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The Frozen River
A gripping historical mystery inspired by the life and diary of Martha Ballard, a renowned 18th-century midwife who defied the legal system and wrote herself into American history.
Maine, 1789: When the Kennebec River freezes, entombing a man in the ice, Martha Ballard is summoned to examine the body and determine cause of death. As a midwife and healer, she is privy to much of what goes on behind closed doors in Hallowell. Her diary is a record of every birth and death, crime and debacle that unfolds in the close-knit community. Months earlier, Martha documented the details of an alleged rape committed by two of the town’s most respected gentlemen—one of whom has now been found dead in the ice. But when a local physician undermines her conclusion, declaring the death to be an accident, Martha is forced to investigate the shocking murder on her own.
Over the course of one winter, as the trial nears, and whispers and prejudices mount, Martha doggedly pursues the truth. Her diary soon lands at the center of the scandal, implicating those she loves, and compelling Martha to decide where her own loyalties lie.
Clever, layered, and subversive, Ariel Lawhon’s newest offering introduces an unsung heroine who refused to accept anything less than justice at a time when women were considered best seen and not heard. The Frozen River is a thrilling, tense, and tender story about a remarkable woman who left an unparalleled legacy yet remains nearly forgotten to this day.
Maine, 1789: When the Kennebec River freezes, entombing a man in the ice, Martha Ballard is summoned to examine the body and determine cause of death. As a midwife and healer, she is privy to much of what goes on behind closed doors in Hallowell. Her diary is a record of every birth and death, crime and debacle that unfolds in the close-knit community. Months earlier, Martha documented the details of an alleged rape committed by two of the town’s most respected gentlemen—one of whom has now been found dead in the ice. But when a local physician undermines her conclusion, declaring the death to be an accident, Martha is forced to investigate the shocking murder on her own.
Over the course of one winter, as the trial nears, and whispers and prejudices mount, Martha doggedly pursues the truth. Her diary soon lands at the center of the scandal, implicating those she loves, and compelling Martha to decide where her own loyalties lie.
Clever, layered, and subversive, Ariel Lawhon’s newest offering introduces an unsung heroine who refused to accept anything less than justice at a time when women were considered best seen and not heard. The Frozen River is a thrilling, tense, and tender story about a remarkable woman who left an unparalleled legacy yet remains nearly forgotten to this day.
432 pages, Hardcover
First published December 5, 2023
About the author
Ariel Lawhon
12 books4,713 followersAriel Lawhon is the critically acclaimed, New York Times Bestselling author of THE WIFE, THE MAID, AND THE MISTRESS, FLIGHT OF DREAMS, I WAS ANASTASIA, and CODE NAME HELENE. Her books have been translated into numerous languages and have been Library Reads, One Book One County, Indie Next, Costco, and Book of the Month Club selections. She lives in the rolling hills outside Nashville, Tennessee, with her husband, four sons, and black Lab—who is, thankfully, a girl. Ariel splits her time between the grocery store and the baseball field.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 12,913 reviews
November 27, 2023
The Frozen River is an example of historical fiction at its finest. I love books that not only educate me but evoke emotion and are thought provoking. This book did all three perfectly. The Frozen River was inspired by Martha Ballard (February 9, 1735 – June 9, 1812), a midwife who delivered hundreds of babies and kept diaries about her personal life as well as her experiences as a midwife. Her diaries have proven to be educational and provided insight into the lives of women during her time/life. I loved how the author blended fact and fiction to bring this book to life. I loved this gripping, and hard to put down historical mystery that had me turning the pages and wanting to know whodunit.
Maine, 1789 After successfully delivering a baby, Martha Ballard is summoned to examine the body of a man who has been found in the frozen Kennebec River. She makes her observations and determines that the man has been murdered. Martha's husband taught her to read and write and she maintains a diary where she keeps track of births, deaths, when she has provided healing and aspects of her personal life. She notes what she has observed when examining the dead man's body. The dead man just happens to be one of the men who has been accused of raping a woman several months earlier. When a trial date for the rape is set, Martha will be called as a witness, and her diary will be shown as evidence.
Over the course of the winter, Martha will deliver many babies and come up against, Dr. Benjamin Page, a Harvard educated doctor, who not only disagrees with her pertaining to how the man found in the river died, but also disagrees with her when it comes to childbirth. Man did he agitate me as he did Martha in the story. There was a lot of booing and hissing from me during his scenes.
I was completely and blissfully hooked from the very first page! I admired Martha's courage, her gumption, her intellect, her straightforward approach, her advocating for women and her healing knowledge. She lived in a time where many women could not read or write. As a midwife she could testify in court for certain things but for the rape trial could only testify if her husband was present.
This book also highlighted how women were treated during this time. Women could be tried for having a child out of wedlock due to fornicating, but the men involved walked around with their reputation intact. After all, it's her fault he got under her skirts. Grrr. I couldn't help but feel for the women of this book.
I was invested in the mystery as to how the man got into the river just as much as I was invested in Martha's life. I was happy she had a loving marriage with a man who respected not only her but her skills and always had her back. There were many characters in this book, each is distinct and played a part. As with most books, there were characters I loved, those I liked and there were characters that I loathed.
I loved the vivid descriptions, the chilling atmosphere, and the tension in this wonderful book. I could tell that the author did a tremendous amount of research prior to writing The Frozen River. I was glued to the pages of this beautifully written book. I love how Martha was assertive, outspoken, confident and a champion for women in a time when women were not considered equal.
The author's note at the end is also a must-read section of the book.
Gripping, thought provoking, atmospheric, tense and beautifully written.
Highly Recommend.
#TheFrozenRiver #NetGalley. #ArielLawhon #DoubledayBooks
Thank you to Doubleday Books and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
Maine, 1789 After successfully delivering a baby, Martha Ballard is summoned to examine the body of a man who has been found in the frozen Kennebec River. She makes her observations and determines that the man has been murdered. Martha's husband taught her to read and write and she maintains a diary where she keeps track of births, deaths, when she has provided healing and aspects of her personal life. She notes what she has observed when examining the dead man's body. The dead man just happens to be one of the men who has been accused of raping a woman several months earlier. When a trial date for the rape is set, Martha will be called as a witness, and her diary will be shown as evidence.
Over the course of the winter, Martha will deliver many babies and come up against, Dr. Benjamin Page, a Harvard educated doctor, who not only disagrees with her pertaining to how the man found in the river died, but also disagrees with her when it comes to childbirth. Man did he agitate me as he did Martha in the story. There was a lot of booing and hissing from me during his scenes.
I was completely and blissfully hooked from the very first page! I admired Martha's courage, her gumption, her intellect, her straightforward approach, her advocating for women and her healing knowledge. She lived in a time where many women could not read or write. As a midwife she could testify in court for certain things but for the rape trial could only testify if her husband was present.
This book also highlighted how women were treated during this time. Women could be tried for having a child out of wedlock due to fornicating, but the men involved walked around with their reputation intact. After all, it's her fault he got under her skirts. Grrr. I couldn't help but feel for the women of this book.
I was invested in the mystery as to how the man got into the river just as much as I was invested in Martha's life. I was happy she had a loving marriage with a man who respected not only her but her skills and always had her back. There were many characters in this book, each is distinct and played a part. As with most books, there were characters I loved, those I liked and there were characters that I loathed.
