Lola Opatayo

Lola Opatayo – Editor

Developmental editor specializing in literary fiction, short stories, and women's fiction. Loves works on women's and children's health.

Overview

Over the last 13+ years, I have collaborated with writers to clarify their ideas and achieve their writing goals. I ask important questions, celebrate my client's writing wins, and offer emotional support when the creative road gets long and lonely.

I've been privileged to read submissions for notable fellowships, develop professional courses for editors, and lead editorial teams across several industries, including health care, sports, technology, not-for-profit, and publishing.

As a storyteller and editor of dual nationality, I stay curious and receptive to different experiences, opinions, and stories.

I'd love to work with you next!

Testimonial

"Lola came highly recommended by a friend in the publishing industry.

Where other prospective editors complained about my large word count and book length, Lola happily took on my project. From our first call, I knew I wanted to work with her. Never before, had I felt so seen and appreciated for my writing. She encouraged me to keep pushing through my final draft and I was grateful for all the suggestions and insights she provided in my treatment."

Korimobi Gboneme.

Services
Fiction
Literary Fiction Short Story Social & Family Issues Women's Fiction
Languages
English (CAN) English (UK)
Awards
  • MacDowell (fellowship)
  • Iceland Writers Retreat (award)
  • Equity Fellowship (Editors Canada)
Certifications
  • Editing Certificate (Simon Fraser University)
  • BA Literature-in-English (Obafemi Awolowo University)
  • MA Communications and Language Arts (University of Ibadan)

Work experience

Editors Canada (Editors BC)

Jun, 2022 — Jun, 2024 (about 2 years)
I served on the executive of Editors BC (a branch of Editors Canada), managing the provincial publication (West Coast Editor) and working with a team of volunteer writers and editors to publish editing resources and articles for Editors Canada members.

Narrative Landscape Press

Jun, 2020 — Present
I've worked on a freelance basis with Narrative Landscape Press, providing copy editing and developmental editing services to fiction writers. I've worked on various genres (romance, women's fiction, and short story), covering sensitive topics like child marriage, female infertility, and obstetric fistula. Some of these writers have become friends and close acquaintances!

Portfolio

Saro

Campbell, Nikę

Narrative Landscape Press

Developmental Editing Editorial Assessment
MY HEART CRIES FOR JUSTICE

Ajiboye, Folashade

Developmental Editing Editorial Assessment
The Law is an Ass: A Collection of Short Stories

Adedokun, Niran

Narrative Landscape Press

Copy Editing
The Waiting Room

Adebayo, Bolatito

Narrative Landscape Press

Developmental Editing Editorial Assessment
Developmental Editing Editorial Assessment
Copy Editing

Lola has 1 review

Professionalism

Quality

Value

Responsiveness

D S.

D S.

Mar, 2025

Lola provided excellent advice in a positive, supportive manner. I'd be pleased to work with her again.
Lola O.
Thank you, D! It was a pleasure working with you, and I'll look out for your stories!

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