Looking for a literary agent?

Despite the mountain of book publishing information online, the world of literary agents and book publishers remains daunting to most writers and subject experts who dream of a book deal with a traditional publishing house.

How do you write a strong query letter? What about a synopsis?

Which agents are right for my project?

And why won’t anybody talk to me?!

Do you have an idea for a book but need someone with publishing industry knowledge to discuss it with?

Or have you started sending out queries — and you’re not hearing back?

As an author and as a former literary agent, I understand these challenges.

I’m on a mission to help aspiring authors find a literary agent and get a book deal by improving your agent query and submissions materials with constructive feedback.

Here’s a partial list of traditionally published books I’ve helped bring into the world.

Check out what my clients say. Questions? Ask away.

I hope to work with you soon!

Click here to join my mailing list & get agent ready!

Check out what my clients are saying…

Martin Settle

			I had never used a literary service before I dealt with Loyd Literary Services but now that I've experienced Loyd's I shall make this a part of my publication process. What this service did for me is to save me Time, Time, Time. For me, time is not money it's creative work. When it comes time for the onerous task of researching agents and agencies for my memoir, Loyd's sent me this wonderful spreadsheet with a researched list of who best I could sent my work to.  Virginia Wade, who runs this operation, is both friendly and profession, and she saw me through many of the tasks needed to send out queries. Further, she offers packages of services to meet your specific needs, packages that are reasonably priced. Finally, you won't be waiting around a long time for her and her staff to deliver your requests. The company is efficient and thorough in getting back material to you.  I was just going to give them a try, but now that I've seen what they can do, I'm aboard with using them.		 - 1/06/2023 
				
Bibinaz Pirayesh

			Virginia is a rare find. In my experience with writing coaches/editors, you usually need to find one person to help with the literary skills to help with writing and another to help with promoting the book. Virginia is the unique coach who can do both. I was also looking for someone who could really work with me in a tailored way, and help me develop my book proposal. She was thoughtful about coming up with a plan from the start and really went beyond what I expected because not only did she help me shape a solid proposal, she also helped me develop the actual book in the process. She’s clear, direct, and transparent and she actually knows what agents are looking for (she used to be one). If you’re looking for support in writing your book proposal or developing your book, don’t hesitate. Call her. You won’t be disappointed.		 - 12/06/2022 
				
Katherine MK Mitchell

			Virginia Lloyd put on her agent hat and worked with me through the eyes of an agent. It was exactly what I needed. I recognized her clear thinking as both my Query Letter and Synopsis took a new form, and made new sense.  In addition to her practical guidance, she was quick, pleasant and reliable.  I highly recommend her for her editorial thinking and also for pointing you to the right direction as she did me.  All her questions and answers have professional value. KMK		 - 5/17/2022 
				
alice cook

			Virginia has the answers to everything.  As a new writer trying to connect with agents, Virginia was able to help me find greater traction in getting my work on the desks of agents for their consideration.  In meeting with Virginia, not only was I able to ask her questions, but she too asked me the questions I needed to find the answers to in order to produce a manuscript that was better conceived and contextualised.  Virginia is wonderful company online; I enjoyed all our meetings. Her feedback was deeply considered and has helped me to better understand myself as a writer and too, the world of publishing.		 - 4/17/2022 
				
Ubud Yoga House

			This is a recommendation for Virginia Lloyd. I contacted Virginia to help me navigate the process of getting my novel published. It is the best decision I could have made.  Virginia is not only extremely professional but her prices are reasonable and she did an outstanding job. First Virginia edited my query letter and synopsis incorporating my feedback as part of the editing process. She then did thorough research to target 30 agents that represent books comparable to mine. She presented these agents to me on the most amazing, detailed and professional spreadsheet I have ever seen. The spreadsheet was  accompanied by a video she made explaining the layout and  how to use the information. It was extraordinary.  I highly recommend Virginia and encourage anyone who is serious about getting their book published to use her services. She is at the top of her game. This is New York City at its best. So if you want the best, Virginia is your person.		 - 4/17/2022 
				
grant p cunningham

			Virginia Lloyd is simply wonderful!  She led me through the maze of what agents and publishers need from an author as opposed to what I believed they would like.  Intelligent and well informed advice is not always easy to hear but is the basis for all successful proposals.  I can recommend Virginia without hesitation to all who wish to see their projects proceed.  She provides an excellent service which will serve you well.		 - 3/17/2022 
				
