The Frozen River is a historical mystery novel by New York Times bestselling author Ariel Lawhon, published by Penguin Random House (PRH). Set in Maine in 1789, the story follows Martha Ballard, a renowned midwife and diarist, who is called to examine a body discovered when the Kennebec River freezes solid. What begins as a straightforward death investigation soon unravels into a shocking murder mystery that threatens to destabilize her entire community.

Inspired by the real diary of Martha Ballard — a document that shaped our understanding of colonial American life — Lawhon weaves together themes of justice, women's agency, and survival against the brutal backdrop of an 18th-century New England winter. The novel is richly researched and combines elements of historical fiction and courtroom drama as Martha fights to make her voice heard in a society that would silence her.

The Frozen River was a GMA Book Club Pick, an NPR Book of the Year, a People Magazine Book of the Week, an Amazon Editors' Pick, an Indie Next List selection, and a Book of the Month selection. It is also a New York Times bestseller.