“Beware the editor! They’ll try to change your voice!”

That was one of the first bits of “advice” I got when starting out on my writing journey. And I have to tell you… In my experience, it was complete hog wash. My editors—and I’ve worked with several through the years—have only made my work better.

Yesterday was my Bethany House editor’s last day, and I’ll admit I got a little teary over it. I’m so grateful for Karen Schurrer and the last 12 years we’ve worked together. We’ve written nine books together—pictured below—and I say together because it’s truly been a team effort, no matter whose name is on the front.

Rekindled, Revealed, Remembered
From a Distance, Beyond This Moment, Within My Heart
A Lasting Impression, A Beauty So Rare, A Note Yet Unsung

Even though her leaving BHP is bittersweet, there’s also a very exciting side to this transition because Karen is embarking on a new adventure in the freelance world! And she has SO much to offer writers. She really has been—and always will be—a gift to my writing.

She and her dear late husband, Jeff, dreamed of her someday doing this, so she’s bravely following God’s lead even as Jeff cheers her on from that great crowd of witnesses (Hebrews 12:1-2).

Karen and Jeff

I’m so grateful for Karen’s expertise and encouragement along the way. She possesses that fine balance of knowing how to encourage yet also push an author to give more than they think they even have to give. It’s a rare trait, and I’ve been incredibly blessed to have been a recipient of it.

 

In 2007 when Revealed won the RITA Award
RWA Conference
Dallas, TX

If you’re willing, I’d invite you to pray along with me for this new chapter in Karen’s life. I know without a doubt that she made the nine novels we worked on together SO much better than they would have been if left to my own devices. (Heaven forbid!)

I love and appreciate you, Karen! With full certainty, I know Jesus has already been working on your behalf. #thebestisyettocome

Now tell me… Who is someone in your life who’s been an integral part of your journey? Who’s left their mark on you (whether in your personal life or in your career? Or perhaps—as in my case with Karen—both)?

Tammy