Hasselbeck denies plagiarism claims

NEW YORK, June 24 (UPI) -- "The View" co-host Elisabeth Hasselbeck is denying a Boston author's claims she plagiarized her book about coping with the autoimmune disorder Celiac disease.

Susan Hassett reportedly is suing Hasselbeck, who suffers from the Gluten-related disease, for copyright infringement.

Hassett alleges Hasselbeck's book "The G-Free Diet: A Gluten-Free Survival Guide," which hit bookstores last month, draws heavily on her guide "Living with Celiac Disease." Hassett said she sent Hasselbeck a copy of her book, which she self-published in April 2008, along with a personal note and a business card.

Hasselbeck's representatives denied the allegations in a statement issued to RadarOnline.

"Neither (publishers) Center Street nor Elisabeth Hasselbeck has been served with the complaint in this action. However, there is no basis for the allegations in the complaint as published in the press. Ms. Hasselbeck worked diligently and tirelessly on her book and is disappointed in this attempt to discredit her work and her ability to bring this important message to the public," the statement said.