I loved the vivid descriptions, the chilling atmosphere, and the tension in this wonderful book. I could tell that the author did a tremendous amount of research prior to writing The Frozen River. I was glued to the pages of this beautifully written book. I love how Martha was assertive, outspoken, confident and a champion for women in a time when women were not considered equal.
The author's note at the end is also a must-read section of the book.
Gripping, thought provoking, atmospheric, tense and beautifully written.
Highly Recommend.
#TheFrozenRiver #NetGalley. #ArielLawhon #DoubledayBooks
Thank you to Doubleday Books and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
June 11, 2024
If you enjoy historical novels with rich stories and strong character development, you definitely want to experience The Frozen River. The audiobook format enriches the already incredible story and you feel as though you are along with Hope on her journey to Silver Lake.
Listen: "The Frozen River" Audiobook Format
Tang’s excellent storytelling is transported harmoniously through the performance and makes it so the reader can feel the story come to life.
The narrator did an outstanding job building the story from their voices and the listener could tell the narrator was not just reading every line, they were acting each character out. This audiobook was so full of emotion, tension and passion. To sum it up- engaging and captivating.
Listen: "The Frozen River" Audiobook Format
Tang’s excellent storytelling is transported harmoniously through the performance and makes it so the reader can feel the story come to life.
The narrator did an outstanding job building the story from their voices and the listener could tell the narrator was not just reading every line, they were acting each character out. This audiobook was so full of emotion, tension and passion. To sum it up- engaging and captivating.
March 23, 2024
4.5 - This one took me almost the whole month to finish, but definitely worth it! Love a historical fiction and this one was inspired by the real Martha Ballard’s life and being a midwife in the 1700’s. Listened to about 90% of it and just finished the last 60-ish pages and it was just so good. You HAVE to read the Author’s Note!!!!
December 27, 2023
It’s 1789, Maine. A body has been found frozen in the river. The river that is the heart of this town. A midwife, Martha Ballard, has been summoned to determine the cause of death. This causes a series of impactful events.
An educated woman, Martha keeps a diary. She documents all that happens over the course of this bizarre winter. Both births and deaths. A colonel who has been accused of rape along with the deceased man. The rape of a minister’s wife.
In her quest for truth, she risks her own life and that of her family.
Lawhorn masterly takes us on a journey back in time when women were considered less than men. Not being able to testify in court unless a husband or father was present; Women often charged for fornication pre marriage while men had no consequences. Enraging as that was, Martha was an advocate for justice for these women and her personal journal was a hot piece of evidence.
This is a story of complexity- a layering of mystery and intrigue. The writing, character and research, extraordinaire.
My final 5⭐️for 2023.
An educated woman, Martha keeps a diary. She documents all that happens over the course of this bizarre winter. Both births and deaths. A colonel who has been accused of rape along with the deceased man. The rape of a minister’s wife.
In her quest for truth, she risks her own life and that of her family.
Lawhorn masterly takes us on a journey back in time when women were considered less than men. Not being able to testify in court unless a husband or father was present; Women often charged for fornication pre marriage while men had no consequences. Enraging as that was, Martha was an advocate for justice for these women and her personal journal was a hot piece of evidence.
This is a story of complexity- a layering of mystery and intrigue. The writing, character and research, extraordinaire.
My final 5⭐️for 2023.
December 18, 2023
Oh my.. this was an amazing story for me!
This story was inspired by the real life and journals of Martha Ballard of Hallowell, Maine…who was a midwife in the late 1700’s. Martha was married to Ephraim and they had many children.
In the story there is a male body found dead right at the beginning of the story .. we find out about a rape. This causes quite a stir in this town, and hence, a mystery to be solved.
I really learned a lot about how women were treated in these times.. quite infuriating..
I absolutely loved Martha and Ephraim.
This story was a page turner!
This story was inspired by the real life and journals of Martha Ballard of Hallowell, Maine…who was a midwife in the late 1700’s. Martha was married to Ephraim and they had many children.
In the story there is a male body found dead right at the beginning of the story .. we find out about a rape. This causes quite a stir in this town, and hence, a mystery to be solved.
I really learned a lot about how women were treated in these times.. quite infuriating..
I absolutely loved Martha and Ephraim.
This story was a page turner!
April 13, 2024
What a great story! It’s going onto my Best of 2024 list. Based on the real life midwife, Martha Ballard, it gives a fascinating picture of life in late 18th century New England. Lawton’s vivid writing transported me to this hardscrabble life.
The story starts when a man is found frozen in the ice of the Kennebec River. Once he’s retrieved, it’s obvious the man was murdered, even if the Harvard educated doctor tried to say otherwise. Given that the man was one of two accused of rape by the minister’s wife and the other is the town’s “judge”, this brings a lot of questions. Martha, as the town’s midwife, had been the one to see the woman’s body and hear her story.
The story has lots to say about the fate of women in this time and place. As always, I value historical fiction that can teach me something while still telling an engrossing story. This fits the bill. It’s also interesting how many of the plot points are based on actual events, even if the timing and some details have been changed.
Martha was a great main character. Strong willed, lucky to be in a loving marriage. She’s also one of the rare women who can read and write. And she makes use of that talent by keeping a detailed journal. The journal, thanks to her family, survived and is the basis of this story. Her position as a midwife also offers her rights denied to other women, like the ability to testify in court without her husband present (at least in some cases).
The recurring themes of the book center on justice and equality, or, too often in the case of women, the lack thereof. The ending was perfect. Now that was true justice!
I found it interesting that while many residents still had bitter memories of the French and Indian Wars, the American Revolution barely registers in the story.
A side note - I was entranced by the silver fox. When we lived in the country, we had a pair of foxes that would come and frolic and sun bath in our backyard. One had somehow lost most of his tail and had only a little clump like a bunny’s tail, so I always knew which one I was seeing if they weren’t together. I developed a great fondness for watching them and felt a real kinship with Martha. Although I doubt my pair would ever have gotten close to me.
The story starts when a man is found frozen in the ice of the Kennebec River. Once he’s retrieved, it’s obvious the man was murdered, even if the Harvard educated doctor tried to say otherwise. Given that the man was one of two accused of rape by the minister’s wife and the other is the town’s “judge”, this brings a lot of questions. Martha, as the town’s midwife, had been the one to see the woman’s body and hear her story.
The story has lots to say about the fate of women in this time and place. As always, I value historical fiction that can teach me something while still telling an engrossing story. This fits the bill. It’s also interesting how many of the plot points are based on actual events, even if the timing and some details have been changed.
Martha was a great main character. Strong willed, lucky to be in a loving marriage. She’s also one of the rare women who can read and write. And she makes use of that talent by keeping a detailed journal. The journal, thanks to her family, survived and is the basis of this story. Her position as a midwife also offers her rights denied to other women, like the ability to testify in court without her husband present (at least in some cases).
The recurring themes of the book center on justice and equality, or, too often in the case of women, the lack thereof. The ending was perfect. Now that was true justice!
I found it interesting that while many residents still had bitter memories of the French and Indian Wars, the American Revolution barely registers in the story.
A side note - I was entranced by the silver fox. When we lived in the country, we had a pair of foxes that would come and frolic and sun bath in our backyard. One had somehow lost most of his tail and had only a little clump like a bunny’s tail, so I always knew which one I was seeing if they weren’t together. I developed a great fondness for watching them and felt a real kinship with Martha. Although I doubt my pair would ever have gotten close to me.
