Nikolaos: A Retelling of the Saint Nicholas Story

by Taylor R. Marshall

In the heart of the Roman Empire, presbyter Nikolaos faces an otherworldly battle far beyond anything he has ever experienced.

Melitta, daughter of a fallen merchant, teeters on the precipice of slavery, her family's fate entwined with a demonic force gripping her father's soul. Nikolaos is tasked with the to free Melitta’s father from the demon’s malevolent clutches and save Melitta and her sisters from a life of shameful servitude. Can he overcome his own uncertainties to confront the demon and unravel the secrets binding Melitta's family to a fate worse than death?

As the feast of the Nativity approaches, the boundaries between faith and fear blur, and miracles are forged in the crucible of desperation. Will love, courage, and the spirit of the season prevail over the evil threatening the Empire’s very soul?

Genres: Catholic, Historical Fiction, Fiction, Christian, Christmas

141 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 6, 2023

About the author

Taylor Marshall reads, reads, and reads. And then he writes.

He is the President of the New Saint Thomas Institute.

Dr. Marshall earned BA in Philosophy from Texas A&M University, an MAR in Systematic Theology from Westminster Theological Seminary, a Certificate in Anglican Studies from Nashotah Theological House, and an MS in Philosophy from the University of Dallas.

He completed a PhD in Philosophy from the University of Dallas with the thesis “Thomas Aquinas on Natural Law and the Twofold Beatitude of Humanity.”

He lives in Colleyville, Texas with his wife, Joy, and eight children.

Reviews

[Steven R. McEvoy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read the original Sword and Serpent trilogy and through that it was an epic story. This latest offering in the same historical fiction world hits it out of the ball park. In this work Taylor Marshall takes on the legend of Saint Nikolaos is amazing! Dr. Marshall in the acknowledgements states:

“I still believe in the real Saint Nikolaos. May this short novella remind people of the countless miracles that God accomplished through his servant Nikolaos who died as a revered bishop at the age of 73 on December 6 AD 343. The plot of this book takes place 44 years prior when he was a newly ordained Christian presbyter ministering in Myra. The novella retells the famous story of Nikolaos assisting three poor daughters on the brink of being sold into prostitution and is the origin story for Nikolaos’s reputation of sneaking into homes and leaving gifts on Christmas morning.”

The description of this book is:

“In the heart of the Roman Empire, presbyter Nikolaos faces an otherworldly battle far beyond anything he has ever experienced.

Melitta, daughter of a fallen merchant, teeters on the precipice of slavery, her family's fate entwined with a demonic force gripping her father's soul. Nikolaos is tasked with the impossible: to free Melitta’s father from the demon’s malevolent clutches and save Melitta and her sisters from a life of shameful servitude. Can he overcome his own uncertainties to confront the demon and unravel the secrets binding Melitta's family to a fate worse than death?

As the feast of the Nativity approaches, the boundaries between faith and fear blur, and miracles are forged in the crucible of desperation. Will love, courage, and the spirit of the season prevail over the evil threatening the Empire’s very soul?”

We encounter many new historic figures in this book, and also get to visit with old friends including Georgius aka Jurian, Christophorus - Menas, Mari, and Macarius. The dedication of the book states:

“This book is dedicated to all the good bishops and priests who, like Saint Nicholas, have lovingly served our family as good shepherds of the sheep.”

This story is very well written. Each of the 4 novels I have read from the pen of Marshall have great characters, a solid plot, and excellent prose. The story draws you in and keeps your attention. IT presents the reality of the spiritual battle and the spiritual realm. About thirty years ago Frank E. Peretti was very popular in evangelical circles; I loved his books This Present Darkness and Piercing the Darkness but by the time I read his book The Oath I felt like I was reading a Christianized Stephen King, just sprinkle some Jesus on it. When I finished The Oath I felt slimed, like I needed to go to confession. This volume does an amazing job of showing the darkness we fight against, in a fictional manner, and yet does not cross that like to where the focus becomes the strength and power of evil. It is a delicate balance and Marshall handled it masterfully.

It was wonderful to read about Nikolaos and his experiences serving his people. His turning to prayer again and again, his bilocation to help save friends at sea. His battling evil and demons in the name and power of Jesus. And his seeking for God’s guidance and will for how to save three young women of his flock from a fate worse than death! Nikolaos’s invocation in his final confrontation with the demon are moving and powerful. Even though this is a fiction offering it has helped deepen my prayer life this advent, as I have read this story and continue to reflect upon it.

