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7 Insider Secrets to Get a Top Agent, Publisher, and Book Deal
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Literary Agent Directory
Important: Visit each agent’s website (links in their listings below) to see if they’re open to submissions before querying.
- You are searching within category(ies): Commercial Fiction
Biography
Susan C. Ingram is an agent with Williamson Literary. She joined Williamson Literary in 2019 after knowing, and writing with, Emily Williamson for close to a decade. From classmates in the Johns Hopkins MA in Writing program, to longtime writing group colleagues to editing and agenting, Emily and Susan have found they have similar approaches to writing and tastes in literature. Besides, they enjoy working together. ItÕs a good fit for them and the writers seeking representation with Williamson Lit. Susan comes to agenting as an award-winning journalist with a number of careers under her belt. A Baltimore County native, Susan worked 20 years as a film industry camera assistant in Los Angeles and Baltimore and 20 years in journalism as a newspaper reporter and editor. She has also taught writing, written speeches for a county councilman, copy edited a well-known international wine journal and happily shelved books at her local library. She now works as a writer and editor in addition to agenting. After attaining her bachelorÕs degree in film from the University of Maryland Baltimore County, she attended the graduate program in film at UCLA and later graduated from the International CinematographerÕs camera assistant training program in Los Angeles. She received her Master of Arts in Writing from Johns Hopkins University in 2012. Susan loves reading an array of fiction and nonfiction and is an Ernest Shackleton freak and classic film fan. She has a penchant for settling in with a bowl of popcorn on Saturday nights with her two rescue cats, Mack and Baine, to watch horror host Svengoolie and his eclectic selection of horror movies. More at newzcook.wordpress.com
Notes
FICTION: Action Adventure, Commercial Fiction, Contemporary Fiction, Fantasy, Fiction, Historical Fiction, Humor Fiction, Literary Fiction, Magical Realism, Multicultural Fiction, Satire, Suspense Fiction, Upmarket Fiction, Women’s Fiction NONFICTION: Biography, BIPOC Nonfiction, Cultural Social Issues, Education, Environment, History, Humor Nonfiction, Inspirational Nonfiction, Journalism, Multicultural Nonfiction, Narrative Nonfiction, Nature, Nonfiction, Science, Sports, Technology, Travel, True Adventure, True Crime, Women’s Issues
Biography
Nathaniel Jacks is a literary agent with InkWell Management. He joined InkWell Management after graduating from Columbia University with a BA in literature. Among the books he represents are The Birth of Cool by New Yorker contributor Nicola Twilley, The Heavenly Table by Guggenheim Fellow Donald Ray Pollock, American Hookup by sociologist Lisa Wade, Ph.D., The Code of Trust by behavioral expert Robin Dreeke, and Broad Influence by TIME Washington correspondent Jay Newton-Small. He is excited to work with ambitious authors whose books enlighten everyday life, demystify systems, explore the mind, question the status quo, and empower self-improvement. He also oversees contracts at InkWell.
Notes
FICTION: Commercial Fiction, Crime Fiction, Fantasy, Fiction, General Fiction, Historical Fiction, Literary Fiction, Mainstream Fiction, Mystery, Short Story Collection, Women’s Fiction NONFICTION: Autobiography, Biography, Business Book, Celebrity, Cookbook Cooking, Cultural Social Issues, Current Events Affairs, Dating Relationships Sex, Economics, Film Entertainment, Food Drink, General Nonfiction, Gift Novelty, Health Wellness, History, Humor Nonfiction, Lifestyle, Medical Medicine, Memoir, Military War Nonfiction, Money Finance, Multicultural Nonfiction, Music, Narrative Nonfiction, Nonfiction, Politics, Pop Culture, Religion, Science, Self-Help, Spirituality, Technology, Travel CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Picture Book, Young Adult Fiction
Eleanor Jackson
Dunow, Carlson & Lerner Literary AgencyAccepting SubmissionsQuery Method(s): Email or Postal MailBiography
Eleanor Jackson is a literary agent with Dunow, Carlson & Lerner Literary Agency. She has been agenting since 2002. Previously, she was an agent at Markson Thoma and at InkWell Management. She is a graduate of Colby College and the Columbia Publishing course. Her list includes authors of fiction and non-fiction in a wide range of categories, including literary, commercial, memoir, art, food, science and history. She looks for books with deeply imagined worlds, and for writers who take risks with their work. She lives in Brooklyn NY.
