Potter book could hit shelves early

The next Harry Potter book could hit the shelves before its official release, according to industry specialists.

There is a written agreement that prevents shops from selling the much sought after book before July 21 but it is thought that it may be ignored by some.

A spokesperson from The Bookseller magazine said: "It's quite possible one will break the embargo. They'd do it to be first, and for all the PR."

However, publishing house Bloomsbury told how they "no reason to believe anyone would want to ruin the excitement.

"If such a thing were to happen, we believe that the public would make their feelings known by not buying it from such a spoilsport retailer."

Rowling herself also expressed her desire to keep the storyline secret until July 21. She wrote on her official website: "I want the readers who have, in many instances, grown up with Harry, to embark on the last adventure they will share with him without knowing where they are they going."