As of the writing of this review I have read 446 books so far this year. Of the novels this one is one of the best. It is a wonderful read. It will be appreciated by those who are into historical fiction. Buy those who are Christian or Catholic and want a real glimpse of what like would have been like prior to Christianity becoming an approved religion. It is part of an epic story and that really is the best kind! This piece of the Sword and Serpent series is an excellent offering.

This book is part of a series of reviews: 2023 Catholic Reading Plan!

[Tanya · Rating 5 out of 5]

Could not put this book down! Fantastic storytelling with a gripping climax! Loved it!

[Christina Weigand · Rating 5 out of 5]

Taylor Marshall's Nikolaos is an inspired story of the story of Santa Claus and the story of St. Nikolaos. He presents a human version of two larger than life characters and brings them to our level. Nikolaos struggles with his faith like many of us and we see Melitta the young protagonist dealing with the responsibilities of of two younger sisters after her mother has passed and her father has withdrawn into himself. She struggles to find ways to support the family and keep her faith. Her and Nikolaos strive together to find God's peace in the trying times of the Roman occupation.

[Fiona Altschuler · Rating 3 out of 5]

This story was cleverly written, very good at evoking the time period, and always interesting, but everything could have used more development and I don't think it would have held up as well if I hadn't read Sword and Serpent first (for instance I would have been REALLY confused by the Jurian and Mari subplot).

[Rebecca Tabish · Rating 5 out of 5]

This retelling of the story of St. Nicholas was excellent! Each of the characters had difficulties and problems to overcome. Nicholaos struggled in his faith and had concerns whether he was a good enough shepherd for his ekklesia, Melitta had the responsibility of protecting and caring for her younger sisters, I loved the maternity aspect of her and Dositheos the girls' father was literally possessed by a Demon and had to overcome that! The exorcism scene was rather interesting to read! Overall, I highly recommend this book to read during Advent and the Christmas season!

[Kay Castaneda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nikolaos: The Retelling of the Story of Saint Nicholas
By Taylor R. Marshall

Many people have heard of Saint Nicholas who was the real-life inspiration for Santa Claus, the fictional character who gives gifts in secret on Christmas Eve. Taylor Marshall has written a novel that explores the life of the saint, Nikolaos: The Retelling of the Story of Saint Nicholas. A retelling is a new, and often updated or retranslated, version of a story.

Nikolaos is a Presbyter, an honorific title for Christian clergy. The word derives from the Greek presbyteros, which means elder or senior. Saint Nicholas is the Patron saint of sailors, merchants, and children. He was an Early Christian bishop from Myra, a port city in Asia Minor in present-day Demre, Turkey who lived during the Roman Empire in 299 AD. Catholics, Orthodox, Lutherans, and Anglican Christians honor Saint Nicholas.
A mysterious visitor, Eugenius, comes to relay a message to Nikolaos that three visitors will come to his home and that he should give them hospitality. Nikolaos prepares for their arrival by buying food for a feast and making his house ready to give them a place to sleep, but he’s plagued by doubts of the strange visitor. Was this a dream or hallucination that Nikolaos experienced? How did Eugenius really appear in his house?
Nikolaos has a small but faithful group of people to whom he ministers. They converted from Paganism to Christianity and attend his Eucharistia or service. Three young girls, Melitta, Korinna and Cassia are his most avid converts. Nikolaos serves as their sprititual father since their mother Aemelia, a faithful member of the congregation, died. Their father Dositheos is not Christian but does not forbid them to attend Eucharistia. He is a merchant who has become despondent since his wife passed away and takes out his grief on his daughters. The girls bear their father’s drunkenness and fits of rage by pleading with him but staying away from home when he is at his worst. Their father’s business suffers due to neglect and bad business decisions he makes during his mourning period. He is unable to pay taxes to the Roman government so they will soon take his house away. He loses his will to take care of his daughters and despairs of poverty and homelessness for them. He becomes possessed by an evil entity who instills in him a terrible plot. Dositheos listens to the demon’s message. Selling his daughters into slavery would provide Dositheos enough money to pay his bills and taxes, and to live the comfortable life he had before. When Melitta learns what her father is planning, she asks for help from Nikolaos. He counsels her and tells her not to lose hope and faith in God. Nikolaos deliberates about ways to help the family and prays for them that their father will regain his physical and spiritual health.
I liked the way the author described the three daughters and how they desperately pray and hope for their father. Taylor uses vivid imagery and dialogue to describe their actions and feelings. Melitta, the eldest daughter, is especially well-written. He uses Melitta’s interior dialogue and her actions to paint a wonderful character. Dositheos, the girls’ father, is accurately portrayed as a grief-struck husband, failed businessman, and helpless father to his young daughters. Taylor paints Nikolaos as a sympathetic spiritual leader and patron of the poor townspeople.
Details of the daily life of Myra citizens give the novel a realistic background so the reader can visualize the story. Historical references to Emperor Diocletian and his Roman soldiers, who control the town and terrorize the citizens, place the story within the third century so that readers will know that Nikolaos was a real person.
This book will fascinate readers of Christian fantasy, historical fiction and those interested in learning about saints’ lives. The book is aimed at ages 8-12 but adults will find it fascinating also. I thought it was a great read and highly recommend it. I am glad I read this book because I learned about the historical and religious significance of Saint Nicholas.
Taylor Marshall is the author of eleven books, including five #1 Best-Selling books in fiction (Sword and Serpent) and non-fiction (Infiltration). Infiltration once reached #7 on "all books sold" on Amazon.com. His books have been translated into Spanish, German, Polish, Portuguese, and Croatian. He also has a weekly podcast on YouTube.

