I agree... first chapter or two for free should be the standard for any book that isn't expected to sell hugely based on reputation alone. Big name books might not do it because they only risk losing purchases. But less popular books need to create interest.
I usually know reasonably well if I'll like a book by the end of the first chapter or two, and I definitely a lot more likely to buy a book if I have the option of reading some of it to see if I want to read more. It's really frustrating to buy an e-book not read more than a few chapters. Not only is the book a waste to you, but because of DRM you can't even pass it on to your friends and cause them to waste their time!
