Pursuing a degree in journalism and English was a practical career choice for someone obsessed with the written word. But after graduating and working in public relations and magazines, I realized that my true passion was reading the work of others, rather than producing my own. I joined Westwood Creative Artists in 1995 and gradually worked my way up the ranks, revelling in the deep engagement with writers and ideas as well as the negotiations and strategic building of their careers. Acquiring the agency with Jake Babad in 2025 was the ultimate commitment to our authors and colleagues.
Now that I have a robust client list I’m very selective about taking on authors
…but I still love the thrill of discovering a new voice. I’m proud of the authors I’ve nurtured since the beginning of their careers, including Susan Juby, Susin Nielsen, and Carrie Snyder. Personally, I love literary fiction, and innate mastery of language from page one is a sure way to capture my attention. I’m drawn to compelling and unique voices in all genres, and fresh stories that provoke a strong emotional reaction, whether it’s laughter or tears. I’ve been in a book group for thirty years and am always hunting for crossover literary/upmarket fiction that is poised for word-of-mouth success, such as The Correspondent by Virginia Evans.
My picture book list is overflowing with prolific masters
…such as Linda Bailey and Jordan Scott so I’m particularly selective in the genre, but I make room to amplify new voices, including PJ Prudat and Rahma Rodaah. I’m open to realistic, accomplished, middle-grade and YA, and am carefully building a list of established illustrators.
I love narrative non-fiction that makes me look at the past and the present in a new way; that is deeply researched and immersive (Charlotte Gray and Dean Jobb set the bar), engages my curiosity, and provokes contemplation and discussion. I want the singular project that speaks to an author’s unparalleled authority and unique perspective – like Ann Dowsett Johnston’s Drink and Catherine Gildiner’s Good Morning, Monster – and is exceptionally written.
I represent established ghostwriters
…in a range of projects, from memoirs to biography, business to self-help, and respond to the needs of the commissioner, whether trade publisher or family member, to produce a work of quality.
I’m not the right fit for
- Fantasy, sci fi, mysteries, horror, romance
- Prescriptive non-fiction
- Politics
My approach
I work hard and I expect my authors to do the same. Both of our names are attached to outgoing submissions and that means working through as many drafts as it takes. I value the enduring, rewarding relationships I have with my clients; relationships built on honesty and respect.
Amusing miscellany
My parents are Newfoundlanders, which explains my love of laughter and my tenacity. I’ve tried to join my sons in athletic pursuits but my enthusiasm far outweighs my skill – if only reading was an Olympic sport (though that might compromise the joy). I will pick up a deck of cards over a vacuum any day, and love crafting. My cookbooks are splattered and well-thumbed and I am fearless about trying new recipes, regardless of the result. Life is short, and I am determined to live it to the fullest. Chocolate is wonderful for breakfast.
Founding member of PACLA