Copyright

Why do I have to pay for some ebooks but not others?

To answer this question fully would take far to long, so we have provided a few links below for those who want to delve into legalities.  But basically the answer is all to do with copyright.

A very large percentage of Free ebooks fall into what is called the Public Domain.
In the UK, copyright exists for 70 years after the authors death. Any royalties from his/her works goes to his/her estate during that 70 year period. After that period the work usually falls into the Public Domain.

Authors who are still alive are entitled to receive royalties from books sold, unless they have given permission for their work to be freely distributed. 

The law in the US and other countries does vary, so if you are thinking of copying all or parts of the works - do plenty of research beforehand.

Can I give away the Free eBook?

In most cases yes, check the copyright notice on the individual eBook and if in doubt contact the author or distributor.

References:
Public Domain
Copyright
Resell Rights

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