Writing a fictional book is one thing, but getting it to land on bookshelves is another. For that, you need a literary fiction agent. In the UK, there are several individuals who claim they can publish your book, but finding the right one is essential. If you’re on the lookout for a literary fiction agent UK, then you’re in luck.
This guide will walk you through what makes a great literary agent, where to find them, and, importantly, how to approach them with confidence. You’ll also get our expert take on what the top agents are really looking for and how to avoid common missteps along the way.
Why a UK Literary Fiction Agent Matters?
Let’s start with this: do you really need a literary agent?
If you want to publish traditionally in the UK, or in most of the English-speaking world, the answer is yes. UK literary agents are the gatekeepers to major publishing houses. They negotiate contracts, protect your rights, and help shape your career. And in the world of literary fiction, where subtlety and craft are valued as much as plot, having someone who truly understands your work is invaluable.
A UK agent can also open doors internationally, from US publishers to translation and film rights. Many literary fiction agents in the UK have longstanding global networks that help books travel far beyond the British Isles.
The Best Literary Fiction Agents in the UK Right Now
You’ll find plenty of “top agent” lists online, but most of them just name-drop the big London players. We’re going a step further, profiling agents who are active, respected, and actively looking for high-quality literary fiction:
1. Madeleine Milburn Literary Agency
This is based in London, Madeleine Milburn represents a mix of commercial and literary fiction. Her team is known for championing debut authors and negotiating strong international rights deals. If your work sits between emotional realism and compelling storytelling, this is a good place to start.
2. Jo Unwin Literary Agency (JULA)
Jo Unwin’s reputation in the literary fiction world is well-earned. She represents literary and upmarket fiction with strong characterisation. Submissions should be polished and emotionally intelligent, perfect if you are trying to publish a novel.
3. Hardman & Swainson
Another strong London agency with a growing literary fiction list, Hardman & Swainson encourages submissions from underrepresented voices. Their commitment to craft and originality makes them ideal for serious literary writers.
4. RCW Literary Agency
RCW represents literary heavyweights like Zadie Smith and Ian McEwan. Landing here is a long shot, but if you’re confident your manuscript could sit alongside the modern greats, this is one of the most respected literary fiction agencies in the UK.
5. Kate Nash Literary Agency
Located outside the London bubble, Kate Nash’s agency is proof that great agents exist across the UK. They’re approachable, experienced, and known for working closely with authors to shape debut manuscripts.
Looking for a less commercial feel? Trellis Literary Management (with UK-based agents) or Inkwell Management (US/UK crossover) are smaller but mighty options.
How to Approach a Literary Agent in the UK
The next step after finding a literary agent is how to connect with them. To get their attention you will have to prepare a submission. This is where most writers stumble. Submitting to a literary fiction agent UK isn’t just about sending your manuscript and hoping for the best. It’s about building a compelling case that you, and your book, deserve a spot on their list.
Here’s how to do it well.
1. Research the Agent
Don’t just Google “find top literary agencies in the UK” and hit send to everyone. Read their bios. Look at who they represent. Check their agency websites and see what they’re actively seeking. If your literary novel aligns with an agent’s taste, that’s your cue.
2. Personalise Your Cover Letter
Yes, you need one. And yes, it matters. A strong cover letter introduces your novel, shares key stats (title, genre, word count), and explains why you’re submitting to that agent.
Not sure how to write one? We’ve broken it down in our guide on how to write a cover letter for a literary agent, but the short version is: to keep it clear, compelling, and specific to them.
3. Perfect Your Pitch
A pitch isn’t a synopsis. It’s 2–3 lines that hook the reader emotionally. Focus on tone, theme, and what makes your story unique. If you’re unsure how to pitch a book to a literary agent, think of it like a movie trailer, not a Wikipedia summary.
What Literary Agents Want from Literary Fiction
Literary agents looking for new authors aren’t just hunting for “beautiful writing.” They’re looking for writing with voice, structure, and something to say. A novel that moves them and makes them think. One that might not sell a million copies, but could win awards, earn critical acclaim, or build a lifelong career.
If you’re wondering what separates literary agent non-fiction UK reps from those focusing on fiction, it’s the balance between ideas and storytelling. Agents know this. That’s why your submission must be carefully considered, not just “finished and sent.”
Don’t Want to Do It Alone?
When you’re querying literary agents, it can be draining. Between researching agents, crafting the right cover letter, tightening your pitch, and editing your manuscript for the fifth time, it’s easy to lose momentum.
That’s where we come in.
At Lincoln Writes UK, we help authors prepare professional, polished submissions that get noticed. Whether you’re looking for your very first literary fiction agent in UK or planning to submit to a carefully curated list of top agencies, we help you present your work at its best.
We’re with you at every step of the way, because finding the right agent is too important to leave to guesswork.