January 24, 2024
Heartbreaking.
Raw.
Painful.
Hopeful.
Redemptive.
Insightful.
Immersive.
Family bonds.
Womanhood.
Motherhood.
*And that authors note!!!! Make sure to read that AFTER you finish.
Raw.
Painful.
Hopeful.
Redemptive.
Insightful.
Immersive.
Family bonds.
Womanhood.
Motherhood.
*And that authors note!!!! Make sure to read that AFTER you finish.
May 3, 2024
“Truth will come to light; murder cannot be hid long” – William Shakespeare
Although historical fiction (late 1700’s), this is based on a true story of a mid-wife who kept a meticulous diary of an incident that occurred in which she wanted to find justice. For her time, this was not an easy task for women to do. So, in many ways, this is her story.
The fictional story depicts, a strong woman, Martha Ballard, a mid-wife, who speaks her mind against impossible powerful men who appear to easily get away with despicable acts.
In many ways this was a page-turning historical murder mystery that was complex and immersive. It was also insightful about women of the time, creating a feeling of helplessness and awe.
But mostly this was a story that put a spotlight on strong assertive women who needed to find ways to insert themselves into a world that didn’t always see them as relevant voices.
To add to the reader’s experience is the Author’s Note at the end.
“I collect people.” – Ariel Lawhon
Although historical fiction (late 1700’s), this is based on a true story of a mid-wife who kept a meticulous diary of an incident that occurred in which she wanted to find justice. For her time, this was not an easy task for women to do. So, in many ways, this is her story.
The fictional story depicts, a strong woman, Martha Ballard, a mid-wife, who speaks her mind against impossible powerful men who appear to easily get away with despicable acts.
In many ways this was a page-turning historical murder mystery that was complex and immersive. It was also insightful about women of the time, creating a feeling of helplessness and awe.
But mostly this was a story that put a spotlight on strong assertive women who needed to find ways to insert themselves into a world that didn’t always see them as relevant voices.
To add to the reader’s experience is the Author’s Note at the end.
“I collect people.” – Ariel Lawhon
September 20, 2023
'I am in the business of mortality. Its beginning and its end'.
Martha Ballard, has been the local midwife and healer in Hallowell for the last 12 years. As a habitual journal writer, Mistress Ballard has recorded years of births, deaths, and illegitimate secrets, 'I do not consider myself a scribe of any repute. I am a chronicler of facts, not feelings'. When the dead body of a townsman, alleged to have committed a heinous crime is discovered, entombed within the ice of the frozen river, Martha is certain she'll find answers within her diary. Having long been an advocate for women at their most vulnerable, she won't stop asking questions until she finds answers.
Inspired by the real-life diaries of 18th Century, Martha Ballard, Ariel Lawhon has given us a glimpse of the daily life of not only a small, post-Revolution, town in America but specifically the lives of women. History often lacks the everydayness of womanhood. Between literacy and expense, reading and writing were often reserved for 'important' communication. Added to this, is a real small-town whodunnit, replete with a cast of characters and plenty of gossip. But it's also a love story. Martha's husband Ephraim is a ballast steadying the emotional storms that test her daily; dealing with life and death, 'I have long since mastered the art of nursing joy at one breast and grief at the other'. Martha is a lot of things, but ultimately she is a champion for fairness and justice, and in her line of work, that often means women.
I loved this book and all its layers. It is a long story made up of everyday stories of life. Its austere tone beautifully reflects the harsh winter and somewhat Puritanical attitudes that lingered. Whether you enjoy historical fiction, mysteries, or a bit of romance, you're sure to enjoy this book.
'Memory is a wicked thing that warps and twists. But paper and ink receive the truth without emotion and they back it without partiality. That, I believe is why so few women are taught to read and write'.
Martha Ballard, has been the local midwife and healer in Hallowell for the last 12 years. As a habitual journal writer, Mistress Ballard has recorded years of births, deaths, and illegitimate secrets, 'I do not consider myself a scribe of any repute. I am a chronicler of facts, not feelings'. When the dead body of a townsman, alleged to have committed a heinous crime is discovered, entombed within the ice of the frozen river, Martha is certain she'll find answers within her diary. Having long been an advocate for women at their most vulnerable, she won't stop asking questions until she finds answers.
Inspired by the real-life diaries of 18th Century, Martha Ballard, Ariel Lawhon has given us a glimpse of the daily life of not only a small, post-Revolution, town in America but specifically the lives of women. History often lacks the everydayness of womanhood. Between literacy and expense, reading and writing were often reserved for 'important' communication. Added to this, is a real small-town whodunnit, replete with a cast of characters and plenty of gossip. But it's also a love story. Martha's husband Ephraim is a ballast steadying the emotional storms that test her daily; dealing with life and death, 'I have long since mastered the art of nursing joy at one breast and grief at the other'. Martha is a lot of things, but ultimately she is a champion for fairness and justice, and in her line of work, that often means women.
I loved this book and all its layers. It is a long story made up of everyday stories of life. Its austere tone beautifully reflects the harsh winter and somewhat Puritanical attitudes that lingered. Whether you enjoy historical fiction, mysteries, or a bit of romance, you're sure to enjoy this book.
'Memory is a wicked thing that warps and twists. But paper and ink receive the truth without emotion and they back it without partiality. That, I believe is why so few women are taught to read and write'.
April 27, 2024
5+ stars!
2024 Favourites List! 🏆
Atmospheric and haunting.
Maine, 1789. Martha Ballard, a midwife in a riverside small town, also serves as doctor and coroner. She aides in the investigation into the death of a local man which appears to have been murder.
This was a quiet, slow burn historical mystery — a story to be savoured. I truly adored every element of this novel and the powerful way the author presented this story. The writing is gorgeous and haunting. The further I got into the book, I found myself hanging on every word. The diary entries were a brilliant layer to the story.
The characters were exceptional. Unique and interesting, each with an element of mystery that kept me curious about every one of them. I loved the small, isolated community that was at the centre of this story. The town felt like a character itself. Transportation depended on river status — frozen or flowing. This limitation controlled business opportunities and life in general. The traveling court system was a fascinating aspect of this story.
I am always drawn to stories revolving around midwives and natural medicine, and this will be a stand out in that regard. Martha was a multi-layered, fascinating character and to learn that she was a real person made the book even more impactful. The Author’s Note at the end had me in tears, inspiring me to learn more about this important woman in our history as well as wanting to read every other book this author has written. There is something really endearing about the way this author explained her inspiration for this novel and writing process.
This was a highly anticipated read for me and it completely lived up to the hype! Highly recommend!
2024 Favourites List! 🏆
Atmospheric and haunting.
Maine, 1789. Martha Ballard, a midwife in a riverside small town, also serves as doctor and coroner. She aides in the investigation into the death of a local man which appears to have been murder.
This was a quiet, slow burn historical mystery — a story to be savoured. I truly adored every element of this novel and the powerful way the author presented this story. The writing is gorgeous and haunting. The further I got into the book, I found myself hanging on every word. The diary entries were a brilliant layer to the story.
The characters were exceptional. Unique and interesting, each with an element of mystery that kept me curious about every one of them. I loved the small, isolated community that was at the centre of this story. The town felt like a character itself. Transportation depended on river status — frozen or flowing. This limitation controlled business opportunities and life in general. The traveling court system was a fascinating aspect of this story.
