Agents looking for literary fiction are often seeking voice, depth, originality, and emotional intelligence. Plot still matters, but prose and perspective matter more.
Below is a curated list of UK literary agents who are currently open to submissions and actively seeking literary fiction. As always, check each agency’s website before querying, as windows can change.
1. Jo Unwin
Agency: Jo Unwin Literary Agency
Open to submissions: Yes
Looking for: Literary fiction with strong characterisation, emotional nuance and intelligent storytelling. Particularly drawn to distinctive voices and contemporary themes.
Submission method: Email submission following agency guidelines.
Tip: Lead with voice. Literary agents want to hear something unmistakably yours from page one.
2. Clare Alexander
Agency: Aitken Alexander Associates
Open to submissions: Yes
Looking for: Literary fiction with depth, originality and award potential. Represents prize-winning and internationally recognised authors.
Submission method: Email submission via agency guidelines.
Tip: Avoid overcomplicating the pitch. Let the quality of the writing speak for itself.
3. Millie Hoskins
Agency: United Agents
Open to submissions: Yes
Looking for: Literary and upmarket fiction with emotional resonance, stylistic confidence and fresh perspectives.
Submission method: Email submission to individual agent.
Tip: Highlight thematic depth, not just plot summary.
4. Isobel Dixon
Agency: Blake Friedmann
Open to submissions: Yes
Looking for: Literary fiction from bold, global voices. Particularly interested in African and Commonwealth perspectives, as well as serious contemporary literary work.
Submission method: Email submission following agency guidelines.
Tip: If your novel explores cultural or geopolitical themes, make that clear in your pitch.
5. Sophie Lambert
Agency: C+W Agency
Open to submissions: Yes
Looking for: Literary fiction with strong narrative control and originality. Interested in cross-cultural stories and distinctive settings.
Submission method: Online or email submission as per guidelines.
Tip: A precise, elegant query letter works better than a dramatic one.
6. Rachel Conway
Agency: Georgina Capel Associates
Open to submissions: Yes
Looking for: Literary fiction and narrative-driven novels with intellectual depth and confident prose.
Submission method: Email submission.
Tip: Emphasise voice and tone rather than high-concept hooks.
7. Lucy Luck
Agency: C+W Agency
Open to submissions: Yes
Looking for: Literary and upmarket fiction with ambition, layered characters and strong emotional arcs.
Submission method: Email submission to individual agent.
Tip: Literary fiction still needs narrative tension. Make sure stakes are visible.
8. Emma Paterson
Agency: Aitken Alexander Associates
Open to submissions: Yes
Looking for: Literary and upmarket fiction that explores complex inner worlds and contemporary issues.
Submission method: Email submission.
Tip: Be clear about what your novel is interrogating. Literary agents often respond to thematic clarity.
9. Nelle Andrew
Agency: Rachel Mills Literary
Open to submissions: Yes
Looking for: Upmarket and literary fiction with book club appeal and emotional weight.
Submission method: Email submission.
Tip: If your literary novel also has commercial crossover appeal, mention it.
10. Toby Mundy
Agency: Toby Mundy Associates
Open to submissions: Yes
Looking for: Literary fiction with serious intent, strong ideas and long-term cultural relevance.
Submission method: Email submission via agency site.
Tip: Literary fiction queries benefit from restraint. Let your sample chapters do the heavy lifting.
A note on literary fiction
Literary agents often receive even more submissions per slot than commercial agents. Many may sign only one or two new literary fiction writers per year.
Focus on:
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Exceptional prose
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Clear thematic concerns
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A confident but measured query letter
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A strong opening chapter
And remember, literary fiction is rarely trend-driven. It is voice-driven.
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