This is what it looks like when you press “send” on your new YA...

This is what it looks like when you press “send” on your new YA novel. Sleep deprived. Emotionally exhausted. Nervous. Excited. Scared to let go. Flannery O’Connor said it best: “Writing a novel is a terrible experience, during which the hair often falls out and the teeth decay. I’m always irritated by people who imply that writing fiction is an escape from reality. It is a plunge into reality and it’s very shocking to the system.” But every word was worth it. Dear lovelies: I can’t wait to share it with you. ✍