by Christopher Hodapp
Heads up, bargain hunters! He who hesitates is poor.
About three weeks ago, I popped open a new case of Freemasons For Dummies 3rd edition paperbacks and discovered to my great shock that Wiley Publishing has suddenly raised the cover price again, from $24.99 to $27.99. That's an $8 increase in just two years.
No, I'm not a bit happy about it.
But if you want to get in on a last-minute price break for just a single copy or two, Amazon is currently still selling Freemasons For Dummies 3rd edition for just $19.99 apiece, and still lists the book's full cover retail price at the old rate of $24.99. And if you're an Amazon Prime member, you get free shipping, too.
(Unfortunately, Barnes & Noble's online store has already figured out the price increase, so you'll pay full boat through them.)
I know that lodges and grand lodges often order a large number of the books as gifts for new members. Ordering directly through Wiley Publishing will give you a substantial discount if you buy certain quantities – call their customer service line at (800) 225-5945 and ask about bulk order pricing. (They'll ask you for the ISBN Number: 978-1-119-84342-9) Just beware of ever-increasing shipping prices.
Please understand that I had nothing to do with the increases, wasn't even informed about it, and I certainly don't receive a bigger royalty check from it. I don't know how long the old price will hang around on Amazon before they discover Wiley's new higher price, but take advantage of it while the gettin's good.
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