Several months ago, I received an offer to try the "Men's Health Maximum Muscle Plan," by Thomas Incledon and Matthew Hoffman.
Normally, I don't buy the Men's Health books, but I heard a lot of good things about Thomas Incledon so I thought I'd give it a read. Plus, they even sent me, preemptively, a "return authorization" sticker so I could return it if I didn't like it. Not much risk there...
Anyhow, it's been months. No book. I can't even find a reference to it on the Men's Health site. Weird.
Actually, after corresponding via email, it turns out they didn't receive that little card I sent in. They told me I could just call and order it now (I plan to do so in the next few days). They told me I would get it in 5-10 days, so maybe Amazon and book stores only get it later?
I've noticed that Men's Health and other Rodale books are normally offered first for purchase directly from the publisher, and that they become available at stores a few weeks later, but not *eight months* later, as it is (apparently) the case with this book.
Other bookstores also mention a "July, 2006" release date:
Yes, that's a big difference, because the discounted Amazon price would be around $14 (their discount is generally 30%, or more). So maybe (as you say) there are hardcover and paperback versions (as is the case with Core Performance). Also, I see that if you buy from Rodale, they will send you a couple of "gifts".