About
Paula Martinez is an independent literary agent who brings a deep passion for storytelling and a keen eye for talent to every client she represents. With over a decade of experience in publishing, marketing, and author advocacy, Paula has earned a reputation as a trusted guide for writers navigating the complex literary landscape.
Throughout her career, she has worked with a wide range of authors—from debut voices to established names—helping them refine their manuscripts, strategically position their work, and expand their reach. Known for her ability to connect authors with influential endorsers and key industry opportunities, Paula is dedicated to amplifying unique voices and ensuring each story finds its ideal audience.
What sets Paula apart is her approachable, collaborative nature. She builds strong, lasting relationships with her clients, empowering them to make informed decisions while always championing their creative and professional goals.
Paula continues to make a meaningful impact in the industry, leveraging her expertise and network to support compelling narratives and help authors realize their full potential.
Personal Story & Inspiration
Paula Martinez’s journey into the world of books began long before she became a literary agent. Growing up in a small town, her childhood was filled with library visits, dog-eared novels, and the joy of discovering new voices through the written word. Stories weren’t just entertainment—they were a lifeline, a lens into the world, and a source of endless curiosity.
After earning her degree in literature and communications, Paula initially pursued a career in publishing and marketing. But it wasn’t long before she realized her true calling: championing authors and helping them bring their stories to life. The transition to literary representation was a natural step—one that combined her love for narrative with her gift for strategy and connection.
What inspires Paula every day is the raw, honest power of storytelling. She believes that great books don’t just entertain—they challenge, heal, and create change. It’s this belief that fuels her mission to support writers at every stage, especially those whose voices might otherwise go unheard.
Paula’s work is deeply personal. Every manuscript she reads reminds her of why she started: to be a bridge between powerful stories and the readers who need them most.
For Paula, being a literary agent isn’t just a profession—it’s a vocation. Every manuscript she reads is a reminder of her own journey from curious reader to industry guide. She approaches each client relationship with care, integrity, and the firm belief that every story deserves to be told—and heard.
Areas of Expertise
📚 Author Representation
Guiding writers through every stage of their careers—from manuscript development and submissions to contract negotiation and long-term career planning.
📝 Manuscript Development
Offering strategic, in-depth editorial feedback to help authors refine their voice, strengthen narrative structure, and ensure their work is submission-ready.
📣 Publishing Strategy
Crafting personalized submission plans that align with market trends and individual author goals, targeting the right editors, imprints, and publishing houses.
🤝 Industry Networking & Endorsements
Connecting authors with key endorsers, influencers, and thought leaders to elevate their platforms and increase visibility within and beyond the literary world.
🎯 Branding & Author Platform Building
Helping authors define their brand, grow their audience, and leverage digital platforms, media, and events to amplify their message and presence.
📈 Contract Negotiation & Rights Management
Advocating for favorable publishing terms and protecting authors’ interests in areas such as royalties, subsidiary rights, and film/TV adaptations.
🌎 Diversity & Inclusion in Publishing
Championing underrepresented voices and fostering a more inclusive literary landscape by actively seeking and supporting stories that reflect diverse experiences and perspectives.
Professional Philosophy
At the heart of Paula Martinez’s work is a simple but powerful belief: every voice matters, and every story has the potential to create impact. As a literary agent, she is committed to more than just selling books—she’s devoted to building meaningful partnerships with authors, rooted in trust, transparency, and shared vision.
Paula approaches each client relationship with care and curiosity, taking the time to understand not only the manuscript, but the person behind it. She believes that representation is a long-term investment, and that great literary careers are built through collaboration, thoughtful strategy, and a deep respect for the creative process.
Her philosophy is grounded in advocacy. Whether she’s negotiating a contract, offering developmental feedback, or championing a debut voice, Paula works with integrity and intention—always putting the author’s goals and values at the forefront.
She also sees the role of a literary agent as one of stewardship. In a fast-changing publishing landscape, she strives to be a steady, informed guide—navigating complexities while empowering writers to make confident, informed decisions about their work and their future.
Above all, Paula believes in the transformative power of stories—and in the importance of helping them find their way into the world.
Submission Guidelines
Paula Martinez is currently open to reviewing select submissions from authors seeking literary representation. She welcomes well-crafted, original works that demonstrate a strong voice, compelling storytelling, and a clear sense of audience.
What Paula is Looking For
Children’s Books: Middle grade and young adult fiction with authentic voices and fresh perspectives.
Fiction: Literary fiction, upmarket commercial fiction, women’s fiction, select genre fiction (mystery, historical, and light speculative).
Nonfiction: Memoir, narrative nonfiction, cultural commentary, and works with strong platform potential.
How to Submit
Please email your submission to [Insert Email Address] with the subject line:
QUERY – [Your Book Title] – [Genre]
Include in your email:
Author Bio – Relevant background, writing credits, or platform information.
Query Letter – Introduce yourself, your book, and why you believe Paula would be a good fit.
Synopsis – A one-page summary of your manuscript, including the ending.
Sample Pages – The first 10 pages of your manuscript pasted into the body of the email (no attachments, please).
Important Notes
Simultaneous submissions are fine, but please notify us immediately if your work is accepted elsewhere.
Submissions that do not follow the guidelines may not be considered.
Due to the volume of queries, only authors whose work is being considered will receive a reply.