Map Monday – They Can’t Burn Us All in Kirkjuból

Submitted: 6th July 2026

They Can’t Burn Us All – Cathryn Kemp

Where are we going?

To the Kirkjuból witch trials….

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The setting:

Map of locations in They can’t Burn Us All

Kirkjuból is now known as Ísafjörður. However, back in 1656, it was the setting for what was the most famous or infamous witch trial in Icelandic history.

They Can't Burn Us All Cathryn Kemp

Map of locations in They can’t Burn Us All

It all started when Pastor Jón Magnússon said that his illness and some spooky disturbances in his house were brought on by witchcraft. He blamed two members of his own congregation, a father and son, both called Jón Jónsson. They were both found guilty and burnt at the stake.

When the pastor remained ill, and the spooky disturbances at the house continued, he then started to blame the daughter/sister of that same family – Thuridur (Þuríður) Jónsdóttir. However, she was let free.

I mean, can you imagine!!???

Map of locations in They can’t Burn Us All

Cathryn Kemp map

Just look at the mist from the mountains………………

Map of locations in They can’t Burn Us All

Review

What a book. Cathryn Kemp is go too author for me and this is only book two! Book One, A Poisoner’s Tale blew me away and continues to do so and this book has the same effect. Taking a story that happened in history and making it your own is something else. The writing flows, grabs you and threatens you then draws you in. The characters are real and raw. The witchcraft trials and the fear of them and what they may lead to are built up with such tension, i felt ill at one point. Knowing what these poor people were going to go through.

What a novel! Highly highly recommended!

Map of locations in They can’t Burn Us All

Key quotes:

“Despite the aching cold, the brutal onset of another Icelandic winter, the priest pretends not to notice, so driven is he by his mission.”

” We must all be on our guard. For Satan’s demons are here among us. They have infiltrated our small community……For centuries Iceland has been steeped in superstition.”