The London Book Fair: A Spectacle of Publishing Power-But Is It For You?

It’s that time of year again—the season of relentless déjà vu.

Like clockwork, the same question lands in my Inbox, slides into my conversations, and ambushes me in the most unexpected places.

I could probably answer it in my sleep.

In fact, I probably have. But here we are once more.

‘Ed, are you going to the London Book Fair this year?’

Yes, the London Book Fair. Or LBF, as it is referred to by the cognoscenti. Including LBF itself.

Every year sees LBF descend upon London’s Olympia, bringing together publishers, agents, rights sellers, and media professionals from across the globe. It’s one of the most significant events in the publishing calendar, a place where deals are struck, trends are set, and books are positioned for success.

It’s an industry showcase-an event designed to celebrate the business of books as much as the books themselves. But if you’re a new writer hoping to find your way into the publishing world, you might want to manage your expectations.

What to Expect If You’re New

A first-time visitor, especially an unpublished or self-published author, might assume that LBF is a place to meet agents, introduce their work to publishers, and learn about opportunities in the industry. And while there are panels, seminars, and workshops that may offer some insights, the reality is that the fair is not designed with new authors in mind.

In fact, it can feel downright impenetrable.

Walking into Olympia, you’ll find vast, well-funded publisher stands where industry professionals hold meetings behind closed doors. Agents and acquisition editors are busy discussing rights deals, not scouting for unknown writers. Conversations are pre-arranged and appointments are tightly scheduled-so unless you have meetings lined up, you may find yourself wandering through a labyrinth of glossy displays and industry jargon with fading expectations and little direction.

The Cold Reality: A Fair That Prioritises the Established

Despite the publishing world’s repeated insistence that they are always looking for ‘fresh voices,’ the reality at LBF tells a different story. This is an industry that thrives on familiarity, with publishing houses prioritising known names, celebrities, and already-successful authors.

It’s easier to market a famous face than to take a risk on an unknown, no matter how talented they might be.

There is an irony here. Every best-selling author, every literary icon, and every celebrity-turned-writer was once an unknown.

Yet, the book fair does little to create accessible pathways for new authors to join the fold. While it may be a glittering showcase for those who are already part of the club, it can be an alienating experience for those hoping to break in.

Business First. Writing Second

It’s important to understand that the LBF is, at its core, a trade event.

It’s about business—rights negotiations, marketing strategies, and corporate networking-as much as it is about the craft of writing. The glossy booths, polished PR campaigns, and industry buzz serve to highlight one fact: publishing is a commercial enterprise first and an artistic pursuit second.

All that really matters to all publishers is their bottom line: you and I, the writers, are disposable assets-mined for content, squeezed for profit, and discarded the moment we cease to be commercially convenient.

It’s ‘purely business’-in a Vito Corleone tyoe of way. And I understand that.

Something which is starkly illustrated in the cost of a day ticket this year which is ￡82.80.

All of which means LBF can be something of an eyebrow raiser for the first time visitor.

For those new to the industry, attending the fair can be a valuable lesson in how publishing really works.

But if you’re hoping for a warm, welcoming space where your writing is the main focus, you may find yourself disappointed. If you do go, go with realistic expectations: observe, take notes, attend talks if you can-but don’t expect to leave with a book deal.

It might happen.

It did to me in 2019. But that was, and remains, the exception to the rule.

In summary, LBF is, unquestionably, an impressive display of publishing power.

But for the aspiring author, it serves as a stark reminder that breaking into this world is rarely straightforward.

And almost never as welcoming as we’d hope.

Looking Ahead: A New Approach for New Authors

But next year may be different.

Couzens-Lake Publishing aims to be one of the exhibitors at LBF 2026, offering something that is often missing from these industry events—genuine opportunities for new and up-and-coming writers.

We believe that every author deserves a fair chance, not just those with a proven track record or a recognisable name.

Our objective is to be a visible, approachable presence at the fair, offering guidance, support, and real pathways into publishing for those who feel overlooked by the industry giants.

We want to meet writers who have compelling stories to tell but have struggled to get a foot in the door. Whether it’s providing advice, discussing publishing options, or simply creating a space where emerging authors feel heard, our mission is to challenge the status quo.

So if you’re attending LBF 2026, come and find us—we’re here for the writers who need it most.

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*Find out more about Couzens-Lake Publishing and keep up to date with the businesses growth and development by regularly checking into this blog or by clicking on https://www.couzenslake.co.uk/couzens-lake-publishing

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