Who we are
Fishlock is a new independent press based in London. With every book we publish, we strive to embolden our readers’ lives, to spark curiosity, and unearth a deeper understanding of the experiences of others.
What we will publish
We are searching for a fresh, eclectic range of writing. Unconstrained by genre, subject, or length, we want our books to unlock a new world for our reader; from the realistic to the extraordinary.
We value stories that are compelling, whip-smart and above all original. Books that are brimming with clear, yet sophisticated, style and point of view. Most often we are attracted to literary, voice-driven stories, those which are led by the distinctive attitude of their narrators but also anchored by the writer’s outlook too. We also love a plotty story that keeps you guessing.
Our authors must aim to actively invite the reader into their stories, providing the opportunity for limitless curiosity: open-ended open-mindedness, an ironclad commitment to invention, and renewed visions of the written word – and the world.
We are currently open to submissions.
Our promises
Always with gumption
At Fishlock, we pride ourselves in our resourcefulness, initiative and passion and, despite our size, we have a grand vision for each and every title we choose to publish.
Always with a bookseller's eye
Led by a background in publishing and bookselling, we can pick out a great story at the very start of its journey, and can then turn that story into a quality book both booksellers and readers will love.
Always with deep author care
We strive to build close, collaborative partnerships with our authors, enriching our stories on the page and supporting our authors to feel empowered on the public stage.
Always with craft
As writers and artists ourselves, we promise to produce beautiful, striking books that are a testament to the craft of writing.
Our founder
Fishlock is founded by writer, bookseller and collage artist, Polly Smith. Polly entered the publishing world in 2018; driving to the Frankfurt Book Fair as a determined English Literature student in search of a job. A month later, she started her first publishing internship and has never looked back. With a wealth of experience in publishing, agenting, bookselling and events, founding an independent press is an exciting next step.
With the same avidity that took her to Frankfurt Book Fair, Polly has already secured interest from major independent bookshops in London, as well as an independent fulfilment centre that will ship books to readers across the UK.
Our brand
Fishlock is Polly’s family name and we wanted a brand that echoed the tradition of family publishing, with a modern, curious twist. Created by London-based designer from Aotearoa, Andy Hockey, our brand identity has been consciously designed to reflect, reveal, and refract the sense of curiosity and connection that lies at the heart of our publishing ethos. Our colour scheme is inspired by the natural world, and our icon depicts our name graphically – it’s both a fish and a lock.