Scammers

I've spent some time sifting through Absolute Write's Bewares and Background Check forum. I'm still far from the query stage but it's good to keep informed.

I can't stress enough how important it is that anyone querying be sure to research the agents they're considering. There are a million and one resources out there. Remember the warning signs: no sales; relationships with editing companies; upfront fees including reading fees, critique fees, editing fees; unsolicited referrals to editing companies and unsolicited offers of reputation are the big ones but I'm sure there are others.

Check out
Miss Snark
Writer Beware Blogs
20 Worst Agents
Association of Authors Representatives (AAR)
Preditors and Editors (P&E)
Writer Beware