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Topic : Re: How do collaborating authors choose an agent? If two authors collaborate, and each of them already has an agent - then who handles the collaborative work? Do the authors decide to be jointly - selfpublishingguru.com

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When your authors began working with their respective agents, they would have had to sign a contract explaining the bounds of the agency. That contract will explain the ins and outs for common situations such as dual representation, entering markets outside the agent's bailiwick, and so forth. I would be surprised if 'Collaborative Works' wasn't mentioned in one (or both) contracts.

If the contracts are not exclusive and each author is permitted to use Agent B while still being represented by Agent A (and vice versa), then there is nothing to legally bind them. From here, the standard rules for choosing any agent would apply. Who has the best knowledge of the subject matter and the target market? Who has historically been the most reliable? Do the authors want to stick with one of their own agents or do they want to go to a third party?

If the contract with A is binding but the contract with B is not, then the choice is clear, at least from a legal standpoint.

You should discuss the matter with BOTH agents, even if you don't think you are bound. It may be that you are restricted in your right to use outside agency by a provision you overlooked or misunderstood and it would be best to find that out now instead of later. Even if you are not bound, using Agent B without at least giving Agent A a heads up will almost certainly damage your relationship (possibly with both agents after B finds out).

If you are both bound, then you definitely need to speak to both agents. It isn't in anyone's best interest for the work to NOT get published so there has to be a solution that is beneficial for everyone.


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