After many successful past events in San Diego, Writing Day Workshops is excited to announce The 2026 Online San Diego Writing Workshop — a two-day online “How to Get Published” writing event February 6-7, 2026. (Writers are welcome to attend virtually from everywhere and anywhere.)

This writing event is a wonderful opportunity to get intense instruction over the course of two days, pitch a literary agent or editor (optional), get your questions answered, and more. Note that there are limited online “seats” at the event (200 total). All questions about the event regarding schedule, details and registration are answered below. Thank you for your interest in the 2026 Online San Diego Writing Workshop!

(ONLINE: Writing Day Workshops plans both in-person and virtual/online conferences. This 2026 SDWW is an Online Conference, February 6-7, 2026. Online events are easy and awesome, and the virtual events we’ve done thus far have received wonderful feedback.You do not have to be tech-savvy to do this, and understand we are keeping all aspects of a traditional in-person event, including one-on-one agent & editor pitching, which will now be done by Zoom or phone. Learn all details about what it means to have a writers conference online.)

WHAT IS IT?

This is a special two-day “How to Get Published” online writing workshop, February 6-7, 2026. In other words, it’s two days full of classes and advice designed to give you the best instruction concerning how to get your writing & books published. We’ll discuss your publishing opportunities today, how to write queries & pitches, how to market yourself and your books, what makes an agent/editor stop reading your manuscript, and more. No matter what you’re writing — fiction or nonfiction — the day’s classes will help point you in the right direction. Writers of all genres are welcome. And even though this is the “San Diego” Writing Workshop, make no mistake — writers from everywhere are welcome to attend virtually. Our WDW writers conferences have helped dozens of writers find literary agent representation — see our growing list of success stories here.

This event is designed to squeeze as much into two days of learning as possible. You can ask any questions you like during the online classes, and get your specific concerns addressed. We will have literary agents online to give feedback and take pitches from writers, as well. This year’s 2026 SDWW agent & editor faculty so far includes:

• literary agent Hailey Stephens (Rosecliff Literary)
• literary agent Laura Strachan (Strachan Literary)
• literary agent Pam Gruber (Highline Literary Collective)
• literary agent Jo Ramsay (Transatlantic Agency)
• literary agent Thais Afonso (Azantian Literary)
• literary agent Lee Melillo (Dunham Literary)
• literary agent Brenna English-Loeb (Transatlantic Agency)
• editor Brittany Torres Rivera (Graywolf Press)
• literary agent Mara Cobb (Lighthouse Literary)
• literary agent AJ Van Belle (Booker Albert Agency)
• literary agent Brandy Vallance (Barbara Bova Literary)
• literary agent Josh Foreman (FinePrint Literary)
• literary agent Mason Rowlee (DeFiore)
• literary agent Paul Levine (Paul Levine Literary)
• literary agent Geffen Semach (Westwood Creative Artists)
• literary agent Hunter Strickland (Focused Artists)
• literary agent Frannie Dove (The Caldwell Agency)
• literary agent Jessica Larios-Zarate (Wave Literary)
• literary agent Kristina Sutton Lennon (Focused Artists)
• literary agent Jane Chun (Transatlantic)
• editor Leticia Gomez (Kensington & Dafina)
  
• literary agent Michelle Lazurek (Wordwise)
• literary agent Victoria Harris (The Caldwell Agency)
• literary scout Erika Staiger (SpencerHill Associates)
• literary agent Shania Soler (Metamorphosis Literary)
• literary agent Juliana McBride (Rebecca Friedman Literary)
• literary agent Renee Runge (SpencerHill Associates)
• literary agent Alexandra Grana (PS Literary)
• literary agent Rachel Beck (Liza Dawson Associations)
• literary agent Syrone Harvey (Belcastro Agency)
• literary agent Shelly Romero (Azantian Literary)
• and possibly more agents to come

By the end of the day, you will have all the tools you need to move forward on your writing journey. This independent event is organized by coordinator Brian Klems of Writing Day Workshops.

To register, click the button above, or email Brian at WDWconference@gmail.com and tell him you’re interested in the San Diego event.

