Someone took a chance on me

Available at Steveston Bookstore, Steveston Village, Richmond

Selling a book by an indie or self-published author is challenging. Most of the books sold were online or at webstores. I contacted local bookstores in Vancouver and Richmond for my 2022 book, “Revenge Mistaken,” but most had no room for it. On April 16, 2025, the release of my second book, “Fate Unshaken,” prompted me to revisit the bookstores in Richmond.

I visited Chapters Indigo in Richmond Centre, and the manager told me that they couldn’t accommodate me at this time. Then I visited Steveston Village with a friend and went inside Steveston Bookstore; I was so overwhelmed by how much I liked the ambience and the energy inside the store. We met the female owner who has been operating the bookstore for thirty-five years now. I asked her if she would let me sell the physical copy at her store, and she said I could bring a book or two for starters.

Today, after my appointment, I visited another bookstore in Steveston Village, but the person there declined to accept my book for a reason. After thanking her, I proceeded to my main purpose, which was to bring a copy of Revenge Mistaken and Fate Unshaken to Steveston Bookstore. I met the male owner, and he was so gracious and gave me courage to showcase my books. We talked a little bit, and I felt his sincerity and encouragement. I’m grateful he took a chance on me.

After the adrenaline rush, I treated myself to a wonderful brunch of waffles with smoked salmon and unlimited coffee from Steveston Cannery Café and met the owner. In a gesture of gratitude, I presented her with a signed copy of Fate Unshaken. It feels so nice to appreciate each other. Thank you for the sumptuous brunch.

Does someone take a chance on your accomplishment?

As a local author

I got invited to my local Richmond public library’s inaugural Writers for Readers event a week before spring arrived. It was my first time being invited as an author, so I was both overwhelmed and terrified at the same time. Before my book was released nearly two years ago, I had no prior experience interacting with readers in public. I was surprised to get the email from the librarian, and I remember I was gasping for air. Both excitement and fear filled me, but in the back of my mind, I knew that this was a great opportunity for me to interact with the public and get experience.

As a risk-taker, I responded to the invitation with a lot of questions. I want my first public appearance to be remembered. When the big day finally arrived, I never would have imagined that I would be calm, and I relished every second of setting up my table. Nine was my table number. Even though I was in the corner, I never felt excluded because I got to speak with the guests who came to my table as soon as the event began. And seeing my book on the library shelf was awesome.

The best part of the event was that I shared the experience with my nieces, Charlene and Jasmine. They silently supported me from the sidelines during the entire event. I was grateful that they came to join me, and I hoped they could continue my legacy. I have no children of my own, but I dedicated every word in my book to my family’s next generation.

And when I sold my first signed book for the day, it hit me that I have a community that is very supportive of authors like me.

Finally, I’m part of the Richmond community. Thank you for inviting me!

GRATEFUL FOR THE NEW LIFE EXPERIENCE. It was the start of a new beginning.

MY BOOK IS FICTION, BUT THE EMOTION IS REAL!!!

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  • As a local author

    I got invited to my local Richmond public library’s inaugural Writers for Readers event a week before spring arrived. It was my first time being invited as an author, so I was both overwhelmed and terrified at the same time. Before my book was released nearly two years ago, I had no prior experience interacting……

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  • Home, at last!

    My second book launch in the Philippines was held in Lucena City, where I grew up. I have no elder to whom I can devote my accomplishments; therefore, it was bittersweet for me. My mom and maternal grandmother were both teachers. They both enjoy reading, and if they’re still with us, I’m sure they’re quite……

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  • Staff picks

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OFFICIAL FRONT COVER

Front cover before the author meticulously suggested a different font and chair colors .

Designer first draft

My Pandemic Miracle

Revenge Mistaken is well travelled even before the book’s launch. At present, we have a little less than a month left before it is officially published. Though it will take up to eight weeks after publication for it to appear on retail sites like Amazon, etc. 

#RevengeMistaken with my family and friends.