Book prices on Amazon

[Patricia Gligor]

I have a question about book prices on Amazon. My novel was published in April and the selling prices for paper and Kindle (which were set by my publisher) were listed on Amazon.

A couple of months later, I happened to notice that Amazon had reduced the price of the paper version. Then, out of the blue once again, the book price went back up to regular price.

Here's my question: As an author, do I (or my publisher) have any control over changing prices on Amazon or is it totally up to them?

[Patricia Gligor]

Thanks, Rhonda. I understand that they can discount my book at any time but can I or my publisher request that they discount it? I ask because, when it was marked down, I noticed a definite spike in sales and I'd like to see that again. :)

[Patricia Gligor]

Again, thank you! I'll try contacting them.

[Christy Pinheiro]

RYCJ is right. Amazon's computers will check the online prices of your book on various competing websites and adjust the price accordingly. I've proved this with my own books-- I use various POD services; I also sell on KOBO, PUBIT, Smashwords, etc. 

If I adjust the price on one venue, the price on Amazon will usually drop to match it. You can also use the "report a lower price" link on the book's detail page. Other than that, though--it's up to Amazon. They are the retailer, and they can discount prices as they see fit.

It's nice, because when Amazon discounts my books, sales increase, but my royalty stays the same (I self-publish) so I like it when Amazon discounts my books, too.

-Christy

http://www.christypinheiro.com/

http://www.stepbystepselfpublishing.net/about.html

[Patricia Gligor]

Thanks for all the information, Christy. I especially like your tip on the "report a lower price" link. I'll definitely try that.

I sent Amazon an email and I should have a reply within 12 hours. :)

Like you, even though Post Mortem Press published my book, my royalty stays the same when Amazon lowers the price - and I definitely get more sales.

[Irina Shapiro]

I believe you have the right to set your own price, and Amazon shouldn't be changing the price without your approval.  I would bring it to the attention off the publisher and let them take Amazon on. 

Irina Shapiro

www.irinashapiro.com

 

 

[Patricia Gligor]

Irina,

According to my publisher, Amazon has the right to discount books and then put them back to regular price whenever their little heart desires. I don't have a problem with that at all because I still make the same amount of money on each sale.

But, as we all know, price does matter, especially in our present economy. So, I'm working on ways to convince Amazon that it would be in everyone's best interest if they reduced the price/s of my book. Plus, advertising a "sale" price is a good promotional tool.

[Christy Pinheiro]

Actually, the exact opposite is true. A retailer has the right to set his own price. For example, if I own a grocery store, and I decide to discount a product in order to bring in more shoppers, then I have the right to do so, even if it loses me money. These are called "loss leaders."

Some of the Big Six (along with Apple and a few others) tried in force Amazon to accept set prices for certain books, and the Department of Justice slapped them with a case for collusion and price-fixing, both illegal.

I'm glad that the DOJ and Amazon won that one. And I, for one, am very happy when Amazon discounts my books. My sales go up, but my royalties remain the same.

-Christy

[Patricia Gligor]

I've emailed Amazon because I'd like to see my book offered at a "sale" price. People love a sale and I hope Amazon understands and agrees with my request. We'll see.

[Grace]

Sometimes Amazon discounts paperbacks.  Any book retailer can do that, generally.  The publisher sets the list price (ie., the one that's printed on the back of the book), but bookstores can sell it for less at a loss to themselves.

__________________________________

Books Without Any Pictures

[Patricia Gligor]

True! Thanks, Grace.

[Linda Ann]

It's my understanding Amazon can set any price they want however your royalty should not change.