deeper level, Letters to an Embryo is not only the story of a mother deciding whether or not to leave her child unborn. It is also a story about a human being carrying guilt, feeling paralyzed, and not feeling strong enough to break through.

In that sense, Letters to an Embryo is not just a book for women. It’s a book for anyone who’s stuck. And I believe it might help light their way forward. At least, I hope it can.

What's the one thing you hope readers will remember or take away from your book long after they finish reading it?

I hope they will remember all those frozen humans left behind in test tubes. Maybe raising awareness about their existence will improve the way we handle them and raise their chances of being born in any possible way—for example, by our governments improving procedures of handling them, storing them, and adopting them... Also, I would like to give courage and arguments to all those stuck in guilt and indecisiveness, to help them move on with joy and peace.

Can you share a surprising or little-known fact about your writing process or research for this book?

At first, it was my diary. I was writing for myself. There was no real research - I was lost and thought that maybe it would be easier to find the way out if I wrote. So I decided to keep writing until I broke free.

And when I finally did break free, I completely forgot about the book - for two whole years! Later, during the COVID-19 pandemic, I decided to clean up my laptop. But before deleting any file, I would always check what it was. That’s how I started reading my own book - and I liked it!

The details about the real reasons for my divorce were removed before publishing, because I didn’t feel ready to share that part with the public. Maybe the readers will notice it and miss it, but it was simply my personal boundary - how much I felt comfortable revealing.

Can you walk us through your favorite scene or chapter from your book? What makes it stand out to you?

Definitely the letter from the trip to Jerusalem. Because it still keeps surprising me. My book and my life before and after it are two entirely different stories. It was the turning point.

It wasn’t that I lacked strength or courage to face my issues, and then something simply lifted me a bit. No - it was that the way I was searching for answers was completely wrong. I could have kept going in circles forever, and nothing would have changed.

Sometimes, no matter what the rational arguments are, they’re just not enough. If faith is what you’re missing, you can go on with rational arguments forever, and they will lead you nowhere.

Jerusalem brought a new perspective. And that shift in perspective was exactly what I needed to finally find a way out.

What's the most memorable or impactful response you've received from a reader, and how has it affected you?

The most memorable response I received was from my editor, who is a man. He told me that the book sent him to sleep with thoughts—and that it’s not really about the embryo at all. It’s about freeing yourself from a place where you feel stuck.

What's the biggest misconception people have about being an author?

That writing a book is just sitting and writing. That was my misconception too, before I decided to publish it. But then - oh my god! Editing took another two years, and I read it over and over so many times! That part was much more technical and required real discipline and hard work.

If you could go back in time and give advice to your pre-published self, what would it be?

Self-publish the Serbian version too. It doesn’t pay off to wait so long to find a publisher. Most of the work they’ll do for you - you can do yourself. And they usually don’t put much effort into marketing, especially when it comes to debut authors.

Your favorite quote/saying to live by?

The one I learned in Jerusalem. I often use it as a quote from my book: "Even if I don’t see the path before me right now, that doesn’t mean it’s not there."

Any advice to new/aspiring authors?

If you’re doing this for money—don’t!

Write only if you have something inside you that won’t leave you in peace until you put it on paper and share it with others. Otherwise, it’s just too hard and too expensive. You’ll do better in IT!

Do you have any more books in the works?

Not yet. I do have ideas, but let’s see. I wrote Letters to an Embryo mostly for myself. Now I have a feeling it might help others the way it helped me. I have a good career in IT, and for now, I want to see whether I actually have readers or not. If I feel that I do - or if I feel that same urge to write, like I did with my first book - then I’ll write more. Otherwise, this will remain my first and only book.

How can readers get in touch with or follow you (website, personal blog, social media handle, Goodreads)?

• Website: jasnakaludjerovic.com 
• IG: @jasna_kaludjerovic_author
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566786901836
• Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/54132991.Jasna_Kalu_erovi_

Check out Jasna Kaludjerovic's  author profile.

 

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Jasna Kaludjerovic was born in Belgrade, the capital of Serbia, in 1978, and grew up in Nikšić, a small town in Montenegro. She studied Computer Science and Informatics, first at the Faculty of Computational Mathematics and Cybernetics at Lomonosov Moscow State University, and later at the Faculty of Mathematics at the University of Belgrade, where she earned her Bachelor’s degree.

Today, she works as an IT consultant and runs her own company in Belgrade.