Franceska J

			Virginia Lloyd brought her expertise of unusual insight and highly developed assessment skills on what makes a manuscript work or not. She was able to guide me on which parts, what and how to develop scenes and key moments in the manuscript. As well as complete the emotional arch of the story being told, which no other editor or reviewer picked up. Virginia then guided me in improving my manuscript from mediocre to well written, regarded and very professional and engaging. Being an author herself and coming from the university of life Virginia brings an extra dimension and expertise to her work. I felt very privileged that Virginia agreed to comment on my work in progress, as I received clear guidelines on how to improve and make changes to my manuscript. Her assessment approach is clear cut, astute and detailed. She gives extremely honest feedback and encouragement where appropriate, as well as being respectful and sensitive. Virginia provided the best and most significant structural review I have had over the past three years writing my manuscript and during my present writing journey. I am grateful for the good fortune in having such a competent editor.  Franceska Jordan AM		 - 2/17/2022 
				
Alison Sweeney

			Virginia knows the book publishing industry better than most. Her suggestions and guidance are spot on. Whatever happens to my beloved manuscript, Virginia's help with the Query Letter and Synopsis means I gave it my best shot.		 - 12/17/2021 
				
Richard Cibrano

			Working with Virginia was rewarding beyond my expectations.  She not only helped me through the challenging task of creating an effective synopsis, but offered valuable insight into what a literary agent will look for when deciding whether to take on a novel.  She helped me to become a better writer, and I highly recommend her services to anyone endeavoring in this challenging field.		 - 12/17/2021 
				
Karen Casey

			Virginia's experience and knowledge of the publishing industry has been invaluable. Her editorial feedback set me on the right path with my manuscript and synopsis, giving me insight that can be applied to all my other work as well. She is both sensitive and ruthless (in the most helpful way), applying each exactly where it's needed. Highly recommend.		 - 11/17/2021 
				
Peter Mills

			For me as an unpublished novel author, it was great to have Virginia's professional support at my side.  Her patient work on my letter, synopsis and book sample has given me the confidence I need to start the agent submission process.  I look forward to working further with Virginia as a professional advisor on this – and, hopefully, other projects in the future.		 - 11/17/2021 
				
Romi Grossberg

			I highly recommend working with Virginia. She not only worked with me on my manuscript but helped me prepare my submissions materials for agents and publishers, something I knew very little about. Virginia has great knowledge, experience and oodles of patience. Even through time zones she responds quickly, is always honest, positive and encouraging. The submissions process is very overwhelming with each agent/publisher asking for different documents at different word lengths, in different formats and it seems there is a secret code in their clubs. Not to worry, Virginia knows the code. Her help in editing and advising on my synopsis, bio, query letter and chapter outline has been incredible and SO needed. Her patience with me (and all the back and forth emailing) has been such a blessing. I will forever be grateful and can't wait to publicly thank her when my book hits the big stage 😉		 - 11/17/2021 
				
Scott WIlliams

			Virginia's help in getting my query materials up-to-scratch has been invaluable. She guided in ways to improve, and challenged me when necessary. A more coherent, attractive chapter outline, first chapter, and query letter has been the result! I thoroughly recommend Virginia's services.		 - 11/17/2021 
				
madi rose

			The best! I have been using Virginia’s editing packages for well over a year and she has been an incredible help, especially for someone new to the industry. She helped me clean up my manuscript for submissions, which helped me grow as a writer. She is not only someone I trust with my work, but I feel like I now have someone in the industry I can turn to for advice. I highly recommend her services.		 - 11/17/2021 
				