Notes
FICTION: Commercial Fiction, Crime Fiction, Fantasy, Fiction, General Fiction, Literary Fiction, Mystery, Science Fiction, Suspense Fiction, Thriller NONFICTION: Art, Biography, Food Drink, General Nonfiction, Health Wellness, History, Lifestyle, Memoir, Mind Body Spirit, Narrative Nonfiction, Nonfiction, Science, Travel, True Crime, Upmarket Nonfiction CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books
Biography
Heather Jackson is a literary agent with and the founder of the Heather Jackson Literary Agency. She decided to vault over the desk to the agent side in 2016 after a highly successful career as a trade editor. In her 20+ years as an editor she acted as the creative midwife to multiple dozens of New York Times bestselling authors and titles, including: Tim Ferriss, Jillian Michaels, Dr. Steven Gundry, Ron Fournier, Joy Bauer, Rick Hanson, Dr. Robert C. Atkins, Dr. Arthur Agatston, Dr. Nancy Snyderman, Dr. Susan Love, Dr. Alice D. Domar, Dr. Barbara Fredrickson, Mallika Chopra, Barbara Sher, Martina Navratilova, Joe and Teresa Graedon, B. Smith and Dan Gasby, Howard Dully…among many others. The selective client list she and we are cultivating has one unifying theme: to represent authors and books that entertain, elevate, inform, or make some type of positive difference to the individual reader or our larger society. Works that make you want to press the pause button on everything else–ditch the screens, the duties, the worries–to sit down and read for hours. Books that can ignite or shift a conversation and that might unite us rather than divide us further. And, most importantly, books that can connect deeply and widely with masses of readers. We specialize in commercial non-fiction, both narrative and prescriptive, and in contemporary fiction. We represent top-tier authors in health and well-being, psychology/self-help, politics and current affairs, as well as memoir and personal finance. We are always on the hunt for brilliant writing and deeply moving journalistic narratives that share insights into unseen aspects of our culture, subcultures, and the function or workings of our world. We love big ideas and groundbreaking big think books. We love historical and contemporary fiction penned with propulsive storylines, sharp and textured writing, and peopled with vivid characters. Lastly, we are steadfastly looking for a reliable narrator who isn’t a psychopath, a multi-generational family saga that surprises, and, well, something that is just pure magicÉreminding us that a creative hand can take us places we didnÕt even know we wanted to go.
Notes
FICTION: Commercial Fiction, Contemporary Fiction, Crime Fiction, Family Saga, Fiction, General Fiction, Historical Fiction, Literary Fiction, Magical Realism, Mystery, Romance, Suspense Fiction, Thriller, Women’s Fiction NONFICTION: Business Book, Cultural Social Issues, Current Events Affairs, Dating Relationships Sex, Diet Nutrition, Economics, General Nonfiction, Health Wellness, History, How-To, Humor Nonfiction, Journalism, Lifestyle, Memoir, Mind Body Spirit, Money Finance, Narrative Nonfiction, Nonfiction, Parenting, Politics, Psychology, Science, Self-Help, Upmarket Nonfiction
Biography
Michelle Jackson is a literary agent with LCS Literary Services. She represents books that evoke heartfelt emotions and fervent conversations among readers. Her mission is to mentor and develop authors, particularly those from underrepresented communities, and help them build a brand of quality and authentic reads. Originally from Jamaica, West Indies, Michelle is now a literary agent with LCS Literary. She began her agenting career as an intern and then a Literary Associate with Olswanger Literary. She is also a published author and has earned educational degrees from New York University, SUNY at StonyBrook, Teachers College Columbia University and Argosy University. Michelle looks forward to bringing adult fiction and select young adult and non-fiction works of new authors to the masses, especially BIPOC and underrepresented authors. She is also a content editor and loves developing and working with new authors to help them hone their craft. She is looking for stories with strong character arcs and hooks. Intriguing plot lines that keep her up at night until she gets to the last page. Romances that make her heart swoon, thrillers that keep her guessing and heartwarming, uplifting tales. Stories about sister friends, mother-daughter relationships. Stories with themes of friendship, forgiveness, love and second chances. Michelle has a soft spot for fellow educators who are writers and for stories featuring educators. She is also looking for those who want to write category romancesÐshe also loves Amish romances!
Notes
FICTION: BIPOC Fiction, Chick Lit, Commercial Fiction, Contemporary Fiction, Family Saga, Fantasy, Fiction, General Fiction, Historical Fiction, Humor Fiction, Inspirational Fiction, Literary Fiction, Multicultural Fiction, New Adult Fiction, Religious Fiction, Romance, Science Fiction, Suspense Fiction, Thriller, Women’s Fiction NONFICTION: Biography, BIPOC Nonfiction, Cookbook Cooking, Dating Relationships Sex, Family, Health Wellness, Memoir, Narrative Nonfiction, Nonfiction, Self-Help, Spirituality, True Crime CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Picture Book, Young Adult Fiction
Biography
Hillary Jacobson is a literary agent with CAA/ICM.She represents a wide array of adult and young adult fiction, as well as select non-fiction. She began her career at ICM in 2015 and joined CAA in 2022 following the agencyÕs acquisition of ICM. A lifelong obsessive reader, she is always on the hunt for writing that provokes a strong emotional reaction, adds an important perspective to the cultural conversation, or challenges the reader’s beliefs. She is particularly drawn to suspense, coming-of-age narratives, sweeping family sagas, moving love stories and rom-coms, as well as speculative fiction. To submit your work, please send your pitch and the first 10 pages of your manuscript in the body of an email. She responds to every query, and her average response time is approximately one month.
Notes
FICTION: Commercial Fiction, Contemporary Fiction, Crime Fiction, Family Saga, Fantasy, Fiction, General Fiction, Historical Fiction, Horror, Humor Fiction, Literary Fiction, Mystery, Romance, Science Fiction, Speculative Fiction, Suspense Fiction, Thriller, Upmarket Fiction, Women’s Fiction NONFICTION: General Nonfiction, Memoir, Narrative Nonfiction, Nonfiction CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Middle Grade Nonfiction, Young Adult Fiction
Biography
Amanda Jain is a literary agent with the BookEnds Literary Agency. Amanda came by her love of reading honestly, inheriting it from parents who always had books close to hand. She began her career in publishing at W. W. Norton, where she spent seven years before pursuing a masterÕs degree in history of the decorative arts. She rejoined publishing shortly thereafter at Inklings Literary Agency, and is excited every day to encounter new writers and their stories. Amanda currently reps adult romance, mystery, womenÕs fiction, and upmarket fiction, with a special emphasis on historical fiction in all genres. She also represents narrative nonfiction, especially projects exploring the literary world, art history, material culture, archaeology, food history, or social history. She loves projects with a strong sense of place and those that create a completely immersive world. She is particularly interested in books that add something important to the conversation, that explore stories we havenÕt yet heard, and that introduce new voices to our reading experience. Amanda currently lives outside of Washington, DC with her husband and two kids. When sheÕs not reading, she likes to cook, root for the Cubs, and spend as much time outside as she can.
