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Leather Head

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Gable is just playing dress up for San Francisco's leather S&M fair, but Leather Head isn't playing. His friend Shawn warns him to be careful what he's advertising for since the community has been rocked by four brutal murders. Gable still thinks it's all in fun, but it isn't. Desire can be deadly.

54 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 4, 2017

13 people are currently reading
43 people want to read

About the author

Matt Converse

22 books88 followers
Bestselling author of horror, thrillers, sci-fi and m/m romance, including The Whistler, I'm the Last Face You'll Ever See, The Four Corners of Horror and upcoming release They Kill.

Like his idol Alfred Hitchcock, he strives to bring suspense to his books.

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Community Reviews

5 stars
27 (36%)
4 stars
16 (21%)
3 stars
19 (26%)
2 stars
7 (9%)
1 star
4 (5%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
Profile Image for Philomena Callan Cheekypee.
4,018 reviews432 followers
December 28, 2017
I’ve not read anything by this author before but if this quick read is anything to go by I’ll be reading more of his in the future.

My darker side really enjoyed this short story. I’m looking forward to reading more from this author in the future.
Profile Image for True Loveislovereview.
2,859 reviews1 follower
April 9, 2019
Gable is a bit naive, dressed up in leather like it is Halloween instead of a celebration day of the gay S&M and leather community. Dressed up in leather should be fun! Nuh-uh!

There is a predator outside, incognito as a friend. Searching for a precious boy!

When Gable meets his best friend Shawn at one of the bars there is one huge, impressive guy. Gable finds him intriguing, hotness and dominant power written all over him.
Shawn warns him to be careful because in the last few weeks there are four gay men murderer.

Be prepared for an angsty, deadly rollercoaster. An amazingly thrilling story. I was sitting on the edge of my chair, afraid of what was all revealed before my eyes.
Horrifying angst, so well put together I was shaking like a scary bird.
Superior writing style just how I love to read. It captured me like I was in the same room, I could smell the leather and the sweat. I loved this story hard!
Profile Image for Matt Converse.
Author 22 books88 followers
April 16, 2018
I stepped outside my comfort zone of m/m romance when I wrote Leather Head. I have always been a horror writer at heart, but when I finished this I wondered if my publisher would even want to publish it. I thought she might think it was too dark, too weird, too twisted. But she loved it. And now it has become my highest ranked book on Amazon with customer reviews averaging 4.6, topping both of my other releases.

I loved writing this book. I even scared myself during parts of it. My favorite review said, "The suspense tried to kill me." I love my readers! With Alfred Hitchcock as my idol, I couldn't ask for a higher compliment. I hope you will enjoy reading Leather Head as much as I did writing it.
Profile Image for Laura  Hernandez.
802 reviews85 followers
February 3, 2018
I've never read any of this author's work but after getting a glimpse into his deviant mind I will say that I will definitely be reading more of his wicked reads. This dark and twisted short story was over way too quickly as I found myself captivated by this descriptive morsel of a tale. Be prepared to experience what feels like a full length book all packed into this short story.
Profile Image for James.
41 reviews
December 17, 2017
This is not your typical BDSM plot – oh, it’s there, but so is something else. I did enjoy the flashbacks interspersed with the first person present tense; it actually assisted me in feeling connected to the action. The characters are well defined, but gradually not, BANG and done, again helping the reader to immerse themselves into the story. The plot is present and obvious, but oh, those glorious sub-plots are what keep tugging you to the end.
To sum up, I couldn’t put it down; cover to cover in one sitting and pleasingly entertained throughout.
Profile Image for NeRdyWYRM .
263 reviews42 followers
May 20, 2018
Dark and Clever

I enjoyed this twisted little short quite a bit. I thought the author found a very clever way of smooshing a lot of story into a small package. Maybe it’s been done before, maybe not, I dunno. But I liked the bits of the past interspersed in one ‘whole-book’ scene from the present. It made it feel like way more story than was actually there. This also highlighted one bone of contention for me, though, that being: there was enough meat on the bones of this plot for it to have been a full-length book. I wondered why the author didn’t go that route, but the short was good as is so … I’ll have to remain satisfied with the niblets.

”meaty

Leather Head was a slightly over-the-top villain in short-story form. I think he could have been truly diabolical with more page time. In this case, his actions had to speak for him, thus, The Bone of Contention. We did get a little bit of his voice, but I wanted in his freaky-ass Leather Head. I know I’m being a little wishy-washy on this one because I keep whining (indirectly) about the length. Don’t get me wrong, this was an excellent short because it left me wanting more. The fact that it had potential to be an even better full-length book speaks volumes.

