A review by inked_in_pages
The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon

challenging emotional informative medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

Genre: historical fiction, mystery
[TW: graphic depictions of sexual assault, miscarriage, stillborn births]

Ariel Lawhon introduces her readers to a little known American Hero from the 1700s with her novel about Martha Ballard, American Midwife and ultimate badass. I am incredibly grateful to Lawhon for her research as well as her efforts to seek justice, although centuries later and through literature only, for the women in this novel. 

This is a book that will live in my heart, and my bones, for years to come - the writing is atmospheric and beautiful, the story is powerful, and Martha Ballard is an unsung hero that deserves to have her time in the spotlight. I binged this novel in less than 2 days - which says a lot for the density of the writing and the difficulty of the story line at times - and cannot wait to talk with everyone and anyone who has also read it. 

I believe this will go into the vault of classic and high praised historical fiction as it should be. Ariel Lawhon delivers a true masterpiece for readers, especially those who find themselves drawn to historical fiction. 
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