The Frozen River

In this acclaimed historical thriller inspired by the actual diary entries of an 18th-century midwife, author Ariel Lawhon transports readers to a harsh winter in Maine, 1789. The narrative begins when a man's body is found entombed in the ice of a frozen river—a man recently implicated in a violent crime that shocked the small community. Midwife Martha Ballard is called to examine the corpse and soon finds herself untangling a complex web of town secrets, corruption, and systemic injustice. Written with vivid atmospheric prose and suspenseful pacing, the novel delivers a compelling portrait of female resilience, moral courage, and the pursuit of justice under extreme conditions.

It offers an engaging blend of historical fiction and true-crime-inspired mystery, featuring a formidable female protagonist and a richly detailed, immersive setting.

Ideal for fans of historical mysteries, true-crime-inspired narratives, atmospheric winter settings, and stories highlighting strong, courageous women.