One of the biggest pricing dramas of 2009 is taking place as we speak -- the war between Wal-Mart and Amazon on top-selling hardcover books.

Wal-Mart launched the war last week by offering 10 highly anticipated titles (by well-known authors including John Grisham, Stephen King, Dean Koonz and Sarah Palin) for $10. After a few back-and-forth volleys, Wal-Mart is now selling the titles for $8.99 (free shipping) and Amazon has a $9 price (free shipping only if total purchases are $25 or more).