No reading fees
Authors are not charged to submit queries or manuscripts for possible representation. Paid editing, marketing, web design, or publishing services are not a condition of representation.
Written representation agreements
Scope, commission, expenses, accounting, termination, and post-termination obligations must be stated in a separate signed agreement. Draft contracts require attorney review before client use.
Confidentiality and accounting
Unpublished material and private author information are handled as confidential business records. If the agency receives client funds, those monies must be accounted for accurately and kept separate from agency operating funds.
Nightgrave Publishing separation
Nightgrave Publishing is a related business founded by Brandon Burnside. Burnside Literary Agency will not present itself as an independent negotiator on both sides of the same transaction. Any Nightgrave opportunity involving an agency client requires written disclosure, safeguards, and the opportunity to seek independent counsel or representation.
Truthful public record
Clients, deals, sales, memberships, publisher relationships, and professional credits will be stated publicly only when they are accurate, verifiable, and authorized for announcement.