Get to Know an Agent in Attendance: Jackie Kruzie of Focused Artists

Jackie Kruzie is a literary agent with Focused Artists.

I wholeheartedly believe that there is a book for every reader and every reader deserves a book and I’m eager to shepherd high-quality stories to eager readers. Due to the number of amazing submissions overflowing my inbox, I am currently only accepting submissions via conferences or pitch events but plan to open for a small window in early 2026.

Adult Fiction wishlist:

Book Club
Cozy
Historical
Horror
Paranormal
Romantasy
Speculative
Supernatural
Western
Women’s Fiction

Preferences:

I love grounded speculative fiction where characters must keep their abilities hidden as they strive to right wrongs and exist in a world where fear of the unknown and misunderstood is prevalent. I love witches but not a big fan of vampires or werewolves.

​I have a soft spot for historical fiction with dual timelines where events from the past impact the present.

I am a sucker for stories with a romantic element and enjoy when budding romances develop organically throughout the story. ​

I would love to find a cozy mystery series.

I welcome diverse characters and would like to see more main LGBTQ+ characters in a setting where they exist without scrutiny and their sexuality isn’t the main issue but simply a component of the story.

Children’s Fiction wishlist:

Board Books
Chapter Books
Middle Grade
Picture Book
Young Adult

Preferences:

In Middle Grade I look for books that put kids in the driver’s seat and create lifelong readers.

In Young Adult I like books that speak to those who feel invisible and welcome tough topics. I am not the right fit for dystopian novels where a teenage chosen one is tasked with saving the world.

​In BB & PB I like punchy fast-paced kid-focused books with no heavy moral. As a formal children’s librarian, I look for fun read-a-louds perfect for storytime. I am not the right fit for new baby or new pet books but would love a story featuring a modern grandparent that challenges stigmas.

I am not a good fit for:

Christian Fiction
Nonfiction
Memoir

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