A review by emilyreadthatbook
The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon

challenging mysterious sad tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated

5.0

Taking place in the late 1700s, we are quickly brought into the outcome of rape, a murder, and the ongoing births and deaths in the everyday life of a midwife. Martha Ballard, based on a real midwife at that time, is whose eyes we experience this story through, and what a story it is. I was left guessing about who was involved with what and the whys throughout this tale.
Ariel Lanhon weaves an engaging, and at times, heartbreaking story of a time in Martha’s life. The descriptions used, draw you into the long cold winter in a town along a frozen river. So many books I tear through so I can get all the information, this book coaxed me to slowdown and really savor the experience.   I greatly enjoyed this book, as unsettling as many of the topics are. I feel the author handled the difficult content with care. I am curious to explore more from this author.
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