Authors Literary Agency

Authors Literary Agency is a full service literary agency committed to authors. The agency strives to maintain a small 'size' to preserve and foster close relationships with authors. That being said, our client list is small - generally no more than 10 clients at one time - but distinguished!

Our client list is comprised of both previously published and unpublished authors. We work closely with large publishing houses, independent presses, and the film industry.

Authors Literary Agency actively works with selected authors to get their manuscripts 'submission ready' for publishing houses including any initial editing and revision requests as well as more involved editing. It is Authors Literary Agency's goal to place the author's book with the most appropriate publisher and work with that publisher on the best deal for the author. Authors Literary Agency is ALWAYS working for the author - working with, but not for, the publishing houses.

Authors Literary Agency is corporately based near Chattanooga, Tennessee. Please visit our staff page to meet everyone!

Stephanne Dennis & Stephen King at the VIP Reception for the RockBottom Remainders, a philanthropic 'rock' band that Stephen plays (we believe) bass for. If they are in your area support their worth-while cause and enjoy their great show! (2006)

So, what the heck is a literary agent and why could you possibly need one?

A good definition is: a person or company looking after the interests of author clients and managing the exploitation of rights in an author’s work. This includes submission of a book to publishers, perhaps in the form of an auction, negotiating a contract, collecting money due, and dealing with other rights not held by the publisher, such as (in many cases) broadcasting and film rights. (definition from npage.org)

So, that's fine, but why would anyone need one? A few reasons. This day and age most of the publishing houses - at least many reputable and more exclusive houses - are closing their doors to unsolicited authors. Does that mean there are no more budding, good authors out there? No. It just means that the publishing industry is using literary agents to 'pre-qualify' works. A literary agent represents the author in a fiduciary capacity - NOT for the publishing house. Furthermore, any GOOD agent will not charge an initial fee (and this includes fees for editing, reading, etc.)! You might choose to look at a literary agent as a liaison to the publishing industry as well as a marketing and placement professional for your manuscript.

Why Choose Authors Literary Agency, Inc.?

Authors Literary Agency staff are honest and up front both with authors as well as with others in the industry. If Authors Literary Agency agrees to take on an author's work it is because they are passionate about said work and feel they are the best choice to represent that author and that manuscript to the publishing industry.This also means that if an author receives the "denial" email, they should not take it personally. Authors Literary Agency strives to encourage authors, regardless if they feel they should represent or not!