A journey of surrender and strength: Leather forever by Pete Fitz

by Frank Gaimari

Pete Fitz’s Leather Forever is a bold and emotionally rich novel that peels back the layers of identity, submission, and yearning, set against the backdrop of the leather contest world. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill romance; it’s a character-driven story that dives into themes of power, trust, and self-exploration with unapologetic honesty and a touch of erotic flair.

Jesse Reed is a charming and driven chiropractor who, on the surface, seems to have it all. But beneath his polished exterior lies an ache for something intangible. Everything changes when he meets Grant Morgan, a seasoned dominant whose sharp gaze and confident demeanor ignite a deep-seated passion within Jesse. What begins as a casual flirtation quickly evolves into mentorship, and under Grant’s guidance, Jesse embraces his desire for structure, discipline, and the safety that comes with surrender.

The story follows Jesse’s transformation from a curious novice into a confident leather contestant. With Grant’s mentorship pushing him to grow, he steps into the grueling world of leather contests, which demand more than charm and good looks. Competing in both Los Angeles and New York, Jesse must prove his worth not only as a submissive but also as an individual with strength, conviction, and a vision for his place in the leather community. The question is, can Jesse keep his footing in this world while discovering who he is at his core?

One of the story’s strengths lies in the richly detailed backdrop of the leather contest scene. The author immerses readers in the rituals, protocols, and political undercurrents of the community, creating an authentic experience. Fitz writes with deep knowledge and respect, showcasing the community and lifestyle he loves. This narrative serves not just as a story but as a love letter that warmly welcomes even those new to the genre.

After completing Leather Forever, I found myself eager to delve deeper into Pete Fitz’s work and the story behind his creative journey. I decided to reach out, and to my delight, he responded.

Frank Gaimari: What inspired you to write a story that focuses on the emotional journey and the competitive aspects of the leather scene?

Pete Fitz: I came up in leather when contests were more than just bar pageants—they were a rite of passage for gay men exploring masculinity in a space that didn’t shame them for it. These contests revealed who you were under pressure and introduced us to a larger chosen family. I wanted to capture that mix of nerves, hope, and desire, as well as the emotional journey that often gets overlooked in contest stories. For many of us, these contests were where we found our voice—and our people.

FG: You mention the community rituals and politics in the book—how important is it for you to educate readers about these aspects through storytelling?

PF: It matters to me deeply. Leather culture is often reduced to clichés, but in reality, it’s layered, full of rituals, history, and, yes, some messy politics. Storytelling is the best way to share that complexity without lecturing, allowing readers to see how these customs create connection and meaning. For example, I still feel close to the men I competed with for the title of Mr. LA Leather in 2001. Those bonds don’t disappear when the contest ends—they become part of the fabric of who we are.

FG: As an author, how do you ensure that your portrayal of BDSM and leather culture is respectful and accurate?

PF: Honestly, I’ve lived it. But I also keep listening, paying attention to how the scene evolves, and ensuring that the way I write about power exchange, consent, and kink reflects real people and real dynamics—not just porn tropes. Writing about kink comes with a responsibility, and it’s one I take seriously, especially in a world where misinformation is everywhere. And yes, the community politics you saw in LA this past season? Some of that might find its way into Book 2.

FG: Are there particular themes or messages you hope readers take away after reading your novel?

PF: I want readers to understand that submission and dominance aren’t about humiliation—they’re about trust, honesty, and self-discovery. Kink can be a path to understanding what you need and who you truly are, not a distraction from it. And love in this world isn’t at odds with discipline—it can be built on it. It’s simply a different kind of love, and sometimes it takes time to realize that’s okay.

FG: If you could give one piece of advice to someone curious about exploring the leather scene or BDSM lifestyle, what would it be?

PF: Take your time, stay curious, and try new things. Don’t be afraid to learn—and that applies to Doms just as much as subs. Many great Doms start by subbing to understand how it feels, while others step into dominance from the beginning. Find mentors you trust (it’s normal to ask around and check references), listen more than you speak, and always remember that kink should enhance your life, not replace it.

If you’re interested in Leather Forever, you can find Pete’s book on Amazon.com. It’s available in paperback, hardback, and e-book format.

Frank Gaimari is an author, film reviewer, and actor based in Seattle, Washington. He lives with his husband and their two golden retrievers. Learn more about his work at http://FrankGaimari.com.