It has always been difficult for a new author to break into the market.  The first, and most difficult, step of finding an agent has daunted even those who now feature on best-seller lists on a regular basis yet initially had their work rejected time and again.  Perseverance – and a thick skin – have always been key to getting work published.  Until now.

With the advent of the ebook authors with just basic computing skills are able to format their work for multiple ebook publishers and publish themselves.  Some people think that this will mean that the market is flooded with poor quality work, though others say that the consumers will soon weed this out simply by not buying.

So, does an author need an agent? 

I would be interested to hear your views.  Especially if you are an agent or an author!