Maine Historical Fiction Book Group
Join the Androscoggin Historical Society, Auburn Public Library, and Lewiston Public Library as we partner to explore fiction with a historical twist. We will be meeting on the last Monday of each month from 5:30 – 6:30pm to discuss a historical fiction novel. Our first meeting will take place on September 29th @ 5:30pm, at the Androscoggin Historical Society, located at 93 Lisbon St., Lewiston, Maine 04240.
Our first book will be The Frozen River, by Ariel Lawhon.
“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.” — Book jacket.
Participants will be expected to obtain a copy of the book independently. You may place a hold on Minerva using your library card or contact either the Auburn Public Library or the Lewiston Public Library for assistance with how to borrow a copy of this month’s selection.
Locations of future gatherings will rotate between the Androscoggin Historical Society, Auburn Public Library, and Lewiston Public Library. Future readings to be determined by those who come.
Free to attend. No registration required at this time. No food provided, but feel free to bring your own. Tea and water provided. Recommended for ages 18+.
For further information, contact:
Ben Snethen, Lewiston Public Library, bsnethen@lewistonmaine.gov
Izzy Ruta, Auburn Public Library, iruta@auburnpubliclibrary.org
Laura Juraska, Androscoggin Historical Society, laurajuraska@gmail.com