EVENT LOCATION & DETAILS:

(ONLINE: Writing Day Workshops plans both in-person and virtual/online conferences. This 2026 SDWW is an Online Conference, February 6-7, 2026. Online events are easy and awesome, and the virtual events we’ve done thus far have received wonderful feedback. You do not have to be tech-savvy to do this, and understand we are keeping all aspects of a traditional in-person event, including one-on-one agent & editor pitching, which will now be done by Zoom or phone. Learn all details about what it means to have a writers conference online.)

THIS YEAR’S SESSIONS & WORKSHOPS (FEB. 6-7, 2026):

What you see below is a quick layout of the day’s events. See a full layout of the day’s sessions, with detailed descriptions, on the official Schedule Page here.

Agent pitches and critique consultations overlap with Saturday sessions. The schedule of presentation topics below is subject to changes and updates:

FRIDAY, FEB. 6, 2026

9:30 – 10:30: Understanding the Publishing Industry in 2026 — From Hybrid Publishing to Diverse Books and Everything in Between. Writers today have lots of choices and options, but that doesn’t mean your publishing journey is an easy path to navigate. How are traditional publishing and self-publishing changing?

10:45 – 11:45: 15 Query Letter and Submission Mistakes to Avoid. This class, taught by a literary agent, addresses common agent pet peeves, submission errors, things that come off as unprofessional, cliche wording in a query, and more.

11:45 – 1:15: Break

1:15 – 2:30: From First Draft to Finished Copy. In this speech, an assistant editor at an independent press outlines all the steps a traditional publisher takes to bring a book into the world.

2:45 – 3:45: Characters That Drive the Plot. This interactive masterclass will show you how to integrate character depth with plot development, creating stakes that resonate and stories that captivate—no matter your genre.

4:00 – 5:00: How to Generate a Buzz: Promoting Your Book Launch. Why publish a book if no one reads it? This session will walk you through 3 steps in getting people excited about buying and reading your book.

* * * * *

SATURDAY, FEB. 7, 2026

9:30 – 10:30: Self-Editing for Authors. Discover techniques to distance yourself from your work, identify common pitfalls, and refine your prose to a polished shine. Learn how to become your most effective critic without losing the essence of your narrative.

10:45 – 11:45: Location, Location, Location. A vivid setting does more than anchor a story—it immerses readers, heightens emotion, and brings every scene to life.

11:45 – 1:15:Break

1:15 – 2:30: “Writers Got Talent”—a Page 1 Critique Fest, with participating literary agents and editors. In the vein of “American Idol” or “America’s Got Talent,” this is a chance to get your first page read (anonymously — no bylines given) with attending agents commenting on what was liked or not liked about the submission.

2:45 – 3:45: Open Agent Q&A Panel. Several attending literary agents will open themselves up to open Q&A from SDWW attendees. Bring your questions and get them answered in this popular session.

4:00 – 5:00: How to Build a Network of Support. This class, taught by an agent and editor, explain show to establish a network of support by reaching out to bookstores, libraries, book clubs, and writing groups to help support you as a writer

Agent pitches and critique consultations overlap with Saturday sessions. The schedule of presentation topics below is subject to changes and updates:

(What you see here is a quick layout of the day’s events. See a full layout of the day’s sessions, with detailed descriptions, on the official Schedule Page here.)

Agent & Editor Pitching: All throughout the day. Online conference pitch appointments, such as the ones offered during this virtual event, are typically scheduled during Saturday daytime hours of the event.

* * * * *

PITCH AN AGENT OR EDITOR:

Hailey Stephens is a literary agent with Rosecliff Literary. In general, Hailey is only looking for Adult novels, but she will selectively take on Middle Grade books if the manuscript will inspire a passion for reading. She would also love to champion authors from rural areas, especially authors from BIPOC, LGBTQ+, neurodivergent, and/or any other community that tends to be overlooked in rural areas. (This doesn’t mean the manuscript itself has to be based in a rural setting, although she always appreciates a good rural horror.) For Literary, Upmarket, and Contemporary fiction, Hailey wants vivid stories that pull the reader in right away, immersing them in the work the author has created. For thriller and horror, she wants stories that linger in the corners of the mind, with characters that feel like they’re in the room with the reader (for better or worse). Hailey will also selectively take on Adult Romance, and is hopeful there are still love story tropes out there that can be discovered or re-explored in a way that redefines the genre. In nonfiction, she is looking for both trade and literary proposals. She is especially interested in memoirs that play with the concept of time and structure. Learn more about Hailey here.

