About
Sebastian Galen is a freelance literary agent with a global outlook, specializing in representing both established and debut writers, international rights, and book-to-screen adaptations.
He entered the publishing industry in 1995, spending a decade working with multiple major publishing houses before transitioning to a freelance literary agent role in 2005. Recognized for his achievements, he was named a Publishing Rising Star by The Bookseller in 2009 and was shortlisted for Literary Agent of the Year in 2016. He has built some of the fastest-growing new commercial brands in the thriller market, with five of his authors selling over a million copies in the US and UK.
Sebastian represents authors of #1 New York Times bestsellers and multi-award-winning books. He works directly with publishers in the USA, UK, Australia and Asia, offering a global understanding of the marketplace. With a hands-on editorial focus, he partners with authors through every stage of the publishing process, from submission to publication and beyond.
Many of his writers were unknown and unpublished when they first sent him their manuscripts. Sebastian worked closely with them editorially before securing publishing deals—often negotiating six- and seven-figure contracts for debut authors. Known for his scrupulous approach to business and his tough negotiating skills, he has secured some of the highest seven- and eight-figure advances ever achieved for American and British writers.
Sebastian has extensive connections in the publishing and film industry—from top literary agents and publishing house executives to film producers and directors. His strong industry relationships and negotiation skills ensure that his clients have the best opportunities for securing publishing and film adaptation deals.
FILM & TV RIGHTS
Sebastian Galen represents the dramatic rights for the majority of his authors. He works directly with scouts, producers, studios, and broadcasters across the USA, UK, and Europe to showcase books for adaptation.
COMMISSION RATES
- 15% on deals with US and UK publishers
- 20% on deals with publishers outside the US and UK, as well as on audio, film, TV, and stage rights
SUBMISSION
I personally read everything that is submitted to me and represent authors from all over the world.
Please follow the submission instructions below and read the FAQs before sending your manuscript. I want to give your manuscript every chance of success, so please follow these instructions precisely. I cannot consider submissions sent in any other way.
General Submission Guidelines
Please fill in the appropriate form below for Adult Fiction, Non-fiction, or Children’s & YA submissions.
Do not send any submissions by post; instead, send them directly to my email address. I cannot consider any submissions not sent via the forms below, nor can I return any posted items.
The manuscript and synopsis should be in Word format and 1.5 or double spaced.
Adult Fiction Submissions
For Adult Fiction submissions, please only send material when you have a completed manuscript and are fully satisfied that it is ready to be shared.
As you would in a formal covering letter, please paste an introduction to your novel in the designated box in the form below. This should include:
- A one- or two-line elevator pitch
- Up to three comparable books or authors from the past ten years that align with your book
- A compelling blurb to generate interest in your story
- Any relevant information about yourself
Attach a one-page synopsis and the first three chapters, or the first 10,000 words of the manuscript, in a single document. Only one attachment should be sent via the form. The synopsis should ‘tell’ the story, including spoilers, rather than ‘sell’ it (the selling happens in the introduction).
Non-fiction Submissions
Non-fiction books are often sold on proposal, so your book does not need to be complete at the time of submission.
When submitting a non-fiction project, please start with a covering letter introducing yourself and your project, pasting it into the designated box in the form below.
You must also include one document containing a writing sample of approximately 5,000 10,000 words along with a proposal. Your proposal should include:
- A summary of your book and why it needs to be written
- Where it fits in the market, referencing similar or competing titles
- Why you are well-positioned to write the book, including relevant background, credentials, or professional expertise
- A chapter outline with a brief description of each chapter
Only one attachment should be sent via the form.
Children’s & YA Submissions
For Children’s & YA submissions, please only send material when you have a completed manuscript and are fully satisfied that it is ready to be shared.
As with Adult Fiction, please paste an introduction to your novel in the designated box in the form below. This should include:
- A one- or two-line elevator pitch
- Up to three comparable books or authors from the past ten years that align with your book
- A compelling blurb to generate interest in your story
- Any relevant information about yourself
Attach a one-page synopsis and the first three chapters, or the first 10,000 words of the manuscript, in a single document. Only one attachment should be sent via the form. The synopsis should ‘tell’ the story, including spoilers, rather than ‘sell’ it (the selling happens in the introduction).
FAQs
How long does it take to consider a manuscript? Will I receive a response?
I take up to seven weeks to consider a manuscript. Due to the high volume of submissions I receive daily, I cannot guarantee a response to every applicant. If you have not heard from me after seven weeks, please assume that your submission has not been successful. Unfortunately, I do not have the resources to provide feedback to authors I am not offering representation to.
How do I know if my submission has been received?
You will receive an automatic email confirming receipt. If you do not see it, please check your junk mail.
Do you represent TV/Film/Stage rights for books you do not represent?
I only represent the TV, film, and stage rights for books that I represent.
Do you represent international rights for books you do not represent?
I only represent international rights for books that I represent.
Can I submit my book if it is not finished?
For fiction, please only submit when you have a complete and thoroughly edited manuscript. For non- fiction, you do not need to have completed the book. Instead, submit a writing sample of approximately 5,000–10,000 words. However, I recommend ensuring it is the best possible version before submitting.
Do I have to follow the submission guidelines exactly?
Yes, please follow the guidelines. They are designed to allow me to review submissions efficiently. If you do not follow them, you may be putting yourself at a disadvantage.
Do you accept submissions from anywhere in the world?
Yes, I am proud to represent a diverse client list that includes writers from around the world.
Can I resubmit my manuscript to another agent if it is unsuccessful?
Yes, you may resubmit to a different agent after 7 weeks have passed. However, please indicate who you originally submitted it to. I also recommend taking the time to revise your work before resubmitting.
I have a question. Can I contact you?
Of course! You should find all the necessary information concerning submissions on this page. However, if you have any questions, please email [email protected]. There is no need to call.
Books
