I published three books with VHP. I was happy at first, everything was peachy. But then problems started. Royalty checks were late and release dates were pushed around for strange reasons. When the books did come out I didn't see any editing. I did a lot of my own promos at author events and sold many books. I filed the proper paperwork and sent in the money. However, I never received a dime for books 2 & 3 due to lack of sales. Hmmm.. what about those books I sold and signed? Guess I should have kept some money out for myself but at the time I didn't think that was professional.
To make a long story short... I terminated my contract but it took over a year to get my rights back. Never did see any $$.
Lucky for me, a reviewer who liked my work recommended me to another pub and I've been with them every since. My eyes were open super wide when I received my first edits. I realized my work was never professionally edited. My editor actually had to IM me to explain how to use the editing program!!! Editing is so important and I feel it helps a good author become a great author.
I also threw a couple short stories on Smashwords just to keep my name out there and use as freebies sometimes. I only paid $35 for the professional covers! As for my three books... I'm currently self editing them. I have two pubs interested in rereleasing the new and improved versions.
My advice to you is:
1. Look into getting your work professionally edited. Make friends with an editor and pull a favor or there are sites you have to pay for. Check with writing groups you belong to, I'm sure you could find someone. Take time to self edit again and get rid of words such as "was, felt, that, it, like" and make sure you keep your scenes in one POV, no head-hopping.
2. Publish something small on Smashwords or something similar or even on your blog just to introduce yourself to the world. Use Facebook & Twitter & the like. Build a following before you have a book out.
3. Never give up. Get involved with writer groups in your genre. Network, network, network. Try to attend a writer's conference and make an appointment to pitch your work to a pub in person. And when you get your acceptance letter have a reject letter burning party and invite us.
Good luck and feel free to email me.