I am always drawn to stories revolving around midwives and natural medicine, and this will be a stand out in that regard. Martha was a multi-layered, fascinating character and to learn that she was a real person made the book even more impactful. The Author’s Note at the end had me in tears, inspiring me to learn more about this important woman in our history as well as wanting to read every other book this author has written. There is something really endearing about the way this author explained her inspiration for this novel and writing process.
This was a highly anticipated read for me and it completely lived up to the hype! Highly recommend!
February 11, 2024
It is 1789. A body is found frozen in the Kennebec river in Maine. The midwife, Martha Ballard who is called to determine the cause of death, is sure the victim was murdered, but her findings are rejected by the local doctor who writes off the cause of death as accident.
Moreover, it turns out that the victim was one of the men who were accused of raping the local minister’s wife.
Was the deceased murdered? And if so, who is the murderer?
Well, our Martha is determined to discover the truth.
Reasons for my 3 stars:
-The book could have been much shorter. It was long and slower than a lame snail.
-I didn’t like Martha. In fact I hated her. Martha is a kind of woman you would want to avoid. She is one of those controlling people, who would push you do things you don’t want to. She would meddle in your affairs and would bad-mouth your husband in front of you, and would expect you to agree with her, because if you don’t, you would be labeled weak.
-There wasn’t one character in the book she didn’t judge. She was condescending and irritating. In her view all the men were either devils incarnate or idiots (except her own husband) and the women were dumb and weak or extremely clever.
-I am a woman and even I was offended by her ‘feminist’ behavior, which brings me to the way she talked, which sounded more like a woman from the year 2024 talking/ranting, than someone from the year 1789. In fact most of the time I kept forgetting that she wasn’t from the 21st century.
-Apparently everybody and their uncle in that town is pregnant or has become pregnant out of wedlock.
Moreover, it turns out that the victim was one of the men who were accused of raping the local minister’s wife.
Was the deceased murdered? And if so, who is the murderer?
Well, our Martha is determined to discover the truth.
Reasons for my 3 stars:
-The book could have been much shorter. It was long and slower than a lame snail.
-I didn’t like Martha. In fact I hated her. Martha is a kind of woman you would want to avoid. She is one of those controlling people, who would push you do things you don’t want to. She would meddle in your affairs and would bad-mouth your husband in front of you, and would expect you to agree with her, because if you don’t, you would be labeled weak.
-There wasn’t one character in the book she didn’t judge. She was condescending and irritating. In her view all the men were either devils incarnate or idiots (except her own husband) and the women were dumb and weak or extremely clever.
-I am a woman and even I was offended by her ‘feminist’ behavior, which brings me to the way she talked, which sounded more like a woman from the year 2024 talking/ranting, than someone from the year 1789. In fact most of the time I kept forgetting that she wasn’t from the 21st century.
-Apparently everybody and their uncle in that town is pregnant or has become pregnant out of wedlock.
November 29, 2023
Martha Ballard was a midwife in Hallowell, on the banks of the Kennebec River in Maine, and loved her profession. Her care, compassion and empathy saw her as the first called on when a baby was birthing, when someone was ill. She held the respect of many. But there were others who ridiculed her, and when a friend, and wife of the local pastor was raped by two men, Martha was the one who saw and documented her injuries. And when a man was cut from the recently frozen river, Martha was asked to look at him to determine cause of death. As soon as Martha saw him, she knew him to be one of the rapists, but that wasn't all she saw.
With the rape allegation as well as the death, there were questions to be answered. The court - such as it was in 1789 - would oversee and discuss both cases, but would they find the answers? Martha was doubtful they'd look for truth, and she was determined to find out what happened. With her husband and mostly adult children by her side, the depth of the scandal rocked the small community. Martha's courage and tenacity were second to none - even Brutus understood that...
The Frozen River is an outstanding historical novel by Ariel Lawhon which is based on fact. Martha Ballard was indeed a midwife and healer, born in 1735 and died in 1812 and her diary, which she wrote in daily, recording births, deaths and the weather, took her into history. The long, brutal winter of 1789 lasted six months, much longer than usual, marking a horrific time for the community of Hallowell. The Author's Notes at the end of the book are fascinating and I thank the author for including them. Martha's courage and calm strength was admirable; the people she served, women especially, had much to thank her for. I loved this book, and recommend it unreservedly to all fans of historical fiction. I will be reading more by Ariel Lawhon.
With thanks to Simon & Schuster for my ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
With the rape allegation as well as the death, there were questions to be answered. The court - such as it was in 1789 - would oversee and discuss both cases, but would they find the answers? Martha was doubtful they'd look for truth, and she was determined to find out what happened. With her husband and mostly adult children by her side, the depth of the scandal rocked the small community. Martha's courage and tenacity were second to none - even Brutus understood that...
The Frozen River is an outstanding historical novel by Ariel Lawhon which is based on fact. Martha Ballard was indeed a midwife and healer, born in 1735 and died in 1812 and her diary, which she wrote in daily, recording births, deaths and the weather, took her into history. The long, brutal winter of 1789 lasted six months, much longer than usual, marking a horrific time for the community of Hallowell. The Author's Notes at the end of the book are fascinating and I thank the author for including them. Martha's courage and calm strength was admirable; the people she served, women especially, had much to thank her for. I loved this book, and recommend it unreservedly to all fans of historical fiction. I will be reading more by Ariel Lawhon.
With thanks to Simon & Schuster for my ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
February 19, 2024
4.5*.
Wow, right from the start this story captivated me and didn't let me go until the very last sentence. This was a treat to read.
Wow, right from the start this story captivated me and didn't let me go until the very last sentence. This was a treat to read.
December 14, 2023
The opening chapters of this historical novel are incredibly immersive, so much so that I went through the author's other novels and added a bunch of them to my TBR. But the length, structure, and focus of this book eventually wore me down a bit, so that the visceral grip of the beginning never quite took hold in the same way again.
This story is based on the life of an 18th century New England midwife named Martha Ballard, and much of it centered around a brutal rape in her small community and Martha's contributions to uncovering the truth of what happened. The author's note at the end indicates that there is no historical documentation of Martha's existence other than her own notes and by way of her husband in public records. There's no doubt she was an extraordinary woman whose work and determination was remarkable, and considering the dearth of research material available, this work of fiction is pretty solid piece in some ways.
Still, as a novel, it is pretty uneven. After an incredible beginning written almost like a suspense novel, much of the rest of it felt like it was having an identity crisis. The most urgent parts relate to the central crime, though I would expect to feel anger and compassion more acutely for all the women. Ideas and observations are set forth from Martha's POV, which eventually felt like a writing shortcut in many instances, without enough actual demonstration or passion to balance them out. I'm also a little surprised by the inclusion of a couple of (mild, fade-to-black) sex scenes, which I have no objection to on principle, but felt out of place here when there are few instances of genuine emotion expressed otherwise other than a meager handful in passing.
All in all, I am glad to have learned about this very interesting woman, but as a work of fiction this didn't quite hit the mark for me. But it depends on what you're drawn to as a reader, I suppose; for me, this was overly long and needed more focus, deeper exploration of themes and a lot more emotion.
Audio Notes: Jane Oppenheimer's voice is very pleasant, but her narration feels more suited to cozy mysteries or modern thrillers than a historical work like this, though certainly the writing contributed to that as well. As a whole, this just didn't feel very "period," and I think the responsibility is both in the writing and in the choice of narrator.
