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The Frozen River
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The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon -- Sept 2026 General BOM, Starts 2 Sept
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(last edited Oct 14, 2026 09:31AM)
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Date Chapters / Section MPDQs
10 Oct Prologue – Chapter 11 Christina (Raithe)
11 Oct Chapters 12 – 25 Karen (Suri)
12 Oct Chapters 26 – 38 Imke (Minna)
13 Oct Chapters 39 – 50 Stacey (Ferrol)
14 Oct Chapters 51 – Epilogue Maria Jo (Typhons)
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You don't need to be participating in the team challenge to participate in the BOM.
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(last edited Oct 03, 2026 02:42AM)
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Angie - nominator (Minna)
Lisa (AG) (Trilos)
Lexi (Brin)
Tammie (Eton)
Tammie Extra Entry (Eton)
CynRo (Mari)
Judith Extra Entry (Brin)
Eldarwen (Aluyra)
Teddie (Ferrol)
Laura (Typhons)
Erin PBH (Turin)
Lavendar (Suri)
Louise (Raithe)
Backup
Judith (Brin)
Catherine (Trilos)
Mary (Aluyra)
Imke (Minna)
Brittany (Eton)
Thieryn (Trilos)
Jenny (Minna)
Apoorv (Turin)
(view spoiler)
==================================
Participation Verified
Lisa - (Aussie Girl)
Rosaline
Tammie
Angie
Judith
Catherine
Christina
Preeti
Volunteering for DQ's - Team Trilos
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DQ volunteer...Team EtonPlease put me down for 1 extra entry :)
Hello! Volunteering for DQ's, I don't know the team yet, thank you :)Updated: Team Mari :)
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and an extra entry please!
Team Brin
Volunteering for DQ's (Team Trilos) backup?
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I can write DQs.
*Eta: Team Alurya
Volunteering for DQ's also please!Team Alurya
Volunteering for DQs Backup for Angie (Team Minna)
Volunteering for Team Eton
Volunteering for Team Ferrol
Volunteering for Team Trilos!
Volunteering for Team Turin
Volunteering for Team Suri, thanks!
Back up for Team Minna (Don't know if it is necessary, but still...)
I volunteer as tribute for Team Typhons!
Volunteering for backup for Team Turin (if needed)
Volunteering for Team Raithe
Apoorv, can you please check-in to Team Turin!
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I’m good for my date!
Good for the last day.
Good with my day ❄️
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1.) Contrary to how I normally go into a BOM (blind!), I knew the book was inspired by the actual diary of a real-life midwife.
Prior to reading the book summary did you know anything about Martha Ballard or did you Google her prior to reading? If you didn't know this until now, are you likely to look up her now?
2.) Martha says the townspeople dislike her, but Ephraim disagrees: “They respect you. Perhaps occasionally fear you. It’s not the same thing.” (p 56)
What do you think is the difference between dislike and respect with a little fear thrown in? Which do you think is worse?
3.) Did what you read and/or learned about life in Hallowell, Maine in 1789 surprise you? Did the characters act as you would imagine they would in this time period? Were there any actions or revelations that were particularly bothersome to you?
4.) Now that you have 1/6th of the book read…..or part 1 of 6 at least. 😂
Do you have any predictions on the story in general? Or do you have a theory on what really happened to Joshua Burgess?
DQs Day 1 (Part 1: A Hanging)1.) Contrary to how I normally go into a BOM (blind!), I knew the book was inspired by the actual diary of a real-life midwife.
Prior to reading the book summary did you know anything about Martha Ballard or did you Google her prior to reading? If you didn't know this until now, are you likely to look up her now?
No, I had no idea what I was getting into. I'm still not sure what I think of it yet.
2.) Martha says the townspeople dislike her, but Ephraim disagrees: “They respect you. Perhaps occasionally fear you. It’s not the same thing.” (p 56)
What do you think is the difference between dislike and respect with a little fear thrown in? Which do you think is worse?
