Lucinda Halpern

I specialize in representing standout voices in business, health, lifestyle, psychology, popular science, narrative nonfiction, and upmarket fiction. My clients include New York Times bestselling authors Dan Martell (Buy Back Your Time), Michelle Dowd (Forager), Susan Peirce Thompson (Bright Line Eating), Chris Bailey (Hyperfocus, How to Calm Your Mind), Cait Flanders (The Year of Less), Jayne Allen (Black Girls Must Die Exhausted) and Nicola Kraus (The Nanny Diaries). I work closely with PhDs, CEOs, journalists, and other experts across industries—but I’m fundamentally drawn to the “Three Keys” I describe in Get Signed: a big and bold idea, brilliant writing, and an irresistible platform.

Endorsed by Adam Grant as “the definitive guide to attracting an agent and laying the groundwork for a book worth publishing,” Get Signed distills my approach to building long-term author careers. The book reflects the same process I use to help first-time authors—and seasoned professionals—stand out in a competitive market and land major publishing deals.

At Lucinda Literary, we’re known for launching debut and bestselling authors across nonfiction and fiction. We now also represent world-class ghostwriters and editors who help bring expert-driven books to life with clarity, narrative power, and lasting impact.

Through the Lucinda Literary Academy, founded in 2020, we offer coaching programs, masterminds, and free workshops for writers of all genres and stages. These programs—developed by literary agents and led by industry insiders—are available both in person and on Zoom. Our monthly newsletter, weekly blog, and social media channels provide actionable insights and trend analysis, with the goal of making publishing more transparent and accessible for all writers.

I’m currently seeking:

• Narrative nonfiction with a unique lens, lived experience, or cultural insight (e.g., clients Michelle Dowd, Nancy Schwartzman, Julien and Kiersten Saunders)
• Self-help and thought leadership from credentialed experts (PhDs, MDs, founders) with platform and original frameworks (e.g., clients Dan Martell, Ron Friedman, Chris Bailey)
• Upmarket fiction that’s cinematic, emotionally resonant, and story-driven—especially family dramas, coming-of-age arcs, or underrepresented perspectives (think Celeste Ng, Liane Moriarty)
• Business and investigative nonfiction in the style of Uncanny Valley, Careless People, or Bad Blood

I have a strong track record of identifying bestselling potential and launching speaking and media careers for my authors.

To query me:
At this time, I am only accepting queries by referral. Because our agency values each submission and reviews every pitch that comes through our inbox, I encourage you to consider your book and submit a pitch using the Get Signed model—it will significantly increase your chances of receiving notice from our agency or others.

Submission Guidelines

To query me, please complete this contact form.

Please know that while we value your submission, due to the high volume of queries we receive, we are unable to respond to each one individually. We welcome unsolicited submissions, but prioritize those that come by referral.

Guidelines & Details