After more than three decades practicing corporate law, T. Walter Taylor has taken on what he calls the oldest case file in Western civilization. His first novel, Matthew's Story: A Novel About Jesus, published on September 11, 2026, reimagines the origins of Christianity through the eyes of the Apostle Matthew at the end of his life.
The novel opens with Matthew's startling confession: "I am an old man. I will die soon. I have decided that it is now time for me to share the story of some deceptions which gave rise to what is now called Christianity." This framing sets the stage for a narrative that blends historical research with imaginative reconstruction, tracing Matthew's journey from a tax collector's son in Tiberias to a follower of Jesus.
According to the press release, the story begins in 26 AD and spans through Paul's ministry, the Jerusalem Council, the Jewish War, and the fall of Masada. Taylor grounds his tale in first-century history, Hebrew scripture, and classical writers such as Josephus and Livy. Along the way, readers encounter figures like Mary of Magdala and Marcus, a slave in Matthew's household whose knowledge of scripture challenges those around him.
Taylor explained his motivation: "I imagined a close follower of Jesus who, at the end of his life, confesses the secrets he kept, and how those secrets, woven into Greek, Roman, and Jewish beliefs, turned Jesus into a new path to God." The book promises a final revelation that readers won't see coming, adding a layer of suspense to the historical narrative.
This novel arrives at a time of sustained public interest in the historical Jesus and the development of early Christianity. By presenting a fictional insider's account that posits deliberate deceptions, Taylor invites readers to reconsider how religious traditions evolve. The book is written for enthusiasts of historical fiction and anyone curious about how Christianity began, offering a provocative perspective that may spark discussions about faith, history, and the reliability of ancient sources.
Matthew's Story is available in paperback for $16.99 and as an eBook for $9.99. It can be purchased from Amazon and through bookstores and libraries via Ingram. The paperback ISBN is 978-1-0679746-0-2, and the eBook ISBN is 978-1-0679746-2-6.
Taylor, who holds degrees in science, business, and law, began his career as a teacher before earning an MBA and practicing corporate law for over 30 years. He has maintained a lifelong interest in classical studies and world religions. He lives in British Columbia, Canada. Matthew's Story is his first novel.
For readers and observers of religious history, this book represents a notable entry into the genre of historical fiction that questions foundational narratives. Its impact may extend beyond entertainment, encouraging reflection on the complex interplay of belief, politics, and storytelling that shaped one of the world's major religions.