Notes
FICTION: Action Adventure, Chick Lit, Commercial Fiction, Contemporary Fiction, Crime Fiction, Family Saga, Fantasy, Fiction, Historical Fiction, Horror, LGBTQ Fiction, Literary Fiction, Magical Realism, Multicultural Fiction, Mystery, Romance, Science Fiction, Short Story Collection, Suspense Fiction, Thriller, Upmarket Fiction NONFICTION: Art, Biography, Cookbook Cooking, Cultural Social Issues, Current Events Affairs, Environment, Film Entertainment, Food Drink, Gardening, Gift Novelty, History, Journalism, LGBTQ Nonfiction, Multicultural Nonfiction, Narrative Nonfiction, Nature, Nonfiction, Politics, Pop Culture, Science, Sports, Technology, Travel, True Adventure, True Crime, Women’s Issues
Biography
Renee Jarvis is a literary agent with Triangle House. Born and raised in New York City, she graduated from Brooklyn College with a BFA in Creative Writing. She previously worked as an assistant and agent at MacKenzie Wolf Literary and spent two years as a writing teacher at the non-profit organization Legal Outreach. RenŽe is seeking narrative nonfiction, adult speculative, upmarket, and literary fiction, and childrenÕs books. She is looking for works that center POC and LGBTQIA+ voices and is particularly drawn to the work of Black writers across the African diaspora. In nonfiction, she is interested in pop culture analysis, cultural histories, linguistics, food writing, international stories, and explorations of music, fashion, and art. In fiction, she loves robust plots, bold characters with a sense of humor, unique formats, stories that explore friendship and family, and lyrical prose.
Notes
FICTION: BIPOC Fiction, Chick Lit, Commercial Fiction, Contemporary Fiction, Family Saga, Fantasy, Fiction, Graphic Novel, Historical Fiction, Humor Fiction, LGBTQ Fiction, Literary Fiction, Magical Realism, Multicultural Fiction, Romance, Satire, Science Fiction, Short Story Collection, Speculative Fiction, Upmarket Fiction NONFICTION: Art, Beauty Fashion Style, BIPOC Nonfiction, Cultural Social Issues, Current Events Affairs, Dating Relationships Sex, Design, Environment, Film Entertainment, Food Drink, Gardening, Health Wellness, History, How-To, Humor Nonfiction, Journalism, LGBTQ Nonfiction, Memoir, Multicultural Nonfiction, Music, Narrative Nonfiction, Nature, Nonfiction, Photography, Pop Culture, Psychology, Religion, Science, Spirituality, Technology, Travel CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Picture Book, Young Adult Fiction
Biography
Alyssa Jennette is a literary agent with the Stonesong Literary Agency. She joined Stonesong in June 2015 after interning at the Sarah Jane Freymann Literary Agency. She grew up in Pittsburgh, PA and graduated from the Maryland Institute College of Art with a BFA in Illustration in 2010. As a result, she has unique insight and expertise when it comes to design-heavy or illustrated works. Alyssa is a very editorial agent; she finds a lot of joy in shaping stories alongside the author and delights in building long-term partnerships. In her spare time, she’s the co-founder of a three-year-old book club called #readmorewomen, and a snuggler of cats. Alyssa Jennette represents childrenÕs and adult fiction and picture books, graphic novels, and select pop culture nonfiction. She values diversity and inclusion; in fiction she enjoys ensemble casts with distinct voices, stories about poor characters and communities, and formats that are specific to a story and give it its own context. Alyssa is particularly interested in art/art history/art conservation, archaeology, mythology, language/translation, and criminal justice reform. Her client list includes sex educator and GIRL SEX 101 author Allison Moon, Instagram sensation/art restorer Julian Baumgartner, illustrator Jessica Roux, internet storyteller Mollyhall Seeley, middle grade authors Chris Negron and Brandon Hoang, and more.
Notes
FICTION: BIPOC Fiction, Commercial Fiction, Crime Fiction, Family Saga, Fantasy, Fiction, General Fiction, Graphic Novel, Horror, Humor Fiction, LGBTQ Fiction, Literary Fiction, Mystery, New Adult Fiction, Thriller, Women’s Fiction NONFICTION: Art, Beauty Fashion Style, BIPOC Nonfiction, Crafts, Cultural Social Issues, Dating Relationships Sex, General Nonfiction, History, Humor Nonfiction, Illustrated, Journalism, Law Legal, LGBTQ Nonfiction, Memoir, Nonfiction, Pop Culture, Science, Technology, True Crime CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Picture Book, Young Adult Fiction NONFICTION: Christian Books, Christian Nonfiction
Biography
Bethany Jett is a literary agent at MacGregor & Luedeke. She has an affinity for projects with strong commercial appeal and potential for literary recognition. Since becoming an agent, Bethany has drawn on over a decade of industry experience. A multi-award winning author with an MFA in Communication, she brings a sharp editorial eye and strong market instincts to every project she takes on. Bethany teaches at conferences nationwide and loves to help writers position their work with clarity and purpose. She is a lifelong planner enthusiast, proud boy mom, and military spouse who lives outside of D.C. with her family and their not-spoiled-at-all Pomeranian.