Pam Gruber is a literary agent with Highline Literary Collective. “My list spans adult and fiction categories, along with the occasional nonfiction project that strikes a personal chord. My clients write in all genres, including contemporary fiction, rom-com, speculative fiction, satire, science fiction, fantasy, horror, and graphic novel. As a former Big 5 editor, I’m a very hands-on agent who believes in collaboration, communication, creativity, and mutual respect. I gravitate toward stories that are cinematic and slightly left of center, with a strong hook and elevated yet accessible writing — often with a sense of humor. No matter the genre or audience, I’m drawn to work that’s gripping from page one, whether that’s due to the voice, world building, or premise. I love the thrill of discovery and I’m looking for those stop-everything-tell-everyone reads that will keep me up at night until they sell. I’d like to see more middle grade contemporary, a la the 8yo girl who drove herself to Target; YA with the vibes of an Olivia Rodrigo song; adult speculative fiction with a Studio Ghibli aura; genre mashups — HorrorMance anyone?; unexpected takes on familiar stories, like Kevin Can F*ck Himself; dystopia for adult readers; and platform or expert-driven nonfiction on aging and style.” Learn more about Pam here.

Laura Strachan is a literary agent with Strachan Literary Agency. Strachan Literary Agency specializes in representing literary fiction and narrative nonfiction: compelling stories, well told. In fiction, Laura seeks primarily literary fiction and upmarket commercial. In general no genre fiction, however will consider fiction with crossover potential if beautifully written. In nonfiction, she enjoys narrative nonfiction, including memoirs and travel writing. Will consider nonfiction projects if quirky or interesting. Particularly interested in “single subject” books (think SALT, or COD, or MAUVE, etc.). In children’s books, she enjoys high quality young adult and middle grade (no picture books). Learn more about Laura here.

Jo Ramsay (they/she) is a literary agent with Transatlantic Agency. Jo is seeking: Upmarket fiction (book club conversation starters, fresh take on friendships, relationship, and family); Sci-fi (Black Mirror-esque, commentary on society, genre blending);  Speculative fiction; Gothic / Neo-Gothic; Psychological horror / thriller; Light horror (no heavy gore please); Dystopian; Mysteries (with unique POV, character-driven); Graphic Novels; Select literary fiction (less quiet realism, and more unusual or unique storytelling); Select romance (new spin or genre subversion); Select fantasy (fabulism, light world building); and Select historical fiction (unique concept or genre blending). In nonfiction, she seeks: Pop Culture Deep Dives, Politics and Social Sciences, Cultural Critique, Investigative Journalism, Eco-Nonfiction and Naturalist writing, Expedition accounts of professional mountaineers and adjacent sports, Off-Grid Living or Survivalist writing, Travelogues from a unique perspective; Pop Science; and Graphic memoir. Learn more about Jo here.

Brandy Vallance is a literary agent with Barbara Bova Literary Agency. “I represent these genres but I am also not limited to these genres: historical fiction, historical romance, historical mystery, romance, literary, women’s fiction, Southern fiction, science fiction, fantasy, young adult, adventure, speculative, inspirational, thriller. I’m a fan of: atmospheric writing; stories set in the British Isles, Europe, or exotic locations; Regency, Victorian, and Edwardian romance; Victorian time period in general (other centuries are welcome too); archaeology / artifacts / history’s mysteries; stories that explore Biblical themes without being preachy (ex. Charles Martin books); Appalachian stories / mountain culture; fantasy & sci-fi in almost every sub-category; characters who are writers, artists, or have a unique profession; and more.” Learn more about Brandy here.

Josh Foreman is a literary agent with FinePrint Literary Management. Josh primarily represents works of Fantasy, Horror, and Science Fiction for YA and adult. He wants forbidden magic, ancient rituals, epic space battles, and everything in between. Gothic fantasy and horroromance are high on Josh’s wishlist, but he is open and interested in all subgenres of fantasy, horror, and science fiction. Josh has always been drawn to stories with a strong voice and three-dimensional characters. He is a big believer in uplifting and supporting authors from marginalized backgrounds, particularly those with disabilities. If you are blind, in a wheelchair, or have any other disabilities, he would love to hear your pitch. Learn more about Josh here. 

