Amazon has been plugging this ebook and some of the reviews have been scathing with the author writing some just as scathing rebuttals. But what caught my eye was the licensing notes after the copyright inside the book. About five chapters of the book are made available, also. I thought this would be a good conversation starter.

http://www.amazon.com/Flat-Out-Love-eboo...B004W9BYR8

This part:?

On a personal note, I will tell you that if I ever find out that you have posted this book on an illegal file-sharing site and pretended that you were using the site like a library, I will be sorely disappointed in you. Please don’t go on those sites, don’t post books, and don’t download books. Not only is it illegal, but it’s a pretty awful move that completely disrespects authors. If we wanted our books on smarmy sites, we’d do it ourselves. And we don’t. Yes, I would like you to have the opportunity to read my book, but please buy it or borrow it from a library, or otherwise find a legal copy.

Park, Jessica. Flat-Out Love (Kindle Locations 18-22). Jessica Park. Kindle Edition.

Yes. I couldn't copy and paste it, myself.

Some of the comments on Amazon thought that was heavy handed. I think it had more info yesterday when I read it. Seems like there was a threat of bodily harm, also. Go to the link I provided and scroll down just under the book jacket. The wording was a bit different from what you posted. Instead of being disappointed I think she also had a threat there that has been edited.

One of the reviewers had this comment:

"1.0 out of 5 stars Offensive and Predictable, June 18, 2012
By
Blu - See all my reviews
This review is from: Flat-Out Love (Kindle Edition)
First the aurthor insults us by threatening to beat us if we dare share her book. Seriously? Are you going to jump through my computer and assault me over a book? It's like seeing a movie that is loaded with DO NOT STEAL promos, the only difference is that she is more blunt about it. If I pay for your product, I don't want to see any antipiracy propaganda jammed into something I PAID for. It just makes your customers feel like suspected criminals.
Secondly, your plot is predictable and the characters are so bland that they may as well be sock puppets. You can see from a mile away what is going to happen and much of the information you provide about cultural details suggest that you may live under a rock. Also, burritos are a MEXICAN dish, not South American. A quick google search could of told you that. Your book is a terrible example of self-publishing. "

I don't see any difference between what she wrote and Bono making a commercial asking people not to download free music and steal from musicians.

Artists get a little testy about not being paid for their work. However, I think she could have handled it a little more tactifully.

(haven't seen the book being pimped on Amazon, and I read the first few pages. It's not terrible.)

The main page on Amazon had it showcased for two days. Now it isn't the only thing on the home page.

Well, she certainly got her point across. I don't think it was very professional.

---

I also agreed with this comment on one review:

Quote:I was intrigued by the "front page" treatment from Amazon, so I took a look at the book. I have not read it yet, but I have one comment. When the author joins the fray in criticizing reviewers -- even if some of the reviewers are being assaholic in their comments -- that's a big red flag for me.

Ms. Parks -- The book is what it is; the readers are what they are. Put it out there and let it go -- and start writing the next one. Don't waste time here.[quote]

Yes, very well said.