Discussion Forums

Re: A Spring Harvest

Subject: Re: A Spring Harvest
by Aelfwine on 2012/4/20 15:23:50

I have just received this e-mail from the bookseller (David Southwell, Strawberry Hill Books, 44 (0) 1435 830 871, david@strawberryhillbooks.co.uk):

"I am sorry to have to tell you that we shall not be able to supply you with
A Spring Harvest. We had an unprecedented response to the listing of the
book. Another customer sent us a reservation on the book before your order
and has subsequently taken up their reservation. We have tried to find a
solution but as you appreciate it is a rare book. I shall officially refuse
your order on the abe system so that your money will be repaid. Please
accept my apology for our inability to supply in this instance."

Any booksellers, and particularly ABE booksellers, on the list: is this sort of rejection of a duly-placed and accepted ABE order in favor of a private reservation consistent with ABE policies and/or accepted bookseller practice?

And would I be justified in asking the bookseller for an explanation of how a private reservation came to be placed on a book offered for sale on ABE?

Thanks,

Carl