While I never had a book published, I have several short works published in newspapers, anthologies, compilations and magazines.
At one point in my life, my goal was to have a series of horror novels published, however, the house burned down and I lost all my manuscripts.
I was a member to
Writers Guild of America and I HIGHLY RECOMMEND you take advantage of the resources they offer and also get the must have book for any writer, the
Writer's Guide to Editors and Publishers.