Suggesting Publishers to Agent

Depends on the agent, I'm sure.

My MS was requested by an editor at a major house before it ever got to my agent; when I reminded my agent of this during the submission process, she didn't care for a variety of reasons. She seemed to have her own plan and her own people to submit to -- and it worked.

Another agent, who eventually rejected my MS, told me, "You can get in touch with the publisher who requested the manuscript on your own if I decide to represent you."

So I guess it just comes down to what the submission plan is. I'd definitely mention the house and your reasons for submitting there. No harm in that, I wouldn't think.

I would ask your agent what her game plan is first. She probably wouldn't have taken you on without some idea of who she'd be submitting to, at least in the first round.

If you don't receive an offer in the first round, then I think it's more open to discussion.

I would talk to your agent about it. My agent asked me if there was anyone I wanted to add to the list. He said some people have dream houses they want to submit to and some, like me, just say "you're the boss!"

For me, the agent is there because they should know the marketplace, etc. But I also think that you are partners and should have an open line of communication. I think I'd feel comfortable asking them who they plan to submit to and suggesting other houses/names if they're not on the list. Maybe the agent has info that you don't or vice versa. But y'all are both working towards the same goal!

Good luck!