As far as websites go, here's my advice:
Most companies offer very similar services and prices. Depending on how much work you want to put into your website, you may need a host that allows you to create databases. I've heard a lot of good things about dreamhost, and I personally use blue host (they don't allow any adult content, though.) Ultimately you just have to shop around for the host that fits you. You may even be satisfied with a free host.
As far as creating a website... There are sites out there that have templates and makers you can use, and even websites that offer applications specifically for publishing writing. You can always get a free account with someone who has these publishing applications and get a domain name that forwards to the account, but you probably won't be allowed full customization.
I always recommend finding someone to create your website from scratch so you can have complete control over the customization. I'm sure there are a lot of free scripts out there regarding publishing if they don't know how to write their own.
But ultimately, it depends on what and who you have available to you.