Nick Bennett

			Working with Virginia, not only made me a better writer but was the reason I was able to get my first book deal. I couldn't recommend working with Virginia and her team enough, whether you're looking to get an agent or pitch publishers!		 - 11/17/2021 
				
Sharon Connolly

			Virginia’s editorial input, advice about submission materials and strategies for approaching publishers were wise, and ultimately effective. Thanks to Virginia, I have a publishing deal!		 - 11/17/2021 
				
Ryan W

			Amazing! I used the Agent Query Package from Lloyd Literary Services that helped tidy up my submissions & get them ready for an agent.  Virginia is amazingly insightful & has tons of experience in the industry. Her advice was hugely helpful.  Definitely recommended for all hopeful authors!		 - 11/17/2020 
				
Chladil Mail

			Virginia Lloyd is a highly skilled and intuitive editor. Her assistance has been invaluable. Kate Chladil		 - 11/17/2020

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“Over a couple of years, Virginia has given me immeasurable help with my writing and shepherded my book TRUGANINI to considerable publishing success.”

-Author | Truganini (Allen & Unwin 2020) | Non-Fiction

Cassandra Pybus

“Virginia has been an absolute joy to work with and she has delivered on her every promise. ”

– Author, The Dogs that Made Australia and The Ferals that Ate Australia (both HarperCollins) | Non-Fiction

Guy Hull

“Virginia has edited all of my novels and most of my nonfiction since 1997. I love working with her and I recommend her without hesitation.”

– Author, Lola Bensky (2014) Winner, Prix Médicis Étranger 2014 | Fiction / Non-Fiction

Lily Brett

Virginia not only made me a better writer but was the reason I was able to get my first book deal. I couldn’t recommend working with Virginia and her team enough, whether you’re looking to get an agent or pitch publishers!

– Author, YOUNG, LOST & LEADERLESS (Wilkinson Publishing 2021) | Memoir

Nick Bennett

We felt we could trust you to be honest with us. … You have been a great source of encouragement and support.”

–Co-authors, The Talking Cure (Pan Macmillan 2019) | Nonfiction
Prof. Gillian Straker & Dr. Jacqui Winship

Professor Gillian Straker & Dr. Jacqui Winship

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Anna Bligh- Through The Wall

Anna and I worked closely for several months during the drafting and editing of her story of female resilience and leadership.

Tim Elliott- Farewell to the Father

I helped Tim turn an explosive feature article in the Sydney Morning Herald into a fleshed-out chapter outline for this book, which sold at auction before it was completed.

David Kowalski- The Company of the Dead

The first book I agented, a phenomenal work of alternate history that went on to win two Aurealis Awards. It was published in Australia and the USA.

Katrina Lawrence- Paris Dreaming

Katrina’s publisher HarperCollins Australia asked me for a structural report to help the author refine and develop the manuscript from final draft through to the version sent for copy editing and, finally, to the printer.

Virginia Lloyd – Girls at the Piano

Girls at the Piano is a tour through the changing relationship between women and the piano over the course of the instrument’s history, as seen through the lives of the author and her grandmother, worlds and generations apart.

Jenny Ackland- The Secret Son

I was delighted to discover Jenny, and then find her a publisher for this warm, haunting novel set in Melbourne and a small mountain village in Turkey.

Maryanne Moodie- On the Loom: A Modern Weaver’s Guide

Maryanne has a large following on Instagram and Etsy for her beautiful modern works of woven art. I was delighted to advise Maryanne on her agreement with a big US publisher.

Kellie Arrowsmith- Skimpy

Kellie and I worked on the structure and a few sample chapters before I pitched and sold her memoir to Hachette Australia.

Guy Hull- The Dogs that Made Australia

Dog behaviourist Guy Hull contacted me after stumbling upon my website, to see if I thought his book idea about the socio-economic history of dogs in Australia had any ‘legs’. After working together on a chapter outline and proposal, HarperCollins acquired the book, which became a bestseller in Australia.

