Today we’d like to introduce you to Candice Y. Johnson
Hi Candice Y., so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
My career as an author is most definitely divinely ordered! I began reading at the age of three, and started writing not too long after. As early as I can remember, I have LOVED writing stories…I just feared publishing them for other people to see. Still, there was a fire burning for me to share all of these creative ideas dancing in my mind. In the meantime, I studied journalism in school, did some freelance writing, and eventually landed an editorial assistant position with the Associated Press. Here’s where things get crazy – I detoured from writing into a dance career, even choreographing for a television program where we were awarded 4 Emmy awards! It was amazing; however, after Corporate America divorced me ten years ago, my hubby encouraged me to pursue my writing seriously. I had a manuscript I’d been sitting on for years, so I found an amazing author who helped me publish it. I moved moved dancing on stage, to twirling across the keyboard and I haven’t stopped since! It’s been an incredible, mind-blowing journey, filled with tears, joy, hard work, and FUN. I write humorous, heartwarming women’s fiction, romance, inspirational, and children’s books. I’m currently with Tule Publishing, set to release the second in my Taco Truck Romance trilogy, “Talk Taco to Me.” The first (“Taco ‘Bout Love,”) was released in 2024; the third (“You Had Me at Taco”), will be released summer 2025. I have so many people to thank for this journey…but first, I thank GOD.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
NO, not by any means – but it’s been so WORTH it! Aside from the extreme learning curve, rejection has been the hardest pill to swallow. To have your manuscript turned down can feel brutal; being told by multiple agents and publishers, “We love your (writing) voice, but the story isn’t what we’re looking for,” was heartbreaking. But I learned how to navigate the “No’s” until I received the “YES” I’d been looking for. Then another one came, and another. Now, I’ve learned my stories may not be for everybody, but they are for SOMEBODY. And as long as readers relish my stories, I’m going to keep on telling them.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m known as a dancer, and author and I love them both!!! Ultimately, whether I’m dancing or writing, my goal is to uplift, encourage, and INSPIRE others. I’ve won lots of awards, but what am I most proud of? How my art makes people feel. Oh, and TACOS. I’m honestly known for my love of tacos!
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
My husband is my biggest cheerleader! Seriously, he’s never met a stranger, and because of his bragging, a stranger has never met me! He sells my books, books me for events and signings, dries my tears in disappointments, and celebrates my wins with me. I could not have done this without his support, and the support of my wonderful parents.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/candiceosp/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ordered.steps.productions
