A Must Read Historical Fiction

"The Frozen River" by Ariel Lawhon

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I'm excited to write and talk about The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon, probably because I stayed up too late reading last night to finish it, and have so many thoughts about this book.

Overview

The historical fiction novel is set in the late 1700s in Hallowell, Maine, and told in the first person by midwife Martha Ballard. She has kept a diary of her work every day in case she needs it for public record or to remember the details of a birth. It also comes in handy when an unthinkable crime happens in her small town during one of the longest and coldest winters.

While Martha is busy with her family and kids, she also finds it important to protect the women of her town. The story follows Martha and the town during that cold winter and how this crime will affect everyone, especially the Ballard Family.

Historical Accuracy

The author's note at the end of the book is fascinating, the reader learns that Martha was a real person and had an interesting life that we learn about through her diary entries. We will also learn that some of the characters and story were slightly changed for the timing of the novel to work.

The Book

I will admit that when I started this book, I had a hard time getting into it and couldn't understand all the hype surrounding it.

Once I got myself halfway through, it started to pick up, and by the last hundred pages, I couldn't put it down. I had to see what happened next.

It is slow at certain times, but it is worth it to see what happens in the small colonial town.

Recommendations

While this book challenged me in some areas, I would say that you need to read it. I found the story, characters, and history fascinating. It was one of those books that stays with you long after you finish it and leaves you thinking.

The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon is a must-read historical fiction book; even if it's not your typical genre, you will still enjoy this novel.