I wonder if there was any talk among authors at Boucheron (or anywhere else for that matter) about Walmart's recent decision to launch an online price war with Amazon and the nation's book retailers by pricing the latest hardcovers by Dean Koontz, Stephen King and others for $9. If Walmart is able to sell hardcovers at a loss, they could drive Barnes & Noble, Borders and other retailers out of business, just like they did to many local merchants years ago. Walmart's decision could have a profound impact on authors and publishers nationwide.