If you’re writing crime, thrillers, historical sagas, book club fiction, high-concept women’s fiction or plot-driven contemporary novels, you’re likely writing commercial fiction. And the good news is this: there are UK literary agents actively seeking it.
Below is a curated list of UK literary agents who are currently open to submissions and actively looking for commercial fiction. Always double-check individual guidelines before querying.
1. Madeleine Milburn
Agency: Madeleine Milburn Literary, TV & Film Agency
Open to submissions: Yes
Looking for: Psychological thrillers, book club fiction, upmarket women’s fiction, high-concept commercial novels with international appeal.
Submission method: Online form via agency website.
Tip: Strong hooks matter here. This agency is particularly responsive to novels that feel cinematic or adaptable.
2. Hannah Sheppard
Agency: D H H Literary Agency
Open to submissions: Yes
Looking for: Commercial adult fiction, crime, thrillers, historical fiction, and accessible fantasy with broad appeal.
Submission method: Email submission following agency guidelines.
Tip: A tight, compelling synopsis is crucial when pitching high-concept fiction.
3. Sarah O’Halloran
Agency: The Bent Agency (UK)
Open to submissions: Yes
Looking for: Commercial women’s fiction, romance, book club fiction with strong emotional stakes.
Submission method: Online submission portal.
Tip: Voice and character depth matter as much as plot.
4. Caroline Hardman
Agency: Hardman & Swainson
Open to submissions: Yes
Looking for: Commercial fiction with a strong narrative drive, including crime and emotionally compelling contemporary fiction.
Submission method: Email query with sample chapters.
Tip: Make sure your opening chapter lands immediately.
5. Becky Thomas
Agency: Johnson & Alcock
Open to submissions: Yes
Looking for: Upmarket and commercial fiction, especially voice-led stories exploring identity and belonging.
Submission method: Email submission to individual agent.
Tip: Personalise your query and show awareness of her existing list.
6. Rob Dinsdale
Agency: The Soho Agency
Open to submissions: Yes
Looking for: Historical fiction, romantic fiction, emotional commercial fiction with strong storytelling.
Submission method: Email submission.
Tip: Historical commercial fiction should have a fresh angle, not just a familiar setting.
7. Nelle Andrew
Agency: Rachel Mills Literary
Open to submissions: Yes
Looking for: Book club fiction, upmarket women’s fiction, intelligent commercial storytelling.
Submission method: Email with query and first chapters.
Tip: Emphasise book club appeal and discussion potential.
8. Harry Illingworth
Agency: D H H Literary Agency
Open to submissions: Yes
Looking for: Commercial speculative fiction, thrillers, genre-crossing commercial novels.
Submission method: Email submission.
Tip: If your commercial fiction has genre elements, clarify the target audience.
9. Kate Evans
Agency: Peters Fraser + Dunlop
Open to submissions: Yes
Looking for: Commercial fiction with strong storytelling and market awareness.
Submission method: Email submission following PFD guidelines.
Tip: Demonstrate awareness of the current market.
10. Emma Paterson
Agency: Aitken Alexander Associates
Open to submissions: Yes
Looking for: Upmarket and commercial fiction with strong character arcs and layered themes.
Submission method: Email submission.
Tip: Highlight long-term career potential, not just one standalone book.
Before you query
Commercial fiction is crowded. Agents receive thousands of submissions each year and may only take on a handful of new clients.
If you haven’t already, read:
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How to find a literary agent
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How to write a query letter that works
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How to tell if an agent is right for your book
And remember: querying is part strategy, part stamina. Good luck!
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