If you want a dark and dirty quickie, this is the one for you.

3.5 Hearts


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An ARC copy of this title was provided for an honest review.
Profile Image for James.
4 reviews2 followers
January 8, 2020
Not sure what to make of it

This was recommended to me by a friend who thought I'd enjoy it as a horror title, but I didn’t. I couldn’t get into it.

The main character was bland and boring. The murders were all identical. The dialogue was bad, the way everything was set up was bad, the writing was also bad, and filled with a surprising amount of errors for such a short title.

Definitely not my cup of tea, even though I like these kinds of stories.
Profile Image for Maryann Kafka.
865 reviews29 followers
April 16, 2022
***COMBINED REVIEW: LEATHER HEAD SERIES: 1 & 2***
**LEATHER HEAD (LEATHER HEAD SERIES: BOOK 1)** BY MATT CONVERSE

In San Francisco the club Pad Lock caters to the “leather kink”. Some young men go there to experiment and some have already experienced the “leather kink” to some degree. Fear still reigns with the deaths at the hands of the “Folsom Street Serial Killer” aka Leather Head.

Three young men have met their fate in the dark world: Tomas, three weeks earlier,; Carlos two weeks later, Ahmed one week after. There’s room for a number four.

Nothings going to stop Gable from celebrating the leather events in SF. He’s all decked out in very little leather, even though is not really his thing. But he’s eager to experience a little of it. He meets up with his best friend Shawn. Shawn warns Gable to be careful. Shawn even goes as far as checking with the bartenders Kevin and Larry about the Leather Daddy that Gable leaves with. Is this the last time he will see Gable?

**LEATHER HEAD: UNMASKED (LEATHER HEAD SERIES: BOOK 2)**
In Palm Springs, there’s a Gay Pride Celebration going on. Seems everyone is looking for fun in the sun, relaxation, hooking-up and just a great vacation.

Some young men go out to experiment and some have already experienced the “leather kink” to some degree. With all the celebrating there doesn’t leave room for thoughts of the danger that lurks with Leather Head.

Friends, Tyler and Andres have faced the terror of Leather Head. They’re deserving of some fun and making plans to celebrate in Palm Springs.

Gable and Shawn are best of friends and deserve a vacation after the terrifying experience of escaping the clutches of Leather Head.

Granger and his husband Liam are also vacationing in Palm Springs. Granger is forty-three and Liam in his twenties, the have a very good understanding with their open relationship. Both are looking forward to some fun. Granger takes lot’s of pride in Liam and is respectful of him being cautious.

With Leather Head escaping law enforcement at every turn who will be his next victim?

With both “Leather Head” and “Leather Head: Unmasked”, Matt Converse presents the pattern of several young men who have a desire to experience the leather scene. The pattern of the plots carries through each story as his victims are selected.

The stories are dark theme, gruesome with psychological tones. Some of these young men have had the experience but never want to take it too far and always think that safe-words would save them.
With “Leather Head: Unmasked” there’s still that interesting connection between: Tyler and Andres; Gable and Shawn, their friendships are solid, strong and protective. For Granger and Liam, it’s a clear understanding, respect and love.

Leather Heads story will unfold and the fear, emotions and reactions to Leather Head will be revealing: Gable’s reaction and feelings to Leather Head; Tyler’s and Andres reaction; and Leather Heads insight into himself and choices that he made.

I read the entire series starting with: “Where Evil Begins: The Prequel to Leather Head”, and it’s up to the reader how they will accept the “Leather Head” series.
Humor, suspense, thrills, fun, horror, or delving into the psychological side of it. It’s the readers choice.
Profile Image for The Novel Approach.
3,094 reviews137 followers
July 9, 2018
Well, if Matt Converse has never written a psychological thriller/horror story before I would say that his novice attempt bodes well if he decides to delve into this genre again. Leather Head was a trippy, fast-paced suspenseful little book that absolutely demands a prequel or a rewrite into a longer novella/novel.

Gable is gay, handsome and loves to play dress-up. When he decides to don leather-wear and head to the S&M fair, he knows that while he may not be down with heavy BDSM, a little submission might just jingle his bell. Thankfully his friend is on hand to remind him that some of the guys on the scene are serious players, and Gable should be careful—especially considering there has been a spate of murders surrounding this particular community in the last month. When Gable spots a masked muscle-man who sparks a lusty reaction, he is eager to explore the idea of a hookup. But the more Gable sees of the guy, the more he feels a bit hinky about leaving with the stranger. However, lust prevails and Gable finds himself throwing caution to the wind and leaving with his masked admirer after all.

