From one writer to another, here are five things I wish I’d known from the get-go.

Today will be a combination of work and celebration. You’re officially an author, but there’s still much to do!

You’re going to have to shout in order to get the attention your book deserves on release day—but be sure to do it in a not-annoying way.

Start saving now, wherever you are in the writing or publishing process. Your book is going to require a nest egg no matter how much of the work you take on yourself.