Dislike is what it is, the complications comes when it's respect mixed with fear. People usually fear what they can't understand. Respect and fear is quite common but it leads to irrationality. I think that's what is the difference. Dislike means you don't care but it's not true for respect.
3.) Did what you read and/or learned about life in Hallowell, Maine in 1789 surprise you? Did the characters act as you would imagine they would in this time period? Were there any actions or revelations that were particularly bothersome to you?
I'm not sure what 1789 Maine would be like. Being an immigrant, I can't tell the difference and the fact I am Canadian.
4.) Now that you have 1/6th of the book read…..or part 1 of 6 at least. 😂
Do you have any predictions on the story in general? Or do you have a theory on what really happened to Joshua Burgess?
I am 100% certain he was murdered. Now, whodunnit is the question!
DQs Day 1 (Part 1: A Hanging)1.) Contrary to how I normally go into a BOM (blind!), I knew the book was inspired by the actual diary of a real-life midwife.
Prior to reading the book summary did you know anything about Martha Ballard or did you Google her prior to reading? If you didn't know this until now, are you likely to look up her now?
I read in the description that it was inspired by a real-life midnight and will likely look her up after I've finished the book. I love that people kept diaries (and still do).
2.) Martha says the townspeople dislike her, but Ephraim disagrees: “They respect you. Perhaps occasionally fear you. It’s not the same thing.” (p 56)
What do you think is the difference between dislike and respect with a little fear thrown in? Which do you think is worse? Oh I think dislike is worse - I wouldn't remind respect with a little fear sometimes :). I do feel like she is right that it's dislike though, because she is challenging peoples' world views
3.) Did what you read and/or learned about life in Hallowell, Maine in 1789 surprise you? Did the characters act as you would imagine they would in this time period? Were there any actions or revelations that were particularly bothersome to you? I guess at first it bothered/surprised me because geez the unfairness towards women. But it also feels very very realistic and the characters seem authentic to me.
4.) Now that you have 1/6th of the book read…..or part 1 of 6 at least. 😂
Do you have any predictions on the story in general? Or do you have a theory on what really happened to Joshua Burgess? I am positive he was murdered. I suspect there will be a LOT of people who wanted to do it.
DQs Day 1 (Part 1: A Hanging)1.) Contrary to how I normally go into a BOM (blind!), I knew the book was inspired by the actual diary of a real-life midwife.
Prior to reading the book summary did you know anything about Martha Ballard or did you Google her prior to reading? If you didn't know this until now, are you likely to look up her now?
- I had no idea who Martha Ballard was until now. I'm not sure if I'll look her up or not.
2.) Martha says the townspeople dislike her, but Ephraim disagrees: “They respect you. Perhaps occasionally fear you. It’s not the same thing.” (p 56)
What do you think is the difference between dislike and respect with a little fear thrown in? Which do you think is worse?
- Dislike, I think, is easier to tell because someone would have a look of being annoyed or something on their face. Respect with a little fear would have someone being kind but cautious. I think dislike is worse.
3.) Did what you read and/or learned about life in Hallowell, Maine in 1789 surprise you? Did the characters act as you would imagine they would in this time period? Were there any actions or revelations that were particularly bothersome to you?
- I think they are acting exactly as they would in that time period. I hate how women were treated by a good majority of men back then.
4.) Now that you have 1/6th of the book read…..or part 1 of 6 at least. 😂
Do you have any predictions on the story in general? Or do you have a theory on what really happened to Joshua Burgess?
- Oh, I definitely think he was murdered. I feel like North might've been involved. Since he was involved in the crime with Burgess, I think he possibly thought he might cave and would somehow give them both up. But there are also a lot of people who had reason to dislike this guy, it seems.
DQs Day 1 (Part 1: A Hanging)1.) Contrary to how I normally go into a BOM (blind!), I knew the book was inspired by the actual diary of a real-life midwife.
Prior to reading the book summary did you know anything about Martha Ballard or did you Google her prior to reading? If you didn't know this until now, are you likely to look up her now?
I really didn't know that it was based on Martha Ballard. I love this and I will have to learn more about her after reading this book.
