The Frozen River: A GMA Book Club Pick

By Ariel Lawhon

The Frozen River: A GMA Book Club Pick - Review & Summary

Overview

Ariel Lawhon's "The Frozen River," a Good Morning America Book Club selection, is a meticulously researched and compelling historical novel that transports the reader to the harsh realities of 18th-century Maine. It weaves together the lives of two women, Martha Ballard, a real-life midwife and healer who kept a detailed diary of her daily life, and a fictional character, Mehitable “Hitty” Cole, a woman accused of adultery and murder. The novel masterfully blends historical fact with fictional narrative, creating a richly layered story about survival, societal constraints, and the unwavering strength of women in the face of adversity.

Detailed Review

Narrative and Structure

• Dual Perspectives: The story is told through the alternating perspectives of Martha Ballard, whose entries are based on her real diaries, and Hitty Cole, whose fictional narrative provides dramatic tension and mystery. This structure allows for a comprehensive view of the community and the societal pressures of the time.
• Slow Burn Mystery: The mystery surrounding the deaths and accusations against Hitty unfolds gradually, keeping the reader engaged and invested in the truth. Lawhon expertly builds suspense while also revealing the challenges of daily life in the 1780s.
• Historical Accuracy: The meticulous research is evident in every detail, from the descriptions of childbirth and herbal remedies to the political climate of a newly formed America. This commitment to accuracy immerses the reader in the time period.

Themes and Exploration

• Women's Roles and Agency: The novel powerfully examines the limited roles women had in the 18th century and the extraordinary strength and resilience they exhibited despite these constraints. Martha's ability to manage her family, community and her medical practice, highlights her individual power. Hitty's struggle for survival further exemplifies the constraints they faced.
• Justice and Morality: The story questions the notion of justice within the legal system, where biases against women can easily sway opinions and outcomes. It raises important questions about who gets to define morality and truth.
• Community and Isolation: The close-knit community, often reliant on one another, is portrayed in both its nurturing and limiting aspects. The novel explores the ways in which community support can both help individuals thrive and stifle them when they challenge its rigid social mores.
• The Power of the Natural World: The unforgiving Maine landscape, particularly the frozen river, is an ever-present character in the narrative, reflecting both the beauty and the dangers of the time. It serves as a constant reminder of humanity’s dependence on, and vulnerability to, the natural world.

Strengths

• Compelling Characters: Both Martha and Hitty are incredibly well-developed and nuanced characters, complex in their motivations and actions. Their individual struggles and triumphs resonate with the reader.
• Rich Historical Detail: The author’s deep research lends authenticity and depth to the story, making the historical period come alive.
• Suspenseful Plot: The slow-burning mystery keeps the reader engaged, prompting constant questioning and speculation.
• Thought-provoking Themes: The novel explores relevant themes of justice, morality, and women's roles that continue to resonate with modern readers.

Weaknesses

• Pacing: Some readers may find the pace of the novel to be slow at times, particularly in the sections focused on Martha’s daily life. While historically accurate, the level of detail can, at points, feel tedious.
• Overly Detailed Descriptions: While generally effective, the descriptions can sometimes be overly detailed and slow the overall story momentum.

Summary

Key Plot Points

• Martha Ballard’s Diary: The novel opens with Martha’s diary entries detailing her daily life as a midwife in Hallowell, Maine, in the 1780s, a period of harsh winters and limited resources. She records her work, the lives of those she serves and the social fabric of her community.
• Hitty Cole's Arrival: Hitty arrives in town seeking refuge and finds work at a local tavern, immediately attracting attention and suspicion. She is viewed with distrust due to rumors of her past.
• Accusations and Murder: When a man is found dead, Hitty is quickly accused of murder, further cementing the community's prejudices. Her case is further complicated by the suggestion she engaged in infidelity.
• Martha's Investigation: As Martha tends to the sick and pregnant, she begins to investigate the circumstances surrounding the accusations against Hitty, using her keen observation skills and knowledge of the community.
• Unraveling the Truth: The novel slowly reveals the secrets and biases of the town, exposing the real culprits and the motivations behind the accusations, leading to a climax that challenges the community's preconceptions.
• Female Solidarity: Ultimately, Martha and Hitty demonstrate the importance of female solidarity during these trying times and the ways in which women sought to support each other.

Conclusion

"The Frozen River" is a deeply immersive and thought-provoking novel that successfully combines historical accuracy with a compelling narrative. Ariel Lawhon’s careful attention to detail, particularly the life and work of Martha Ballard, offers a unique lens through which to explore the complexities of 18th-century life and the struggles faced by women. The novel is a testament to the resilience of women in the face of adversity and offers a relevant and important perspective on justice, morality, and societal prejudice. It is highly recommended for readers who enjoy historical fiction with strong female leads and a compelling mystery.

Buy the book here.