Top Christian Literary Agents – Below you’ll find profiles of the most respected and successful Christian literary agents working today—professionals known for their strong relationships with publishers, proven track records, and commitment to guiding authors through the Christian publishing landscape.
What Makes a “Top” Christian Literary Agent?
Top Christian literary agents distinguish themselves by their proven ability to secure successful publishing deals with prominent Christian publishers, influential industry connections, and representation of notable bestselling authors. They frequently participate in industry conferences and workshops and are consistently praised by authors for their effectiveness, transparency, and professionalism.
Profiles of the Top Christian Literary Agents
Steve Laube
- Agency: The Steve Laube Agency
- Genres and Specialties: Inspirational fiction, Christian nonfiction, theology
- Background: Over 40 years of publishing experience, formerly a publisher at Bethany House.
- Notable Books & Authors: Jerry B. Jenkins (“Left Behind”), Francine Rivers (“Redeeming Love”)
- Submission Status: Actively accepting submissions
- Preferences: Currently seeking innovative fiction with strong spiritual themes and nonfiction addressing contemporary Christian issues.
Rachelle Gardner
- Agency: Gardner Literary Agency
- Genres and Specialties: Christian living, memoir, inspirational women’s fiction
- Background: Experienced agent known for insightful editorial guidance and excellent client advocacy.
- Notable Books & Authors: Sarah Bessey, Rachel Held Evans
- Submission Status: Selectively reviewing queries
- Preferences: Interested in transformative memoirs and timely Christian living topics.
Janet Kobobel Grant
- Agency: Books & Such Literary Management
- Genres and Specialties: Inspirational nonfiction, women’s fiction, memoir
- Background: Established agency founder with extensive connections to top Christian publishers.
- Notable Books & Authors: Robin Jones Gunn, Lauraine Snelling
- Submission Status: Actively accepting submissions
- Preferences: Currently seeking memoirs and nonfiction that speak meaningfully to contemporary women.
Greg Johnson
- Agency: WordServe Literary
- Genres and Specialties: Nonfiction, Christian leadership, personal growth
- Background: Highly respected for his extensive publishing experience and strategic author positioning.
- Notable Books & Authors: Mark Batterson, Mary DeMuth
- Submission Status: Actively accepting submissions
- Preferences: Open to new authors with fresh perspectives on leadership and Christian living.
Chip MacGregor
- Agency: MacGregor Literary
- Genres and Specialties: Fiction, memoir, theological nonfiction
- Background: Over 25 years in publishing, widely recognized for his straightforward approach.
- Notable Books & Authors: Lisa Samson, Chip Ingram
- Submission Status: Selectively reviewing queries
- Preferences: Interested in thought-provoking nonfiction and well-crafted, literary Christian fiction.
Cynthia Ruchti
- Agency: Books & Such Literary Management
- Genres and Specialties: Christian fiction, devotionals, memoir
- Background: Known for deep author engagement and market insights.
- Notable Books & Authors: Numerous successful devotional authors
- Submission Status: Actively accepting submissions
- Preferences: Seeking emotionally resonant fiction and nonfiction that encourages spiritual growth.
Dan Balow
- Agency: The Steve Laube Agency
- Genres and Specialties: Fiction, nonfiction, devotionals
- Background: Former publisher with deep industry experience and connections.
- Notable Books & Authors: Tosca Lee, multiple bestselling devotional authors
- Submission Status: Actively accepting submissions
- Preferences: Particularly drawn to innovative narrative approaches and impactful devotionals.
Tamela Hancock Murray
- Agency: The Steve Laube Agency
- Genres and Specialties: Romance, historical fiction, Amish fiction
- Background: Experienced advocate known for securing substantial publishing deals for her clients.
- Notable Books & Authors: Prominent Amish fiction and historical romance authors
- Submission Status: Actively accepting submissions
- Preferences: Currently interested in uplifting romance and authentic historical narratives.
Linda Glaz
- Agency: Hartline Literary Agency
- Genres and Specialties: Inspirational fiction, romantic suspense, women’s fiction
- Background: Recognized for discovering fresh talent and building author careers.
- Notable Books & Authors: Emerging inspirational fiction writers
- Submission Status: Selectively reviewing queries
- Preferences: Seeking romantic suspense and women’s fiction with strong character development.
Bob Hostetler
- Agency: The Steve Laube Agency
- Genres and Specialties: Christian living, theology, spiritual growth
- Background: Highly respected author and agent, deeply engaged in Christian publishing community.
- Notable Books & Authors: Numerous bestselling nonfiction authors
- Submission Status: Actively accepting submissions
- Preferences: Interested in accessible theological insights and practical Christian living.
Spotlight: Rising Stars Among Christian Literary Agents
- Adria Goetz (P.S. Literary Agency): Rapidly becoming known for her fresh vision in children’s and YA Christian literature. Actively seeking diverse stories and innovative authors.
- Kyle Young (Hartline Literary Agency): Quickly building a reputation by successfully signing debut authors in YA fiction and memoir, offering excellent opportunities for new voices.
How to Approach a Top Christian Literary Agent
- Clearly identify your genre and target audience, matching your manuscript to the agent’s specialties.
- Present your unique voice or fresh perspective clearly and early in your query letter.
- Demonstrate market awareness by mentioning comparable successful titles.
- Ensure your submission is professionally presented, concise, error-free, and impactful.
For more detailed guidance, see our comprehensive resources on Query Writing and Submission Guidelines.
Common Mistakes When Approaching Top Literary Agents
- Insufficient research into the agent’s specific interests and preferences.
- Queries lacking clarity on genre, audience, or market fit.
- Proposals that are overly broad, vague, or lack focus.
- Ignoring or failing to comply with clearly stated submission instructions.
- Submitting incomplete fiction manuscripts or inadequate nonfiction proposals.
Additional Resources for Authors Targeting Top Agents
- Conferences: Mount Hermon Christian Writers Conference | American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) | Blue Ridge Mountains Conference
- Industry Websites: Publishers Marketplace | Manuscript Wish List
Encouragement and Call to Action
Top Christian literary agents are consistently searching for fresh voices and compelling stories. Your book could become their next success story. Be clear, confident, and professional—your publishing dream could be closer than you think.
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Conclusion
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