Barry Leonardini, a visionary author with a sharp wit and fearless voice, announces the release of his latest novel, Jesus and Peter: A Different View of Christ and His Catholic Church. This daring and thought-provoking work reimagines biblical history by portraying Jesus and Peter in an entirely new light — as characters entangled in ambition, marketing, and religious spectacle. Available now through major online retailers, Jesus and Peter offers readers a clever and irreverent twist on the foundations of Christian tradition.

Jesus and Peter takes readers on a lively, cinematic journey into the backrooms of first-century Jerusalem, where religious movements are shaped as much by human vanity and strategy as by faith. Leonardini uses satire and historical imagination to explore Jesus and Peter as complex figures with flaws, aspirations, and interpersonal conflicts, echoing the moral questions facing humanity today. Throughout the novel, readers will recognize characters like Pontius Pilate and John the Baptist in humorous, often cynical circumstances. Leonardini invites readers to reconsider the myths that have shaped our collective consciousness — and to enjoy the sharp dialogues and richly textured scenes that make this reimagining so engaging.

“My goal in writing this book was to hold a mirror up to one of the most powerful myths in history,” Leonardini explains. “By mixing humor, irreverence, and careful research, I want readers to question what they take for granted about religion, power, and the nature of leadership. Jesus and Peter is as much a story about the business of belief as it is a satire of our desire to follow someone who promises salvation. I’m hoping readers walk away challenged — and thoroughly entertained.” Leonardini also notes that his work is meant to spark thought rather than offend, presenting a lively portrait of how myths can grow into traditions and, eventually, empires.

About the Author
Barry Leonardini is a bold new voice in literary satire. Drawing on a background in theology, history, and theater, Leonardini crafts stories that expose the humor and humanity behind sacred traditions. He blends sharp insight with wit to reimagine well-known narratives, encouraging readers to explore them with fresh eyes. Jesus and Peter is his most provocative work yet — one that reflects his fascination with religion, power, and the stories we tell ourselves to make sense of the world. Leonardini currently resides in California, where he continues to explore new literary frontiers that challenge convention and provoke conversation.