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The Plains Agency

Literary Agency  |  Licensing Specialists
Dedicated to Writers and the Appropriate Exploitation of Ingenuity

Literary Representation

Having represented many notable authors over the years, literary representation remains the core focus of The Plains Agency. We’re committed to helping writers, both established and those just entering the world of publishing, find the right home.

Contract Negotiation

Ideas need protecting as well as agreements that cover the monetization, rights retention and contingencies of exploitation of an idea. We are well-versed and understand the art of negotiating a deal where all parties walk away from the table still liking each other.

Licensing

Let’s be clear. We’re not CAA. We do, however, have experience procuring and negotiating terms for properties that can enjoy various brand extensions. We’re perhaps best known for securing licenses in the software, digital and tabletop roleplaying game industry.

If you’re writing what you think will sell, stop it. Stop it right now. Write what you love. Characters you love. The writing will be better. Always.
– Christi Cardenas

About Us

aka Who We Are

Literary Representation. Christi Cardenas founded The Plains Agency in 2008 after having spent the previous twelve years working with another literary agency. The focus for The Plains Agency today is on both commercial and literary fiction as well as books reflecting what’s current in popular culture. We take on projects we love and respect every inquiry that comes across our desk. It’s why we respond to each and every query. We know what it takes to take the step of asking someone to read what has been so painstakingly put on the page.

We’re fortunate to have several great partners in Los Angeles to assist with film and television interests as well as having aligned with the leading foreign agencies when translation rights are reserved on behalf of our authors.

If you’re perusing this site considering The Plains Agency for representation, we have three recommendations for you. First, read Amanda Palmer’s, The Art of Asking. We’re a bit obsessed with Amanda, not to mention that creative spouse of hers. Second, read Stephen King’s, On Writing. Just do it. And finally? Woo us with your query. Don’t tell us what you wrote, show us. Give us a sense of who you are while putting yourself out there. The query letter should take as much thought, angst, care as the first and last paragraph of your work.

Credits: We have worked with and/or represented such well known individuals and companies as Margaret Weis, Tracy Hickman, Robert Krammes, Jeff Corwin, Michael Keith, The Scripps Networks (Food, HGTV, DIY), Universal Studios, Warner Brothers, 20th Century Fox, Electric Entertainment, Marvel, DC Comics, Hasbro, National Public Radio, Pillsbury/General Mills, Ameriprise, Margaret Weis Productions, and Magpie Games.

Christi Cardenas
Christi CardenasCreator of Opportunities
Christi navigates her day with coffee in hand bringing people together, monetizing ideas and is inspired by the writers and talents she represents.
Sam Roen
Sam RoenAssociate
Agent
Sam’s a writer, an agent, and keeps The Plains apprised of what’s new and interesting in the world of books and entertainment. He’s a smart bugger.
Guin
GuinDirector of First Impressions
Guin joined The Plains Agency in October of 2019. She’s the quiet voice of reason during editorial meetings, often suggesting a walk to talk through projects.

Let’s Chat

910.408.2250

If you’re pitching a book, please personalize your query and include the first ten pages of your project in the message below.

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There is only one thing that makes a dream impossible to achieve:
The fear of failure.
Paolo Coelho, The Alchemist

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