Texas Writing Workshop:
March 7-8, 2025
Online Writers Conference

PITCH YOUR BOOK TO A LITERARY AGENT:

Annie Bomke is a literary agent with Annie Bomke Literary Agency. She represents a wide variety of adult and YA fiction and nonfiction, including commercial and literary fiction, upmarket fiction, mysteries (from hilarious cozies to gritty police procedurals and everything in between), historical fiction, women’s fiction, psychological thrillers, literary/psychological horror, self-help, business, health/diet, cookbooks, memoir, relationships, current events, psychology, and narrative nonfiction. Learn more about Annie here.

Morgan Hughes is a literary agent with FinePrint Literary. Morgan is seeking middle grade and young adult fantasy / adventure with a particular interest in graphic novels. She is also interested in YA, new adult, and adult romance. She loves unique narratives, strong voices, and impressive world-building, but is also drawn to small town vibes and sports settings. She is currently not seeking picture books, science fiction, thrillers/mysteries, or nonfiction. Learn more about Morgan here.

Arianna Siddiqui is a literary agent with FinePrint Literary Management. At this time, Arianna is particularly drawn to mysteries, romance, and speculative fiction across young adult and adult audiences. She’s also open to adult nonfiction that explores unique narratives or perspectives. Though more selective about nonfiction, Arianna seeks projects with strong, distinctive voices that offer new insights or perspectives. She’s particularly drawn to narrative-driven works that blend memoir, cultural commentary, or history in compelling and original ways. Learn more about Arianna here.

Amanda Carbonell is a literary agent with Belcastro Agency. In middle grade, she seeks all categories buy especially contemporary, horror, fantasy and adventure. In young adult, she enjoys thrillers, contemporary, horror, fantasy, literary fiction, and genre mashups. In new adult, she seeks contemporary, romance, genre mashups, thriller, and horror. In adult fiction, she likes commercial fiction, thriller, rom-coms, horror, and stories about millenials. “ALL marginalized communities, especially Latinx are highly encouraged to submit!” Learn more about Amanda here.

Nour Sallam is a literary agent P.S. Literary Agency. “In terms of fiction, I am seeking voice-driven commercial and upmarket titles, contemporary fiction with fabulist elements, speculative fiction, edgy psychological thrillers, as well as mysteries, light horror and rom-coms featuring underrepresented characters of any background. I am always drawn to characters who are haunted by something, whether figuratively (a secret, a past, an obsession) or literally (a ghost, a demon, etc.). I am also actively seeking character-driven stories featuring women in power, unhinged women, and female rage. I am actively seeking projects that feature complex and nuanced histories and power dynamics, address social and political issues, or center BIPOC characters.” In nonfiction, she seeks: “I welcome fresh and accessible perspectives on big ideas or industry deep dives as well as narrative nonfiction on pop culture, art, and nature. I also appreciate books that offer incisive commentary on culture, socio-economic structures, corporate underbellies, health and wellness, and lifestyle. Learn more about Nour 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.

Rebecca Lawrence is a literary agent with The Booker Albert Literary Agency. From a young age, she has been fascinated with epic worlds like LOTR and The Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson. Books with romantic elements like Ella Enchanted, The Goose Girl, and The Cruel Prince all have places in her top ten. She also adores historical fiction like The Wednesday Wars and iconic masterpieces like Monica Hesse’s They Went Left, but her all-time favorite novel has to be the grounded fantasy The Scorpio Races. Things I’m looking for but not limited to: graphic novels, fantasy horror, anything set in the Victorian Era, books set in Alaska, house-with-personality stories, a lower YA zombie apocalypse, horror (especially MG and YA), found families/adoption themes, contemporary that can make mundane conflicts feel intense, and adult historical fiction. Learn more about Rebecca here.

Annie Romano is a literary agent with Olswanger Literary. She represents General Fiction, Upmarket, Commercial, Romantic Comedy, ​Literary, Women’s Fiction, Contemporary, Multicultural, LGBTQ+, Suspense/Thrillers, Mystery, ​Magical Realism, Light/clever horror (not gore-heavy), and Narrative Nonfiction. “I accept submissions of adult fiction and select narrative nonfiction. For adult fiction, I am currently on the hunt for lighter fare with smart humor and a unique hook. I also am seeking upmarket and commercial fiction in the following areas: contemporary fiction, women’s fiction, sharp romantic comedy (do not send me romance if there’s no comedic element or original hook), psychological thrillers/suspense, mystery, and light/clever horror (not slasher/gore; think more Grady Hendrix-style for this). I welcome diverse narratives, including but not limited to LGBTQ+ and underrepresented ethnicities/cultures. In narrative nonfiction, areas of interest include (but are not limited to) true crime (i.e., The Trial of Lizzie Borden, by Cara Robertson) and unique windows into history (i.e., Mudlark by Lara Maiklem).” Learn more about Annie here.

