Frequently Asked Questions
Ordering & Accounts
What is Irving Books?
Irving Books or Focal Point Publications is a publishing house and online bookshop.
I have problems with the Checkout and Cart, what should I do?
If you have problems with checkout and cart, please first try to clean your cache on the browser. If this doesn’t work, try with a different browser. Or you can contact us via chat and explain what is exactly the problem. Someone from support will help you as soon posibile.
I can't make a purchase. What should I do?
If you encounter any issues while trying to make a purchase on our website, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us through chat or email. Let our support team know the items you wish to buy, and we will promptly create an order for you. Once the order is ready, we will send you a secure payment link to complete your purchase. Your satisfaction is our priority, and we’re here to assist you every step of the way.
I cant switch currency
If you’re having trouble changing the currency on our website, please follow these steps to resolve the issue:
Disable Blockers: Make sure to turn off any ad blockers or other browser extensions that might be interfering with the site’s functionality.
Refresh Your Browser: After disabling the blockers, refresh your browser to see if the currency change option becomes available.
Change Currency on Different Pages: Sometimes, trying to change the currency on different pages of the site can help. Navigate through a few different pages and attempt to switch the currency each time.
Clear Browser Cache: Your browser might be caching old pages, preventing the currency change from taking effect. Clearing your browser’s cache can help ensure you’re seeing the most up-to-date version of the site.
Use a No-Cache Link: If the above steps don’t work, try using a no-cache link to bypass the cached version of the site.
Register/login: If the above steps don’t work, try registering or loging.
By following these steps, you should be able to resolve any issues with changing the currency on our website. If the problem persists, please contact our support team for further assistance.
Do I need an account to order?
No—guest checkout is available. An account helps you track orders, download digital purchases and view your history.
How do I create or reset my password?
Can I change or cancel an order?
If your order hasn’t shipped, email [email protected] with your order number as soon as possible.
Can I add a gift note?
Yes—add it in the Order notes field at checkout. We don’t include pricing in the parcel.
Payments, VAT & Invoices
Which payments do you accept?
Major credit/debit cards and PayPal at checkout. A buy-now, pay-later option may appear for eligible baskets.
Can I pay in a different currency?
Yes—use the currency selector on the site. Your card issuer sets the final exchange rate.
Do prices include VAT?
VAT is applied where required and shown at checkout. Need a VAT invoice? Reply to your order email and we’ll send a PDF.
Signed & Collector Editions
Are collector editions signed?
Yes—collector editions offered on our site are individually signed. Explore Collector Editions and Exclusive.
Do you include Certificates of Authenticity?
Signatures are obtained directly and logged internally. If you’d like a simple COA for your records, request one in Order notes at checkout.
What makes a “collector edition” different?
Usually a premium cloth or hardback binding, often with a protective slipcase, restored photo sections on heavy stock and a signature.
How should I care for slipcases and cloth bindings?
Store upright, out of direct sunlight; avoid humidity swings; dust with a clean, lint-free cloth.
Pre-orders, Stock & Buy-Backs
What is a pre-order?
A title you can secure before release. We ship as soon as it’s available. If your order contains in-stock and pre-order items, we may ship together—add a note at checkout if you prefer split shipment (additional postage may apply).
An item is out of stock—what now?
Use the Email me when available button (where shown) or contact us; some editions return in small batches.
Do you buy rare or out-of-print copies?
Yes—see our Buy-Back Programme for criteria and how to submit details.
Shipping & Delivery
Do you ship internationally?
Yes—worldwide. Orders typically dispatch same or next business day. Delivery times vary by destination and carrier.
How do I track my parcel?
When your order ships you’ll receive a dispatch email with a tracking link. If you don’t see it within two business days, check spam or contact us.
Will I pay customs/import fees?
International customers may be charged duties/taxes by local authorities. These aren’t included at checkout.
Can you combine shipping on multiple titles?
Where practical we combine items to reduce postage and packaging.
Missed delivery / returned to sender?
If a parcel returns to us we’ll contact you to arrange re-shipment (additional postage) or a refund minus original postage once received back in good order.
Packaging & Condition
How are books packaged?
Signed and collector editions are wrapped in protective materials and shipped in rigid packaging or boxes to minimise transit damage.
My book arrived damaged—what now?
Email [email protected] with your order number and clear photos of the damage. We’ll arrange a replacement or refund.
What is a “slightly imperfect” copy?
Where marked, copies may have minor cosmetic flaws that don’t affect readability (often discounted).
Student Discount & Rewards
What’s your return window?
We accept returns within 30 days of delivery for eligible items, unused and in original packaging. See the full Refund & Returns Policy.
Which items are non-returnable?
Downloadable products, gift cards and other categories listed on our policy page are not returnable.
How do I start a return?
Email [email protected] with your order number. Unless we made an error, customers are responsible for return postage and safe packaging.
When will I get my refund?
After we receive and inspect the return, refunds are issued to the original payment method. Bank processing can take a few business days.
Do you offer exchanges?
We replace items if defective or damaged. Email us with your order number and photos.
Student Discount & Rewards
Do you offer a student discount?
Yes—30% off select titles (often slightly imperfect stock). See Student Discount for how to apply. Student-discount purchases are final.
Is there a rewards programme?
Yes—join our Rewards Scheme to earn stamps on purchases and receive vouchers and member-only offers.
Digital (eBooks & Audiobooks)
Where do I find my downloads?
In your order email and under My Account → Downloads.
Do downloads expire or have limits?
Any limits/expiry will be shown on the download page. Please save a backup to your device.
What if the file won’t open?
Check your device supports the file type (ePub/PDF/MP3). If you’re stuck, email us and we’ll help.
Wholesale, Libraries & Rights
Do you handle wholesale or bulk orders?
Yes—worldwide. Orders typically dispatch same or next business day. Delivery times vary by destination and carrier.
Can I request desk/exam copies?
When your order ships you’ll receive a dispatch email with a tracking link. If you don’t see it within two business days, check spam or contact us.
How do I request permissions or rights?
International customers may be charged duties/taxes by local authorities. These aren’t included at checkout.