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The Jailer & His Daughter: A Novel of Finding Faith and Love Through Adversity

Kirsten L. Klassen

  • 1800


A powerful reimagining of the aftermath of Dirk Willems’ legendary act of mercy—told through the eyes of the jailer and his daughter.

Most of what we know of the story of Dirk Willems is a few brief paragraphs about how he turned back to save the life of his jailer and was then arrested and executed for heresy. This novel explores another side of the story: what life might have been like for the jailer after this life-transforming experience. How might the jailer and his daughter have felt about the debt of gratitude they owed Dirk Willems? And, to what lengths might they have been willing to go to explore their faith questions in such a dangerous time? (319pp. Masthof Press, 2026.)

Also available through Ingram Content Group and wherever books are sold. Ebooks available on Kindle at Amazon.com.

Author’s bio

Kirsten L. Klassen is a writer of Mennonite heritage from Northern Indiana. She did undergraduate work at University of Winnipeg and University of Manitoba, and received a master’s degree from Iowa State University, Ames. Her first novel, Katelyn’s Affection, was published by Herald Press. Her writing has been published in Timbrel, The Mennonite, and MEDA’s The Marketplace. 

Customer Reviews

Based on 10 reviews
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D
David
Not recommended, especially for young readers

The story does not accurately reflect the beliefs of the anabaptist of this time. The theology is off, and the characters quote ancient philosophers more than the Bible, Role of women in the ministry does not represent the anabaptist practices, not the social norms of this time period. Inappropriate description of a wedding night depicted. Why does a novel about coming to faith have to have a sex scene?

J
Jeanette
Didn't want it to end

Kirsten Klassen's most recent book is heartbreakingly beautiful. I don't think I've ever read a novel that brought tears to my eyes so frequently. It shines with rich, lovingly-crafted writing. If only it were a series so I could know what happens to these characters I now care about!

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Pattie Christensen
Exceptional Writing

I loved The Jailer and His Daughter from start to finish. Kirsten has an incredible gift for bringing her characters to life. I was completely immersed in their world and felt as though I had become part of the family, experiencing their struggles and moments of joy right alongside them.
This is the kind of story that doesn’t end when you turn the final page—it stays with you, lingering in your thoughts for days afterward. Beautifully written, deeply moving, and unforgettable. I highly recommend this wonderful book!

T
Troy
A Worthy Read

Though not my usual genre, I was pleased to read The Jailer & His Daughter. I found the introspective nature of the principle characters to be compelling and Kirsten does a good job of capturing the struggle and progress of two people whose lives are fundamentally transformed by faithful actions of Dirk Willems.

S
Sue
Engaging story

I was not familiar with the story of Dirk Willems prior to reading “The Jailor and His Daughter”. I was immediately pulled in and captivated. I finished the book and was still feeling caught up in it 3 days later. I absolutely love her writing style.


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