Mason Rowlee is a literary agent with DeFiore & Company. Mason loves innovative, boundary-pushing literary fiction, engrossing upmarket fiction, and nonfiction that amplifies traditionally underrepresented voices in publishing, particularly those by queer authors. He previously interned at McIntosh & Otis Literary Agency, Gotham Writers Workshop, CBS Television Production and Farrar, Straus & Giroux. Learn more about Mason here.

Jynastie Wilson is a literary agent at LCS Literary Services. Jynastie is looking for a variety of projects in both adult and children’s genres. In addition to what is listed below, she is always interested in stories written by LGBTQ+, BIPOC, and/or other marginalized authors. In adult fiction, she seeks: new adult, and contemporary romance. In young adult, she seeks: contemporary, romance, science fiction, fantasy, historical, and horror. In middle grade, she seeks: contemporary, science fiction, fantasy, historical, and horror. In kidlit, she seeks children’s picture books and chapter books. Learn more about Jynastie here.

Amy Giuffrida is a literary agent with The Belcastro Literary Agency. “I am especially seeking stories written by diverse creators—BIPOC, LGBTQ+, neurodiverse, and disabled creators are encouraged to query me. Send me your stories of joy, where your characters and their worlds can be celebrated by the reader.” In nonfiction, she seeks: business, social media, tech, cookbooks, and also anything by an author with a strong platform and a love for their subject. She seeks upper middle grade fiction. In young fiction, she seeks fantasy, horror, sci-fi, contemporary, contemporary romance, mystery, thriller, historical, and novels-in-verse. In adult fiction, she seeks women’s fiction, book club / commercial fiction, non-political thriller, horror, contemporary romance, and rom-com. Learn more about Amy here. Learn more about Amy here.

Jane Chun [SOLD OUT OF PITCH APPOINTMENTS] is a literary agent with Transatlantic Agency. Jane is particularly interested in stories that center marginalized communities and prose that is cinematic and atmospheric with good rhythm. For fiction, she is seeking commercial, upmarket, and literary works in both adult and MG/YA about the search for and rebuilding of identity, diaspora, family and community, and examinations of power in relationships. She is also looking for fantasy, sci-fi, and speculative fiction that delve into sharp social commentary and have meticulous world building and settings that don’t feel like Western Europe. For historical fiction, she likes hidden histories and anything that is set in a time or place she’s not familiar with or focuses on a community that has been often overlooked if it’s a time/place she knows. In terms of nonfiction, she is looking for memoirs and narrative nonfiction with a nuanced, intersectional approach and similar themes to her interests in fiction. She also is interested in books about food, travel, pop culture, and cultural criticism that dive deeply and thoughtfully into culture and traditions, particularly those written by authors of color. In addition to traditional prose, she is very interested in graphic novels and nonfiction. Learn more about Jane 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.

Nadia Lynch is a literary agent with Talcott Notch. “I am interested in upmarket, literary, historical, young adult, and women’s fiction, especially narratives that showcase resilient female protagonists. While these genres anchor my reading repertoire, I’m invigorated by books that push boundaries and challenge my perspectives. In nonfiction, I enjoy delving into subjects that expand my understanding. History, philosophy, alternative medicine, and self-improvement books are among my preferred genres, each offering a unique lens to explore and absorb new insights.” Learn more about Nadia here.

Mara Hollander is a literary agent with Azantian Agency. In fiction, she seeks: Fantasy (including political and romantasy); Romance; Thrillers/mysteries (including political); Horror; Women’s fiction; and Upmarket + book club/commercial fiction. In nonfiction, she seeks: Biography; Business; Celebrity; Cultural/social issues; Current affairs; Entertainment; Film; Finance; Health; History; How-to; Journalism; LBGTQ+ (please no pure memoirs); Medical; Multicultural; Music; Narrative; Nature + ecology; Pop culture; Psychology; Relationships; Religion; Science & tech; Self-help; Sports; Travel; True crime; and Women’s issues. Learn more about Mara 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. Dafina’s carefully curated list is a home for dynamic stories that innovate and amplify voices too long ignored through books that entertain, challenge, and inspire. 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. In addition to her role at Kensington, Leticia is a prominent literary/film/television agent who specializes in bringing culturally diverse voices to the forefront. Savvy Literary is now an industry leader specializing in Self-help, Narrative Nonfiction, 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. Learn more about Leticia here.