Notes
FICTION: Commercial Fiction, Fiction, Historical Fiction, Inspirational Fiction, Mystery, Religious Fiction, Romance, Suspense Fiction, Thriller, Upmarket Fiction, Women’s Fiction NONFICTION: Business Book, Cookbook Cooking, Crafts, Design, Food Drink, Gardening, Gift Novelty, How-To, Lifestyle, Nonfiction, Religion, Self-Help CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Picture Book NONFICTION: Christian Books, Christian Fiction, Christian Nonfiction
Biography
Jennifer Joel is a literary agent with CAA/ICM. She is co-head of the literary department of the agency. She says: “When I left my first job as an investment banker at Goldman Sachs to become a literary agent, most of my new colleagues were aghast at what they perceived IÕd given up for the privilege of working in a creative field. More recently, IÕm commended for my wise and prescient career change. IÕm extremely fortunate to be able to spend my time representing a diverse group of writers of both fiction and nonfiction, whose work has in common two essential elements: theyÕre good stories, well told. My clients include literary and commercial novelists for adults and young readers, historians, biographers, memoirists, journalists, strategists, adventurers, entertainers and other extraordinary individuals with big ideas to share. IÕm also a member of The Library Council at the New York Public Library and a Term Member at the Council on Foreign Relations.”
Notes
FICTION: Commercial Fiction, Crime Fiction, Fiction, General Fiction, Literary Fiction, Mystery, Suspense Fiction, Thriller NONFICTION: Biography, Business Book, Cookbook Cooking, Cultural Social Issues, Current Events Affairs, Dating Relationships Sex, Film Entertainment, Food Drink, General Nonfiction, History, Humor Nonfiction, Journalism, Lifestyle, Memoir, Money Finance, Narrative Nonfiction, Nonfiction, Parenting, Politics, Pop Culture, Reference, Religion, Science, Self-Help, Spirituality, Sports, Technology, True Adventure CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Middle Grade Nonfiction, Picture Book, Young Adult Fiction
Biography
Barbara Jones is a literary agent with the Stuart Krichevsky Literary Agency. She represents authors behind a range of fiction and nonfiction, from highly literary works to much more commercial fare, with an emphasis across all forms on voices from previously underrepresented communities and on durable talents and stories. Barbara became a literary agent after several decades as an editor, first in magazines (Grand Street, HarperÕs, Vogue, Real Simple) and then in books (as editorial director at Hyperion Books and, most recently as executive editor at Henry Holt). She has also led writing workshops for thirty years, at Yale University, New York University, Queens University of Charlotte, and elsewhere. She lives in Harlem, New York, with her family. Barbara became a literary agent after several decades as an editor, first in magazines (Grand Street, HarperÕs, Vogue, Real Simple) and then in books (as editorial director at Hyperion Books and, most recently as executive editor at Henry Holt). She has also led writing workshops for thirty years, at Yale University, New York University, Queens University of Charlotte, and elsewhere. She lives in Harlem, New York, with her family.
Notes
FICTION: BIPOC Fiction, Commercial Fiction, Fiction, General Fiction, Literary Fiction, Upmarket Fiction NONFICTION: BIPOC Nonfiction, General Nonfiction, Memoir, Narrative Nonfiction, Nonfiction, Upmarket Nonfiction
Biography
Kima Jones is a literary agent with Triangle House. She is the founder of Jack Jones Literary Arts, a Los Angeles-based book publicity agency for black and brown writers, where, for five years, she worked as lead strategist on all publicity campaigns. In 2017, Kima founded the Jack Jones Literary Arts retreatÑa two-week respite and book incubator for black and brown nonbinary and women writers. The Los Angeles Times called Kima “2018’s literary breakthrough” and “an important new voice on the national stage.” In 2019, Kima founded Culture, TooÑa mentorship conference for black and brown cultural critics. In the spring of 2021, Kima Jones joined Triangle House Literary as an agent where she is interested in representing literary fiction, essay collections, memoir, hybrid texts, commercial fiction, poetry, speculative fiction, science fiction, and horror. She brings more than a decade of marketing and publicity experience into her agenting negotiations.
Notes
FICTION: Commercial Fiction, Family Saga, Fiction, General Fiction, Horror, LGBTQ Fiction, Literary Fiction, Science Fiction, Short Story Collection, Speculative Fiction NONFICTION: Cookbook Cooking, Fitness, Food Drink, Health Wellness, Journalism, LGBTQ Nonfiction, Memoir, Music, Narrative Nonfiction, Nonfiction, Poetry, Pop Culture, True Crime
Biography
Camille Kantor is a literary agent with Kimberley Cameron & Associates. Camille is a mother, scientist, and devoted New Yorker magazine reader. While completing a masterÕs degree in evolutionary biology, a journey that bridged the birth of her two sons, she became interested in how people communicate about nature and biology. Her pivot into publishing involved attending and graduating the renowned Columbia Publishing Program at Oxford. She now also works as a buyer at her local Indie bookstore: CopperfieldÕs Books. As an agent at Kimberley Cameron & Associates she is excited to work with authors who have a talent to catch a readerÕs attention while describing complex topics and who share in the desire to broaden the general publicÕs understanding and appreciation of the natural world. Camille is looking for titles, whether fiction or non-fiction, that will inspire the public to engage with nature while imparting fascinating knowledge about our planet and its inhabitants, whether fiction or non-fiction. She is particularly interested in popular science non-fiction work, such as Darkness Manifesto by Johan Eklšf or An Immense World by Ed Yong, where the author has a commanding voice that feels less like lecturing and more like storytelling. CamilleÕs fiction tastes include books that immerse the reader in descriptive but clear imagery and that have themes of nature-human interactions. She especially loves interesting, well-developed characters and high concept literary fiction that approaches philosophical topics about our relationship with our planet, think Overstory by Richard Powers or Dinosaurs by Lydia Millet. She is not currently looking for young adult literature or picture books.
