Finding the Right Agent: Building Lasting Author-Agent Relationships with Sheyla Knigge

In this episode of Writers With Wrinkles, Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid chat with literary agent Sheyla Knigge of Highline Literary Collective about what makes a strong, lasting author-agent partnership. Sheyla shares her personal path into publishing, red flags to avoid, and the importance of communication and alignment.

Guest Bio
Sheyla Knigge is a literary agent at Highline Literary Collective. She began her journey in publishing during the pandemic and quickly proved her sharp editorial instincts and ability to spot marketable stories. One of her earliest finds, Where the Dark Stems Still by A.B. Poranek, went on to become a six-week New York Times bestseller. Sheyla now represents 25 clients, nearly half of whom are under contract, and she is known for her transparent communication, commitment to diversity, and dedication to uplifting voices that matter.

Key Discussion Points

1. How Sheyla Found Agenting
   Sheyla entered publishing through unconventional means, starting as a slush-pile reader. After connecting with established agent Victoria Marie, she quickly discovered a bestselling manuscript, which set her on the path to full-time agenting.

2. What Makes a Strong Agent-Author Relationship
   Open communication is at the heart of Sheyla’s philosophy. She compares publishing to dating—authors should feel excited and energized after conversations with their agent, not uncertain or silenced. Regular check-ins and transparency build trust and ensure both sides grow together.

3. Red Flags in Queries and Submissions
   One of Sheyla’s biggest red flags is when writers take on marginalized voices without lived experience or sensitivity readers. As a queer BIPOC woman, she stresses the importance of authentic representation and warns against appropriating narratives.

4. Crucial Questions Authors Should Ask Before Signing
   Sheyla emphasizes that writers must ask, “What does your support system look like?” With no official credentials required to call oneself an agent, ensuring that an agent has mentorship and a collaborative network is essential for long-term success.

5. When to Walk Away from an Agent
   Authors should trust their gut. If revisions feel draining instead of inspiring, or if communication is inconsistent, it may be a sign that the agent isn’t the right fit. Sheyla reminds writers that the right partner will spark excitement and champion their stories.

6. Sheyla’s Dream Project
   On her manuscript wish list? “Murderous cheerleaders”—a mash-up of Bring It On and I Know What You Did Last Summer. Editors are already enthusiastic about the concept, and Sheyla is waiting for the perfect writer to bring it to life.

Conclusion and Takeaways
Sheyla Knigge’s approach to agenting is rooted in transparency, communication, and passion for stories that resonate. She encourages authors to focus less on signing with the biggest name and more on finding an agent who supports their vision, sparks creativity, and provides the mentorship needed to grow. For writers seeking representation, her advice is clear: choose the partnership that sets your soul on fire.

Mentioned Links:

• Highline Literary Collective
• Sheyla Knigge on Instagram