Kate Finlay
Senior Literary Agent
Kate Finlay joined Manning Literary Agency in 2016 and represents a list of award-winning and bestselling authors across literary fiction, upmarket commercial fiction, and select narrative non-fiction.
Before becoming an agent, Kate worked in editorial at a major London publishing house, where she acquired and developed debut fiction. Her editorial background continues to shape her approach, and she is known for working closely with authors to refine manuscripts before submission.
Kate is particularly interested in ambitious debut novels, psychologically complex characters, and stories that explore the darker sides of human relationships.
Her authors have been shortlisted for major literary prizes and translated internationally.
Kate works with Nigel Carlyle, her assistant, who supports the handling of submissions and internal editorial processes.
What Kate Is Looking For
Kate is currently seeking:
• literary fiction
• upmarket thrillers
• voice-driven debut novels
• book club fiction with psychological depth
She is especially drawn to manuscripts that combine strong narrative tension with literary quality.
Kate is currently closed to unsolicited submissions.