Notes
FICTION: Action Adventure, Commercial Fiction, Contemporary Fiction, Fiction, Historical Fiction, Inspirational Fiction, Literary Fiction, Short Story Collection, Upmarket Fiction, Women’s Fiction NONFICTION: Biography, Cultural Social Issues, Current Events Affairs, Environment, History, Journalism, Narrative Nonfiction, Nature, Nonfiction, Science, Technology, True Adventure
Biography
Kelly Karczewski is a literary agent with UTA. She joined UTA in 2023, after almost two years at Fletcher & Company. She is currently building her list in both fiction and nonfiction. In fiction, Kelly is generally drawn towards sharp, contemporary stories that draw you in with a strong commercial hook, and keep you reading with effortless, surprising writing. SheÕs a bit of an omnivore in terms of genre, but anything that might be a GMA Book Club Pick is usually right up her alley. If thereÕs a lightly speculative element, a bit of well-placed humor, or female characters with bite, count her in. Novels she loved: Sorrow & Bliss by Meg Mason; The Interestings by Meg Wolitzer; anything written by Rebecca Makkai; Oona Out of Order by Margarita Montimore; Ministry of Time by Kaliane Bradley; Rodham by Curtis Sittenfeld; Trust by Hernan Diaz; Great Circle by Maggie Shipstead; Goodbye, Vitamin by Rachel Khong; The Husbands by Holly Gramazio. For nonfiction, she reads solely to learn something new–and while there is little she isnÕt curious about, sheÕs most interested in exploring topics with bite, especially those that speak to a larger moment in our culture. SheÕs always eager to read more about sexuality, conspiracy theories, cults, modern takes on dating & relationships, and feminist history.
Notes
FICTION: BIPOC Fiction, Commercial Fiction, Contemporary Fiction, Family Saga, Fiction, General Fiction, Historical Fiction, Humor Fiction, LGBTQ Fiction, Literary Fiction, Mystery, New Adult Fiction, Romance, Speculative Fiction, Thriller, Upmarket Fiction, Women’s Fiction NONFICTION: Art, Beauty Fashion Style, Cultural Social Issues, Dating Relationships Sex, Family, General Nonfiction, History, Humor Nonfiction, Investigative, Journalism, LGBTQ Nonfiction, Lifestyle, Memoir, Narrative Nonfiction, Nonfiction, Parenting, Pop Culture, Psychology, Self-Help, Spirituality, Sports, True Crime, Women’s Issues
Biography
Barney Karpfinger is a literary agent with and the founder of the Karpfinger Agency. Barney Karpfinger studied English at Columbia University while supporting himself by working as a paralegal. Before establishing the agency in 1985, he ran the contracts department of a major New York publishing company. Over the years, Barney has represented more fiction than non-fiction. Recently, though, heÕs worked on a bit more non-fictionÑwork as varied as a philosopherÕs take on procrastination, a dance criticÕs look at grace in all of its manifestations and an investigative reporterÕs examination of the big-money business of college football. The writers Barney works with share an ease with language and the ability to tell a compelling story.
Notes
FICTION: Commercial Fiction, Fiction, General Fiction, Literary Fiction, Mystery NONFICTION: Art, Biography, Business Book, Cultural Social Issues, Current Events Affairs, General Nonfiction, Investigative, Journalism, Memoir, Money Finance, Narrative Nonfiction, Nonfiction, Photography, Politics, Reference, Science, Sports, Technology
Biography
Kaitlyn Katsoupis is a literary agent with the Belcastro Agency. After receiving a BA in Writing, Literature, and Publishing from Emerson College, Kaitlyn refused to leave the concept of nightly homework behind. A literary agent for Belcastro Literary Agency, she is also a freelance editor at her own company, K. Johnson Editorial. Kaitlyn started her literary journey as a copyeditor for academic publisher codeMantra, a YA editor for Accent Press, a Conference Assistant for GrubStreet, Boston, a former agent with Corvisiero Literary Agency. She has written various articles for WriterÕs Digest and has had a flash fiction story published in the anthology A Box of Stars Beneath the Bed. Some of KaitlynÕs favorite books: Cornelia Funke (Inkheart series); Michael Buckley (Undertow series); John Green (more Looking for Alaska, less An Abundance of Katherines); Gayle Forman (Just One Year and Just One Day); Lois Lowry (The Giver series); Scott OÕDell (Island of the Blue Dolphins). Her favorite tv shows are Doctor Who, Buffy, Supernatural, Firefly, basically the nerdier the fandom the better.
