Katie Holt

I’m an editorial assistant at St. Martin’s Press interested in anything romance in young adult and adult fiction. I am not the right fit for non-fiction. I studied English and Creative Writing at NYU, where I also worked as a bookseller at The Strand. I love all things romance (books, movies, TV shows, music, etc.)!

For adult fiction:

I’d love to look at any romance submissions. The only trope I’m not a fan of is love triangle (so bring on the accidental pregnancy and secret babies!). In terms of subgenre, I love anything from rom-com, angsty, paranormal to dark. My dream submission would be a mafia rom-com (a la BUTCHER AND BLACKBIRD or the movie Analyze This if there was a romance involved, too). I’m also desperate to read another con artist romance (like DISHONESTLY YOURS). Same with any cowboy romances (think Elsie Silver or Lyla Sage!). I’m a Nora Ephorn fanatic and would love to read anything related to or inspired by her/her work, too! I’m also interested in messy heroines who are hilarious and lovable, like YOU DESERVE EACH OTHER by Sarah Hogle. And softer, lyrical romances like Kate Clayborn’s GEORGIE ALL ALONG. I also don’t shy away from any amount of spice! I love Tessa Bailey, but also more closed door romances like Clare Gilmore’s. Basically, if it has romance in it, I want to read it!

I’m also actively looking for thrillers, mysteries, and suspense, especially those with a feminist twist or with women at the center. I want the story stick with me for days after. For thrillers, I’d love anything fast paced and twisty (like Stacy Willingham). Like the above, I’d love to see a thriller about a con artist, too, but with a satisfying ending.  I’m not the best fit for anything gory or involving children/animals. For mysteries, I’m looking for anything that’s fun and has a dash of romance, like the Finlay Donovan Series.  I’m not the best fit for cozies.

For young adult fiction:

I want something that feels like the classic 2012 young adult romance novels, like THE STATISTICAL PROBABLITY OF LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT by Jennifer E. Smith or FANGIRL by Rainbow Rowell. These books captured the perfect amount of angst, hope, and charm that comes with teenagers in love. I’d also like to see any coming of age YA stories (bonus points if they’re angsty and double bonus points if they include a romance!) Think Jandy Nelson or Jennifer Niven.  Additonally, I’d love anything similar to The Selection Series. Although this was dystopian, there was a great balance between the dystopic elements and the heartfelt romance. I won’t be a great fit for any high concept fantasy.

I’m dedicated to amplifying women and BIPOC voices, too. I’d love to read any Peruvian voice or anything with a Peruvian setting. I’d also love to amplify conversations about mental health, especially in the adult romance space.

Please note, I’m not the best fit for non-fiction or horror submissions. I only accept agented submissions at this time.

Submission Guidelines

Submissions should be emailed to katie.holt@stmartins.com

Please send submissions to ka********@st*******.com