Parallel Hearts

                                    

                                          
SOME DISCLAIMER BEFORE YOU BEGIN READING:
This is a work of fiction, and therefore has been liberally imagined. Although we're playing on a what-if scenario here and the author has done some research for factual basis, some limitations will eventually and inevitably make this book an inaccurate depiction of events. There are thousands of possible scenarios that can occur with the Philippines never being colonized—so much that it may not even be a country at all.
That being said, characters or events mentioned from this work that you find in reality are purely coincidental. This is fiction, not facts. Don't use it as a guide to find your prince charming. Wala pa ring forever.
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1. This is in FILIPINO-ENGLISH (60% Filipino, 40% English) or Taglish whatever term preferred. However, I am better in writing and speaking English rather than Filipino. This is actually the first book I'm writing with my native language, so chances are you'll be reading pretty shallow Filipino with switches to English and English words (instead of drayber/kompyuter, I will use computer and driver).
2. Since this has an alternate history in an alternate reality where Philippines was not colonized by Spain, I'll try to stick to using Filipino in dialogues and certain places in order to give an authentic 'atmosphere.' Then again, pretty shallow. I don't know any deep words. I'll try to improve in the course of writing this novel.
3. Reminder this is set in modern day Philippines. Hindi ko pa kaya historical settings haha!
4. Please do not take this book as a history lesson. I do not claim accuracy of my research.
5. I didn't want to write this in Taglish (wanted Filipino) so the first few chapters may be awkward as I grapple with the language and style, but I wanted accessibility and for readers to be most comfortable. Most peeps in Wattpad apparently don't have Filipino as their native tongue, so I followed advice from my readers and adjusted the style of narration. It will sound conyo, but I just decided to make it a part of Andreya's character 🤷‍.
6. I value feedback, so if you think there are parts that may need fixing and you're willing to help point it out, in-line comments are welcome! I will also deal with cultures and take languages from different regions and provinces, so if may feedback kang pwedeng ika-enrich ng libro (iba ba ang tawag sa bibingka in your area and you think it should be considered?)—you're very welcome to share!
I don't know everything about the regional provinces ng Philippines and local cultures (would like a tour someday to learn!) so if you can take me for a ride through the comment section, I will be so happy!
I love reading comments, but please always be kind. If I find something unnecessarily mean and destructive, I will delete it.
Otherwise, if meron kayong criticism, lay it down kindly! I promise I read all comments and also respond if necessary! Help me improve, but don't demean or villify me. Nagsusulat lang po ako ng libro, hindi nagbebenta ng dignidad.
7. As heads up, I'm using Bagay: Gabay sa Pagsulat sa Wikang Filipino ni Alvin Yapan as basis for grammar at Pambansang Diksiyonaryo sa Filipino ni Virgilio Almario para sa lexicon. I also have other sources kung saan nakuha ko yung setting and other facts. Kung gusto niyong malaman, mag-re-release ako ng listahan.
8. I'm also using Filipino, not Tagalog, to clarify. There's actually a difference between the two (I just found out in college!). So I want to raise awareness by tackling these subtleties in what I write! I'm hoping you learn something from me in this adventure!
9. Meron din po akong reading and assistive materials section after each chapter called Pampadugo ng Ilong para sa mga taong nalilito, particularly those who need more contextual clarifications para mas lalong maintindihan at ma-appreciate ang mababasa niyo.
10. There will also be a Glossary of Terms and a manual para sa lahat ng mga unfamiliar/new words na mae-encounter sa librong ito. If ever nakalimutan niyo, it's okay to cheat a little at tumingin sa kodigong inihanda ko. The most important thing is to understand and enjoy!
You don't have to read it, though. Dahil the story itself should be able to explain everything slowly. This is here just in case you want to be reminded or need a recall. Otherwise, if you find it boring and you're brave enough, jump right into the story itself!