2.) Martha says the townspeople dislike her, but Ephraim disagrees: “They respect you. Perhaps occasionally fear you. It’s not the same thing.” (p 56)
What do you think is the difference between dislike and respect with a little fear thrown in? Which do you think is worse?
Dislike would be worse in my eyes, but I have learned that if people dislike you it is their problem and not a refection on oneself.
3.) Did what you read and/or learned about life in Hallowell, Maine in 1789 surprise you? Did the characters act as you would imagine they would in this time period? Were there any actions or revelations that were particularly bothersome to you?
I think this book has done a great job or describing the times. I am not surprised about the treatment of women but it still is bothersome.
4.) Now that you have 1/6th of the book read…..or part 1 of 6 at least. 😂
Do you have any predictions on the story in general? Or do you have a theory on what really happened to Joshua Burgess?
I suspect he was murdered but I am not sure who did it. I hope none of Martha's boys are guilty...
DQs Day 1 (Part 1: A Hanging)1.) Contrary to how I normally go into a BOM (blind!), I knew the book was inspired by the actual diary of a real-life midwife.
Prior to reading the book summary did you know anything about Martha Ballard or did you Google her prior to reading? If you didn't know this until now, are you likely to look up her now?
I looked her up as well. She's on record for delivering over 800 babies...now that's some experience right there... I love historical fiction!
2.) Martha says the townspeople dislike her, but Ephraim disagrees: “They respect you. Perhaps occasionally fear you. It’s not the same thing.” (p 56)
What do you think is the difference between dislike and respect with a little fear thrown in? Which do you think is worse?
Dislike is personality and respect is experience...maybe jealousy, fear because she's soooo different. I think dislike is worse as it's more likely based on facts vs assumptions...this could be argued both ways I think.
3.) Did what you read and/or learned about life in Hallowell, Maine in 1789 surprise you? Did the characters act as you would imagine they would in this time period? Were there any actions or revelations that were particularly bothersome to you?
I've read enough historical fiction not to be surprised. There were a few bothersome points, but the courtroom corruption is likely the most revolting to me.
4.) Now that you have 1/6th of the book read…..or part 1 of 6 at least. 😂
Do you have any predictions on the story in general? Or do you have a theory on what really happened to Joshua Burgess?
I read this when it first came out...and I'm not remembering the exact details of what happened to Joshua...but I'll not answer this one because this is a reread for me. When the BOM came up...I was enthusiastic about having a second go at this one. I recall telling my buddies how good it was :)
DQs Day 1 (Part 1: A Hanging)1.) Contrary to how I normally go into a BOM (blind!), I knew the book was inspired by the actual diary of a real-life midwife.
Prior to reading the book summary did you know anything about Martha Ballard or did you Google her prior to reading? If you didn't know this until now, are you likely to look up her now?
No, being Australian it's not a history I'm familiar with at all. I'll wait till I have finished so not to spoil the story. I am enjoying the writing and the tale so far.
2.) Martha says the townspeople dislike her, but Ephraim disagrees: “They respect you. Perhaps occasionally fear you. It’s not the same thing.” (p 56)
What do you think is the difference between dislike and respect with a little fear thrown in? Which do you think is worse?
Respect is something usually that has to be earned and sometimes to do the right thing you'll have to do things that people mightn't like but understand. People can dislike but respect what you're doing. Ephraim is right, in this. Dislike because of personality or cultural differences is completely different.
3.) Did what you read and/or learned about life in Hallowell, Maine in 1789 surprise you? Did the characters act as you would imagine they would in this time period? Were there any actions or revelations that were particularly bothersome to you?
It seems pretty much what I've read about small pioneer towns of America in this period, but I'm no expert. Probably The Crucible would be what I've been familiar with and similar novels about witch trials. The thing that seems amazing is that Joseph North has been accused of a crime and he is being a magistrate. Even in this time it seems amazing this is happening. It really shows the power of white men of this class in this period.
4.) Now that you have 1/6th of the book read…..or part 1 of 6 at least. 😂
Do you have any predictions on the story in general? Or do you have a theory on what really happened to Joshua Burgess?
