Angela Kim

Berkley/Penguin Random House

My Manuscript Wish List®

Hi, I’m Angela! I am an editor at Berkley, a commercial imprint of Penguin Random House. I am actively seeking projects in the following areas: book club fiction, romance, suspense/thriller, and mystery. I am passionate about uplifting underrepresented voices and am always looking for diverse stories in these genres.

What I’m Looking For

Contemporary romance: I primarily acquire romantic comedies but am looking to work on quieter, but still impactful, romances as well. In terms of rom-coms, I enjoy movies like Lovebirds and Crazy, Stupid Love, so I’m looking for rom-coms with the same energy, banter, and wit. For contemporary romance, I’m looking for sweeping love stories that are character-driven and have heart-wrenching moments. I’d like to see unique characters, a fresh voice, and interesting takes on classic tropes.

Book club fiction: I’m looking for upmarket fiction perfect for book clubs with writing that sucks you in. I want stories about complex families, siblinghood, friendships, etc. I’d love to see works that speak to the peculiarities of the human condition with a strong protagonist, however flawed they may be. I’m seeking books about unique experiences or quiet stories with big impact. I’m also looking for stories about the gen-z and millennial experience beyond romantic relationships—the struggles of adulthood and the messiness of existing in this world (without alienating other audiences, which voice can sometimes do). I also love a sense of community and a strong, distinct cast of characters. I am eager to work with an author from an underrepresented community in this area!

Thriller/suspense: I’m looking to acquire more in this genre in particular! I’m itching for psychological suspense that’s incisive, twisty, and chilling. I want a book that makes me second-guess everything and leaves me hanging onto every word. I’m looking for something that strays from the typical/predictable domestic suspense. I’m specifically on the hunt for gen-z and millennial suspense/thrillers by marginalized voices. They should have a twisty plot with truly unexpected turns, unforgettable characters, witty dialogue, dark humor. I’d particularly love to see something that involves socioeconomic commentary, in which the world around the characters informs their psyche, decisions, and perspective.

Mystery: I’m mainly seeking quirky and witty feel-good mysteries with diverse characters. I’d love a crossover between cozy and gritty, and with a modern edge.

What I’m Currently Not Looking For

Historical Romance, Paranormal Romance, Fantasy, Westerns, Nonfiction, YA/Children’s, Graphic novels, Police Procedurals, Cult-focused books

Submission Guidelines

I am currently taking agented submissions only.

Vital Info