Creating an energy of new deals, excitement, and yes, I am truly back…

London Book Fair, Luddington Style!

Monday morning, and the queues for the 09:00 opening were huge. Fortunately, in true Agent Ludds style, I was there early with a milky coffee (yep, a latte), a charming portfolio, and a happy heart!

Taking my Luddington Creatives to LBF for the first time was not only a joy but also a reminder of how loyal and true this industry is. Clients greeted me with great cheer and a keenness to see what I had to present. As I opened the portfolio, they were wowed by the wonder and range of what was inside.

The eclectic range of styles, backed up with a personal story about each of my illustrators, paved the way for some great conversations about potential upcoming projects.

As the meetings rolled through Day One, talk of humour, retro palettes, classic fiction covers, and a huge surge in demand for non-fiction filled my notebook. Many clients commented on how much of the artwork I showcased was a wonderful reflection of what I stand for as an agent and as the founder of my agency – authenticity, nurturing talent, and providing a service that is second to none. This was echoed during my recent visit to the USA, where my road trip took me the length and breadth of the country. Again, clients remarked on those same values.

Day Two at LBF turned into a day for me in Madrid, meeting clients. I like to shake things up, step out of the norm.

Anyone in the industry knows that I go above and beyond for both my creatives and clients, and some tapas paired with a look at the LC folio in Madrid provided a lovely mid-week contrast to the bustling halls of Olympia. I also had the opportunity to meet with one of my artists, Gabriel – a local to the wonderful city of Madrid – and admire his fantastic artwork.

The final day of the Fair brought some wonderful news: two debut author-illustrated picture books signed, several key fiction deals confirmed, and one interview with Publishers Weekly. Watch this space for that hitting the shelves!

Now, 12 hours post-LBF and Madrid, my belief remains firm – a good agent lasts a lifetime. Whatever creative industry they are in, the foundations I laid in my 20s working with actors have led me to this place where I now adore managing my wonderful Luddington Creatives.

Being a good agent is easy; being a memorable agent is a beautiful mix of understanding those you work with, having empathy, listening, and maintaining an indefatigable work ethic. Add the magic of talent, and boom – an agent’s life goes from strength to strength, and those clients will always return to Agent Ludds.

Bring on Bologna 2025!