Thais Afonso is a literary agent with Azantian Literary Agency. She intends to represent marginalized authors, and she’s especially seeking to uplift indigenous voices and voices from the Global South. In adult and young adult fiction, Thais is looking to represent Fantasy, Sci-Fi, Horror, Contemporary Romance, and Suspense/Thrillers. She’s particularly keen on growing her contemporary and horror list right now, so if you have a project that doesn’t have any of her triggers and hard ‘no’s, pitch her! Even if it doesn’t a match an item in the wish list, she very much welcomes surprises here (as long as there are no elements from her anti-MSWL). Learn more about Thais here. 

Hunter Strickland is a literary agent with Focused Artists. Hunter, a member of the Cherokee Nation, has always had many passions in life, one of them being books, which has led her here. Hunter’s list of interests are just as extensive as her background. While she has previous experience in the sports world and historical nonfiction, she is also drawn to fantasy worlds with unique elements. Hunter is currently seeking: fantasy, romance, historical fiction, women’s fiction, young adult, new adult. Hunter is particularly drawn to anything mythology based or inspired. Learn more about Hunter here.

Lee Melillo is a literary agent with Dunham Literary. Lee represents YA, New Adult, and Adult Fiction written by, for, and about marginalized communities (#OwnVoices) in both commercial and upmarket categories. In Adult Fiction, Lee is searching for book club and upmarket fiction from BIPOC women, neurodiverse, and queer authors. She is also open to contemporary or historical fiction centered around myth (but NOT Greek/Roman/Norse!!), either through retellings of classics or the invention of new mythologies for the modern age; dark magical realism; bubblegum thrillers; and socially-conscious horror. In Young and New Adult Fiction, Lee looks for YA that has crossover potential and NA stories set in college or directly post-grad. Diversity is a must, as are well-developed, loveable (or love-to-hateable) characters. She enjoys meticulously-researched, atmospheric historical fiction with an element of mystery/suspense or other propulsive plot engines. She also loves dystopian fiction, but it must be grounded in real life issues and critique our present-day socio-political systems. For contemporary fiction, she’s open to stories centering queer characters, characters with mental illness and particularly OCD, or rom-com heroines with autism in interesting, off-beat settings. Learn more about Lee here.

Michelle S. Lazurek is a literary agent with WordWise Media Services. Michelle is taking pitches on behalf of herself as well as her WordWise co-agents. They seek books that are both secular as well as Christian/CBA titles. In fiction, the agency seeks: Picture books. Science fiction, Fantasy, Historical fiction. Action/Adventure, Children’s, Crime, Fantasy, General, Graphic Novel, Humor, Middle Grade, Military, Mystery, Religious, Romance, Science Fiction, Thriller, Women’s Fiction, Young Adult. In nonfiction, the agency seeks: Christian nonfiction. Theology, Bible studies, Professional, Church Issues, Social/Cultural Issues, Career, Reference. Biography, Cookbooks, Crafts/DIY, History, Humor, Illustrated, Pop Culture, Psychology, Science, Sports, Travel, True Crime. Michelle herself is looking specifically for Christian nonfiction and children’s genres, including: Christian living, spiritual growth, leadership, picture books, marriage, family, and other general topics related to faith.  Learn more about Michelle here.

Leticia Gomez is the editorial director for Kensington Books and Dafina. Leticia is the Editorial Director for Dafina Books, an imprint of Kensington Publishing Corp., which focuses on high-quality fiction and nonfiction that centers on race, identity, and its impact on our experiences. Launched in 2000 as the first African-American imprint, Dafina has led the market for more than twenty years in highlighting voices of color. Leticia is actively seeking to acquire multicultural fiction and nonfiction of all genres, including literary fiction, commercial fiction, historical fiction, romance, mystery, and narrative nonfiction of all genres with a focus on authors of color (BIPOC) hailing from all walks of life, as well as specific nonfiction projects for marginalized communities. As a literary agent, Savvy Literary is now an industry leader specializing in Self-help, Narrative Non-fiction, Memoir, True Crime, Spiritual/Inspirational, Political/Current Affairs, Suspense/Thriller, Family Drama, and the Young Adult market. Championing the work of minority writers continues to be a top priority for the agency. Blending her experience as an author, literary/film/television agent and acquisition editor, she is truly excited to spearhead her very own Hispanic book imprint Café con Leche Books. Learn more about Leticia here.

