The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon is a riveting historical novel based on the life of Martha Ballard, a fearless 18th-century midwife whose personal diaries offer a unique glimpse into American history. Set in Maine, 1789, against the chilling backdrop of the frozen Kennebec River, the narrative unfolds with the discovery of a man's body encased in ice. Martha Ballard, locally revered as a midwife and healer, is called upon to investigate the mysterious death, which intertwines dangerously with accusations she previously documented in her diary regarding an alleged rape by two prominent men in her community. As the narrative progresses, Martha finds herself embroiled in a murder inquiry that forces her to confront societal prejudices and pursue justice in a community rife with secrets. Ariel Lawhon, acclaimed author of 'I Was Anastasia' and 'Code Name Hélène,' masterfully blends fact with fiction, delivering a story that is as suspenseful as it is historically significant. Lawhon's portrayal of Martha Ballard as a bold and decisive woman parallels the strength found in Outlander's Claire Fraser, an attribute that will undoubtedly resonate with fans of strong female leads. 'The Frozen River' is not only a compelling tale of mystery and murder but also an homage to an extraordinary woman whose contributions to history remain largely unsung.
Monday, December 28, 2026
1 pm
In this poignant and funny novel, a man who is defined by his limitations sets out to fight a murder charge―and discovers unexpected truths about himself, his family, and the world at large.
On the surface, Denny Voss’s life in rural Minnesota is a quiet one. At thirty years old, he lives at home with his elderly mother and his beloved blind and deaf Saint Bernard, George. He cleans up roadkill to help pay the bills. Though his prospects are limited by a developmental delay―the result of an accident at birth―Denny has always felt that he has “a good life.”
So how did he wind up being charged with the murder of a mayoral candidate―after crashing a sled full of guns into a tree?
As Denny awaits trial, his court-appointed therapist walks him through the events of the past year. Denny’s had other scuffles with the law, the first for kidnapping a neighbor’s cantankerous goose. And then there was the time he accidentally assisted in a bank robbery. It seems like whenever Denny tries to do the right thing, chaos ensues.
Untangling the events around the murder reveals even more painful truths about his family’s past. He’s always been surrounded by people who love him, but now it’s up to Denny to set his life on a new course.
Harriet Kroll will lead today's discussion.
Monday, October 26, 2026
1 pm
Today, study group leader June Stelboum will lead the discussion about books in general.
