No one turns up to author's book signing – but then something heartwarming happens

An author's heartache turned to joy after a TikTok video showing her alone at a book signing went viral.

Agnes Lee was captured looking despondent by user Kawaii Filly, an employee at the bookshop, as nobody approached her during the event for her debut novel.

"I literally hate this shift," Kawaii wrote. "We have an author today. It's her first book and nobody has gone up to her. I have to watch this for five hours. My heart is breaking."

The tide of fortune turned when the post went viral online, however, amassing over nine million views and sparking a wave of support.

One touched viewer commented: "Agnes Lee the internet supports you and now to find this book, or can we get in touch with her for an autographed one?" Another praised the community spirit on social media: "I love it when TikTok comes together to support people. You are all amazing. I hope you receive so much kindness in your lives."

Whilst a third person offered a different perspective from experience: "Artist here. Yes, it's brutal, but a necessary part of the process. All artists of any type experience being ignored. Hopefully she uses the experience and weaves it into her work. Kudos to her."

Man aspiring writers resonated with the struggle of gaining recognition, sharing their own stories of perseverance. "This was me exactly seven years ago," one individual commented. "I became a number one New York Times best seller this year and book signings look very different now. Stick with it! Your people are waiting to find you."

And another recalled: "I had no one show up for mine too. It feels like when you are a kid and no one shows up for your birthday party. Yet I'm going to keep putting myself out there. You got this! Don't quit."

However, some