PEN Membership Level
Silver
How did you get your start as an editor, and how long have you been editing?
Tricia Goyer basically built my business. :) After working together to coach writers through her program Write That Book, she began sending writers my way for content and line by line edits. Many of them were beginners in their writing journeys and I absolutely adored helping them figure out the mechanics, grammar, and creativity in the stories God had given them to explore. Most of my business has been built through word of mouth. It’s been a lovely adventure.
What are your areas of focus, and why did you select them?
My primary love is editing fiction. I’m a multi-published fiction author as well, so those stories always make my heart sing. I have edited some nonfiction works from time to time and the gift in those projects is learning things I never knew, as well as examining my own walk with Christ through a new perspective.
What does a typical workday look like for you?
I rise early and walk my dog, grab some breakfast, and spend time in prayer and Bible study. I homeschool my eleven-year-old son, so I work on editing projects until he wakes up for the day. After he eats, we dig into school time, alternating teaching with editing. After he’s finished for the day, I spent at least two hours working on my own writing projects. After dinner with the family, we will often play a board game or do some fun activity together. When everyone is settled in for the night, I updated any social media that is calling my name and end the day reading something for pleasure.
How do you manage your time?
I basically juggle two schedules. One is a list of small projects that do not have impending deadlines. The other is filled with big projects that seem to get bigger as time slips by. :) Each day, I try to cross one of the small projects off and then work to put a big dent in the more demanding work. I’m a person who likes to cross items off a checklist, so the fight for me is not to rush, but allow each project to breathe. Sometimes, we need to take a slower pace to allow space for the Holy Spirit to speak and move.
What is your favorite thing about being an editor?
I love watching new writers blossom into confident authors. When the craft begins to click in their brains and transform their hearts, I happy dance for them. It’s a priceless joy.
What is your biggest challenge in being an editor, and how do you work through this?
For me, the most difficult part is having to tell an author when something isn’t working. I’m a gentle personality type, and those early years of writing can feel so fragile. I never want to discourage anyone, so it’s always a balancing act to sharpen iron without shattering dreams. Most of the writers I have worked with have been extremely teachable. Their attitude makes the entire process enjoyable.
What advice do you have for someone who is just starting their career as an editor?
Be upfront about telling writers what your strengths are. You don’t have to be an expert in everything. If your special gifting is in helping develop characters arcs and seeing big picture issues, content editing might be your jam. If you have never tried to write a contract and juggle the language of legalese, it’s okay to admit you might not be the best person for editing a legal document. We all have our gifts and strengths. Shine in what you do well.
What are you currently working on?
I’m currently editing a British murder-mystery for a debut author and I’m loving the story! As for my own writing, I’m finishing up a story about a female Pinkerton detective and a gemologist who are chasing down the notorious Jesse James. Exploring the Wild West has been a fun adventure.
Where can people find you online or on social media?
About Tara Johnson
Tara Johnson is an author and speaker, and loves to write stories that help people break free from the lies they believe about themselves.
Tara’s debut novel Engraved on the Heart (Tyndale) earned a starred review from Publishers Weekly, and was a finalist in the Carol and Christy awards. Tara has been published by Tyndale House, Annie’s, and Guideposts. In addition to being published in a variety of digital and print magazines, she is a certified body language expert and has been on radio, television and podcasts. She is a history nerd, especially the Civil War, and adores making people laugh. She, her husband, and children live in Arkansas.
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