Name: The Jailer & His Daughter: A Novel of Finding Faith and Love Through Adversity: Kirsten L. Klassen: 9798896740629: Masthof: Books
Brand: Kirsten L. Klassen
Price: 18.00 USD
Availability: InStock

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

Kirsten L. Klassen

18⁰⁰

ISBN/Barcode:

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.

Hero changes others

The impact of Dirk Willems’ act of selflessness has been honored for generations - and it started with his impact on his jailer. While fiction, this story gave me an idea of what one good person can do to spread love to strangers — a model for us all.

Succinctly written, entertaining

This is well written and presents a light history of the Anabaptists, dating back to mid-1500s, including a love story and the challenges people had (being burned at the stake) regarding personal faith beliefs. The challenges of being a young woman and seeking out formal education is heartwarming in this story. Underneath it all is the past struggles of separation of church (faith) and state, and one gains a realization of the freedoms we have today.

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?

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!

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!