[Stephanie · Rating 3 out of 5]

The story of St. Nicholas (not the Coca Cola Santa Clause we think of) is one I really like. I also watch/listen to Dr. Marshall's podcast. So for the Christmas season I listened to his retelling of the Saint Nicholas Story.

This is really funny and I can say it because it's not a spoiler. I didn't read the publisher's summary so I was very surprised that Melitta's father was possessed by a demon. That was a turn of events I didn't see coming! Oh wait, I just read the summary and its right there. *face palm*

Usually I stay away from stories of that kind because they're frightening and unnerving. But here I was okay because a) the narration was not scary, b) it's a short story and I knew Bishop Nikolaos would figure out a solution quickly.

I thought the character development for Nikolaos was pretty good. I liked how he overcame his doubts and realized going at it alone and letting the demon control the conversation was not going to work. Calling upon the Lord was the way to do it. I also liked his dedication to making sure Melitta and her sisters wouldn't be trafficked.

Melitta had her own struggles too. While thinking her reasons were noble she was repeatedly tempted to do the wrong thing and I just kept thinking, girl remember Exodus 14:14 "The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still."

While I liked the story and the inclusion of religious and historical elements, the narration was not good. I know Kennedy Hall has narrated Marshall's other books and I have yet to listen to them, but I have a feeling he's only a good narrator when it comes to non-fiction. He's not good at voicing different characters. Nikolaos, who was from modern day Turkey, sounded Scottish. Everyone else sounded Middle Eastern, and (this isn't really his fault because he's grown man) his voices for the young girls were -how do I put this?-painful to listen to. If it weren't for the bad narration I would have given this a 4 or 4.5 but as it stands I am giving it a 3 out of 5 Gold Coins.

[Heather Gaffney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Real life. Brokenness. Humanity. Grit. Doubt. Faith. Fear. Demons.

Some of those words are words we'd like to pretend don't exist. Or at least pretend they don't apply to us. The reality is that all humans experience these things; even those we hold up as examples, or Saints.

The reality is that the image we hold up as santa is rooted in a real human being who had doubts and fear, who tried to do things his own way. He lived through life's gritty, ugly moments, just like we do. He had no special powers as we like to embellish today.

Taylor Marshall's retelling of the St. Nicholas story is gritty and compelling. There's some "tough stuff" in this story. But there is also what matters most: love of humans, trust in God, and redemption.

It is an actual Christmas story because the story of Christmas is God's love for us in sending His only Son to redeem our sins.

I loved the characters and the challenges they encountered. I loved the changes a few of them went through from the beginning of the story to its end. It's a short book and a quick read, but a thought-provoking one as well.

On a personal note, one of the characters, who only appears briefly in the beginning, says something profound to Nikolaos. It hit me like a ton of bricks, and at the same time, a warm hug. A message from God. I like to think that God speaks to us in many ways, and God spoke to me in this book. I hope you read it and He speaks to you too.

