When is free one thing other than free? When HP weighs a free Nook offer, notes The Consumerist.

Free only to an extent

During Cyber Monday, consumer Brian started trying to find a new laptop. According to the Consumerist, he got a totally free Noon e-reader as part of the promotion. When Brian took the Ultrabook back because he did not want it anymore, he had to pay $99 plus tax for the E-reader still.

A totally free Nook issue that isn't unique

Free Nook promotions are not entirely free, according to HP, and Brian isn't the only customer to run into this problem. Looking at the fine print of such promotions, it becomes clear that the "free Nook" actually costs $99 plus tax. HP has claimed that the price listing as it appears also on a consumer's receipt is merely the way HP systems process orders - the consumer isn't really charged the $99 at the time of purchase.

The customer cannot get back the $106 they were charged for the promotion, and the business will not take back the free nook. An HP source said that the business will not take back the Nook or give a $106 refund for the machine.

Nook not a totally free purchase

HPs small print explained that the Nook was priced with the laptop meaning it is not actually free at all. The consumer had to pay for it depending on the terms of the transaction.

The "free Nook" sting is still there and makes lots of people upset since it cannot be returned, though it can be sold at the consumer's discretion.