[Coral Moore]

Well, some book stores have insisted that you buy a book from them to attend signings for a while now. I think this is just an evolution of that idea, and depending on how much they charge it might actually work out less for consumers.

I agree with Shea though, I'm not sure they can claim to offer an experience that readers can't get otherwise anymore. Lots of authors offer interaction online these days, from videos to podcasts to twitter Q&As.