No doubt, it's going to be a twisty tale. I'm thinking that Joseph North may be involved but too soon to tell.
DQs Day 1 (Part 1: A Hanging)1.) Contrary to how I normally go into a BOM (blind!), I knew the book was inspired by the actual diary of a real-life midwife.
Prior to reading the book summary did you know anything about Martha Ballard or did you Google her prior to reading? If you didn't know this until now, are you likely to look up her now?
I knew nothing about it except that I thought the cover was interesting. Since I am not a big biography reader, I am enjoying learning about this person through the fictional lens.
2.) Martha says the townspeople dislike her, but Ephraim disagrees: “They respect you. Perhaps occasionally fear you. It’s not the same thing.” (p 56)
What do you think is the difference between dislike and respect with a little fear thrown in? Which do you think is worse?
Well, respect with fear has some power, and dislike has none, so the one is better if you have an important job, like keeping people alive and such. They might actually listen to you and your advice if they respect you. How often do any of us take to heart any words by people we dislike?
3.) Did what you read and/or learned about life in Hallowell, Maine in 1789 surprise you? Did the characters act as you would imagine they would in this time period? Were there any actions or revelations that were particularly bothersome to you?
Well most of it is bothersome to me, but I love the relationship between Martha and Ephraim. Those two act as though they are equals, which was not a thing at the time. Not knowing anything about the actual historical people, I wonder if this is 21st century thinking and morals coming into play in the story, or if they did regard each other that way.
4.) Now that you have 1/6th of the book read…..or part 1 of 6 at least. 😂
Do you have any predictions on the story in general? Or do you have a theory on what really happened to Joshua Burgess?
Martha will be hurt or shunned or something. Something will happen to someone in her family- maybe a son will be accused of the murder. Ultimately North will get his comeuppance. At least I hope so.
DQs Day 1 (Part 1: A Hanging)1.) Contrary to how I normally go into a BOM (blind!), I knew the book was inspired by the actual diary of a real-life midwife.
Prior to reading the book summary did you know anything about Martha Ballard or did you Google her prior to reading? If you didn't know this until now, are you likely to look up her now?
I did not know anything, or google her going in. I only knew that the book was very popular. I haven’t looked her up yet but likely will. The end notes from the author were interesting, she talks about what she fictionalized and how she did the research.
2.) Martha says the townspeople dislike her, but Ephraim disagrees: “They respect you. Perhaps occasionally fear you. It’s not the same thing.” (p 56)
What do you think is the difference between dislike and respect with a little fear thrown in? Which do you think is worse?
I think being respected with a little fear puts people on edge because they care how that person perceives them while being disliked is usually because of a character flaw or personality trait. It think being disliked is much worse.
3.) Did what you read and/or learned about life in Hallowell, Maine in 1789 surprise you? Did the characters act as you would imagine they would in this time period? Were there any actions or revelations that were particularly bothersome to you?
To be honest, I didn’t think about it much.
4.) Now that you have 1/6th of the book read…..or part 1 of 6 at least. 😂
Do you have any predictions on the story in general? Or do you have a theory on what really happened to Joshua Burgess?
I’ve read ahead so I won’t spoil it, but at this point of reading I agreed with Martha but didn’t have an idea of who was behind anything.
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Erin *Proud Book Hoarder*
(last edited Sep 02, 2026 04:42PM)
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rated it 4 stars
DQs Day 1 (Part 1: A Hanging)1.) Contrary to how I normally go into a BOM (blind!), I knew the book was inspired by the actual diary of a real-life midwife.
Prior to reading the book summary did you know anything about Martha Ballard or did you Google her prior to reading? If you didn't know this until now, are you likely to look up her now?
Oh! No, I had no idea. Just assumed it was a fictional novel from author's imagination. How interesting.
2.) Martha says the townspeople dislike her, but Ephraim disagrees: “They respect you. Perhaps occasionally fear you. It’s not the same thing.” (p 56)
What do you think is the difference between dislike and respect with a little fear thrown in? Which do you think is worse?
