Kings Do As They Please

A Heart Deceived comes out June 20th, and I'll be sharing that month with none other than Stephen King. That's when his latest release, Joyland, hits the stands. Literally. He won't be releasing an eBook version, only a hands-on, page turning, real-deal physical copy.

I don't admit to being a raving King fan (though his writing is fantastic), but I bring this up because I think it's interesting that during this season of eBook frenzy, he's choosing to go hard copy only. Why? What does it mean?

Besides being a playful slap in the face to eBook venues, it will be a huge boost to brick and mortar stores. His choice is curious, though, because his last story release was eBook only and not in  paperback format.

Perhaps King likes variety. Perhaps his favorite first cousin once removed runs a bookstore down the block. Perhaps he's waxing nostalgic. Who knows?

The fact remains that he's a big enough name to do whatever he wants, and I suspect bookstores are ecstatic.