Finding the right literary agent is a crucial step in the journey to getting your book published. An agent not only helps you navigate the complex world of publishing but also serves as your advocate in negotiating contracts and connecting with publishers. Below, we’ve compiled a list of reliable websites where writers can research and connect with literary agents. These resources will help you identify agents who specialize in your genre, offer submission guidelines, and provide useful tips for crafting your queries.

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1. QueryTracker

• What it Offers: A free tool that allows you to search for literary agents by genre and track your submissions. QueryTracker includes response statistics, which can help you gauge agent activity and response times.

• Why Use It: Organize your agent outreach and access valuable insights on individual agents’ preferences.

2. AgentQuery

• What it Offers: A comprehensive and free database of literary agents. Search by genre, location, or agent type. Includes submission guidelines and links to agent websites.

• Why Use It: It’s a free, easy-to-use database, perfect for beginning your agent search.

3. Publishers Marketplace

• What it Offers: A paid service that offers detailed agent profiles, including their recent deals, client lists, and preferences. You can also track major book deals across genres.

• Why Use It: Provides insider information on agents, allowing you to see who’s making deals in your genre and what type of work they’re seeking.

4. Writers' Digest

• What it Offers: A well-known resource for writers, Writers’ Digest offers a directory of agents, along with interviews and articles that provide helpful insights into the submission process.

• Why Use It: Get expert advice on approaching agents, crafting query letters, and the submission process.

5. Association of Authors' Representatives (AAR)

• What it Offers: The AAR is a professional organization of literary agents that adhere to ethical standards. Their online directory lists member agents who specialize in various genres.

• Why Use It: The AAR is a trusted source for finding reputable, professional agents.

6. Writer’s Market

• What it Offers: A comprehensive, subscription-based resource that offers an up-to-date database of literary agents, as well as submission guidelines and industry tips.

• Why Use It: A one-stop-shop for everything from agent contacts to market trends and submission best practices.

7. The Manuscript Wish List

• What it Offers: A curated collection of agent wish lists where agents post what kinds of manuscripts they are currently seeking.

• Why Use It: Perfect for identifying agents with a specific interest in your genre or type of story.

8. Social Media & #MSWL (Manuscript Wish List) on Twitter

• What it Offers: Many agents share what they’re looking for on Twitter under the hashtag #MSWL. This is a valuable way to directly hear from agents about what types of manuscripts they’re actively seeking.

• Why Use It: Connect with agents informally, see what they’re actively interested in, and keep up with their latest preferences.

9. Poets & Writers

• What it Offers: A trusted resource for writers, Poets & Writers offers a comprehensive agent directory, as well as tips on the submission process.

• Why Use It: Provides access to an updated directory and a wealth of articles on getting published.

10. Submittable

• What it Offers: A platform used by many agents to accept submissions. Submittable allows you to submit manuscripts to agents who are currently accepting new work.

• Why Use It: Streamline your submission process by submitting to multiple agents using this platform.

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Tips for Approaching Agents:

• Research Each Agent: Before submitting, make sure you’ve researched each agent’s preferences, submission guidelines, and areas of interest. This helps you avoid wasting time and increases your chances of success.

• Tailor Your Query: A personalized query letter that speaks to an agent’s specific interests will stand out. At Lily & Foster, we offer guidance on crafting a compelling query letter that captures an agent’s attention. Be sure to follow submission guidelines carefully, and let us help you fine-tune your approach to increase your chances of success.

• Keep Track of Your Submissions: Use tools like QueryTracker to keep track of your submissions and responses. It helps you stay organized and avoid accidental duplicate submissions.