Championing Artistic Expression Every reader finds joy in discovering and getting lost in a great book—a compelling story that resonates deeply and stays with them long after the final page. Behind every great book and unforgettable story is the author, the creative force I would be honored to partner with. My hope is to collaborate with authors who have a genuine passion for crafting stories that captivate and inspire readers. Together, we would not only focus on bringing their stories to life but also work on building a successful and sustainable career—one that is both artistically fulfilling and strategically sound Ta! Helen she/her
Fun facts about me
I represent bestselling authors including
Christy Climenhage Lydia Hawke Submission Guidelines Submissions should be emailed to helenquery@ 2026 Acquisition Focus My primary focus is commercial thriller and psychological suspense with strong emotional grounding and clear narrative drive. I’m drawn to stories that balance propulsive plotting with interior depth—novels grounded in reality that explore the moral consequences of choice, secrecy, and survival. I’m especially interested in projects that sit comfortably in the commercial marketplace while offering layered characterization and lasting reader impact.
Genres I’m Most Actively Seeking
Commercial Thrillers psychological, domestic, or crime-driven, with clear stakes and strong pacing Psychological & Domestic Suspense tension rooted in character, relationships, and buried truths Crime & Investigative Fiction character-forward mysteries and procedurals with emotional weight Upmarket Fiction with Strong Book Club Appeal emotionally resonant, character-driven stories that balance compelling plots with thematic depth Narrative Nonfiction true stories told with suspense, momentum, and emotional clarity
Thematic & Stylistic Interests
Subtle folklore, Faith, or Afrofuturist influences used symbolically or thematically, grounded in realism and lived experience rather than speculative or science-fiction world-building Stories shaped by culture and place with specificity and universal emotional reach
What Wins Me Immediately
High-concept premises grounded in real-world stakes Character-driven suspense over spectacle Clear commercial positioning, including series potential where appropriate Fiction that appeals to both bestseller audiences and book clubs Narrative nonfiction that feels cinematic yet intimate
What I Respond to Most
A confident, polished voice from the opening pages Characters whose choices drive the plot—and whose consequences linger long after the book ends Stories that deliver escape, tension, and genuine emotional connection To submit, please email a query letter and the first 10 pages of your manuscript along with your author website if you have one (not a deal-breaker if you don’t). Absolutely all queries will be read and will receive a response. My response time is currently about 3-6 weeks and please note that no critiques or feedback are included in passes. I don’t accept pitches via social media, phone, mail or on any other platforms other than email. Occasionally, I do attend conferences and will take pitches in person – watch my page for the upcoming conference schedule. More Information at Guidelines & Details Vital Info helen@ Website Agent
Favorite sub-genres
Absolutely all of them! I’d like the next… Commercial Thrillers psychological, domestic, or crime-driven, with clear stakes and strong pacing Psychological & Domestic Suspense tension rooted in character, relationships, and buried truths Crime & Investigative Fiction character-forward mysteries and procedurals with emotional weight Upmarket Fiction with Strong Book Club Appeal emotionally resonant, character-driven stories that balance compelling plots with thematic depth Narrative Nonfiction true stories told with suspense, momentu