How We Work with Agents

We believe the best outcomes for authors and their works are achieved when the right people are working together. Our relationships with agents are central to everything we do.

"It is a pleasure working with Portland Literary who add another dimension to our representation of clients. The team bring tremendous experience across all media and make wonderful partners to both agents and authors. They are proactive, enthusiastic, and hugely keen to promote and build upon Freddie's fantastic novels and short stories. The Portland Literary approach is unique and innovative. Portland Literary provide solutions for authors and estates seeking long-term stewardship and growth with committed investment in their works."

— Jonathan Lloyd
Curtis Brown, Literary Agent to Frederick Forsyth

OUR APPROACH

We are principals, and not agents.

We have a deep understanding of the value of agents to authors and estates and we do not disturb those relationships. In all cases, we work closely with the incumbent agents who know the works and the author or family best.

Once an investment is made, Portland Literary becomes the co-owner of the relevant works alongside the author or estate. The agent continues in situ representing the works and receiving their commission on the same basis as usual. Portland does not act as agent and does not charge fees or take commissions. The benefit to Portland comes from enhancing the earnings of the body of work over the long term.

Our hope is that the energy and financial support we provide will allow for more significant creative projects to go forward, and therefore for the commissionable income to increase. Agents should therefore see Portland Literary as a means of enhancing their client offering.

We seek to deliver real results for our partner estates and will only enter a transaction where we have conviction we can materially add value.

HOW THE PROCESS WORKS

  • The number '01' in large, beige text on a black background.

    Initial conversation

    A confidential discussion about the author or estate and whether Portland Literary might be the right fit.

  • Close-up of the number '02' in beige color on a black background.

    Due diligence

    We review the works, the associated income and rights position and consider the opportunities we see for creative and commercial development.

  • Number '03' in large, gold-colored font on a black background.

    Investment

    Portland Literary becomes the rights holder alongside the author or estate on agreed terms.

  • Close-up of the number 04 in large beige font on a black background.

    Ongoing partnership

    The agent continues to represent the works on the usual commission basis, with Portland Literary's support opening new creative possibilities.

WORK WITH US

Ready to start a conversation?

All enquiries are treated with the strictest confidence. We would be delighted to hear from you.

Contact us