Nicholas Bender

Literary agent

Nicholas Bender is an experienced and versatile independent literary agent with over 8 years in the publishing industry. Based in New York, he has worked with renowned agencies on a project and endorsement basis, bringing his expertise to a diverse portfolio of clients. For the past six years, Nicholas has served as a key literary agent at Cadmus Literary LLC, where he has built lasting relationships with authors, editors, and publishers, helping clients find their voice in the competitive literary market.

Early Life & Education: Born and raised in San Pedro, California, Nicholas developed a passion for literature at an early age. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in English Literature from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), where he graduated with honors. Seeking to expand his knowledge of the publishing world, he went on to earn a Master’s degree in Publishing from New York University (NYU), where he honed his skills in manuscript evaluation, contract negotiation, and market analysis.

Professional Experience: Nicholas’s career began at one of California’s leading literary agencies, where he started as an assistant and quickly rose through the ranks due to his keen eye for talent and strong negotiating abilities. After five years, he relocated to New York and joined Cadmus Literary LLC, where his reputation for securing high-profile deals and successfully managing author careers grew exponentially. Nicholas has worked with a wide range of genres, from literary fiction and memoirs to self-help and business books. He specializes in cultivating long-term careers for authors, ensuring their works reach a wide audience while providing guidance in the creative process.

In addition to his role at Cadmus, Nicholas works on various freelance projects with other agencies, offering consultation and endorsement services that include author coaching, pitch refinement, and strategic planning for book launches.

Philosophy & Approach: Nicholas believes in fostering close, collaborative relationships with authors to help them craft compelling narratives that resonate with readers and publishers alike. He is dedicated to championing diverse voices and pushing boundaries within the literary world. His deep understanding of market trends, as well as his passion for the written word, makes him a trusted ally for authors looking to make their mark in the industry.

When not negotiating deals or discovering new talent, Nicholas enjoys exploring the arts scene in New York, attending literary events, and engaging with aspiring writers at local workshops.