The Frozen River: A GMA Book Club Pick: A Novel

I had never heard of Ariel Lawhon before but I'll definitely keep her on my radar now.Martha was a great protagonist: smart, witty, driven and had no problem inserting herself into any situation (though, there were a few times where I had to suspend disbelief). On top of that, many of the characters felt distinctive. A few women did blend in a bit but that had more to do with the time period, as most were homemakers and wives.This isn't a murder mystery full of twists where you're trying to play detective. Instead, it's interesting because of Martha's dogged ability to keep searching for answers, despite her role as a woman being a detriment at the time. I found the writing snappy and would pick up the book, even if I only had a few minutes.It's very enjoyable and I'd recommend to any who like books with strong female leads.

I just finished “The Frozen River”.Overall rating: 4/5This was a historical novel set in colonial Massachusetts. It follows a midwife, in first person, as she details, her life and the happenings of the town.The main drama and plot of the novel is a rape case, which is a capital punishment during this time. Martha, the midwife that the novel follows, writes numerous journal entries detialing her days. Each section has a few chapets thatt flashback to when Martha Is younger and shows her back story.This book was extremely engaging and interesting. After reading the book, I read the author’s note and many other articles online to see the amazing true historical details of the novel, people, and trial. I believe that the author captured this historical even in a captivating and authentic manner. I was left wanting just a little more about some of Martha’s children and Rebecca.Note** this book talks about rape, and sometimes in detail. It is easy to skip over those parts without missing out on any details of the plot.Chapter length: shortPace: fastPerspective: first person (FMC)Genres: historical fiction, murder mystery, court drama, [minority] romancePlot: 5/5Writing style: 4/5Characters: 5/5Historical authenticity: 5/5Introspection: 3/5Spice: 0/5Poetic writing: 2/5

Historical fiction isn’t usually my go-to, but I could not put this one down! This story blends history, fiction, and mystery so well. Inspired by the real-life diaries of Martha Ballard, an 18th-century midwife, the book follows her as she uncovers the truth behind a man found frozen in the Kennebec River.I was completely drawn in by Martha’s strength and conviction—she’s a woman who isn’t afraid to speak up for what’s right, even in a time when that was unheard of. Her fierce dedication to her patients and her refusal to be silenced made her such a compelling character.The mystery kept me engaged, and there were so many emotional moments that really tugged at my heart. It’s powerful, atmospheric, and a beautiful tribute to an often-overlooked historical figure. Highly recommend, even if historical fiction isn’t typically your thing!

I love historical fiction and this book did not disappoint. It is the fictional tale of a real midwife in Maine during the latter part of the 18th century. (Martha Ballard, Google her). Lawhon weaves a tale that includes both factual and fictional elements. The story is well written and gives one a glimpse of life (especially for women) during this time. It is part mystery and part history.And I was often looking up additional information of that time, as well as definitions of some words and phrases common back then. And that's what I like: a story that prompts me to get thinking and ask questions. I definitely will be reading more from Ms. Lawhon.

The Frozen River is a beautifully written, chillingly atmospheric historical mystery that completely captivated me from beginning to end. Ariel Lawhon masterfully blends real historical figures and events with a gripping murder investigation, creating a rich, immersive world that feels both intimate and expansive.At the heart of the novel is Martha Ballard, a midwife in 18th-century Maine, whose voice is one of quiet strength, wisdom, and determination. Her meticulous observations, dedication to justice, and sharp intellect make her a compelling protagonist. I loved how Lawhon brought her diary entries and historical life to vivid reality, giving voice to a woman who might otherwise have remained a footnote in history.The icy, brutal winter setting adds an extra layer of tension to the already taut mystery. The pacing is perfect, with every chapter deepening the intrigue and revealing more layers of both the crime and the complex social dynamics of the time—especially around justice, gender, and power.If you enjoy historical fiction with strong female leads, rich period detail, and a touch of mystery, The Frozen River is not to be missed. It’s a stunning portrait of resilience, truth, and the cost of doing what’s right in a world that often punishes those who try.

This is an interesting read based on the life of a midwife in Colonial America. While I enjoyed it, it's definitely a "woman's " book and not without flaws. The main character Martha seemed a little too 21st century. Using a first person point of view kept the narrative moving forward but at times I felt events were predictable. Still, it was enjoyable. I didn't feel I had wasted my time.