Notes
FICTION: Commercial Fiction, Contemporary Fiction, Fantasy, Fiction, Gothic Fiction, Graphic Novel, Historical Fiction, Horror, LGBTQ Fiction, Literary Fiction, Magical Realism, New Adult Fiction, Paranormal Fiction, Romance, Science Fiction, Suspense Fiction, Thriller, Women’s Fiction CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Young Adult Fiction
Biography
Isabel Kaufman is a literary agent with Fox Literary. She is actively looking to build her list in fantasy & science fiction, adult literary fiction, horror, historical fiction, contemporary commercial fiction, and upper-level young adult literature. She is looking for smart, inventive, ambitious storytelling and welcomes speculative elements across all genres. She is also interested in creative nonfiction and microhistories particularly related to travel, food, and incisive cultural perspectives on luxury and beauty. Her taste is varied, but she is consistently drawn to dynamic, thoughtful prose and vibrant character voice. She is actively seeking work from historically underrepresented and marginalized perspectives. She appreciates fresh takes on familiar archetypes, new perspectives on well-known myths and fairytales, and crossover rehabilitations of “archaic” genres such as noir, gothic, and classical revenge tragedy (she has a master’s in revenge tragedy and is willing to get bloody!). Recent books she has loved include THE GLASS HOTEL, by Emily St. John Mandel; SEVERANCE, by Ling Ma; the LOCKED TOMB trilogy, by Tamsyn Muir; PRIORY OF THE ORANGE TREE, by Samantha Shannon; THE IDIOT, by Elif Batuman; LUSTER, by Raven Leilani; PLAIN BAD HEROINES, by Emily Danforth; FRESHWATER, by Akwaeke Emezi. Nonfiction favorites include PRIESTDADDY, by Patricia Lockwood; SECONDHAND TIME, by Svetlana Alexievich; BLOOD, BONES, AND BUTTER, by Gabrielle Hamilton; and THE EMPEROR OF SCENT, by Luca Turin. Permanent must-read authors include Helen Oyeyemi and Megan Abbott.
Notes
FICTION: BIPOC Fiction, Commercial Fiction, Contemporary Fiction, Fantasy, Fiction, General Fiction, Gothic Fiction, Graphic Novel, Historical Fiction, Horror, LGBTQ Fiction, Literary Fiction, Mystery, New Adult Fiction, Romance, Science Fiction, Speculative Fiction, Suspense Fiction, Thriller, Upmarket Fiction, Women’s Fiction NONFICTION: Beauty Fashion Style, Biography, BIPOC Nonfiction, Cultural Social Issues, Food Drink, General Nonfiction, History, Lifestyle, Memoir, Narrative Nonfiction, Nonfiction, Travel CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Young Adult Fiction
Biography
Tamara Kawar is a literary agent with DeFiore and Company. Tamara joined DeFiore and Company in 2022. She started her career with internships at Macmillan and Writers House, then worked at ICM for five years. Tamara represents writer and illustrator clients in both the childrenÕs and adult markets, with a particular focus on talented LGBTQ+ and BIPOC storytellers. She holds a B.A. in Comparative Literature from Princeton University and an M.A. in Middle Eastern Studies from Columbia University. She also serves on the AALAÕs Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion committee, where she co-directs a mentorship program for early career agents from underrepresented backgrounds. Tamara is actively seeking graphic novels for all ages and across genres; science fiction, fantasy, horror, and historical fiction for middle grade, YA, and adult readers; upmarket and book club fiction, especially genre-bending stories, and those with an international bent; and adult & YA rom-coms and romance featuring LGBTQ+ characters. She also represents select nonfiction for young readers, including illustrated projects. Across all categories, she is passionate about championing marginalized voices and perspectives.
Notes
FICTION: BIPOC Fiction, Commercial Fiction, Contemporary Fiction, Fantasy, Fiction, General Fiction, Graphic Novel, Historical Fiction, Horror, LGBTQ Fiction, Literary Fiction, Magical Realism, Multicultural Fiction, Mystery, Romance, Science Fiction, Speculative Fiction, Upmarket Fiction, Women’s Fiction NONFICTION: Art, Cultural Social Issues, Illustrated, LGBTQ Nonfiction, Memoir, Nonfiction, Photography, Pop Culture CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Board Book, Chapter Book Nonfiction, Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Picture Book, Young Adult Fiction
Biography
Kristyn Keene Benton is a literary agent with CAA/ICM. She represents a wide range of writers across many genres, including essay collections, memoirs, sophisticated prescriptive nonfiction, literary and commercial fiction, and the occasional childrenÕs picture book. Her roster includes New York Times bestselling authors and prize winners, such as recipients of the PEN America Award, Southern Book Prize, and National Book AwardÕs Ò5 Under 35,Ó as well as authors whose books have been featured in the Book Clubs of notable clients Jenna Bush Hager and Reese Witherspoon. She began her career at ICM in 2006 and joined CAA in 2022 following the agencyÕs acquisition of ICM. She is a graduate of the University of California, Santa Barbara with degrees in English and Writing as well as the Columbia Publishing Course. After being based in New York City for over a decade, she now lives in Minneapolis with her husband and children. To query Benton, please send a note by email describing yourself and your book.
