
FANTASY & ROMANCE BOOK EDITOR FOR EMERGING AUTHORS
LET’S TAKE YOUR MANUSCRIPT FROM FIRST DRAFT TO FAN FAVORITE
You know those books that keep you up until 3AM? The ones you can’t put down, can’t stop thinking about, and can’t wait to recommend to anyone who will listen? The ones that cast a lasting spell and stay with you long after the final page?
Let’s make your manuscript one of those.

Hi, I’m Nina Lopez-Ortiz
Your story’s biggest fan and fiercest advocate
As the founder and editor behind Once Upon a Manuscript, I help fantasy and romance writers feel confident in their work and fully supported on their path to publication — whether they’re self-publishing or taking the traditional route.
With over 15 years of editing experience, I bring genuine attention, care, and thoughtful feedback to every book I work on. When you work with me, you’re not just getting an editor — you’re gaining a dedicated partner who’s as invested in your story as you are.
Warmly Nina

YOU DESERVE SO MUCH MORE
THAN JUST AN EDITOR
You deserve…
A passionate test reader who lives and breathes fantasy and romance — someone who’s as spellbound by your genre as you are.
A trusted storytelling partner who’ll treat your manuscript like the treasure it is, guiding it to its full potential with the utmost care and respect.
Confidence that your story will enchant readers from the first line to the final page, leaving them captivated and hungry for more.
FOR WRITERS READY TO ELEVATE THEIR WORK WITHOUT CHANGING ITS ESSENCE
HERE’S HOW WE CAN WORK TOGETHER
Your Fairy GodReader
A full developmental and line edit for writers who want hands-on, start-to-finish guidance to turn their manuscript into a spellbinding, publish-ready story.
Your Storysmith
A developmental, big-picture edit for writers ready to strengthen their story’s core elements and captivate readers.
Your Magic Pen Polisher
Standalone line editing for writers seeking a polished, error-free, and reader-ready manuscript.
Manuscript
Editing Services
for Romance,
Fantasy,
Historical
Fiction, & YA
Turn Your Manuscript into a Masterpiece with a Professional Fiction Editor
Facing challenges with enchanting your readers, weaving a page-turning narrative, or perfecting every detail? With manuscript editing services like Your Fairy GodReader, Your Storysmith, and Magic Pen Polisher, I’ll transform your manuscript into a captivating tale that impresses agents, publishers, and readers alike.
mission
If you're looking to craft a story that really connects with your readers, it all starts with seeing things from their perspective. That's something I truly excel at.
If you need an editor who can help make your story irresistible to both publishers and readers, I'm here for you. Let's bring your narrative to life together! Scroll down to find out how we can work together.
vision
Because of this, I've spent over 15 years knee-deep in manuscripts — evaluating them as a paid reviewer, book editor, and slush pile reader for publishers. With a Bachelor’s and Master’s in English in my back pocket, I’m now chasing a PhD in English to keep learning and unraveling the mysteries of literature’s theories, genres, narratology, and archetypes.
Like you, I’ve fallen in love with fantasy and romance, book after book. Which is why, as a personal editor, I want your readers to enjoy the same immersive, otherworldly experience when reading yours.
IF YOU’RE READY TO SHAPE YOUR MANUSCRIPT INTO SOMETHING TRULY MAGICAL…
Then I’m here to invest wholeheartedly in your story, its characters, and the unique world you’ve created. Let’s chat about how we can work together to make sure your story leaves readers spellbound!