Geez, for some reason I'm not remembering her saying that. By the way, I really like her bond with her husband so far.
As with that town, clearly we are in a time period where many men would not respect women. She was tough with the body while many of them basically fled when things were revealed. This would be a mix of respect but of course feeling their masculinity threatened depending on the man.
Also she is bold with her assertions - wanting to accuse in a trial what happened with Rebecca; examining dead bodies and confidently proclaiming her opinions without timidity; gently lecturing Caleb as an example on kindness and compassion toward his wife.
3.) Did what you read and/or learned about life in Hallowell, Maine in 1789 surprise you? Did the characters act as you would imagine they would in this time period? Were there any actions or revelations that were particularly bothersome to you?
I am happy they are not acting as backward and repressed as some historical novels make characters act. I'm liking the writing style, the town, the characters so far. Nothing has bothered me so far. I'm finding it all very interesting.
4.) Now that you have 1/6th of the book read…..or part 1 of 6 at least. 😂
Do you have any predictions on the story in general? Or do you have a theory on what really happened to Joshua Burgess?
No, I am having an idea her son among other will have accusations. Not sure what's up with the new annoying doctor yet. She has a firm enemy with the "judge" that will likely worsen. I don't know yet who killed the 'victim'
DQs Day 1 (Part 1: A Hanging)1.) Contrary to how I normally go into a BOM (blind!), I knew the book was inspired by the actual diary of a real-life midwife.
Prior to reading the book summary did you know anything about Martha Ballard or did you Google her prior to reading? If you didn't know this until now, are you likely to look up her now?
I first read this book in 2024 after buying the hardback from Book of the Month. I didn't read the blurb and had no idea that it was inspired by a real woman in history. When I originally read it, the notes about the real woman, Martha Ballard, and that she was a midwife and so on were in the back of the book. That REALLY brought the story to life. I did look her up at that time, but I haven't looked her up again.
2.) Martha says the townspeople dislike her, but Ephraim disagrees: “They respect you. Perhaps occasionally fear you. It’s not the same thing.” (p 56)
What do you think is the difference between dislike and respect with a little fear thrown in? Which do you think is worse?
I think dislike means people simply don't care for you, while respect with a little fear means they recognize your strengths and abilities even if you make them uncomfortable. I'd rather be respected and a little feared than simply disliked. In Martha's case, I think her honesty, confidence, and knowledge intimidated people, especially considering the time in which she lived.
3.) Did what you read and/or learned about life in Hallowell, Maine in 1789 surprise you? Did the characters act as you would imagine they would in this time period? Were there any actions or revelations that were particularly bothersome to you?
What bothered me most was the lack of respect given to women and how easily a man's word was trusted over a woman's. Martha was intelligent, experienced, and highly skilled, yet her knowledge could still be dismissed simply because she was a woman. 😡😠😤 Even more disturbing was seeing how difficult it was for women like Rebecca to be believed or receive justice. I knew women had far fewer rights in 1789, so I can't say it surprised me, but actually seeing how that affected their everyday lives was still frustrating (more like maddening) to read. I did love that Martha refused to quietly accept it. 💪
4.) Now that you have 1/6th of the book read…..or part 1 of 6 at least. 😂
Do you have any predictions on the story in general? Or do you have a theory on what really happened to Joshua Burgess?
Since I read this a couple of years ago, I'm trying very hard to forget what I already know! Putting myself back at this point in the story, I think I suspected that Joshua's death was connected to what happened to Rebecca. The courtroom scene would have made me even more suspicious, especially with North so quick to accept Dr. Page's explanation that Joshua drowned and dismiss Martha's belief that he had been murdered. And then seeing the accusations turned toward Rebecca and Martha 😡😡😡thrown out of the courtroom would have probably had me thinking there was a lot more going on at this point than I knew. I definitely would have suspected that someone was trying to protect himself or hide the truth, but I don't think I knew who just yet.l
NOTE: I would like to add that I LOVED this book so much even though it angered me!! It was one of my favorite books in 2024 and it still is. I eventually must have inadvertently given it to the library at the high school where I used to teach. I donated five boxes of books to them, so I'm guessing my husband put it in the wrong pile. Either that or I loaned it to someone and forgot who. Whatever happened, I'm sad it's nowhere to be found. So now I am listening to the audiobook and so far I am really enjoying this version of the book.