Notes
FICTION: Commercial Fiction, Fiction, General Fiction, Literary Fiction, Romance, Suspense Fiction, Thriller, Upmarket Fiction, Women’s Fiction NONFICTION: General Nonfiction, Health Wellness, Humor Nonfiction, Memoir, Narrative Nonfiction, Nonfiction, Pop Culture CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Picture Book, Young Adult Fiction
Biography
Rachel Kent is a literary agent with Books & Such Literary Agency. Rachel Kent has been an agent with Books & Such since 2007. Rachel started at Books & Such as a summer intern while she was attending U.C. Davis and then, after graduating, worked part-time at the agency as an assistant. Her favorite part of the job was reading a manuscript and providing an author with feedback to help him or her to improve the project. She graduated from Davis in three years with a bachelorÕs degree in English and minors in both religious studies and psychology. Rachel has more than eight years of experience and training working closely with Janet Kobobel Grant and Wendy Lawton, as well as part-time with author Robin Jones Gunn in creating marketing materials and promotional ideas to keep Robin connected with her readers. Through RachelÕs work at the agency and with authors, she has gained an understanding of the publishing process, contract negotiation, and what it takes to successfully write and market a book. RachelÕs goal is to develop strong relationships with her authors and to help them to develop lasting relationships with their editors and publishers. Good relationships have always been important to her. She likes to stick by people. She believes that as long as two people are dedicated toward working together, the relationship can work, and they can accomplish the task at hand. Rachel acquires fiction and nonfiction projects with a special interest in YA, 20-something and 30-something projects. She lives with her husband and family in Northern California.
Notes
FICTION: Commercial Fiction, Contemporary Fiction, Fantasy, Fiction, General Fiction, Inspirational Fiction, Romance, Science Fiction, Women’s Fiction NONFICTION: General Nonfiction, Nonfiction, Religion, Spirituality CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Picture Book, Young Adult Fiction, Young Adult Nonfiction NONFICTION: Christian Books, Christian Fiction, Christian Nonfiction
Biography
Kat Kerr is a literary agent with the Donald Maass Literary Agency. She graduated from Florida State University with a Bachelors in English in 2009. Kat feels strongly about supporting programs like We Need Diverse Books and is passionate about creating space in this industry for those from historically marginalized communities.
Notes
FICTION: BIPOC Fiction, Chick Lit, Commercial Fiction, Contemporary Fiction, Family Saga, Fantasy, Fiction, Historical Fiction, LGBTQ Fiction, Literary Fiction, Magical Realism, Multicultural Fiction, Romance, Science Fiction, Speculative Fiction, Upmarket Fiction, Women’s Fiction NONFICTION: Biography, BIPOC Nonfiction, Cookbook Cooking, Cultural Social Issues, Current Events Affairs, Food Drink, Journalism, LGBTQ Nonfiction, Memoir, Multicultural Nonfiction, Music, Narrative Nonfiction, Nonfiction, Pop Culture, Psychology, Women’s Issues CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Young Adult Fiction
Biography
Lauren Khan is an Associate Agent at FinePrint Literary Management. She joined FinePrint Literary in 2025 as an Associate Agent following an internship at Triada US Literary Agency. She first entered the publishing world as an author. Prior to transitioning to agenting, she worked for over seven years as a corporate lawyer in New York City. Lauren brings both editorial and transactional expertise to her clients. Lauren lives with her family in her small beach hometown in Florida. She wrote her first novel while pregnant with her son and began agenting while pregnant with her daughter. A graduate of Duke University and Fordham University School of Law, she loves podcasts, long walks with her dog, and all things Nora Ephron. As a former theatre kid, Lauren is a lifelong champion of storytelling, subjecting her loved ones to her songs, stories, and plays from the moment she could talk. An avid reader across genres, Lauren is particularly interested in adult and YA commercial fiction, especially womenÕs fiction, romance, mysteries, and thrillers, as well as select non-fiction titles. She is an editorial agent with a strong interest in developing fulfilling and long-lasting careers for her authors.
Notes
FICTION: Commercial Fiction, Fiction, Mystery, Romance, Thriller, Women’s Fiction NONFICTION: General Nonfiction, Nonfiction CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Young Adult Fiction
Biography
Julia Kim is an assistant agent with The Rights Factory. Julia graduated from Western University with a BA (Hons) and MA in English Literature. Her experience includes working as a freelance editor and an Assistant Editor at Dundurn Press before joining The Rights Factory in 2024.
In fiction, she is looking for literary, upmarket, and commercial. In nonfiction, she is seeking a range of topics including history, politics, current affairs, social justice, womenÕs issues, biography and memoir, food and lifestyle, art and culture, film and TV, and pop culture.
She is keen to support BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and historically underrepresented writers. As a second-generation Korean Canadian living in Toronto, she has a particular interest in diverse stories from diasporic communities.
Notes
Accepting Submissions | New Literary Agents |BIPOC Fiction | Commercial Fiction | Graphic Novel | LGBTQ Fiction | Literary Fiction | Upmarket Fiction |General Nonfiction | Art | Biography | Cultural Social Issues | Current Events Affairs | Film Entertainment | Food Drink | History | Lifestyle | Politics | Pop Culture | Women’s Issues |
Biography
Kirby Kim is a literary agent with Janklow & Nesbit Associates. A native of Los Angeles, California, Kirby attended Harvard-Westlake high school then went to Pomona College where he was a PPE (Philosophy, Politics, and Economics) major. He spent the year after graduation teaching English in South Korea and when he returned moved to San Francisco to get his JD at UC Hastings College of the Law. Kirby moved out to New York in the spring of 2004 and got his first job in publishing working for Charlotte Sheedy Literary, at that time an affiliate of Sterling Lord Literistic. He then moved to Vigliano Associates where he gradually started representing his own projects. In 2008, he joined Endeavor which the following year merged with William Morris. He stayed at WME for five years before joining Janklow & Nesbit. Kirby represents both literary and commercial authors. When it comes to literary work, heÕs alternatively drawn to rich, sweeping stories that try to encompass a time or a place or tightly written, narratively innovative stories that bridge genres. His commercial interests include thriller, horror, speculative and science fiction, young adult, and middle grade. He also represents a range of nonfiction working with leaders and journalists in the areas of science, culture and current affairs. HeÕs also known for representing pop culture, in particular music and comedy. Kirby is currently a board member of the Asian American Writers Workshop. He lives in Phoenix, Arizona with his wife and two kids.