Mara Cobb is a literary agent with Martin Literary Management. Currently, Mara is looking for adult nonfiction and women’s-driven fiction (especially main characters in their 20s). Mara is also looking for Christian fiction, Christian romance (think Hallmark-style), and Christian YA. Going into 2024, she would also love to acquire clean (light romance/no or minimal cursing) YA fiction of any genre except fantasy. She is seeking clean adult commercial romance/romcoms, compelling book club fiction, and SEL picture books. Learn more about Mara here.

Elisa Moles is a literary agent with Painted Fire Literary Agency.  She is seeking: Especially interested in upmarket fiction. “In one word, what defines fantastic fiction narrative? Consequences. Consequences give structure. And stories with cohesive and creative structures, true to each writer’s background and voice, stand the test of time beyond the trendy topics and gimmicks of the day. I especially love psychologically complex characters. I’m looking for distinctive and compassionate voices who are telling organically unexpected stories in a wide variety of styles and genres. Surprise me.” Please do not pitch: nonfiction, poetry, children’s books, middle grade, YA, graphic novels, screenplays, westerns, horror, nihilist, or erotic work. No previously self-published works please. Learn more about Elisa here.

Rachel Beck is a literary agent with Liza Dawson Associates. Rachel is looking for: upmarket/book club women’s fiction; smart contemporary romance/romcoms (beach reads); historical fiction this side of World War II; sweeping, multigenerational family sagas; speculative fiction; thrillers/domestic suspense; contemporary YA: Especially LGBTQIA+ stories and “issue” books on what teens face today; and select nonfiction (narrative, gifty/pop culture, cultural criticism, politics, career/personal growth, self-help, health/wellness, sports, parenting). Learn more about Rachel here.

Michelle S. Lazurek is a literary agent at Wordwise Media Services. What I’m looking for: I’m interested in representing Christian nonfiction for adults, and picture books for children. Please no science fiction, historical fiction, or memoir. In 2009, I felt a calling on my life to start writing. Today, with nine titles in print and hundreds of articles (and a few awards along the way), I teach aspiring authors at writers’ conferences. Learn more about Michelle here.

Optional Manuscript Critique Options

Add $69 — for an in-depth, personal critique of your one-page query letter from Brian Klems, one of the day’s instructors. (This rate is a special event value for Cleveland Writing Workshop attendees only.) Registrants are encouraged to take advantage of the specially-priced critique, so they can send out their query letter with confidence following the workshop. Also, if you are meeting with an agent at the event, you’re essentially speaking your query letter aloud to them. Wouldn’t it be wise to give that query letter (i.e., your pitch) one great edit before that meeting?

Add $89 — for an in-depth personal critique of the first 10 pages of your novel. Spaces with faculty for these critiques are very limited, and participating attendees will either 1) get an in-person meeting at the workshop, if the faculty member is attending the live event, or 2) get a 10-minute phone call with the faculty member, and have notes passed along via email, if the critiquer is not attending the live event. Options:

• Young adult (all kinds); middle grade (all kinds); adult science fiction; adult thriller and mystery (no cozies); nonfiction about safety, self-defense, travel, and parenting (virtual critiques):  Faculty member Jason Brick, a writing coach and author, will get your work in advance, critique the first 10 double-spaced pages of your book, meet with you online (Zoom, etc.) or by phone for 15 minutes sometime before the workshop to discuss his thoughts, and pass along written critique notes before or after the meeting.
• Women’s fiction, contemporary/mainstream fiction, literary fiction, young adult, and memoir (virtual critiques): Faculty member Kimiko Nakamura, a literary agent and writing coach, will get your work in advance, critique the first 10 double-spaced pages of your book, meet with you online (Zoom, etc.) or by phone for 15 minutes sometime before the workshop to discuss her thoughts, and pass along written critique notes before or after the meeting.
• Children’s picture books and middle grade (virtual critiques): Faculty member Brittany Thurman, a published author, will get your work in advance, critique the first 10 double-spaced pages of your book, meet with you online (Zoom, etc.) or by phone for 15 minutes sometime before the workshop to discuss her thoughts, and pass along written critique notes before or after the meeting. If you submit a picture book, it must be 1,000 words or fewer (can have illustrations or not).
• More critique options possibly forthcoming.