In the quest to be published, the best literary agents can be your greatest allies.

This article introduces twelve exceptional agents who specialize in transforming new writers’ manuscripts into market successes. From literary fiction to memoir, romance to speculative fiction, explore how these experts can guide your work to the right audience.

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1. Allison Hunter: Advocate for Literary and Commercial Fiction

Allison Hunter, co-founder of Trellis Literary Management, is celebrated for her ability to identify powerful stories that bridge the literary and commercial divide. Her client list features debut authors who’ve gone on to achieve both critical acclaim and commercial success. With a keen editorial sense and a deep understanding of market dynamics, Allison tailors her approach to each writer’s voice and goals.

Her passion lies in emotionally resonant storytelling—fiction that challenges, moves, and entertains. Allison doesn’t just pitch books; she develops careers.

Why Aspiring Authors Need Allison Hunter

• Expertise in both literary and commercial markets

• Track record of launching debut authors to success

• Personalized, hands-on manuscript development

Working with Allison means having a trusted partner to help refine your story and navigate the complexities of the publishing world.

2. Joanne Wyckoff: Nonfiction Specialist

At the Carol Mann Agency, Joanne Wyckoff brings decades of expertise in nonfiction publishing. She seeks compelling voices in memoir, spirituality, and narrative nonfiction—particularly from writers with personal stories that can resonate on a wide scale.

Joanne is known for her ability to shape raw material into cohesive, impactful works. Her editorial insights are matched by her strong relationships with top nonfiction publishers, helping authors craft books that inform, inspire, and endure.

What Nonfiction Authors Gain with Joanne Wyckoff

• Deep understanding of nonfiction publishing

• Strong editorial support to refine your message

• Publisher connections across key nonfiction genres

With Joanne’s guidance, your real-life experiences can be transformed into a book that makes a lasting impression.

3. Caitlin McDonald: Champion of Speculative Fiction

Caitlin McDonald of Donald Maass Literary Agency is a driving force in science fiction, fantasy, and horror. Known for her dedication to inclusive voices and expansive world-building, Caitlin supports authors whose stories redefine the boundaries of genre fiction.

Whether you're building interstellar civilizations or crafting magical realms, Caitlin’s approach emphasizes innovation, authenticity, and career longevity.

The Edge You Get with Caitlin McDonald

• Support for complex, imaginative storytelling

• Advocacy for diverse and underrepresented voices

• Strategic planning for long-term genre careers

With Caitlin at your side, your speculative fiction can capture readers and carve out its place in the canon.

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4. Laura Bradford: Advocate for Romance and Women’s Fiction

Laura Bradford of Bradford Literary Agency has built her career around helping romance and women’s fiction writers connect deeply with readers. She looks for stories with strong emotional arcs and characters that resonate across demographics.

Her collaborative style empowers writers to refine their voice while staying true to their narrative vision, and her publishing network opens doors across romance subgenres.

Why Romance Writers Benefit from Laura Bradford

• Proven expertise in multiple romance subgenres

• Success with debut and established authors alike

• Manuscript development with reader engagement in mind

Partnering with Laura ensures your love stories find a home with readers who crave connection.

5. Carrie Pestritto: Enthusiast for Diverse Fiction

At Laura Dail Literary Agency, Carrie Pestritto is a passionate advocate for inclusive storytelling. Her mission is to amplify authors who offer fresh cultural insights, bold perspectives, and narratives that challenge convention.

Carrie actively builds relationships with publishers who prioritize diverse voices and understands how to shape manuscripts that not only sell—but matter.

How Carrie Pestritto Elevates Diverse Writers

• Strong commitment to inclusivity in publishing

• Championing stories with unique worldviews

• Alignment with editors seeking bold, original content

Carrie’s advocacy empowers underrepresented writers to break through and redefine what stories reach mainstream audiences.

6. Jessica Sinsheimer: Advocate for Emerging Voices

Jessica Sinsheimer of Context Literary Agency thrives on discovering talent. She’s widely recognized for working closely with new writers in genres ranging from thrillers and YA to literary fiction. Her approach is hands-on, nurturing manuscripts and writers from first draft to final deal.

Jessica also helps authors understand how to build their platforms and stay competitive in a crowded marketplace.

Advantages for New Authors with Jessica Sinsheimer

• Personalized guidance from pitch to publication

• Strategic support for platform and brand development

• Broad publishing network across genres

For new writers seeking a partner to launch their careers, Jessica’s mentorship is an invaluable asset.

If you're just starting out and want to build your platform, WriteSeen offers free tools to share your work, track feedback, and connect with collaborators.