Shania Soler is a literary agent with Metamorphosis Literary. She is seeking: novels in the fantasy genre or romance WITH SPICE; for fantasy, I’m interested in more than just the romance that two characters have (intricate political and/or magic systems and complex character backstories); for contemporary romance, I’m looking for things that take me off the beaten path (think Butcher & Blackbird or Haunting Adeline); horror (young adult, new adult, & adult); mythology (young adult, new adult, & adult); magical realism (young adult, new adult, & adult); and historical fiction. Learn more about Shania here.

Paul S. Levine is a literary agent and the founder of Paul S. Levine Literary. He is also an attorney. His fiction interests include adventure novels, mainstream fiction, mysteries, romance, thrillers, and women’s fiction. His nonfiction interests include business/commerce, pop culture, how-to, self-help, politics/law, relationships, and sports. With almost 40 years of experience in the entertainment and book industries, Levine is one of the few lawyers on the West coast who also understands the world of book publishing; as such, he is able to act as both literary agent and publishing attorney for his clients. Learn more about Paul here.

Rachel Beck is a literary agent with Liza Dawson Associates. In fiction, she seeks upmarket/book club women’s fiction; smart contemporary romance and romcoms; historical fiction this side of World War II (dual timeline welcome); nongenre fiction; speculative fiction/magical realism; gripping thrillers/psychological or domestic suspense;  and contemporary young adult. For selection nonfiction, she seeks narrative nonfiction, though always open to prescriptive as well. She also enjoys gifty pop culture books; cultural criticism books/essays, social justice issues, advocacy, politics, feminist material, etc.; narrative nonfiction by BIPOC writers, non-cishet authors, immigrants; career/personal growth/self-help books with new focus points; extreme underdog, survival, accomplishment or rising-from-poverty type stories; select health and wellness books (particularly rare or underrepresented conditions); books about athletes, particularly football players (or anything examining the NFL) and endurance athletes such as marathoners; select parenting books that bring something new to the conversation; books that explore cult life or extreme religion; 9/11 survival stories; anything about Anne Frank. Learn more about Rachel here.

Jane Chun is a literary agency with Transatlantic Agency. Jane is particularly interested in stories that center marginalized communities and prose that is cinematic and atmospheric with good rhythm. In both fiction and nonfiction, she is drawn towards compelling, fresh voices that make her feel as though the writer is in the room with her, telling her their story with intimacy as if they were already acquainted. Regardless of how plot-driven a story is, characters with rich inner worlds and emotional depth are a must for her. She is interested in literary, upmarket, and commercial fiction across adult, MG, and YA and select nonfiction. She is also seeking graphic novels/nonfiction. In the fiction space, she is open to contemporary, historical, fantasy, sci-fi, speculative, and horror. In nonfiction, she is looking for memoirs; narrative nonfiction; history; investigative journalism; books about nature, climate, and science; and books about food, travel, pop culture, and cultural criticism. Learn more about Jane here.

Brittany Torres Rivera is an assistant editor with Graywolf Press, and is taking pitches on behalf of her imprint. Graywolf Press publishes about 30 books annually — mostly poetry, memoirs, essays, novels, translations, and short stories. “Our editors are looking for high quality literary fiction, nonfiction, and poetry that combine a distinct voice with a distinct vision. Our editors seek out and solicit promising work from authors that they encounter in the pages of magazines, at writing conferences, and in other venues.” Learn more about Brittany here.

Mason Rowlee is a literary agent with DeFiore & Company. Mason only represents adult books. He is seeking innovative, boundary-pushing literary fiction, engrossing upmarket and commercial fiction, and nonfiction that amplifies traditionally underrepresented voices in publishing. He is particularly interested in working with queer authors. For adult fiction, he loves: literary novels with genre elements (romance, fantasy, horror); explorations of LGBTQIA+ relationships, chosen families, and communities; expansive, big-hearted family sagas; unputdownable thrillers and horror novels with social commentary; coming-of-age adventures with small town antics; and novels that embrace the absurd. For adult nonfiction, he loves: narrative nonfiction about the inequity faced by marginalized communities; savvy pop culture reporting; biographies of obscure or underappreciated historical figures; well-researched, paradigm-shifting journalism; memoirs with strong, voice-driven writing; and disruptive self-help with a social justice component. Learn more about Mason here.

