Robert Dudley of the Robert Dudley Agency describes his search for plot-driven novels
After working as an independent publisher and book packager under the imprint of Bowerdean Press, Robert Dudley set up the Robert Dudley Agency in 2000, representing fiction and non-fiction submissions. Here he tells us how he decided to change direction and sell his authors rather than their books.
Literary agent Caroline Montgomery of Rupert Crew Ltd reminds us that writing is a craft to be worked at
Caroline Montgomery is a literary agent at Rupert Crew Ltd, a company started early in the 20th century by F. Rupert Crew. The company was run by Rupert, with Caroline’s mother Doreen as Rupert’s assistant. Caroline joined the company in 1993, focusing on the field of fiction. Caroline offers us some tips on getting past the slush piles.
Stephanie Thwaites at Curtis Brown talks us through the basics of a good submission
Curtis Brown is one of Europe’s most renowned and longest running literary and talent agencies. Stephanie Thwaites joined in November 2003 and represents mainly children’s and Young Adult titles along with some adult fiction and non-fiction. Here she emphasises the importance of agents and authors forming strong working relationships.
Peter Buckman of the Ampersand Agency describes how he seeks first paragraphs that sing
After working on the editorial board of Penguin Books, Peter Buckman set up The Ampersand Agency in 2003. The Ampersand Agency now looks after the interests of authors ranging from debut novelists to literary stalwarts such as Beryl Kingston. Peter advises us on what can make the difference between a successful submission and rejection.
Hannah Ferguson of the Marsh Agency reminds us that writing can be a beautiful process in itself
Hannah Ferguson is a junior agent at The Marsh Agency, specialising in well-written commercial, women’s and young adult fiction. She gained a role at the company after completing a month-long internship at The Marsh Agency. Hannah expresses her appreciation for writing that “captures your attention and imagination on the very first page.”
Annette Green of Annette Green Author’s Agency offers advice to aspiring authors
In the first of our conversations with literary agents, we interview Annette Green, who established Annette Green Author’s Agency in 1998. She has worked with writers ranging from Meg Cabot who won over legions of YA readers with The Princess Diaries series, to Simon Conway, who wrote Damage and Rage. Here Annette offers crucial advice for aspiring authors.