DQs Day 1 (Part 1: A Hanging)1.) Contrary to how I normally go into a BOM (blind!), I knew the book was inspired by the actual diary of a real-life midwife.
Prior to reading the book summary did you know anything about Martha Ballard or did you Google her prior to reading? If you didn't know this until now, are you likely to look up her now?
I didn't know anything about Martha or that this book is based on her diary. I am not sure if I'll look anything up about her.
2.) Martha says the townspeople dislike her, but Ephraim disagrees: “They respect you. Perhaps occasionally fear you. It’s not the same thing.” (p 56)
What do you think is the difference between dislike and respect with a little fear thrown in? Which do you think is worse?
Dislike is worse I think, respect with a little fear means people value your opinion even though that opinion is difficult to hear sometimes. Martha is direct but has the best interest of her patient in mind.
3.) Did what you read and/or learned about life in Hallowell, Maine in 1789 surprise you? Did the characters act as you would imagine they would in this time period? Were there any actions or revelations that were particularly bothersome to you?
What surprised me was the relationship between Martha and Ephraim specifically reading the last part where he wants to marry her in spite of what happened to her. I really like their relationship and the respect and love they have for each other and the openness. I think the rest of the characters did act as I imagined. What bothered me most was the court scene and how Martha was dismissed and the accusations toward Rebecca, there I already got a sense that something happened between Martha and North.
4.) Now that you have 1/6th of the book read…..or part 1 of 6 at least. 😂
Do you have any predictions on the story in general? Or do you have a theory on what really happened to Joshua Burgess?
No predictions. As to what happened to Joshua probably an angry father, brother, fiancée etc..
DQs Day 1 (Part 1: A Hanging)1.) Contrary to how I normally go into a BOM (blind!), I knew the book was inspired by the actual diary of a real-life midwife.
Prior to reading the book summary did you know anything about Martha Ballard or did you Google her prior to reading? If you didn't know this until now, are you likely to look up her now?
I had no idea it was based on anything actual. Honestly, looking her up seems like a lot of work. I usually succumb to those kinds of impulses further into a book. :)
2.) Martha says the townspeople dislike her, but Ephraim disagrees: “They respect you. Perhaps occasionally fear you. It’s not the same thing.” (p 56)
What do you think is the difference between dislike and respect with a little fear thrown in? Which do you think is worse?
When people fear you they want you gone. I think respect mixed with fear is worse than outright dislike. At least with straight dislike you/others can be open about it.
I will say that I haven't noticed any dislike (other than normal small town personality clashes) or fear. Maybe it's a nuance that is lost in the audio?
3.) Did what you read and/or learned about life in Hallowell, Maine in 1789 surprise you? Did the characters act as you would imagine they would in this time period? Were there any actions or revelations that were particularly bothersome to you?
I am surprised that an accusation of rape would be taken so seriously.
4.) Now that you have 1/6th of the book read…..or part 1 of 6 at least. 😂
Do you have any predictions on the story in general? Or do you have a theory on what really happened to Joshua Burgess?
With no rope, I wonder. With no forensic science I wonder if either of these medical professionals can be 100% positive that they know what happened. And clearly North is trying to cover something up!
DQs Day 1 (Part 1: A Hanging)1.) Contrary to how I normally go into a BOM (blind!), I knew the book was inspired by the actual diary of a real-life midwife.
Prior to reading the book summary did you know anything about Martha Ballard or did you Google her prior to reading? If you didn't know this until now, are you likely to look up her now?
I didn't know Martha Ballard before starting the book. I plan on reading about her after I finish so the book can stay "fresh".
2.) Martha says the townspeople dislike her, but Ephraim disagrees: “They respect you. Perhaps occasionally fear you. It’s not the same thing.” (p 56)
What do you think is the difference between dislike and respect with a little fear thrown in? Which do you think is worse?