Utilizing flashbacks to set the scene of the four previous murders, juxtaposed with the present day where Gable is cruising the leather bar, the author sets up a macabre and violent story that is sure to make anyone think twice about casual sexual encounters. Honestly, this was a well-written short story that had only one flaw—too little story and page time, particularly for our serial killer. I felt as though I was just getting a sense of the guy, and Gable as well, and the story ended. That said, this is well done and I’d love to read more about Gable and his bestie, Shawn.

Leather Head is nail-biting action right up to the end, and honestly, the bathroom medicine cabinet discovery alone would have had me watching out for more work by this writer.

Reviewed by Sammy for The Novel Approach
213 reviews
November 6, 2019
The best I can say, in my opinion, is it is OK. I read it, it is a short read, and immediately deleted it from my Kindle. I have KU or I probably would never have tried it as it sounded darker than I like my reads. Were there murders, yep, was leather head a nut, oh yeah, did it look like the MC was going to end up going with Leather Head, again ..yep, did I care...no not much. The story was just too much surface and not enough depth for me to care either way.

Even the murders, and the poor victims, were such surface affairs that I really didn't feel the horror of their final moments. To me a murder scene should evoke more feelings than...OK, there's another one down, moving right along now.

On the plus side, I did not notice any editing errors or poorly constructed sentences. I just did not feel anything for anyone in the story.

This was my first book by this author and it will probably be the last. I don't care for the author's style, but others obviously did. Like I mentioned, it is a short, quick read so if it sounds interesting to you then give it a try, or down load the sample to see if you like that fragment.


Profile Image for Zakarrie.
Author 3 books27 followers
June 25, 2020
Ooh, this is every bit the devilish delight I'd hoped after reading the prequel. But dang...I wish I could also rewind and reread Leather Head before When Evil Begins. Purely so that I might now experience this story without knowing Leather Head's own too. Not either/or. Both ways...I'm greedy. If I could choose, I'm chuffed I read the prequel first, but oh, what a treat it would be to discover just how differently I read Leather Head (both man & book) had I been blind to his/the backstory. Also...two sets of 4...but 5 jars.🤔 I do so hope there'll be a sequel to the prequel & Leather Head. I can't help but suspect that his dastardly deeds are far from done. :D
Profile Image for Solaria.
8 reviews2 followers
August 3, 2018
I love to read everything. Most of the books I have read presenting LGBTQ as main characters have been romance. Leather Head is a thriller. The characters are well fleshed out. The story has a relentless killer. The element of suspense is there as all good thrillers should have. The ending is exciting and keeps you reading. All in all a great story and well told. Wished it could have been longer. I would love to get to know Gable and Shawn better. Warning the violent scenes are also well written and graphic.
Profile Image for Becca.
3,218 reviews47 followers
March 16, 2018
I have one word for this book. Mindf*@k. Holy hell. But it was very good. I will warn anyone looking at this though, if you can't handle choking and rough deaths, don't read this book. For those who like some messed up sh@t and violence, this is the book for you.

Gable loves getting dressed up. Especially for things like Halloween. So for this S&M leather fair, he decides to go all out. When he goes to a bar to meet his friend, Shawn, he looks around to see what catches his eye. Maybe he will get lucky. A huge man catches his eye. Tall, built and from the way he fills out his pants, hung. But something about that leather hood has him freaked out. Maybe it's just part of playing. Gable isn't so sure but he can't resist that hot body. But is that body worth the fear?

I don't know if there is ever a book I have screamed at more lol. Oh my gah. You know those thriller movies where the dumb girl I always going the wrong way or walks right into the killers path or doesn't just...run? And you can't help but scream bloody murder at the TV for the stupid heifer to just run or something? Lol. Yeah that was me with this book. I was screaming 'stop thinking with your dick and RUN!’ LOL. Hormones are a bitch, huh? We all as human one time or another think with lust or 'the little head’. In this case, it's trouble. And bad. But even with screaming at them not to be stupid, you can't help but want to see what happens. Do they live? Do they die? If they live, does the killer come after them? Do they kill the killer? Does the killer get caught? I know I can't tell you. You have to read a find out. I think it's worth your time.

http://lovebytesreviews.com
437 reviews5 followers
December 15, 2018
Leather Head

This was the scariest book I have ever read! I'm one part my Greatgrandson, walked into my bedroom, (did not knock) and said Nana, I lost it! I yelled so loud the people down the block must have thought I was getting killed! This book could give you nightmares for life! Definitely a must read, but read it during the daytime. WOW, is all I'm going to say, I read it, so you can too! Many thanks, Honey Bee 🐝📚💙🎶
Profile Image for Elin.
938 reviews8 followers
May 30, 2019
This was a thrilling little read, it kept my attention to the end and had my insides clenching a bit as it went on.