This story is based on the life of an 18th century New England midwife named Martha Ballard, and much of it centered around a brutal rape in her small community and Martha's contributions to uncovering the truth of what happened. The author's note at the end indicates that there is no historical documentation of Martha's existence other than her own notes and by way of her husband in public records. There's no doubt she was an extraordinary woman whose work and determination was remarkable, and considering the dearth of research material available, this work of fiction is pretty solid piece in some ways.
Still, as a novel, it is pretty uneven. After an incredible beginning written almost like a suspense novel, much of the rest of it felt like it was having an identity crisis. The most urgent parts relate to the central crime, though I would expect to feel anger and compassion more acutely for all the women. Ideas and observations are set forth from Martha's POV, which eventually felt like a writing shortcut in many instances, without enough actual demonstration or passion to balance them out. I'm also a little surprised by the inclusion of a couple of (mild, fade-to-black) sex scenes, which I have no objection to on principle, but felt out of place here when there are few instances of genuine emotion expressed otherwise other than a meager handful in passing.
All in all, I am glad to have learned about this very interesting woman, but as a work of fiction this didn't quite hit the mark for me. But it depends on what you're drawn to as a reader, I suppose; for me, this was overly long and needed more focus, deeper exploration of themes and a lot more emotion.
Audio Notes: Jane Oppenheimer's voice is very pleasant, but her narration feels more suited to cozy mysteries or modern thrillers than a historical work like this, though certainly the writing contributed to that as well. As a whole, this just didn't feel very "period," and I think the responsibility is both in the writing and in the choice of narrator.
October 16, 2023
4.5 stars
One of the reasons I love the historical fiction genre is it gives me the opportunity to learn about a person or event. In this instance, I wasn't familiar with midwife Martha Ballard before picking up The Frozen River. Wow, what a fascinating woman! Highly recommend checking this book out.
Martha Ballard was a midwife in Maine back in the late 1700s. She keeps a diary noting her work as well as various things going on in the Hallowell community. After a man is found in the frozen Kennebec River, Martha is certain he was murdered. The dead man is one of two men accused of raping a woman a few months ago. Martha's diary could provide key evidence if the rape case against the other suspect is brought to trial.
While the story has heartbreaking moments, it's also an incredible tale of a woman fighting for justice. The laws in place and the general attitudes during this time period made it no easy feat, but Martha refused to back down. Her work as a midwife was also interesting to read about as well as all the work it took to keep the household running as smooth as possible.
The Author's Note is worth reading after you finish the book as it provides good insight into the writing process. I think she did a fantastic job brining Martha Ballard's story to life.
Thank you Doubleday for sending me an advance reader's copy! All thoughts expressed are my honest opinion.
One of the reasons I love the historical fiction genre is it gives me the opportunity to learn about a person or event. In this instance, I wasn't familiar with midwife Martha Ballard before picking up The Frozen River. Wow, what a fascinating woman! Highly recommend checking this book out.
Martha Ballard was a midwife in Maine back in the late 1700s. She keeps a diary noting her work as well as various things going on in the Hallowell community. After a man is found in the frozen Kennebec River, Martha is certain he was murdered. The dead man is one of two men accused of raping a woman a few months ago. Martha's diary could provide key evidence if the rape case against the other suspect is brought to trial.
While the story has heartbreaking moments, it's also an incredible tale of a woman fighting for justice. The laws in place and the general attitudes during this time period made it no easy feat, but Martha refused to back down. Her work as a midwife was also interesting to read about as well as all the work it took to keep the household running as smooth as possible.
The Author's Note is worth reading after you finish the book as it provides good insight into the writing process. I think she did a fantastic job brining Martha Ballard's story to life.
Thank you Doubleday for sending me an advance reader's copy! All thoughts expressed are my honest opinion.
January 9, 2024
first audiobook of the year complete! i liked it and learned A LOT. i can see why so many readers enjoyed this book and why GMA picked it as a book club pick. sooo much to discuss and sit with 🤯
*if you’re looking for a historical fiction novel NOT based on a world war, add this to your TBR!
for HF, this story was unique. i don’t read A TON of historical fiction but i do enjoy roughly 10-15/year. this was set in the 1700s and i truly learned so much. i had to keep reminding myself of the year and sit with that alone for a minute or two as i took in what was happening. its insane to think about how some things were back then, especially pertaining to women’s rights and their place in their communities. so many HF novels lately are around childbirth, fertility, history of motherhood and pregnancy and it’s such an inspiring and jaw opening reading experience. it’s no irony or coincidence why those stories sit with us much deeper than others right now in 2023.
it was also so interesting to learn this was based on real events. i squealed when Paul Revere came into the story, LOL! it was giving high school history vibes for a second.
like so many others, i really liked Martha. she was arguably the best part. she’s a strong female MC and i can’t imagine how hard it was to have this strong of a voice and be outspoken against men during this timeline 👏🏼
but while i enjoyed this book, it’s not 5 stars for me and i can’t quite put my finger on why? maybe it was overhyped? perhaps there too many characters? i listened on audio and it was rather hard to keep track of them all and remember how they weaved together. i felt like i needed an org chart 😂 curious if readers of the physical copy felt the same. there were also a few unanswered questions left for me at the end. if anyone has finished this recently and wants to chat, please DM me on IG!
all said, this is definitely worth the read! and as so many historical fiction novels have proved over the last year or so… it is so shocking what women went through and continue to experience even in 2023 💔
*if you’re looking for a historical fiction novel NOT based on a world war, add this to your TBR!
for HF, this story was unique. i don’t read A TON of historical fiction but i do enjoy roughly 10-15/year. this was set in the 1700s and i truly learned so much. i had to keep reminding myself of the year and sit with that alone for a minute or two as i took in what was happening. its insane to think about how some things were back then, especially pertaining to women’s rights and their place in their communities. so many HF novels lately are around childbirth, fertility, history of motherhood and pregnancy and it’s such an inspiring and jaw opening reading experience. it’s no irony or coincidence why those stories sit with us much deeper than others right now in 2023.
it was also so interesting to learn this was based on real events. i squealed when Paul Revere came into the story, LOL! it was giving high school history vibes for a second.
like so many others, i really liked Martha. she was arguably the best part. she’s a strong female MC and i can’t imagine how hard it was to have this strong of a voice and be outspoken against men during this timeline 👏🏼
but while i enjoyed this book, it’s not 5 stars for me and i can’t quite put my finger on why? maybe it was overhyped? perhaps there too many characters? i listened on audio and it was rather hard to keep track of them all and remember how they weaved together. i felt like i needed an org chart 😂 curious if readers of the physical copy felt the same. there were also a few unanswered questions left for me at the end. if anyone has finished this recently and wants to chat, please DM me on IG!
all said, this is definitely worth the read! and as so many historical fiction novels have proved over the last year or so… it is so shocking what women went through and continue to experience even in 2023 💔
January 22, 2024
The Frozen River is an amazing and satisfying read! When I learned that it is based on the diary of a real midwife, Martha Ballard, and that the setting is Maine, where I live, I couldn’t pass it up. I’m so glad I didn’t!
Not only is it a very detailed account of a midwife’s daily duties and hardships but a mystery as well. The way Ariel Lawhon weaves this story together with her beautiful choice of words is spellbinding. Its a work of art that I could not put down or I should say, stop listening to. Her use of all five senses makes you feel as if you are there watching the story unfold. There was never a dull moment in the book.