Notes
FICTION: Commercial Fiction, Crime Fiction, Fantasy, Fiction, General Fiction, Graphic Novel, Horror, Literary Fiction, Mystery, Science Fiction, Speculative Fiction, Suspense Fiction, Thriller, Upmarket Fiction NONFICTION: Business Book, Cultural Social Issues, Current Events Affairs, Dating Relationships Sex, Economics, Food Drink, General Nonfiction, Health Wellness, History, How-To, Humor Nonfiction, Journalism, Medical Medicine, Memoir, Money Finance, Music, Narrative Nonfiction, Nonfiction, Pop Culture, Reference, Science, Self-Help, Sports, True Crime CHILDRENÕS BOOKS: Children’s Books, Middle Grade Fiction, Middle Grade Nonfiction, Picture Book, Young Adult Fiction, Young Adult Nonfiction
Biography
Natalie Kimber is a literary agent with The Rights Factory. She has worked with The Rights Factory since 2014, and is based in the New York area. She previously worked with the Georgetown University Booklab, and Literary and Creative Artists in Washington, DC. She is an associate editor for Monologging.org, organizer of the NYC Writers Circle, and founder of the Weehawken Writers and Artists Studio. She takes pride in guiding authors through the strategy and practical process of publishing, and yet she acknowledges that a wondrous magic is at work when books come into form.
As an aesthete and theologian at heart, she aspires to a Òpost-mystic modernÓ philosophy, which attempts to reintegrate our mystic roots and intuition with contemporary thought. Nat hails from the WestÑspecifically Colorado and New MexicoÑand cherishes art and books that capture that region. She is an avid cook and gardener, and credits her encyclopedic knowledge of food, wine and spirits to 20+ years of work in the restaurant industry. She canÕt live without chiles, cheese, potatoes, and wine. She discovered a love of classic and pre-code cinema when she joined a film club during the early days of the pandemic. She lives with her partner, two snuggly cats, and a rambunctious bunny in Weehawken, NJ.
In fiction she is looking for: literary, commercial, and upmarket womenÕs and LGBTQ+ fiction, romance, comedies, international or transnational stories, action/adventure, animal stories, modern mythology, nostalgic and historical fiction, and short fiction collections with a strong theme. It is most important that authors understand the WHY of their story and methods of storytelling. Novels and fiction need to have a great hook, while also showcasing craft. Within speculative fiction she likes magical realism, occult, and horror, but is not looking for traditional science fiction or fantasy.
She will consider the following YA categories: realistic/contemporary, rebellious teen fiction, boy books, horror, suspense/thriller, and some nonfiction for teens, especially if the book is related to activism, sustainability, empowerment, creative arts or personal growth. She is not looking for YA sci-fi or fantasy.
For nonfiction she is looking for: humor, memoir, biography, lifestyle, art, health, environment/climate, animal/pets, healing, spiritual/occult, history (especially ancient), peace studies, music, food/cooking/cocktails, pop culture, relationship, regional and international studies, writing craft, essay collections and literary criticism. She requests that authors use appropriate content warnings when querying with sensitive material.
Follow Nat on Twitter @Nat_TRF and Instagram @Zsunita.
Notes
CLOSED to Submissions | New Literary Agents |Juvenile Nonfiction | Young Adult Fiction | Young Adult Nonfiction | Action Adventure | Commercial Fiction | Graphic Novel | Historical Fiction | Humor Fiction | LGBTQ Fiction | Literary Fiction | Romance | Science Fiction | Suspense Fiction | Thriller | Upmarket Fiction | Women’s Fiction |Animals | Art | Biography | Cookbook Cooking | Dating Relationships Sex | Environment | Food Drink | Gardening | Health Wellness | History | Humor Nonfiction | Memoir | Music | Nature | Pop Culture | Science | Spirituality |
Biography
Harvey Klinger is a literary agent with the Harvey Klinger Literary Agency. Harvey received his M.A. in The Writing Seminars at Johns Hopkins University. He began his publishing career at Doubleday where he expected to become the next Max Perkins among editors. Instead, he left and worked for a literary agent for eighteen months and began forming his first client list. A two-year stint followed in association with an independent publicist. Harvey created his own independent operation in October, 1977 and has never looked back. He personally loves great adult commercial and literary fiction; and in non-fiction, books with a strong narrative voice in all disciplines, but written by an author who already has an established professional platform in one’s field of expertise.
Notes
FICTION: BIPOC Fiction, Commercial Fiction, Crime Fiction, Fiction, General Fiction, Literary Fiction, Multicultural Fiction, Mystery, New Adult Fiction, Romance, Suspense Fiction, Thriller, Women’s Fiction NONFICTION: Biography, BIPOC Nonfiction, Business Book, Cookbook Cooking, Current Events Affairs, Dating Relationships Sex, Diet Nutrition, Fitness, Food Drink, General Nonfiction, Health Wellness, History, How-To, Lifestyle, Money Finance, Multicultural Nonfiction, Narrative Nonfiction, Nonfiction, Politics, Psychology, Science, Self-Help, True Crime