We are based near Oxford and have built a reputation for discovering new talent and matching our authors with  the right publisher.

We represent our writers with enthusiasm and sound business sense, and we offer them candour, encouragement, detailed editorial advice, and a rapid response to queries. We have excellent relationships with publishers large and small, and defend our clients’ interests with vigour and professionalism. And we have extensive experience of negotiating contracts for theatre, film, tv, radio, and digital media, so our authors can be confident of receiving the best advice on all multi-media sales.

Translation rights form an important part of a writer’s income, and these are handled by The Buckman Agency, a long-established company that is respected by foreign publishers all over the world.

What are we looking for? Literary and commercial fiction and non-fiction. Contemporary and historical novels, crime, thrillers, women’s fiction, memoirs, history, biography, current affairs – anything that’s well written except poetry, illustrated children’s books, fantasy, horror, or science fiction. We only handle play, film and tv scripts by our established clients.

What do we charge? A commission of 15% on UK rights, 15%-20% on US rights, 20% on translation rights, and 15-20% on all other rights, depending on whether a sub-agent is involved. We do not charge a reading fee.

What should you send? A letter and the first couple of chapters so we can see how you write, plus a brief outline and biographical details. We will accept submissions via email – send them as Word documents and address them to amd@theampersandagency.co.uk – and ordinary mail. All submissions should have a minimum font size of 11 point with 1.5 line spacing. Hard copies should be printed on one side of the paper only, and all pages should be numbered. We don’t normally acknowledge receipt or offer advice on rejected material, nor will we respond unless you include an email address or an envelope with stamps that can be used in the UK.

Please note: we will not consider unpublished authors based in the USA, as in our experience an American writer needs an American publisher on board before British editors will take notice.

Phone: +44 (0)1608 683677 / 683898

Click here to email us

Registered in England No. 6053215

Member of the Association of Authors’ Agents

VAT No 819 3129 26

NO RESPONSIBILITY IS TAKEN FOR LOSS OR DAMAGE TO MATERIAL SENT TO OR BY US