In 1974, Aaron founded the Aaron M. Priest Literary Agency. It quickly became one of the premiere boutique literary agencies in New York. Over the years, the agency has represented an eclectic list of writers: Erma Bombeck, David Baldacci, Philip Caputo, Harlan Coben, Robert Crais, Heather Graham, Brenda Joyce, Johanna Lindsey and Robert James Waller, among many, many others. He started his career in publishing at Doubleday, as a sales representative. Aaron was a founding member of ILAA (Independent Literary Agents Association) which, along with the Society of Author’s Representatives, became the Association of Author’s Representatives. In 2014, Aaron was a producer of the Broadway musical, THE BRIDGES OF MADISON COUNTY, based on Mr. Waller’s bestselling novel.
Aaron Priest was born in Providence, Rhode Island and graduated from Columbia College. Known for his wit, his dedication to clients, his careful attention to their careers, and his expertise in negotiation, Aaron retired from the agency on December 31, 2025. He and his wife, Arleen, are now enjoying the next chapter of their own story.