 How does a literary agent define their dream client? This is an important question because it’s one that factors into an agent’s mindset before and after they sign you. Once an agent falls in love with your book, the next step is usually arranging a phone call or Zoom call. This is your opportunity to ask questions and see if the agent aligns with your vision, but the agent will also be doing the same. For an agent to fully invest and give you an offer of representation, they want to know if you’d work well together—and more. And every agent has a different set of requirements on their mind. Here are some thoughts from literary agents, which may be helpful as you’re thinking about sculpting your career.  Daisy Chandley (Peters Fraser and Dunlop): Chandley seeks authors who create sharp works with bold, stylish, and smart storytelling. Her ideal client brings fresh perspectives and crafts compelling stories with vivid characters. She wants to work with authors who are innovative, whether through boundary-pushing narratives, witty humor, or genre-bending approaches. She appreciates authors who are open to collaboration to refine their work for the market. Rachelle Gardner (Gardner Literary): Gardner wants to work with someone who writes wonderfully; understands promotion and knows how to build a tribe; always makes a deadline; is gracious with critique and direction; and is kind, grateful, smart and makes her laugh. Kurestin Armada (Root Literary): Armada looks for bold storytellers who bring a diverse perspective to their work, are eager to collaborate, and are ready to build a long-term career. She wants someone who’s passionate about their craft, responsive to editorial feedback, and excited to engage with readers through platforms like social media or events. Jessica Faust (BookEnds Literary Agency): The first thing Faust wants from her client is a feeling of freedom to be as open and honest as need be. When it’s wonderful, fantastic news she wants to hear her client squeal over the phone. When it’s the last thing the client wants to hear, and the client isn't sure they can take another round of revisions, Faust wants her clients to call and vent and scream and let their frustrations out. And when the client just needs to spend time talking about revisions, ideas, concerns, or career goals, Faust wants to be as involved as the client wants her to be. Andrea Somberg (Harvey Klinger Literary Agency): Somberg seeks authors who write marketable, engaging books in genres like commercial fiction, nonfiction, and young adult. She values clear and prompt communication, openness to editorial suggestions, and a proactive approach to career development. Renée Zuckerbrot (Massie & McQuilkin Literary Agents): Zuckerbrot looks for authors with a distinct voice in literary fiction or narrative nonfiction, who are ambitious and committed to building a readership over time. She values curiosity and a willingness to explore new ideas in writing. Kate Testerman (KT Literary): Testerman seeks authors dedicated to their craft, particularly in middle grade, young adult, and select adult fiction. She values clients who understand the publishing industry, communicate openly, and bring both creativity and professionalism to the partnership. Jessica Berg (Rosecliff Literary): Berg seeks clients who are ambitious but not delusional. They are obsessive about their craft, but they still have a life. They know when to take the note and when to fight for the choice.  This post was complied by Brandy Vallance, a literary agent with Barbara Bova Literary Agency, and an award-winning author. She is the winner of two national writing awards, one of which included a $20,000 prize. Her novel, THE COVERED DEEP, has been featured in USA Today & Writer’s Digest. Romantic Times called WITHIN THE VEIL “passionate and riveting” and Publisher’s Weekly encourages those who like sweeping Scottish sagas to dive in because “the journey is wonderful.” Brandy loves helping writers break the chains of fear and self-doubt. You can find out more at brandyvallance.com.  Attend a Writers Conference in 2026:
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