Tipping the Balance was inspired by love for the author's birth-place, Warnsveld in Gelderland's De Achterhoek; the seasons, small farmlets with golden fields, the leafy lanes and rivers flowing slowly through the landscape. Jenneken's life is shattered when she learns that her mother Alida's knowledge and use of herbal remedies is considered to be witchcraft and that she must undergo a weighing trial in Oude- water. Jenneken fears also for her own safety as she has followed her mother's teachings regarding the healing quality of flowers and herbs. Both mother and daughter experience persecution and after a horrific discovery realise that their lives are truly in danger. Their only option is to run for freedom. Where will they go? Will they survive?