Juliana McBride is a literary agent with Rebecca Friedman Literary Agency. I represent authors who write adult literary and commercial fiction, young adult fiction, and select middle grade fiction. At the moment what I’m really looking for are contemporary stories- what is commonly referred to as upmarket or bookclub fiction with a good hook and a strong voice. I’m not afraid of mystery and suspense, and in the thriller space think psychological rather than police procedural. I’m a sucker for romance and especially witty dialogue and banter- but it has to feel fresh and utterly plausible. I’m a little full up on YA, but always drawn to stories grounded in contemporary settings; family, teen dramas with a heartfelt twist, romances, mysteries, thrillers and horror. If you can make me laugh out loud repeatedly, or cry, I’ll probably fall for your story! I’d love a really twisty dark academia YA. As with adult fiction, while I love a little bit of the impossible and fantastical, it very much needs to be grounded in the everyday, and feel fresh and genuine. For the occasional middle grade project that I’m looking for, big feelings are wonderful, especially if they deal with sensitive topics handled with a light touch, but the characters need to really feel authentic, and as follows, the voice needs to feel authentically middle grade. Learn more about Juliana here.

Kristina Sutton Lennon is a literary agent with Focused Artists. “I am drawn to upmarket fiction, picture books (particularly already illustrated), and non-fiction self-improvement books. I seek to champion underrepresented voices and am particularly scouting multicultural content, Indigenous and Latiné voices. I am not accepting screenplays, pitch decks, loglines or pilots.” In fiction, she seeks young adult fiction and romantasy (especially Hollywood Gilded Age, Regency era or Roaring 20s). In nonfiction, she seeks women’s wellness (menopause, perimenopause, pregnancy, and postpartum); career advancement; parenting; relationships; motherhood; climate tech; trad wives; foraging; financial literacy; crafting (beadwork, crocheting, embroidery, knitting). In picture books, she seeks underrepresented voices, particularly those of Indigenous or Latiné descent; books about being a community helper; stories that caregivers can enjoy reading just as much as children; humorous tone such as in Mr. S, The Leaf Thief, or !Tengo Hambre! (I’m Hungry!); multicultural books and bilingual books; fully illustrated picture books; books that encourage critical thinking and SEL; and economics (importance of saving). Learn more about Kristina here.

A.J. Van Belle (they/them) is a literary agent at the Booker Albert Literary Agency. A.J. is actively building a diverse list and welcomes queries from marginalized writers. In young adult and adult fiction, they’re seeking horror, thriller, and science fiction / fantasy with dark and atmospheric elements. They’re also open to select MG across all genres. In all categories, they’re drawn to books that merge literary sensibilities with compelling plotlines. Some of their favorite authors include Paolo Bacigalupi, Nnedi Okorafor, Jordanna Max Brodsky, Yangsze Choo, Natasha Pulley, T. Kingfisher, and Jenna Satterthwaite. In nonfiction, they’re seeking fresh ideas in science, popular science, self-help, and health/wellness from authors with established platforms. As a scientist who has published NSF-funded research in ecology, they welcome queries from authors whose expertise links with evolution, ecology, statistics, microbiology, and biogeoscience. Learn more about AJ here.

Renee Runge is a literary agent at Spencerhill Associates. She is actively building her list in all genres of middle grade and young adult fiction. Her taste can be summed up as “eclectic,” and she is drawn to high-concept commercial projects with a literary aura, unexpected hooks, strong A/B plots, and distinct voices. She’s especially passionate about supporting diverse and underrepresented creators from all backgrounds, with the hope that every child can one day see themselves in the pages of a book. A lover of anthropomorphic characters, she dreams of repping the next blockbuster animal novel or series. Her favorite feeling is being moved to tears by a book’s last chapter. Learn more about Renee here.

Geffen Semach is a literary agent with Westwood Creative Artists. Fiction: I am looking for general upmarket fiction; horror, thriller and suspense; sci fi, speculative, fantasy and romantasy; as well as select concept-driven romance and literary novels. I am drawn to genre-blending novels that tackle human complexity, thoughtful world-building, strong emotional resonance, and bold voices and concepts. I love novels with teeth that make me feel viscerally—either grounded or unsettled—and nuanced characters that feel both fresh and challenging.  Nonfiction: I am interested in journalism in the vein of social commentary, pop culture, politics, art and media; expert-driven writing relating to medicine and mental health, sex and relationships, and money; as well as exceptional memoir. For me it is the balance of an authoritative voice with accessibility. Particularly books that explore complex, often systemic issues—from politics to psychology to culture—told from a personal or human-centered lens. Please connect with me if you are an expert with a strong voice and an idea to share. I am happy to chat with writers who are at the beginning stages of forming an idea to craft a proposal together. I encourage submissions from underrepresented writers including 2SLGBTQI+, BIPOC, and/or disabled. Learn more about Geffen here.

