A great listen!

Historical fiction is my favourite genre and this book ticks all the boxes: well researched, well written, strong characters, feels authentic for the setting and time period, interesting story. There were a few things that didn't quite ring true, notably how quickly the river froze over, which seems unlikely, but I could be wrong. I saw a few reviews that contended that the 'feminism' issues were over the top. I found the condescension by some of the male characters completely credible; men held most of the power. Things have progressed in this area a great deal in the last 30 years and this story took place almost 300 years ago. Martha Ballard must have been an extraordinary woman and I am grateful to have been introduced to her. Many thanks to the author, Ariel Lawhon, for writing her story, and for her lengthy and informative "note" at the end of the book. I loved the way that she weaves interesting detail into The Frozen River that enriches the story and provides interesting historical context.

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A compelling historical mystery

I quickly became drawn to the FMC, Martha, due to her intelligence, courage, perseverance and empathy. The setting highlighted the absolute lack of rights and autonomy women had in the 1700’s. I also adored how Martha advocated for and supported other women, even when her reputation and character was criticized and her livelihood threatened. Her journal provided important pieces of evidence but also helped to illustrate her personal and professional journey, adding depth to the storyline and challenges she experienced, the fragility of human life, and provided glimpses into the real-life Martha Ballard.

As a woman, I cringed, cried, and swore numerous times when Martha came up against many of the men in her community, but especially Joseph North and Benjamin Page. This book solidified the fact that if I was around in 1789, I would have been killed for my sassy, feminist attitude and absolute distain for male arrogance, hubris, double standards and unethical authority.

I’m not usually a historical fiction reader, but I read this as a part of a (local mamas) book club that I’m in. I found it slow at times, but the murder mystery plotline kept me motivated to move forward. I also think the story would have benefitted from additional POVs from other characters, such as Martha’s husband, Ephraim, whose acceptance and adoration for his wife’s (feminist) choices seemed a little unrealistic for 1789. Grab this book if you enjoy historical fiction, dual timelines, and murder mystery, and make sure you read the author’s note at the end.

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Courageous women

I loved the courageous women in this story, most of all Martha herself, but also many others in her tale. Magnificent in strength, wisdom, kindness, and the “business of mortality” as she so aptly expresses it.

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Beautiful writing

The story was beautifully written, and while it seemed slow at times, it was satisfyingly so. The character development was excellent, the historical detail and the performance were spot on. A definite top listen for me.

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Loved the story!

Easy to listen to, nice to hear a story about women and the role they played in that era. Loved how all the pieces came together in the last few chapters. Great story!

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Easy and captivating

Really enjoyed it. Couldn’t put it down. Can’t wait to read another of her books.

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My Book of the Year

It's only January, yet I feel I've already discovered what will be my favorite book of 2024. This is one power house of a novel.
Do you like historical fiction? You’ll learn of the early American judicial system and the place of women in the society of the 1700s, how to make a quill pen, how to harvest a chicken, childbirth pre-modern medicine, transport by horse and foot, and so much more.
Do you like a bit of romance? You’ll enjoy reading of the 35-year love affair between Martha and Ephraim.
How about mystery? You’ll want to know who killed Joshua Burgess and why.
Do you enjoy audio books? The audio version has an incredible narrator. I really feel like it was Martha telling her own story.

I enjoyed every aspect of this novel.

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One Brilliant Novel

This is one of the best novels I have ever listened to.
Excellent narrator as well.

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Quietly Powerful Tribute

The Frozen River is a beautifully written, quietly powerful historical novel. I picked it up because of its recent buzz, but I stayed for Martha Ballard—a midwife, healer, and seeker of justice whose real-life story deserves far more recognition.

While the book is positioned as a historical mystery, the mystery itself isn’t the driving force. There are no shocking twists or wild reveals—but that’s not a flaw. The strength of this novel lies in its character depth and atmospheric immersion. Even in quieter moments, I found myself deeply engaged, thanks to lyrical prose and careful attention to detail. The Maine winter, the courtroom scenes, and the daily struggles of 18th-century women were all rendered with care and clarity.

I was struck by Martha - older, sharp-witted, confident, and uncompromising in her loyalty and sense of duty to women. Her moral compass never wavers, even when standing firm puts her reputation or safety at risk. It was a refreshing change to read about a mature FMC who carries the weight of experience, knowledge, and fierce integrity.

I also found the animals - Tempest, Brutus, and Ephraim’s hawk - to be quietly powerful symbols throughout. Tempest’s cautious trust and eventual bond with Martha echoed themes of intuition and care. Brutus, all brute strength and menace, the ever-present threat of violence and unchecked power. And Ephraim’s hawk—aloof, precise, and loyal. They added emotional texture and a symbolic weight to the story.

There’s something deeply satisfying about now knowing Martha Ballard’s name—about understanding the real tangible legacy she left behind, not just in her medical work and that of the (descended) women that came after her, but in the way she moved through a world designed to minimize her.

This is a book for anyone who loves historical fiction centered on strong, intelligent women who push against societal limits. It’s not a thriller—it’s a tribute. And it made me feel both admiration and pride.

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4 star at best

The loyalty of the main character to her people is commendable. Her patience and strength admired.

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