Lissa Halls Johnson

Lissa Halls Johnson – Editor

I am a fiction editor who specializes in Christian fiction. I love story and helping writers produce the book they envision.

Overview

I bring 35+ years of writing and editing experience. I have worked on both sides of the publishing desk so I understand what a writer needs personally and editorially. Not only have I been an editor, I have taught conference seminars on how to write and/or edit. I have written 21 published books. Most of my written work has been in the form of novels, although I have also written (and edited) nonfiction, articles, short stories, and radio dramas as well as pre-writing chapters for other writers. Some of the books I have edited have won awards and/or starred Publisher's Weekly reviews.


A writer puts heart and soul and imagination into their work. They have worked hard to create the story or product that reflects much of who they are. My editorial role, as first reader who catches what will cause a reader to stumble or break from the work, is to respect the author's effort by asking questions, making suggestions, looking for inconsistencies, poor word choices, and so much more. The editorial process at its best is a partnership where both parties bring their strengths to the table. I like to encourage and teach while I edit so authors can grow in their craft. I am known for being a no-nonsense, thorough editor, who helps the work shine.




Services
Fiction
Christian Fiction Historical Fiction Women's Fiction
Non-Fiction
Christian Non-Fiction
Languages
English (US)
Awards
  • Christy Award (10 nominations and 7 wins)

Work experience

Self-employed

Aug, 2004 — Present

I have worked the full range of editing from the beginning (editorial assessment) through developmental edit, line edit (a step ahead of copy editing). I have partnered with writers to help them complete a book by pre-writing chapters, doing research, transcribing interviews. I have "book doctored" a handful of books which is to do an extremely heavy edit and some writing and rearranging of a book.

Focus on the Family

Aug, 1999 — Jun, 2005 (almost 6 years)

Developed two book series. Hired writers, led writer meetings, edited their work. Wrote three books and contributed to a number of others. Edited a wide variety of books—not just from the series. Represented publisher at writers' conferences including giving keynotes, teaching seminars, and speaking individually with writers. Worked as contractor on Adventures in Odyssey team for one year prior to official employment.

Portfolio

Copy Editing Editorial Assessment
Congratulations! You’ve been promoted to your first role as a manager. It’s an exciting time for you and your career—if you manage the transition well. Anyone who wants to thrive in a new mana... read more
Copy Editing
Copy Editing
Copy Editing Editorial Assessment
Running on Empty (Riverbend Friends)

Williamson, Jill

Focus on the Family

Developmental Editing Copy Editing Editorial Assessment
Heart of Belonging (Riverbend Friends)

Darlington, C. J.

Focus on the Family

Developmental Editing Copy Editing Editorial Assessment
In My Own Way (Riverbend Friends)

Buchanan, Kathy

Focus on the Family

Developmental Editing Copy Editing Editorial Assessment
Copy Editing
Developmental Editing Copy Editing
Developmental Editing Copy Editing

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