Midpoint Recap: The Best Literary Agents Champion Voice and Vision

In every genre, the best literary agents do more than submit manuscripts—they nurture talent, refine stories, and build careers. Whether you're writing speculative fiction, memoir, romance, or literary fiction, these agents offer genre-specific expertise and personalized support that can shape your future as an author. Their experience, editorial skill, and industry networks ensure your work is not only seen—but remembered.

7. Seren Adams: Literary Fiction Specialist

As co-founder of Lexington Literary, Seren Adams brings a sharp eye for prose that surprises and lingers. Her focus is on literary fiction and narrative nonfiction that pushes boundaries and explores the unexpected.

Seren invests deeply in each manuscript, offering editorial insight and positioning authors for long-term success in the literary space.

How Authors Benefit with Seren Adams

• Emphasis on original, high-impact storytelling

• Editorial partnership that hones literary craft

• Long-term commitment to author development

Working with Seren ensures your work is not only polished—but powerfully positioned in the literary world.

8. Tara Gilbert: Supporter of Genre Fiction

Tara Gilbert of KT Literary is a force in genre publishing. She’s passionate about fantasy, romance, and science fiction, and especially keen on stories with compelling characters and immersive world-building.

Tara helps writers develop series, pitch confidently, and find readerships ready for their voice.

Pillars of Success with Tara Gilbert

• In-depth knowledge of genre publishing dynamics

• Support for building vibrant story universes

• Career-focused guidance from first book onward

With Tara’s expertise, your genre fiction can thrive in both traditional and digital spaces.

9. Holly Root: Advocate for Women’s Fiction and YA

Holly Root of Root Literary brings heart and strategy to women’s fiction and young adult storytelling. She’s drawn to emotional depth, character-driven arcs, and narratives that empower and inspire.

Holly’s connections with top editors and her commitment to author careers make her a standout guide for writers tackling today’s most meaningful themes.

Why Authors Choose Holly Root

• Focus on emotional resonance and reader impact

• Industry expertise in YA and women’s fiction markets

• Supportive, career-oriented representation

With Holly in your corner, your stories will connect across generations—and across publishers.

Tell stories that move people? Join the WriteSeen community to connect with readers and professionals who believe in the power of voice-driven fiction.

10. Bonnie Solow: Nonfiction and Memoir Expert

At Solow Literary Enterprises, Bonnie Solow champions nonfiction with heart and purpose. She seeks authors with compelling personal stories or transformative ideas—particularly in memoir and narrative nonfiction.

Bonnie helps authors refine their voice and positioning, ensuring manuscripts meet both artistic and market needs.

What Memoir Writers Gain with Bonnie Solow

• Insightful editing to elevate narrative clarity

• Strategic market positioning for nonfiction titles

• Strong connections to nonfiction-focused publishers

Bonnie’s guidance transforms personal experiences into impactful narratives that resonate with readers.

11. Kevan Lyon: Historical and Women’s Fiction Advocate

Kevan Lyon of Marsal Lyon Literary Agency is known for championing stories that bring the past—and powerful female voices—to life. She’s drawn to richly researched narratives that transport readers across time while illuminating modern truths.

Her success in securing strong publishing deals has made her a go-to agent for historical fiction authors.

How Authors Benefit with Kevan Lyon

• Mastery of historical fiction trends and expectations

• Support for strong protagonists and vivid settings

• Proven track record of placing historical works globally

Partnering with Kevan means your historical narratives will captivate and educate readers.

12. Kate Nash: UK-Based Champion for Commercial Fiction

Founder of the Kate Nash Literary Agency, Kate Nash is a leading UK-based advocate for commercial fiction. Her agency actively scouts for new voices and offers mentoring support that bridges gaps between manuscript and market.

Kate’s strength lies in her ability to cultivate commercially viable work while respecting author originality.

Why UK Authors Choose Kate Nash

• Strong foothold in UK and European publishing markets

• Mentorship programs for developing debut authors

• Commercial fiction focus with global potential

With Kate’s backing, your fiction can break into major markets with confidence.

Conclusion

Partnering with the right literary agent is more than a milestone—it’s a transformative step that shapes your writing future. These twelve agents bring unmatched expertise across fiction, nonfiction, and genre storytelling, giving new writers the opportunity to grow, be seen, and be published.

From editorial refinement to long-term strategy, the best literary agents are your advocates, champions, and creative partners. They help you build a sustainable writing career—and reach the readers who need your voice.

If you're ready to take that step, connect with the right support system. Join WriteSeen today to network with a global community of writers, publishers, and industry professionals who believe in your story.