A review by maria1085
The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon

dark informative mysterious reflective tense slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

All the stars for this brilliant book! How fitting that International Women’s Day was this last week and I finished this book about another bad ass woman. Martha Ballard was a real life midwife in  late 18th century Maine. There were echos of modern times with women being treated as second class citizens. Not being believed when they were sexually assaulted. It’s amazing how all this time has passed  and none of that has changed. She delivered thousands of babies, saved lives, and was a remarkable woman in history. Martha kept a diary of everything that happened in her town, all the births, deaths, crimes that happen. The mystery that unfolds in this story is so captivating. Right from the beginning you are pulled right into the small town in Maine, with a frozen river, and a murder mystery. I loved the writing, the history, and the setting. I loved how Martha was a fighter, she stood up for what she believed in. All during a time when men believed that women should be seen not heard. This book is slow, but I actually liked that it was because it made me appreciate the legacy of Martha Ballard. If you haven’t read this book definitely pick it up! 
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