Secrets versus Truth

One of the most prevailing themes in "The Truth According to Us" is centered around the distinction between secrets and the truth. While secrets can be seen as a mere omission, creating a debate as to whether secrets are lies, this narrative most often shows characters hiding their secrets with lies, making the inclusion of the truth a necessity when exploring this theme. The novel opens around the time that Willa first realizes her family is lying to her; although she believes she is Jottie's confidante, she soon finds that she is sadly mistaken. Her desire to learn her family's secrets leads to her attempts to befriend Layla and assist with her research. Irritated by her family's secrets, Willa wishes the Romeyns were like everyone else.

By snooping and eavesdropping, Willa learns about Vause stealing money from the mill and dying in the mill...