So, apparently I’m prone to making stupid mistakes when buying ebooks. But then that’s why I rely on good customer service to help me through my moments of befuddlement, confusion and laziness.

Thankfully, Angry Robot Books provide excellent customer service. Last week I attempted to buy the full year sub to their new YA bookline. Accidentally, though, I purchased a 12 month sub to their adult line, something I already own.

Never fear, I immediately contacted Angry Robot books and the wonderful Darren Turpin refunded my money straight away. No fuss. Prompt service with a smile. Well a nice email anyway.

Unfortunately I can’t say the same for Necon ebooks. I went and purchased an ebook of STILL LIFE: NINE STORIES by Nicholas Kaufmann. They sent me an email with a link, but stupid lazy me I forgot to download the book straight away. A few days later the link expired. My fault. I should have read the email and downloaded the collection.

Still, I contacted Necon and asked whether they could provide me with another link to the ecopy. After a few days I’d received no response. So I sent them another email – this time making doubly sure I got their email address right – and I’m still waiting.

I know I fucked up. But I did pay for the novel and the least they could do is respond to my email. But no. Not a word.

I’ve given up. Which is a shame because I like Kaufmann’s work and want to support him and it’s not his fault that his publisher has shitty customer service.

Still, my experience generally with this sort of thing is positive. I’ve had excellent experiences with Chizine, Small Beer Press and Wizard Tower books – publishers and storefronts that actually respond to queries. But Necon – well I won’t be going back.

EDITED TO ADD – All sorted regarding Necon. The awesome Nick Kaufmann came along and ensured I got a copy of the book. Thanks Nick!