Arielle Lawhon, author of the historical novel "The Frozen River," sheds light on the fascinating life of Martha Ballard, an 18th-century midwife who assisted over a thousand births. The discussion navigates the themes of women's rights and health care in early America, revealing the challenges faced by women in the reproductive justice arena. Lawhon also emphasizes the importance of recognizing the stories of mature women and the contributions of overlooked figures in history, enriching our understanding of the past.

Author Ariel Lawhon joins Anne to discuss her new release The Frozen River and how her books have aligned with literary trends. They explore the challenges of writing biographical fiction, the importance of stories with seasoned female protagonists, and share their favorite captivating books.

Author Ariel Lawhon discusses her book 'The Frozen River,' based on the life of 18th-century midwife Martha Ballard, who delivered over 1,000 babies without losing a mother. They explore the role of midwives, the importance of mature women as heroines, and debunk myths of the era including prevalence of out-of-wedlock pregnancies.