There are numerous websites for prospective authors--some helpful, some not. Here is a list of a few that you might be interested in:

Literarymarketplace.com
The "granddaddy of all markets that brings together authors, agents, and publishers. Subscription is $300 a year but you can register free as a "browser" with limited information. Useful in searching for an agent and what's "hot" in the current publishing, TV, movie markets.

AAR-online.org
The Association of Agents, Registered. When looking for an agent, make sure he/she belongs to this group. Although, not a guarantee of finding a good agent, it eliminates the "sham agents" who charge for their services. Agents must abide by a code of ethics.

Agentresearch.com
Useful site in getting the "low-down" on agents' trackrecords, sales, authors, any complaints.

Authorhelper.com
Useful site for first-time authors. Advice and user groups.

Midlist.org
As the name suggests a midlist of authors and books who don't make the NY Times Bestseller List, but are interesting books.

Mysterywriters.org
If you're a mystery and suspense writer, then you need to belong to this organization. Monthly newsletter, contests, and writing workshops are offered.

Loc.gov/copyright
A must if you want to copyright your work through the U.S. copyright office. Takes about six months.

Bookmarket.com
Another useful site for marketing e-books and self-publishing books.

Publishers.org
As name implies, listing of American Publishing Houses and what they have sold recently.

Writersdigest.com
A great resource for writers who don't know where to submit their works: includes small presses, magazines, periodicals. Gives details on length, how to submit, payments, and lead times.

Authorlink.com
A mixed review of this website, based in Dallas. Must submit your manuscript to be accepted into two categories: Writer's Showcase (more experienced), and Emerging Writers. Your work is reviewed and if accepted can pay $105 a year to have your work listed on their site which is perused by publishers and agents. Categories include: movie and TV scripts, short stories, non-fiction, and fiction.

Contemporaryliterature.about.com
Great website for finding books and what's selling. Can also advertise your own URL on this site for a fee.

Mysteryguild.com
For mystery lovers. Reviews of latest mystery thrillers; can also purchase at greatly reduced rates.

Writersnetwork.com
A help site for writers; discussion and user groups.

Bookbrowser.com
Another site for looking for that hard-to-find book.

Houstonwritersleague.org
Local organization for writers and readers. $30 annual dues; includes reduced rates for local workshops where one can meet with agents and publishers and learn to polish and market our works.

ACWL.org (American Crime Writers League)
National organization of crime writers. Tips, networking, featured writers, contests.

I hope you will peruse the above sites. Most are free and provide a wealth of information for novice and experienced writers. Please feel free to email me if you have any questions or want to connect with a local workshop. See ya and keep writing and reading.