Frannie Dove is a literary agent at The Caldwell Agency. “I love books that change and challenge the way we interact with the world, especially stories that explore the margins of the history books. I’m eager to champion stories that stir book club conversation, inspire readers to engage with their local communities, and bring people together around the dinner table. Genres I seek: historical fiction, narrative history, historical fantasy, comedic mystery, book club fiction, genre bended and blended fiction (especially with some history), science for the non-scientist, essays with wisdom to share, and memoir with a strong narrative arc.” Learn more about Frannie here.

Jessica Larios-Zarate is a literary agent with Wave Literary. In regards to fiction, Jessica gravitates towards: commercial fiction, contemporary upmarket fiction, literary fiction, mystery/thrillers, and speculative fiction. She is particularly invested in stories that feature LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, neurodivergent, and/or disabled protagonists, especially when the books are not issue-driven. As for nonfiction, Jessica is interested in: narrative nonfiction and historical nonfiction. In terms of historical nonfiction, she seeks: Ancient History, Historical Expeditions, Civil Rights Movements, and Indigenous History Books; no War History, please. Learn more about Jessica here.

Alexandra Grana is a literary agent with Corvisiero Literary. In fiction, she seeks: science fiction, fantasy, and horror for middle grade, young adult, and adult; LGBTQ stories in all genres; mysteries and thrillers; historical fiction; magical realism; weird queer. In nonfiction, Alex Is looking for: occult history/mysteries; narratives about deconstruction. Alex’s favorite genres are fantasy and horror. She is a sucker for a good magic system, reimagined fairy tales, and poetic prose. Stories by marginalized writers are of particular interest to her. Learn more about Alexandra here.

Syrone Harvey is a literary agent at Belcastro Agency and also a children’s book author. In Adult, YA and Middle Grade Fiction, she is eagerly seeking diverse, underrepresented voices and perspectives, stories with strong, distinct and multi-dimensional characters, compelling stories of friendships, coming-of-age, emotional angst, family saga. Throw in a little fun, adventure, humor, edginess and stories that are overall engaging. In Children’s she is seeking books filled with humor, whimsy, are heartfelt, offer make-me-giggle storytelling, and absolutely crazy fun. Areas of interest- BIPOC Literature, Book Club, Children’s, Commercial, Contemporary, Family Saga, General, Humor, Literary, Middle Grade, New Adult, Picture Books, Inspiration, Romance, Romcom, Women’s Fiction, and Young Adult. Learn more about Syrone here.

Mara Cobb is a literary agent with Lighthouse Literary. “In middle grade, I enjoy spunky characters who are navigating life’s changes with joy and humor. Seeking all genres except horror and high fantasy. In young adult, she seeks I love believable characters who feel authentic in their interactions with the world around them. Dystopian, contemporary, and romance are some of my favorite YA genres, and I am currently not seeking horror or high fantasy. In adult fiction, I am open to Christian fiction, new adult, women’s fiction, book club fiction, contemporary, historical, and sweet romance. I love books with characters that make me laugh out loud, roll my eyes, or a mix of the two. In adult nonfiction, I am seeking historical nonfiction, books that feature relevant topics for readers of today, and the occasional memoir if the author’s platform is strong.” Learn more about Mara here.

Victoria Harris (they/them/theirs) is a literary agent with The Caldwell Agency. “I’m primarily seeking adult literary and upmarket fiction, particularly stories that feature LGBTQ+ and BIPOC characters. I’m also open to literary-leaning queer romance, soft sci-fi, and historical fiction set in the recent past. When it comes to nonfiction, I’m interested in memoirs.” She is drawn to: LGBTQ+ characters, BIPOC characters, mentally ill characters, neurodivergent characters, chronically ill and physically disabled characters, characters who’ve had difficult childhoods, characters who are repressed, characters who’ve felt like an outsider for their whole life, chosen family, friends to lovers, pining, late-stage coming of age stories, and dysfunctional family dynamics. Learn more about Victoria here.