The Agency

There are certain books that just feel like summer. No matter the genre, whether it’s romance, thriller, horror, or fantasy, they are the books you toss into a beach bag. The books that keep you reading long after the sun goes down. The books that you discuss around a bonfire. The books that crackle with humor, heart, and heat.

These are the books that embody July First Literary, a literary agency founded in 2026 by Brent Taylor. The agency is named after the first day of July: Brent’s birthday, the heart of summer, and a day of possibility. To us, July First is more than a date. It’s a feeling—long days, warm nights, unforgettable stories, and finally having time to lose yourself in a great read.

Our north star is delivering excellent literary representation to our clients, and our approach is rooted in partnership:

Editorial Partnership:

We work closely with our clients to strengthen their craft, ensuring that the manuscripts we submit to publishers are engaging. We pride ourselves on delivering thoughtful, detailed, and timely editorial feedback to our clients.

Business Partnership:

We are passionate about the nuts and bolts that go into the deal-making process. We have a track record of negotiating best-in-class deal terms and contracts for our clients, protecting their interests and positioning them for long-term success.

Creative and Strategic Partnership:

A book deal is only the beginning. We remain closely involved throughout the publishing process, advising clients on everything from branding, cover design, marketing, publicity, subsidiary rights, and long-term career planning.