Respect with a little fear is good, especially for a midwife who has such an important job. It means people listen to you and respect your authority and opinions. Meanwhile dislike is just dislike.
3.) Did what you read and/or learned about life in Hallowell, Maine in 1789 surprise you? Did the characters act as you would imagine they would in this time period? Were there any actions or revelations that were particularly bothersome to you?
So far it's pretty good. I'm usually annoyed with historical fiction because they write all women as demure, quite people. As if we started developing personalities suddenly in the 20th century. I did, however, have a hard time getting through the courthouse scene. It made my blood boil. Wish Martha could throw a chair at the judge! God forbid one is born a woman, suddenly her expert opinion is trash!
4.) Now that you have 1/6th of the book read…..or part 1 of 6 at least. 😂
Do you have any predictions on the story in general? Or do you have a theory on what really happened to Joshua Burgess?
My only guess is that whoever killed Joshua probably got the doc to cover for him. Or they killed him to silence him.
DQs Day 2 (Part 2: To Housekeeping)5.) At this point several animals have been introduced, some of them unique, especially the falcon and the fox. Martha seemed to view the fox as symbolic by a point in the story as a sign of something/an omen. Do you have any feelings of how these animals may play a big role in the eventual story?
6.) This second part has shown more unsavory traits of more of the townsfolk. As the shopkeeper Coleman warns her, it seems more will be turning against her. What are your current thoughts on the role of the "new" Doctor so far and what role he may continue to play?
7.) Martha did a clever twist with Barnabas Lambard regarding the body to get him to see some evidence that would have been disregarded otherwise. Her interactions with people so far have shown a wide range of her personality when it comes to dealing with different people.
What's your favorite thing so far about the main character, Martha? Or - if you don't like her so far - what about her bothers you?
DQs Day 2 (Part 2: To Housekeeping)5.) At this point several animals have been introduced, some of them unique, especially the falcon and the fox. Martha seemed to view the fox as symbolic by a point in the story as a sign of something/an omen. Do you have any feelings of how these animals may play a big role in the eventual story? I didn't really have any thoughts about them besides "oh cool! " And they are cool - what interesting animals those would be to associate with!
6.) This second part has shown more unsavory traits of more of the townsfolk. As the shopkeeper Coleman warns her, it seems more will be turning against her. What are your current thoughts on the role of the "new" Doctor so far and what role he may continue to play? I hate the new Doctor - I tend to give most people a break, but I cannot stand people who are sure they are correct and put down other views. (Especially when they disagree with me haha.)
7.) Martha did a clever twist with Barnabas Lambard regarding the body to get him to see some evidence that would have been disregarded otherwise. Her interactions with people so far have shown a wide range of her personality when it comes to dealing with different people.
What's your favorite thing so far about the main character, Martha? Or - if you don't like her so far - what about her bothers you? I like her a lot and like how she stands up to what she feels is right. I also did like the "trick" of getting Lambard over there was key - I'm not sure she knew she could trust him, but it was so important to get eyes on the corpse besides the stupid doctors.
DQs Day 2 (Part 2: To Housekeeping)5.) At this point several animals have been introduced, some of them unique, especially the falcon and the fox. Martha seemed to view the fox as symbolic by a point in the story as a sign of something/an omen. Do you have any feelings of how these animals may play a big role in the eventual story?
I didn't really think about it. I'm too busy fuming thanks to North and Dr. Stupid.😅
6.) This second part has shown more unsavory traits of more of the townsfolk. As the shopkeeper Coleman warns her, it seems more will be turning against her. What are your current thoughts on the role of the "new" Doctor so far and what role he may continue to play?
He is for sure going to be problematic. So far he seems determined to do the opposite of saving lives.
7.) Martha did a clever twist with Barnabas Lambard regarding the body to get him to see some evidence that would have been disregarded otherwise. Her interactions with people so far have shown a wide range of her personality when it comes to dealing with different people.
What's your favorite thing so far about the main character, Martha? Or - if you don't like her so far - what about her bothers you?