I didn’t know that midwives dealt with illness and deaths along with delivering babies! Ariel Lawhon gave Martha just the right amount of strength and tenderness to balance her personality and endear me to her.
There are some dark situations discussed in this book. Detailed rape, murder, injury, misogyny, and bad language. If you are able to read about those things then I recommend you read this book.
I am going to read all her books now!
Not only is it a very detailed account of a midwife’s daily duties and hardships but a mystery as well. The way Ariel Lawhon weaves this story together with her beautiful choice of words is spellbinding. Its a work of art that I could not put down or I should say, stop listening to. Her use of all five senses makes you feel as if you are there watching the story unfold. There was never a dull moment in the book.
I didn’t know that midwives dealt with illness and deaths along with delivering babies! Ariel Lawhon gave Martha just the right amount of strength and tenderness to balance her personality and endear me to her.
There are some dark situations discussed in this book. Detailed rape, murder, injury, misogyny, and bad language. If you are able to read about those things then I recommend you read this book.
I am going to read all her books now!
January 10, 2024
A glimpse into Martha Ballard’s life and also the lives of her friends, family and neighbors. Martha is a midwife in 1789 and is privy to the town’s secrets. Historical fiction based on the life of Martha Ballard.
Things are about to get salty. Oh, my. Everyone loves this book and it’s an understatement to say I did not. I’m still cringing and rolling my eyes. The weird thing is I’m a feminist and a liberal, but this is sadly over the top. I dislike being preached to, and there are 432 pages of that here. Maybe there are people out there who need to be told what’s right from wrong. I’m not one of them.
The pacing is glacial at best and the writing felt a little lazy and immature. The murder mystery being solved by this caped crusader is so very slow. The main character is overly preachy and although the story takes place in 1789, she miraculously has command of a 2024 vernacular. 🙄
Jane Oppenheimer is an excellent narrator, but she couldn’t save this one.
The sadly self congratulatory author’s note at the end came far too late and would have been helpful at the beginning so expectations could be appropriately set. The author loves to say, “you’re welcome” although no one in this house said thank you. When a story is labeled historical fiction, that is what the reader expects. Here the author tells the reader it’s actually fiction and she took the idea from a real book written 30 years ago by Laurel Thatcher Ulrich. It would have been helpful to have that information up front. Nothing original here and it’s put me off “historical” fiction for quite awhile.
Things are about to get salty. Oh, my. Everyone loves this book and it’s an understatement to say I did not. I’m still cringing and rolling my eyes. The weird thing is I’m a feminist and a liberal, but this is sadly over the top. I dislike being preached to, and there are 432 pages of that here. Maybe there are people out there who need to be told what’s right from wrong. I’m not one of them.
The pacing is glacial at best and the writing felt a little lazy and immature. The murder mystery being solved by this caped crusader is so very slow. The main character is overly preachy and although the story takes place in 1789, she miraculously has command of a 2024 vernacular. 🙄
Jane Oppenheimer is an excellent narrator, but she couldn’t save this one.
The sadly self congratulatory author’s note at the end came far too late and would have been helpful at the beginning so expectations could be appropriately set. The author loves to say, “you’re welcome” although no one in this house said thank you. When a story is labeled historical fiction, that is what the reader expects. Here the author tells the reader it’s actually fiction and she took the idea from a real book written 30 years ago by Laurel Thatcher Ulrich. It would have been helpful to have that information up front. Nothing original here and it’s put me off “historical” fiction for quite awhile.
January 15, 2024
Oh my word. I really enjoyed this book! I was captivated by Martha and her story. I loved how dedicated she was to her job of midwifery., seeing how she treated each of her patients with respect and knew her job so well. I loved her relationship with her husband and children. I appreciate how she wasn't perfect and acknowledged when she messed up or when her emotions got the better of her. I loved how fierce she became at injustice, in particular the double standard for men and women. It was interesting to read about New England at this time. The story line of the rape case and the murder was captivating and frustrating at the same time. The villain was clear from early on and he was infuriating throughout. I love a book that can bring out emotions in me and while I didn't cry for this one, I did have lots of feelings. I just loved Ariel Lawhon's author's note at the end as she shared what was factual and what was adjusted or imagined for the sake of the story. This was an easy 5 stars for me and already a potential favorite of the year.
May 4, 2024
“Memory is a wicked thing that warps and twists. But paper and ink receive the truth without emotion, and they read it back without partiality. That, I believe, is why so few women are taught to read and write. God only knows what they would do with the power of pen and ink at their disposal.” ~Ariel Lawhon, The Frozen River
This was such a good book! The Frozen River is a historical mystery inspired by the life and diary of Martha Ballard, an 18th century midwife and healer.
Maine 1789: A body is found frozen in the Kennebec River. Martha Ballard is summoned to examine the body and determine the cause of death. Martha, whose husband Ephraim (he was my favorite character) taught her to read and write early in their marriage and gifted her a diary, diligently recorded daily events such as births, deaths, and local news. Prior to the discovery of the body, Martha had documented details of an alleged rape involving two of the town's esteemed individuals, one of whom is now found deceased in the river. Martha concludes that the cause of death is hanging, but her determination to uncover the truth intensifies when a new local physician publicly disputes her findings, asserting the death was an accident.
The story has many layers and I enjoyed the way they unfolded, revealing what really happened. Martha was smart, strong-willed and compassionate, but what I loved most about her was her determination to speak up despite the possible consequences and to do the right thing especially during a time when women's rights were pretty much nonexistent. It was interesting learning about the different things Martha did as a midwife and healer which also included judicial responsibilities.
While I loved this book, I had a few minor niggles. The dialogue felt more modern rather than 18th century in nature. There are a lot of characters and in the beginning it was hard to keep them all straight since many of their names were quite similar. Be sure to read the Author's Note. I always appreciate when an author distinguishes fact from fiction. 4.5 stars rounded up.💫
This was such a good book! The Frozen River is a historical mystery inspired by the life and diary of Martha Ballard, an 18th century midwife and healer.
Maine 1789: A body is found frozen in the Kennebec River. Martha Ballard is summoned to examine the body and determine the cause of death. Martha, whose husband Ephraim (he was my favorite character) taught her to read and write early in their marriage and gifted her a diary, diligently recorded daily events such as births, deaths, and local news. Prior to the discovery of the body, Martha had documented details of an alleged rape involving two of the town's esteemed individuals, one of whom is now found deceased in the river. Martha concludes that the cause of death is hanging, but her determination to uncover the truth intensifies when a new local physician publicly disputes her findings, asserting the death was an accident.
The story has many layers and I enjoyed the way they unfolded, revealing what really happened. Martha was smart, strong-willed and compassionate, but what I loved most about her was her determination to speak up despite the possible consequences and to do the right thing especially during a time when women's rights were pretty much nonexistent. It was interesting learning about the different things Martha did as a midwife and healer which also included judicial responsibilities.
While I loved this book, I had a few minor niggles. The dialogue felt more modern rather than 18th century in nature. There are a lot of characters and in the beginning it was hard to keep them all straight since many of their names were quite similar. Be sure to read the Author's Note. I always appreciate when an author distinguishes fact from fiction. 4.5 stars rounded up.💫
December 25, 2023
The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon. Fantastic book full of action with rape, murder, mystery. Love , romance, new birth. Corrupt courts and petty moments. A great action packed book!
