About Us
Present Perfect is a literary agency with a distinctive point of view. We value truth over trends, elevated aesthetics, and books that better their readers. Our agency represents the best in innovative, conversation-changing, and design-driven nonfiction. We are based in the Bay Area and serve a diverse client base from across the globe.
Our agents Kate Woodrow and Laura Lee Mattingly have 40 years of combined experience in the industry as both agents and editors. This means we know what editors want and how to pitch them, as well as what goes on behind the scenes in a publishing house. Since starting the agency in 2015, we’ve used this unique insider’s perspective to help Present Perfect authors hone their book vision, develop compelling proposals, match with their ideal publisher, negotiate competitive deals and contracts, smoothly navigate every turn of the publishing process, and strategically build long-term author careers.
Present Perfect handles all domestic, foreign, and subsidiary rights for our authors to ensure their books reach the widest possible audience. When selling film/TV and foreign rights, we partner with a talented network of co-agents who are dedicated to delivering top results in their industries.
Clients consistently praise Kate and Laura Lee for their prowess, editorial smarts, and transparency. We value making close connections with our authors through exceptional communication, collaboration, and trust.
Our industry reputation is sterling. Present Perfect is consistently ranked among the top agencies for the lifestyle, art/illustrated, and advice/relationships categories by Publishers Marketplace, and has been featured on numerous podcasts.
