Frequently Asked Questions
Thank you for buying directly from Brown Chair Books.com! Your decision to give my store a chance is highly appreciated, as it plays a crucial role in supporting me as an independent author and publisher. Below you will find some common questions that I receive.
However, if you have a question that I did not address, please do not hesitate to contact me! I respond to every email.
God bless,
Alan
How did you get started in publishing and writing books?
To learn more about my book publishing journey, click here.
When I buy from the Brown Chair Books website am I buying directly from you?
Yes! However, I don’t keep books in inventory or personally handle the shipping or delivery process. For printed books, I have partnered with independent printers located in the United States and England, who are responsible for handling the printing and shipping operations. All of my books are print-on-demand. Basically, when you place an order for a book, the printer instantly receives the order, prints the book, and then ships it to you. It’s a remarkable process and is, in fact, the common method used for the printing and selling of most books today.
All eBooks are conveniently delivered through the BookFunnel platform, allowing you to read them on any device you prefer.
How do I receive eBooks?
After you purchase an eBook, you will receive two emails. The first email will be your receipt from Brown Chair Books. The second email will come generally within a couple of minutes from BookFunnel with a link and instructions to download the ebook to your device. Formats include Amazon’s Kindle, Apple Books, Kobo, and NOOK. It’s a very simple process. Due to copyright issues, PDFs are not available.
I’m not in the United States. Can I still buy books directly from you?
Not yet, but soon! It was important to launch the direct sales operation in the US first to work out any issues and then proceed to gradually rollout wide. However, all my books are available from retailers worldwide.
If I buy a book, how long does it take to get to me?
Shipping time is based on your location and the shipping option you choose at checkout. With that said, most books are shipped via USPS Media Mail. As an independent author working with independent printers, we can’t move as fast as the big online stores. In other words, there’s no next day shipping! However, the quality of the book you receive will exceed all others.
Delivery time for your order can range from a week to two depending on the date of purchase, but generally most orders are received within 7-10 days. You will receive an email once the order has shipped. If you’re pressed for time and need a book quickly, your safest bet is to purchase from Amazon. Thank you for your patience!
Why would I buy a paperback from you if I can find it on one of the big online stores for a cheaper price and free shipping?
Great question! I can’t always compete with the big online stores—even on my own book! However, here are a few reasons:
- You’re supporting me as an independent author, and also my independent printer, which is much appreciated!
- The books are excellent quality, generally superior to what you will receive from other retailers (who are also printing my books on demand)
- I offer special pricing, formats, bundles, and discounts that are not available at other retailers.
How does it help an independent author if I buy direct from them?
The publishing industry has undergone significant changes in the last decade. Advancements in technology have empowered independent authors to publish books that would have been traditionally rejected by major publishers. Although I appreciate the opportunities offered by large stores, it usually takes about two to three months to receive payment for a book sale. In addition, I don’t know the identity of the customer, which makes it difficult for me to recommend more books they might like. Moreover, the sales pages of larger stores have become overcrowded, resulting in higher advertising costs for the author in order to stay competitive.
Buying directly allows the author to receive payment within a matter of hours or days, instead of waiting for months. This enables us to produce more books! Additionally, if you share your contact information, I can keep you informed about other books that might interest you, without bombarding you with irrelevant advertisements for unrelated books.
What if I still feel more comfortable buying from traditional online bookstores?
Then, I encourage you to do so! You can find my books in almost any format – eBook, audiobook, paperback, and occasionally in large print and hardback versions – at numerous locations. In fact, you can find links to a variety of booksellers on each product page on this site, saving you time. In fact, I have affilate links with both Amazon and Christian Book retailers providing me a small fee for sending customers their way. Another option is to visit any online retailer you prefer and search for my name to discover the books they have available.
Why is it not possible for me to purchase audiobooks and some eBooks from your store?
Currently all paperback, hardback, and large print editions are available for purchase on the Brown Chair Books store. Most eBooks are available as well. However, Amazon currently has exclusive distribution rights on a few of my eBooks that are included in their Kindle Unlimited Subscription Plan. Amazon also currently has exclusive distribution rights on all my audiobooks as part of their Audible Subscription plan.
Do you offer quantity discounts?
Yes! Many people have asked for this over the years, so I’m delighted to finally be able to offer it. Currently most books are already discounted between 25-35% off retail price. However, on most products we can offer quantity discounts for bulk purchases of 10 or more of the same book. Also, if I cannot save you money over what other retailers are offering, I will let you know.
Click here and let me know your needs and I will get back to you with a quote.
I have not received a receipt of my order.
After an order is placed, a receipt is emailed directly to the customer. If the email hasn’t arrived in 10 minutes after purchase, please look for it in your Spam folder. If you still cannot find it, please contact me and I will get back with you as soon as I can.
Do you accept returns on orders?
Please note that I do not offer returns for the majority of orders, particularly those that involve bundles or bulk discounted books. But there is a very good reason. Since all books are printed as needed, there is no inventory or storage available to handle the return of books. As a result, any books that are returned must be destroyed at a significant financial loss.
With that said, my main goal is for you to be happy with your book. If you have a problem or have received a damaged book, please contact me and I will make it right.
What is your Privacy Policy?
You can find the Privacy Policy here.
What is your Terms of Service?
You can find the Terms of Service here.