December 1, 2023
5 ⭐️
THIS is why I love historical fiction. Not only is it educational and insightful, but it teaches you about a life so foreign to us in these modern days. Lawhon did a phenomenal job marrying a dense plot with evoking emotion beyond anything I’ve ever experienced in a book. I just finished it, and I already want to listen to it again.
This is a heartbreaking story, not for the faint of heart - but it’s the amazing tale of an incredibly brave woman fighting for justice in her small town. Her work as a midwife was so interesting to learn about and this is easily within my top 5 favorite books of 2023.
PS: Jane Oppenheimer is officially my new favorite audiobook narrator, she brought the story to life. Also, please read the Author’s Note at the end.
PUB DATE 12/5, thank you Penguin Random House for the advanced listeners copy.
THIS is why I love historical fiction. Not only is it educational and insightful, but it teaches you about a life so foreign to us in these modern days. Lawhon did a phenomenal job marrying a dense plot with evoking emotion beyond anything I’ve ever experienced in a book. I just finished it, and I already want to listen to it again.
This is a heartbreaking story, not for the faint of heart - but it’s the amazing tale of an incredibly brave woman fighting for justice in her small town. Her work as a midwife was so interesting to learn about and this is easily within my top 5 favorite books of 2023.
PS: Jane Oppenheimer is officially my new favorite audiobook narrator, she brought the story to life. Also, please read the Author’s Note at the end.
PUB DATE 12/5, thank you Penguin Random House for the advanced listeners copy.
January 23, 2024
This is a well-written, entertaining, historical fiction novel which is based on an actual person and events. It is set during Colonial times and has a likable, intelligent, strong and capable female protagonist, a warm and loving marriage, supportive friends and family, vividly described settings, and a satisfying conclusion. I listened to the audio book, and the narrator, Ms. Jane Oppenheimer, has a lovely voice and does an outstanding job depicting the characters and their personalities. The author's note, in Ms. Ariel Lawhon's own voice, is interesting and informative, and is truly appreciated.
January 24, 2024
2.5 stars rounded down
Inspired by the life of a real midwife in late 1700s Maine who left a decades-long journal behind, this heavy-handed fictionalized account makes the point (over and over and OVER) that life wasn’t fair for women, circumscribed by societal expectations, punished if they tried to colour outside the lines, and of course constantly subjected to real and threatened male violence. The villain of the piece was such a caricature I kept expecting him, Snidely Whiplash-like, to twirl the end of his moustache and emit evil snickers. And did I mention how repetitive? This was 500 pages of leaden prose that could easily have been whittled down by a couple of hundred pages.
Inspired by the life of a real midwife in late 1700s Maine who left a decades-long journal behind, this heavy-handed fictionalized account makes the point (over and over and OVER) that life wasn’t fair for women, circumscribed by societal expectations, punished if they tried to colour outside the lines, and of course constantly subjected to real and threatened male violence. The villain of the piece was such a caricature I kept expecting him, Snidely Whiplash-like, to twirl the end of his moustache and emit evil snickers. And did I mention how repetitive? This was 500 pages of leaden prose that could easily have been whittled down by a couple of hundred pages.
April 29, 2024
I had to DNF, despite listening to over 6 hrs of this overly long novel.
Many of my GR friends loved this novel so I was sure I'd love it too. Unfortunately, that wasn't the case. Early on, my antennas were raised, first, it was the very modern language and concepts that felt off to me. I had to double check that it wasn't one of those dual time novels and that I wasn't listening to a modern day section. It's all set in the eighteenth century.
The first obvious anachronism - the use of the term vernix to describe the film many newborns are covered in when coming into the world. I'm annoying like that and googled, apparently, "the term 'Vernix caseosa' first appeared in 1846 in the Dunglison dictionary of Medical Sciences."
I continued on. Our heroine is Martha Ballard, a fifty-four year old midwife, who sounded like a modern-day woman, the way she was challenging the status-quo, the men and the entire society was so outside of anything I could believe, it really irked me.
This is yet another so called "historical fiction" that doesn't care much about history, fact and takes lots of liberties. I find it more jarring and frankly insulting, when we have google at our fingertips.
The husband, whatever his name was, a carpenter, was so unbelievable, even if he had been a contemporary man. Were people French kissing in the 18th century? While we don't know for sure people's proclivities, it's unlikely they would do that when cleanliness was dubious. Speaking of cleanliness, Martha knew about disinfecting wounds back then? I can't be bothered to search, but I'm dubious.
Irrespective of all these many anachronisms, the liberties taken with language and people's behaviours and the fact that Martha was better than everyone in so many respects irked me big time.
I'm a feminist, I'm passionate about reinstating, reviving the "forgotten women", but we don't need to go so over the board, even if it's fiction.
Many of my GR friends loved this novel so I was sure I'd love it too. Unfortunately, that wasn't the case. Early on, my antennas were raised, first, it was the very modern language and concepts that felt off to me. I had to double check that it wasn't one of those dual time novels and that I wasn't listening to a modern day section. It's all set in the eighteenth century.
The first obvious anachronism - the use of the term vernix to describe the film many newborns are covered in when coming into the world. I'm annoying like that and googled, apparently, "the term 'Vernix caseosa' first appeared in 1846 in the Dunglison dictionary of Medical Sciences."
I continued on. Our heroine is Martha Ballard, a fifty-four year old midwife, who sounded like a modern-day woman, the way she was challenging the status-quo, the men and the entire society was so outside of anything I could believe, it really irked me.
This is yet another so called "historical fiction" that doesn't care much about history, fact and takes lots of liberties. I find it more jarring and frankly insulting, when we have google at our fingertips.
The husband, whatever his name was, a carpenter, was so unbelievable, even if he had been a contemporary man. Were people French kissing in the 18th century? While we don't know for sure people's proclivities, it's unlikely they would do that when cleanliness was dubious. Speaking of cleanliness, Martha knew about disinfecting wounds back then? I can't be bothered to search, but I'm dubious.
Irrespective of all these many anachronisms, the liberties taken with language and people's behaviours and the fact that Martha was better than everyone in so many respects irked me big time.
I'm a feminist, I'm passionate about reinstating, reviving the "forgotten women", but we don't need to go so over the board, even if it's fiction.
January 21, 2024
This story was inspired by the historical story and diaries of Martha Ballard, the great-aunt of Clara Barton, a midwife, set in Hallowell, Maine, beginning in the year 1789.
This is the first book of Lawhon’s that I’ve read, so I began reading this without any concept of what this book was about, but it didn’t take me long to be pulled into the story.
A story of a midwife, Martha, and a doctor who believes that women have no business in the medical field, let alone being the person who assists in delivering a child, despite her never having lost a mother in childbirth. But this doctor seems hell-bent on ruining her life.
Inspired by Martha Ballard’s journals which record the daily ins and outs of her days, weeks, months and years of her life in the late 1700’s. I was pulled into this story from the start, when the body of a man is found, and the mystery of how and who is responsible weaves in and out of this story.
Beautifully written, this was a heartbreaking story at times, but I loved this story of Nature, family, heartbreak, and the bonds of love.
Many thanks to the public library system for the opportunity to read this story!
