The Frozen River
The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon
Reviewed by L. Bennett
In November 1789 a body was found frozen in the river. Once extracted and identified the local midwife was called to conduct an examination. Back then when women had no authority and relied almost completely upon their husbands for everything, a midwife had certain duties that required her attendance. In author Ariel Lawhon's novel that midwife was Martha Ballard. Testifying before the court as to cause of death of the frozen man, her opinion was countered by a Harvard-trained physician who was long on book learning and pretty short on manners and experience. From that battle of wills the rest of the story came out as Martha heard and saw the dark tales of her little town's indiscretions, malevolence, and compassion.
Lest you think this novel is dark and brooding, it is not. It is a heart-warming tale laced with detective work. It is the story of families supporting one another, of men and women who pass judgment on others, and of good overcoming misfortune. There are moments of warmth and humor, and times of tense encounters. The author handles birth, death, and consequences in the same manner she narrates the lives of the town, with quiet accuracy and without histrionics. I really liked the book.