[Susan Molloy · Rating 5 out of 5]

🖋️Nikolaos: A Retelling of the Saint Nicholas Story is a delightful, cannot-put-it-down book that inspires and educates, with smooth sentence and grammar structure, clean language, vivid descriptions, and believable dialogue. I enjoyed Taylor Marshall’s retelling of Saint Nicholas, particularly because of its historical accuracy, the inclusion of Greek and Latin terminology, tension, adventure, and humor. I smiled and giggled at the dénouement, for it brought exactly what this beloved saint himself brings – love, joy, and a bit of sparkle. Nikolaos: A Retelling of the Saint Nicholas Story is so good, I read it twice already!

📕 Read from my private library.
●▬●🔷●🔷●▬●

[Teresa Cardinez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nikolaos is a very enjoyable and quick read. I definitely wouldn’t have minded if it were longer because the story immediately engaged me: the difficulties faced by the three sisters and their tormented father especially the temptations faced by Melitta in her striving to save her sisters from a terrible fate, the impact of their Christianity on the followers of Jesus in these early years of the Way when Christianity is increasingly viewed a threat to the religious and social values of the Roman Empire, the very human self-questioning and profound humility of the beloved priest Nikolaos as he comes face to face with the reality of spiritual warfare: All he wants to do is care for his spiritual children and save them from disaster but does he actually have what it takes?
While a standalone work, Nikolaos continues the story begun in previous books in the Sword and Serpent series and leaves the reader ready for further adventures in the protagonists’ walk of faith.
This is a book geared to attract young adult readers but is suitable for all ages. I recommend it highly and gave it 5 stars.

[Karen Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a delightful book about St. Nicholas/Nikolaos, written by Taylor Marshal. The year was 299 in he Myra, Antioch . The priest, Nikolaos, has a small congregation which includes three young girls, Melita (the oldest, Korinna, and Cassia. They live with their father, Dositheos, who has lost his wife and mother of the three girls. Since the death of their mother, their father hasn't been his loving self and seems almost processed. Dositheos threatens to sell them to a ruthless man. Melita runs to Nikolaos for help. Through many twists and turns, Pater (father) Nikolaos must find a way to help the three girls and their father. With the trials and tribulations facing the main characters, Nikolaos learns about his own weaknesses and to trust fully in God.
Taylor Marshall, uses Greek and Latin words to help develop the story and create an atmosphere of antiquity. The only thing I have against the book is the need to use the list of Greek and Latin words at the back of the book. This slowed down my reading. Otherwise, the book was an easy read and filled with faith and teachings of the early church.

[CasLim · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nikolaos portrays a unique Saint Nicholas who is much more human and serious. We can certainly relate to his desire to do something great for God to thank Him for his mercy and compassion yet harbour much self-doubt about one's own faith when faced with trials and tribulations. The story has an engaging and mysterious beginning that grips the reader's attention. Things become clearer and exciting in the second half of the book when hints of what we think might be happening begins to take shape. The story is a good reminder that no matter how dire the consequences in life, there is always love, hope and charity somewhere. And while we will always be the little fearful, hapless child inside us, once we have a sudden realisation of the innate pure trusting nature we had then in our Mother, in Almighty God who created us and in the Holy Spirit, we transform into a confident soldier of Christ to do his bidding and to bring the Lord's joy to people. Indeed, this is a befitting story for a heartfelt Christmas time - a starting point to ring in the bells for a merry Christmas and a joy-filled adventurous ride through life.

[Jeff · Rating 5 out of 5]

I rarely read novels anymore, but I found this one hard to put down. It had a gripping story line and I appreciated how the faith was such an important part of the story. I think it bolstered my own faith while reading it. If we share these books with our family and friends, especially our children I think it would go a long way towards healing our culture... and what a fun way to do so.

Although this story is set in Myra in present day Turkey, around the year 299 AD, we see how much of our human nature is shared in cultures around the world and how it endures throughout the centuries. The lessons learned in this story are every bit as pertinent now as they were then.

Of course that shouldn't be too surprising given the timeless nature of the Sacred Scriptures.

"if my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land."
2 Chronicles 7:14

[Dave Carrig · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not a bad little book about the “saint” Nikolaios. I came across this because I enjoy watching the author’s YouTube channel from time to time - and though I have never had a desire to buy one of his books this one intrigued me. I was pleasantly surprised with the purchase! Its got some freaky stuff in it which I didn’t expect which made it all the more cool to read. Eventually he gets around to the Christmas story (I was wondering if he would because it’s advertised as a Christmas story) in the last couple of chapters - and there are even some “Santa” traits brought out in the main character which I throught was a nice touch as well. All-in-all a great book. I’ll go ahead get the others in the series to read and I hope he comes back to this particular character in future books.