Fiona Higgins- The Mothers’ Group

Fiona was a nonfiction client when she sent me the draft of a novel she’d written. My job was to help Fiona maximise its appeal to prospective publishers through editorial feedback. The Mothers’ Group went to auction and was a bestseller in Australia and Europe.

Virginia Lloyd – The Young Widow’s Book of Home Improvement

After her beloved husband’s death from cancer after 11 months of marriage, the young widow addresses the chronic rising damp problem in the house they had shared. The book traces the parallels between the house and the young widow having to ‘dry’ from the inside out.

Dr Cassandra Pybus- Truganini: Journey Through the Apocalypse

I helped esteemed historian Cassandra Pybus find a publisher for this important book, which required knowledge of which publishers would be most receptive to the work.

Kylie Ladd- The Way Back

Structural edit for the publisher, Allen & Unwin

Fiona Higgins- Wife on the Run

I was Fiona’s agent for her follow-up to the bestselling The Mothers’ Group.

Tracy Crisp- Surrogate

I edited three drafts of this novel as the author developed it.

Virginia Peters- Have You Seen Simone

Exploratory discussion of the ideas and motivation for the author’s new project

Jane Hutcheon- China Baby Love

I provided a detailed report on a draft of the manuscript.

Sally Cooper- Between a Burqua and a Hard Place

I helped the author shape a publishable book-length work from a diary she kept of her not-for-profit work in Afghanistan.

Maryanne Moodie- Weave The Rainbow- Forthcoming

Reviewing and advising on aspects of the author’s offer from her publisher, Norton

Sally Rynveld & Guy Winship- A Good Life: The Story of Guy Winship and Good Return

Initial manuscript assessment led to a detailed structural report — and ultimately a publishing contract.

Leon Silver- The Miracle Typist

Structural edit for the publisher, Simon & Schuster

Lauren Chater- Gullivers Wife

Structural edit on the bestselling debut author’s second novel for the publisher, Simon & Schuster

Adrian Tame- The Awful Truth

Structural edit for the publisher, Simon & Schuster

Dr Steven Lin- The Dental Diet

I helped Steven clarify his pitch & chapter outline, edit sample chapters, finalize a book proposal and attract a US agent — resulting in a book deal with Hay House.

Jamie Brisick- Becoming Westerly

I provided encouragement and some editorial notes, and found Jamie an Australian publisher for this spectacular book about transgender surfer Westerly Windina.

Brad Hutchins- Game, Set, Cash!

Brad came to me with a great idea and a rough ms. With some editorial tough love I got him a book deal on a partial manuscript.

Brooke Hemphill- Lesbian For A Year

After working with the author on story structure and a chapter outline, I was able to find her a publisher based on a partial manuscript.

Lily Brett- on tour in Australia to promote Lola Bensky

I was proud to edit this wonderful novel, Lily’s sixth, which won the prestigious Prix Médicis Étranger.

Lily Brett- In Full View

The first book of Lily’s I edited, a collection of personal essays.

Ashley Hay- A Hundred Small Lessons

I edited this folllow-up novel to Ashley’s international bestseller The Railwayman’s Wife for Allen & Unwin

Dore Ashton- David Rankin: The New York Years

I interviewed the artist to create a first-person introductory essay to this volume, published by Macmillan, which also featured art historian Dore Ashton’s reviews of his work, which I edited.

Professor Gillian Straker and Dr. Jacqui Winship- The Talking Cure

The authors approached me for constructive feedback on their manuscript. We worked together to turn it from an academic tome into a commercial work now published in Australia, South Africa and the USA.

Laura Garber- In Progress

Structural report and developmental editing on my client’s memoir-in-progress

Fleur McDonald- The Missing Pieces of Us

I worked with one of Australia’s leading rural novelists on this novel about mothers, daughters, and the secrets we keep.