I like her so far. She is knowledgeable and wants to truly help people. Her rage towards the judges and the idiots she deals with is understandable. And I like her determination and that she refuses to back down.
DQs Day 2 (Part 2: To Housekeeping)5.) At this point several animals have been introduced, some of them unique, especially the falcon and the fox. Martha seemed to view the fox as symbolic by a point in the story as a sign of something/an omen. Do you have any feelings of how these animals may play a big role in the eventual story?
I'm really glad you brought this up because I've been wondering about that. Definitely the fox in particular seems linked to Martha somehow, maybe their stories will play out in parallel. The fox a brilliant and rare creature will be hunted by ill-informed and brutal hunters much like Martha will be herself. And the falcon is like Ephraim, loyal and noble.
6.) This second part has shown more unsavory traits of more of the townsfolk. As the shopkeeper Coleman warns her, it seems more will be turning against her. What are your current thoughts on the role of the "new" Doctor so far and what role he may continue to play?
He's a typical "yes" man, who will act in whatever way is best for his own interests. Add to this a man of his time, who will always think he is superior to women. Not a particularly likeable character at all.
7.) Martha did a clever twist with Barnabas Lambard regarding the body to get him to see some evidence that would have been disregarded otherwise. Her interactions with people so far have shown a wide range of her personality when it comes to dealing with different people.
What's your favorite thing so far about the main character, Martha? Or - if you don't like her so far - what about her bothers you?
Martha is one of those characters whose honesty and straightforwardness is going to get her and her family in a heap of trouble. She is admirable in this way, doing the right thing or what she thinks is the right thing although she may come across as proud and willful. She's a decent person who is going to come up against some difficult social aspects of the time - actually it's most time periods even today unfortunately.
I really like the relationship between her and Ephraim, it's lovely.
DQs Day 2 (Part 2: To Housekeeping)5.) At this point several animals have been introduced, some of them unique, especially the falcon and the fox. Martha seemed to view the fox as symbolic by a point in the story as a sign of something/an omen. Do you have any feelings of how these animals may play a big role in the eventual story?
I think she may do something with the fox and those trappers who are poaching. I think the falcon is just an unusual hobby for her husband.
6.) This second part has shown more unsavory traits of more of the townsfolk. As the shopkeeper Coleman warns her, it seems more will be turning against her. What are your current thoughts on the role of the "new" Doctor so far and what role he may continue to play?
I think he is arrogant. I'm not sure medical knowledge had yet advanced to a point that his opinions would be held in higher esteem than Martha's though. But he will try to turn the town against her.
7.) Martha did a clever twist with Barnabas Lambard regarding the body to get him to see some evidence that would have been disregarded otherwise. Her interactions with people so far have shown a wide range of her personality when it comes to dealing with different people.
What's your favorite thing so far about the main character, Martha? Or - if you don't like her so far - what about her bothers you?
I'm enjoying Martha's character. I like her cleverness.
Maine, 1789: When the Kennebec River freezes, entombing a man in the ice, Martha Ballard is summoned to examine the body and determine cause of death. As a midwife and healer, she is privy to much of what goes on behind closed doors in Hallowell. Her diary is a record of every birth and death, crime and debacle that unfolds in the close-knit community. Months earlier, Martha documented the details of an alleged rape committed by two of the town's most respected gentlemen—one of whom has now been found dead in the ice. But when a local physician undermines her conclusion, declaring the death to be an accident, Martha is forced to investigate the shocking murder on her own.
Over the course of one winter, as the trial nears, and whispers and prejudices mount, Martha doggedly pursues the truth. Her diary soon lands at the center of the scandal, implicating those she loves, and compelling Martha to decide where her own loyalties lie.
Clever, layered, and subversive, Ariel Lawhon's newest offering introduces an unsung heroine who refused to accept anything less than justice at a time when women were considered best seen and not heard. The Frozen River is a thrilling, tense, and tender story about a remarkable woman who left an unparalleled legacy yet remains nearly forgotten to this day.
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Nominator: Angie
Official Page Count: 448