William Xavier Kienzle was born on November 9, 1928, in Detroit, Michigan. He grew up in a devout Catholic family and developed a passion for writing at a young age. After finishing high school, he decided to pursue a vocation in the priesthood.
Kienzle was ordained as a priest in the Catholic Church and served as a parish priest in Michigan for twenty years. During his time in the priesthood, he found solace in writing and began to pen his mystery novels in his spare time. His experiences as a priest would later influence the characters and themes in his books.
After leaving the priesthood due to the church's stance on divorcees, Kienzle dedicated himself to his writing career. In 1980, he gained recognition as a National Award Fiction finalist for his novel "The Rosary Murders." This book, which is the most well-known of his 24 works, was later adapted into a film in 1987, starring Donald Sutherland.
Many of Kienzle's novels are set in Detroit, Michigan, where he drew inspiration from his surroundings and experiences. Throughout his life, he wrote over 20 books, with his mystery novels starring the character of Father Robert Koesler becoming fan favorites among readers.
After leaving the priesthood, Kienzle married his wife Javan Herman Andrews. Their marriage brought him much joy and support as he continued to pursue his writing career.
William Xavier Kienzle passed away, leaving behind a legacy of captivating mystery novels that continue to be enjoyed by readers around the world. His unique perspective as a former priest added depth and authenticity to his stories, making him a respected figure in the world of detective fiction.
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