As US ratings tend to X-rate sexual activity and alcohol use, placing much lower vigilance of things like evisceration, flaying or violent actions/deaths in general; so, yes. IMO, Authors who don’t rate their own storytelling will add graphic or violent sex with no plot justification, to sell books.

And only male authors writing female characters are guilty of this?

No, sadly. For instance, 50 Shades of Porn was written by a woman.

My point exactly.

Jason, You have to admit it is mostly men and historically almost exclusively men. This isn’t a both sides are equal situation.

In fact, it’s only since more women are writing AND being accepted that these tropes have shifted. You won’t find this in anything written by Ursula LeGuin.

Her storytelling skills didn’t need the assistance of titillation in order for her books to fly off the shelves.

I will admit I haven't read the Earthsea novels yet, but they are on my list.

My favorite is “The Left Hand of Darkness” #UrselaKLeGuin

It isn't? And here I thought we were talking about fantasy literature and not historical accuracy.

I was talking about the history of writing.

Oh... you changed the subject. I missed that.

Jason, I’m sorry this whole thread has offended you. Are you attacking me now because you personally felt attacked? I certainly did not mean to attack you.

I never attacked you. Nor am I offended.

Ok good. I misread the tone of your last comment.

Indeed. It's very difficult to read tone in text.