Ian, Why don't you send amazon author services a query and find out why it takes so long and express your displeasure. There may be a valid reason, but I'd be lying if I said I knew what it was. If it's printed paper books, then it may be shipping and customs that are the problem, but I would think Kindle Books would be far faster. There's also another possibility - that you've received some false information. Obviously, you appear to be brand new with the service so your information is second hand. Again, ask them. You have a right to know. But that's pure speculation on my part. Once you receive a reply, post the response and let us all know.
Why don't you send amazon author services a query and find out why it takes so long and express your displeasure. There may be a valid reason, but I'd be lying if I said I knew what it was. If it's printed paper books, then it may be shipping and customs that are the problem, but I would think Kindle Books would be far faster. There's also another possibility - that you've received some false information. Obviously, you appear to be brand new with the service so your information is second hand. Again, ask them. You have a right to know. But that's pure speculation on my part. Once you receive a reply, post the response and let us all know.
Good luck.