Inspired by the real-life diaries of 18th Century midwife Martha Ballard, Ariel Lawhon gives readers just a glance into the life of women in post-Revolution, small town America. Often illiterate and with no prospects other than marrying and having babies, women of the late 18th century were vulnerable and tended to be given sentences (whether by the community or by the courts) for being born a woman. Martha Ballard has defied the odds. In a loving and fair marriage, Martha Ballard is not only literate but also is an advocate for the women in her community. As a midwife she not only ushered in life but was also the local medic for the town as a whole and commanded respects from her neighbors.
It was a pleasure to experience this story and learn about a small-town champion of women. I absolutely adored the way Lawhorn has portrayed Martha Ballard, and she has also sprinkled in a small-town mystery in the most impactful, intriguing, and natural way. The writing is phenomenal, and it was a perfect cold weather read considering the majority of the book takes place during the depths of winter.
This was such a beautiful story about a remarkable woman. I am absolutely blown away by how fabulous this story was both on paper and when listening to it. I’ve heard good things about Ariel Lawhon’s books, but this was my first read of hers. It will 100% not be the last.
The Frozen River is out now. Huge thank you to Libro.fm for my copy in exchange for my honest opinion. If you liked this review, please let me know either by commenting below or by visiting my Instagram @speakingof.books.
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