Double Standard?

As a business executive, I never felt the brunt of the double standards of sexism.  Yet, as a woman author, I can identify with Betty Davis' words.

Since starting this blog recently, I have received some really constructive feedback and some not so helpful feedback.  I recognize such is the nature of publishing a blog with a wide audience online.  

I have received comments regarding my credibility in authoring a work of historical fiction such as "Forever Bright."  "Forever Bright" is based on research on real life accounts of Chinese dissidents that were or are imprisoned in China. One comment indicated that, as a woman, I am prejudiced in writing about forced abortions and sterilizations in China.  The practices of forced abortion, sterilizations and monitoring of menstrual cycles are a fact of daily life for many women in China.  I believe that inalienable human rights are violated anytime a human being is coerced or forced into taking an action that is against his or her free will.  This is a global issue, including both men and women in the conversation.  "Forever Bright" is not intended to be a commentary on the general practice of abortion nor its morality.  That would be a James Michener size book and not a short story.   

"The Story of Harold Morton," on the other hand, is a purely fictitious account of a budding male author whose ego faces the many challenges of temptation and success.  I have received comments to the effect that I am a dirty minded slut for authoring the scene where his publicist touches him in an inappropriate part of his anatomy.  For anyone who follows the story line, Harold Morton does not fit the stereotype of a successful male tempted by a seductress.  Sure Harold has thoughts on the matter, he is an imperfect human being, but he has a loyalty to his wife, Evelyn so far.    

I am not sure if a male author would receive these types of comments and I am curious as to the answer:

Are there double standards for male versus female authors?

~ Male authors of smut feel free to comment.
~I would also love to hear the experiences of other female authors.

Thanks for your ongoing readership and your patience with my rant.

"The Story of Harold Morton" continues tomorrow, October 23, 2014.

"Forever Bright" will continue on Saturday, October 25, 2014.