An enthralling historical mystery, inspired by the true life and diary of Martha Ballard, a famous midwife of the 18th century who defied the legal system and made her mark in American history.

In 1789, when the Kennebec River freezes and the body of a man is trapped in the ice, Martha Ballard is called to examine it to determine the cause of death. As a midwife and healer, she records in her diary every birth and every death, every crime and every disaster occurring in the close-knit community of Hallowell. Months earlier, Martha documented the details of a rape that appears to have been committed by two of the town’s most respected men—and one of them has just been found dead. But when a doctor declares the death an accident, Martha is forced to conduct her own investigation.

For an entire winter, as the trial approaches and whispers and prejudices grow louder, Martha stubbornly searches for the truth. Her diary, which implicates beloved persons in the case, soon becomes the center of scandal, and Martha is called to choose a side.

In this smart, multi-layered, and subversive novel based on true events, the protagonist is an unsung heroine who refused to accept anything less than the triumph of justice in an era when women were expected to keep silent. The Frozen River is a gripping, powerful, and tender story of a remarkable woman who left an unparalleled legacy, yet remains almost forgotten to this day.

They wrote about the book: “Lohon, with her enchanting narrative, presents the life of a true heroine.” –People “Thrilling.” –Irish Times “Lohon’s effortless, vivid prose transports the reader.” –USA Today “The inspiring story of a woman who fought for justice...” –Publisher’s Weekly “Another commanding heroine.” –The New York Times “Fans of Claire Fraser from Outlander will enjoy Ariel Lohon’s Martha, who is brave and doesn’t mince words when she wants to protect the innocent... impressive.” –The Washington Post “Penetrating.” –The New York Times Book Review “Thrilling... a mystery novel that makes you think.” –Weekend Edition, NPR