Reader Question: Literary Agent Fees

Burak, a Turkish writer hoping to break into the U.S. market, had a question this week about literary agent fees. He wrote: "I have finished my first novel six or seven months ago . . . However, I haven't been able to get a sufficient answer from publishers. I am aware of the presence of independent publishers and non-profit literary journals, but I wonder if there is anyone working for a literary NGO to act as an agent on a voluntary basis."

The answer is that legit agents work on commission, and only receive payment when they sell work. At that point, they will receive a percentage of the advance, usually 15%.

Other questions about finding an agent? Read more. And curious about whether or not an agent is really necessary? See what HarperCollins editor Jeanette Perez has to say on the subject.