However, you cited two examples where something else got the writer in the door instead of quality. A lot of things are published today by "reputable" authors that would have gotten thrown in the trash if any other name were on it. Amazon is also a community frequented by authors who are in it for the money. Or who think it's okay to publish drafts--I know, I've reviewed more than one that turned out to be intended as a free beta read.

But if we authors want to prove fiction belongs in this community, we need to up our game and put our best foot forward. Otherwise a bad reputation for fiction in general will become well-deserved.