Sometimes, literary agencies sack their authors – but not usually in large groups.
An author’s relationship with their literary agent has always been highly individual. There are no defined codes or industry standards. It’s a deeply personal relationship.
The former agent Nathan Bransford has something to say about a recent debacle, and offers practical lessons for writers seeking an agent in a tough climate: click here
Publishing a well-crafted book independently (Amazon, Kobo, reputable hybrid) is an attractive alternative. It should never be seen as second best. The publishing business is a commodity business and a distribution network.
The ‘validity’ a publishing contract offers is that the acquiring editor thinks the book will sell enough copies to be profitable.
So if you are going into negotiations with a publisher, with or without an agent, remember, you are the boss. I wrote this list of questions to ask your publisher.
Download it and save it for the day you need it.