Gary Smailes Biography

Gary Smailes started his working career as a biologist, but gave up a promising career as a researcher in the pharmaceutical industry to follow his passion for history. After obtaining an MA in Military History from Liverpool University, Gary spent a number of years as a historical researcher for the Horrible Histories writer Terry Deary and as a freelance researcher and editor, before setting up BubbleCow, a literary consultancy that provides editorial services to writers.

Gary now splits his time between writing and advising new authors on the best route to publication He works from his home on the Wirral with his novelist wife Caroline Smailes and their three children.

How I Found the Agency

I always knew that I would need an agent if I was going to take my writing to the next level. Before contacting Andrew I had a number of books already in print with independent publishers but I was never able to get 'near' the bigger publishers. I had approached a couple of agents before submitting to Andrew Lownie but had never found the right match. It was Andrew's passion for history that attracted me to the agency. I asked around a few writer friends and contacts before submitting to Andrew and, after hearing only good things, I knew (hoped) he would be ideal for my work." "I polished up my submission and sent off my book with fingers crossed. There are no words that can describe the feeling when you get 'that' phone call. Andrew rang me to say he loved my book and wanted to offer me representation. We clicked immediately and I knew it was the right choice for my work and my career as a writer.