How an agent builds their list of authors

Trends matter, but they are not something publishers and agents follow blindly. Instead, we are trying to anticipate what might resonate in the years ahead. For example, there is still a strong appetite for romance, but there is also a growing sense of fatigue around certain areas, such as standard romantasy. Publishers’ schedules in that area are already quite full for the next two years. What they are looking for are books that expand or subvert the category: romance blended with other genres, such as dystopian romance, a horror romance, a romance with a murder mystery, or a sports romance with a fantasy backdrop. Dark romance has also become more visible and less taboo. Part of its appeal lies in its ability to explore transgressive or morally complex dynamics within the safe confines of fiction. Readers can engage with themes of power, danger and ambiguity without real-world consequences. That sense of controlled exploration is a powerful draw, and agents are being asked to look out for it when reviewing submissions.

However, there is a risk in focusing too heavily on trends. If an agent builds a list based purely on what is popular, that list can quickly feel inauthentic or become outdated. More importantly, it can lead to taking on books that lack a distinctive voice or depth.

For me, voice is always the most important factor. I am drawn to writing that feels immediate, confident and distinctive – what I often think of as voice-driven work. I love smart-mouthed dialogue, tight writing and compelling character dynamics. At the same time, I am interested in lush settings, high concepts, fresh takes on familiar tropes and stories that weave real-world themes into speculative or fantastical frameworks. And I love weird books!

Trends will always change. But if a writer has a voice with real flair and personality, that becomes the foundation for a sustainable career. You can adapt positioning, explore different genres and respond to shifts in the market, but you can’t manufacture voice. And it is always obvious when a submission has been written to chase a trend rather than from a place of genuine creative investment.

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Safae El-Ouahabi joined RCW in 2019. She has a strong interest in dynamic, voice-driven narratives with a sense of urgency: stories that have emotional impact and a strong hook without being overwritten. Safae welcomes submissions across adult, YA and crossover fiction, and represents a wide range of work including speculative fiction, dystopia, satire, fantasy and adult romcoms. She is dedicated to championing the work of translators as well as authors, fighting for their space on the bestseller shelves. Her clients include Anton Hur, Andy Darcy Theo, L.R. Lam, Chloe Ford and Sandy Joosun Lee.