Why buy an eBook?
eBooks can be stored on your computer or eBook reader and carried wherever you want. eBooks can be downloaded quickly, have features that allow you to search for text, some readers allow you to make notes and some books may contain extra content. If reading an eBook on a device connected to the internet, some hyperlinks could be active, and you will be able to click through the link. Random House takes no responsibility for the functionality of links or the content of external sites.
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What is an electronic book?
Electronic books (or eBooks) are digital files comprising of books specially designed to be read on computer screens, PDAs, Smartphone’s or dedicated eBook reading devices.
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What can I read an eBook on and what format should I buy?
There is a wide range of eBook readers, which use different formats. The dedicated eBook readers often have e-ink greyscale screens which are not backlit so users do not suffer from screen glare. Some are also Audible ready or MP3 capable for audio-books. The iPhone, whilst not designed as an eBook reader, has a full colour screen and can be read on the go subject to the owner having a suitable application on the device. Palm users can also read eBooks on their devices if the device is capable of displaying PDF. The eBook readers designed to work on PCs, like Adobe Digital Editions, can display colour, play audio and embedded video clips. If a device is connected to the internet, any links in the eBook are live and the user can follow the link in a single click. Some readers even allow you to annotate and highlight the text so you will still be able to make notes.
Take a look at more detailed information about file formats here.
If your problem concerns downloading or opening of the eBook reader software please contact your software provider
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How do I buy an eBook?
You can buy eBooks from Waterstones online store and other online retailers. Make sure that you have already downloaded the appropriate software to read your desired format. Select your title in the correct format. Follow the instructions on-screen to purchase and download the title.
Do I need any special hardware to read an eBook?
You need a computer that connects to the internet and have installed and activated your chosen reading software (see formats FAQ) – linked
Can I read eBooks on my handheld computer / smartphone/ iphone or PDA?
For details of compatibility please see your device manufacturer’s advice
Can I use text-to-speech functionality on eBooks?
Random House do not enable Text-to-speech functionality on Adobe PDF format titles
Is it safe to download eBook readers and eBooks?
Yes. It is highly unlikely that you will contract a virus from downloading eBooks.
Can I read eBooks on my Mac?
Adobe Digital Editions works on the Macintosh operating system. For other reading software, check the software requirements of the reader before downloading it.
Can I order eBooks online?
Because eBooks are digital products, they can only be ordered online.
Is there VAT on eBooks?
VAT is payable on digitally downloaded products and will be charged on ebooks.
Do I have to be online to read my eBook?
No. Once downloaded, the eBook can be read offline.
How do I pay for an eBook?
eBooks can be purchased online with a credit or debit card.
How long will it take to download an eBook?
Download times for an eBook vary between a few seconds and a few minutes depending on your internet connection and the size of the title ordered.
Can I copy or print my eBook?
No. We do not allow the copying or printing of eBooks.
Can I return an eBook?
Because eBooks are downloaded they are not returnable. For more information please read the Terms and Conditions from your retailer.
What if I have trouble downloading an eBook?
If you have trouble downloading an eBook or a reader, please visit the customer services website of your retailer.
Does Random House accept submissions for eBook publishing?
No, we do not currently have a digital specific publishing list.
Why can’t I find a specific Random House title as an eBook?
As people will be building their eBook collections from new, we decided to focus on making as many of our new titles available as possible, rather than convert titles that many readers already own. Sometimes a title won’t be at its best in the ebook format, such as large scale photography based books. We only want people to be happy with their eBooks and would rather not offer a title digitally if it wouldn’t be of a high enough quality.