It was difficult to predict which twists and turns would be the right one and where everything would end up. But it was an exciting journey.

Though I would have liked just a bit more of Leather Head, even though I know the anonymity is the whole thing and also the reason I rarely read short stories. I need my character building.
Profile Image for Diana  | Indie Book Addict.
541 reviews24 followers
February 29, 2020
Converse wastes no time grabbing your attention in this short story. It flows well and held my interest throughout. However, I can't say that I felt a huge attachment to the characters, and I wish there was more variety when it came to the murders.

Overall I did enjoy the dark writing style and will check out more from this author.
Profile Image for Tori Wilson.
74 reviews2 followers
October 24, 2025
Man, I don't normally read horror books, and this was a perfect example as to why lol

I was horrified. I was terrified. I was deeply unhappy with the killer and wanted to cry when he got ahold of Gable. To say I was stressed is an understatement. This was an amazing short read that most definitely got under my skin.
Profile Image for Sarah.
31 reviews1 follower
July 21, 2019
Leather death (shudder)

Leather head is one nasty character. All those poor people who bit it, so glad he was stopped.
Mr Converse you are one hell of a story teller. How do you come up with these characters? Truly amazing.
31 reviews5 followers
May 29, 2020
Great read

A fun and sexy short story which held my attention from start to finish. I'll never look at another leather hooded hottie the same way after reading Leather Head. Excellent story, highly recommend!
Profile Image for Maria.
110 reviews
August 29, 2024
I’m not sure what this book’s point is? The writing is very clinical and soulless, I didn’t feel anything. There’s no point, no twist, no mystery and the book was lacking a good atmospheric build up.

1.5 rounded down
Profile Image for Christie Howell.
425 reviews1 follower
March 7, 2018
Not too bad for a short story.

I enjoyed the thrill of the short story. Wasn't scary but it had your heart pounding a little here and there. Check it out..
Profile Image for Kim.
552 reviews42 followers
July 14, 2018
Leather Head

Awesome book. This book was a page turner that I just couldn't stop reading until the end.I had loved this book.I would highly recommend this book.
Profile Image for Cheryl_cajun .
1,213 reviews29 followers
January 1, 2019
This book maybe short but it packs a punch with it. Great read, Gable can hold his own in any situation, from leather daddy to psycho killer. Friends always have you're back.
Profile Image for Sheryl Howard.
575 reviews1 follower
January 11, 2019
Great Read

This one is long but I definitely enjoyed reading it. I am not usually disappointed when I read this author.
Profile Image for Pat.
1,584 reviews18 followers
April 4, 2019
Dark and twisted but Oh so good .
You never know who is under a mask or who you may hook up with.
Short story that packed a terrific punch .
100% a great read.

Profile Image for Li Taylor.
1,861 reviews1 follower
December 12, 2020
Great

As good as the prequel . If you like a short dark story this is for you. I love dark stories the darker the better. Highly recommended
Profile Image for Danielle.
738 reviews
February 10, 2022
Good but not my thing.

This was not my jam. The writing was great it just didn't click for me. But that's why we have many writing and readers, there's something for everyone.
Profile Image for Mere Rain.
Author 31 books34 followers
Read
February 28, 2019
If you were into this scene I was that friend who was always worrying that stuff like this would happen to you and insisting that you call to let me know you were okay.
Profile Image for Phrique.
Author 11 books115 followers
July 5, 2024
👤👤👤👤/5

Leatherhead was a quick lil read, so you get a quick lil review for it.

Alright so, brass tacks: Leather Daddy. Slasher. Sold.
While it feels like it’s been done before…none are coming to mind and this one definitely checked all the boxes. It was legit 50% smut, 50% slasher. So that’s like a win-win. It seems a little rudimentary but…aren’t most slashers?
Person, homicidal.
Victims, aloof livestock.
Blood, buckets.

Alright so while I wished for more from the death scenes in this…it was super short so it feels like if the idea had been hashed out more…we were on the right track. The kills felt real, intimate, fucked up, and altogether frightening. A masked threat is already a frightening thought, but what about a masked threat among other mask-wearers who could be hiding the same intentions? It’s the perfect set up really. I enjoyed it, but ultimately my only gripe is that I wanted more. I feel like they packed a decent amount of punches in the space they gave themselves. Recommend if you don’t mind a good episode over a movie once in a while.
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