December 3, 2023
*4.5 stars rounded up. Winter 1789-90 would be remembered as the Year of the Long Winter by the residents of Hallowell, Maine. It began on a bitterly cold night in late November when the Kennebec River started to freeze. Three men on a raft are caught as the ice closes in around them. When one of those men falls through the ice trying to reach shore, he discovers a dead body in the river. The body is cut from the ice and taken to the local tavern where midwife Martha Ballard is summoned to examine the body. The man has been badly beaten and Martha believes the cause of death was hanging before he was tossed in the river. The deceased man is Joshua Burgess, who, along with one other, had been accused of a brutal assault and rape by the minister's wife, Rebecca Foster, and the town has been divided over whether to believe her story. Did someone take justice into their own hands?
Ariel Lawhon's latest work of historical fiction was inspired by the journals of midwife Martha Ballard, who recorded a remarkable record of over a thousand babies delivered and not one mother lost in childbirth. Through the events of that winter of 1789-90, the reader experiences what life was like for the people living in that small Maine town in the newly-formed nation of America--the beauty and harshness of nature, the struggle for survival and to provide for family, and, most fascinatingly, how crimes were handled and justice meted out. Martha is portrayed as an intelligent, strong, opinionated woman with a loving husband and family who has faced personal tragedy and carried on. I'm glad to have gotten a chance to 'meet' this remarkable woman as she is portrayed by Lawhon.
Many thanks to the author and publisher for providing me with an arc of this novel via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and the opinions expressed are my own.
Ariel Lawhon's latest work of historical fiction was inspired by the journals of midwife Martha Ballard, who recorded a remarkable record of over a thousand babies delivered and not one mother lost in childbirth. Through the events of that winter of 1789-90, the reader experiences what life was like for the people living in that small Maine town in the newly-formed nation of America--the beauty and harshness of nature, the struggle for survival and to provide for family, and, most fascinatingly, how crimes were handled and justice meted out. Martha is portrayed as an intelligent, strong, opinionated woman with a loving husband and family who has faced personal tragedy and carried on. I'm glad to have gotten a chance to 'meet' this remarkable woman as she is portrayed by Lawhon.
Many thanks to the author and publisher for providing me with an arc of this novel via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and the opinions expressed are my own.
February 17, 2024
1000 glowing stars!!! I loved every little piece of this story from the imperfect characters, the romance, the plot that sucks you right in, the author’s note and the writing. It was chef’s kiss.
January 23, 2024
I didn't love the first book I read by her (Code Name Helene) but this one was excellent.
April 20, 2024
The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon was inspired by the real events that marked the life of Martha Ballard, wife, mother, midwife, healer and friend. Before reading The Frozen River, I had never heard of Martha Ballard even though she was the great aunt of Clara Barton, the founder of the American Red Cross and the great, great grandmother of Mary Hobart, one of the first female physicians. Much of what Ariel Lawhon was able to glean about Martha Ballard’s duties as a midwife and healer and her day to day life came from the diary or day book she kept and wrote in on a daily basis. Each diary entry began with an account of the weather and an unbiased report of what had transpired that day. The Frozen River was Martha Ballard’s story and her search for the truth. It took place during the winter in Hallowell, Maine in 1789, post American Revolution. I listened to the audiobook of The Frozen River that was well narrated by Jane Oppenheimer. It was hard to pull myself away from this captivating historical fiction mystery.
Ariel Lawhon was able to paint such a vivid picture of both the landscape of Hallowell, Maine and of Martha Ballard through her beautiful well written prose. Her vivid descriptions of the farm where Martha lived with her husband and children, the women she visited and assisted with their births, the frozen Kennebec River that served the town for generations as a source for commerce and all the eateries and shops made it easy for me to visualize and almost feel like I was right there beside her. In 1789, women were considered inferior to men. Women were strictly restricted from learning to read and write, take part independently in civil functions or do anything more than marry, have children and keep house. Based on all the restrictions and ridicule women faced, I was so impressed by all Martha Ballard was able to accomplish in her lifetime. Martha was a woman who was so far ahead of the time she lived in. She was strong, determined, level headed, systematic, intelligent, truthful, knowledgeable and confident. Martha was a woman who advocated for other women, justice and the truth. Martha had the kind of marriage that many women would want to clone. Her husband was so supportive, attentive and so in love with her. Life back the was not easy especially for women.
The penalties that were handed down to women during that time for rape or having a child out of wedlock carried significant consequences whereas men were never punished for those offenses. There were so many more consequences for women back then compared to the men and there was little the women could do to change it. Through all of these occurrences, it was hard not to admire Martha’s courage, gumption, determination, intellect and the way she went to bat for the women she cared about. Martha Ballard never gave up searching for the truth and helping the innocent.
I really enjoyed listening to The Frozen River. Ariel Lawhon expertly wove together the mystery of how, when and why the dead man that was discovered in the Kennebec River ended up there with Martha’s daily duties as a midwife, mother and wife as well as the difficulties and hardships she faced. Had the man found in the Kennebec River drowned or had someone murdered him and disposed of him there? Martha Ballard was sure he was murdered but who committed the crime? Even when challenged, Martha never wavered from her initial findings and declaration of murder. The Frozen River explored the non-existent possibilities of literacy for women, love, child birth, rape, murder, family, friendships and the hardships and limitations women experienced, endured and learned to accept. I really admired Martha Ballard and everything she stood for and accomplished in her lifetime. I highly recommend The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon.
Ariel Lawhon was able to paint such a vivid picture of both the landscape of Hallowell, Maine and of Martha Ballard through her beautiful well written prose. Her vivid descriptions of the farm where Martha lived with her husband and children, the women she visited and assisted with their births, the frozen Kennebec River that served the town for generations as a source for commerce and all the eateries and shops made it easy for me to visualize and almost feel like I was right there beside her. In 1789, women were considered inferior to men. Women were strictly restricted from learning to read and write, take part independently in civil functions or do anything more than marry, have children and keep house. Based on all the restrictions and ridicule women faced, I was so impressed by all Martha Ballard was able to accomplish in her lifetime. Martha was a woman who was so far ahead of the time she lived in. She was strong, determined, level headed, systematic, intelligent, truthful, knowledgeable and confident. Martha was a woman who advocated for other women, justice and the truth. Martha had the kind of marriage that many women would want to clone. Her husband was so supportive, attentive and so in love with her. Life back the was not easy especially for women.
The penalties that were handed down to women during that time for rape or having a child out of wedlock carried significant consequences whereas men were never punished for those offenses. There were so many more consequences for women back then compared to the men and there was little the women could do to change it. Through all of these occurrences, it was hard not to admire Martha’s courage, gumption, determination, intellect and the way she went to bat for the women she cared about. Martha Ballard never gave up searching for the truth and helping the innocent.
I really enjoyed listening to The Frozen River. Ariel Lawhon expertly wove together the mystery of how, when and why the dead man that was discovered in the Kennebec River ended up there with Martha’s daily duties as a midwife, mother and wife as well as the difficulties and hardships she faced. Had the man found in the Kennebec River drowned or had someone murdered him and disposed of him there? Martha Ballard was sure he was murdered but who committed the crime? Even when challenged, Martha never wavered from her initial findings and declaration of murder. The Frozen River explored the non-existent possibilities of literacy for women, love, child birth, rape, murder, family, friendships and the hardships and limitations women experienced, endured and learned to accept. I really admired Martha Ballard and everything she stood for and accomplished in her lifetime. I highly recommend The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon.
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