The price of fantasy and science fiction books

[FloonKarcoot]

Given that most SFF novels these days cost north of £9.99 for a slightly big paperback, and c. £20.00 for the hardback, do people think that buying science fiction novels is now too expensive?

Floon

[Vinxlady]

I think that's why online retailers like Amazon do such good business. But yes, it is expensive. I managed to borrow over a few years the complete set of the Sword of Truth series as I really wanted to read it but buying all 11 books would cost way too much - not to mention the huge amount of bookshelf space I'd need!

What do you think would be a reasonable price to pay for a slightly big paperback? I saw one (not a scifi one admittedly) in Waterstones the other day that cost £14.99 and not surprisingly that went straight back on the shelf without a second glance. Still, it is sometimes nice to splash out full price on a treat book after browsing the shelves of a good bookshop. I only ever buy paperbacks however, not just for the price, but also for the ease of carrying and reading them.

Vinx

[Geoff the head Uncle]

Hello Vinx

You sound like you live in the UK.

You could always try reviewing. You can get a free supply of books that way.

My email is on-site if you're interested.

Geoff

[Surly Joe]

It will be interesting to see if e-books take off and how prices change then - although the price of dead trees will always remain more or less the same in real terms, I think.

SJ 

[Geoff the head Uncle]

Hello SJ

I think the real problem with ebooks is the same with musical downloads, ie there is no secondary market for them. Having something physical in your hands means you have something you can show and occasionally barter or sell on. Pointing at your computer and say its in there doesn't really have much meaning.

Personally, I think I prefer the physical to the digital in my hands.

Geoff