[Daniel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read most of Dr. Taylor Marshall's books, both fiction (the Sword and Serpent series) and non-fiction and thoroughly enjoyed them. I was so happy to see this short novella retelling of the Legend of Saint Nicholas come out on the Feast Day of St. Nicholas of Myra. I was thrilled that this story was also a prequel of sorts to the Sword and Serpent series. I felt Dr. Taylor's telling of the family troubles (possession by demons) and the oldest daughter reminding Nikolaos that neither she nor he were strong enough alone to help her father but that our Lord and Savior was strong enough. I highly recommend this story, as well as the above-mentioned trilogy to Catholic Families with young adults who enjoy reading fantasy and historical fiction.

[Sraa56 · Rating 5 out of 5]

History, mystery, human flaws and failings! Is life today much different - we still have taxes to pay, obligations to meet, children to feed and care for, homes to keep up!
A good man who does what he can to help the members of his church keep the faith in extremely difficult times. He believes he is having strange and vivid dreams-almost - real!
A man appears on a vessel in the sea, rescuing the oarsmen and the passengers on the vessel and suddenly vanishes! How can this be?
A wonderful addition to the Sword & Serpent series written by Taylor R Marshall!

[Patrick · Rating 5 out of 5]

A good addition to the line. The release of this story was a pleasant surprise and makes me realize I never finished the original three books. I'll want to go back and read Sword and Serpent first to see how this novella slots in to that novel (if I'm remembering correctly). I really enjoy when authors do that sort of thing.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

Most Catholics know that St. Nick is the original Santa Clara having secretly provided a dowry for three sisters in Christmas Eve. What they may not know is his life of poverty, regular generosity and ability to bi-locate. This novel tells how St Nikolaos’ famous act of charity that inspired the modern Santa Claus May have happened. My favorite part was where he confronts the demon who has inhabited the father of the girls. Recommend this one for your holiday reading.

[Jatte Adrian · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enjoy this unique Christmassy tale of Nikolaos, a powerful defender in a world of human trafficking and supernatural interventions. Taylor Marshall's retelling blends history with fiction, creating a fresh narrative that reveals Nikolaos as a generous and kind character battling forces of darkness. The book offers a poignant spiritual message, making it a memorable read for any time of year."

[Rebecca Highstreet · Rating 5 out of 5]

First, let me say that Taylor Marshall is an incredible author. While most of his non-fiction books remain on my to be read list, I have read and enjoyed many of his fiction stories. This has taken first place among my favorite Taylor Marshall novels. He captured everything I always expected of Nikolaos. I especially enjoyed the Nikolaos’ character arc! I will certainly be reading f this again next year!

[Eric · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am such a fan of any book about St Nick. This saint is second to my patron st. Francis. This story really flowed nicely the various legends of St Nick into one fabulous story of redemption and grace. I particularly enjoyed St Nick's revelation that all his power of miracles comes from God and need to realize that before relieving the sisters' father from his demons. Finally it was nice that the book was linked to the previous novels that Dr. Marshall wrote. Now onward to book two and three of the original series. Blessings to all during your readings.

[Richard Pelo · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is timely and appropriate for this Christmas season. I love the scene in the book where Nikolaos is fighting a demon using exorcism. You can finish this book in 3 to 5 days and you will fill glad once you finished the book. A heart-warming read. I hope there is a book 2.

[Hombeline Saclier · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful, moving Christian story. Most of all I found it inspiring. Even in the darkest jour there is hope. God is still there.
This book is not for children, but for teenagers or YA.

[Linda Crowley · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a creative way to retell the story of St. Nicholas! So much historical detail and I couldn't stop reading it. A short book but with a lot of attention to detail.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Perfect for the Christmas season! A wonderful additional story to the Sword and Serpent trilogy, but it also stands alone.

[Marc Meadows · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nice read. This dovetails a bit with the trilogy written by Taylor Marshall. It is a quick, entertaining, and inspirational book. The message is spot on. I highly recommend it.

[Carmen Slaughter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enjoyable and intense but approachable for young readers.

[Joshua Birdsong · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic retelling of the story of Saint Nicolas! Perfect story for the family during advent/Christmas season!

[Ce · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is like a short tale related to the Sword and Serpent trilogy.
Brief and to the point. More character development was necesarry.