What I Thought Was True Summary & Key Insights

Huntley Fitzpatrick's "What I Thought Was True" explores the complexities of family secrets, identity, and the enduring power of love through the interwoven narratives of two generations. The story centers around the seemingly idyllic life of seventeen-year-old Abigail "Abby" Walker and her family, suddenly shattered by the revelation of a deeply buried secret.

Abby lives a comfortable, albeit somewhat predictable life in a small town with her parents, Peter and Sarah, and her younger sister, Josie. Her world revolves around her close-knit family, her boyfriend, and her aspirations for college. This seemingly perfect façade crumbles when a mysterious letter arrives, revealing a shocking truth about Peter's past. The letter, written by a woman claiming to be Peter's wife, exposes a hidden marriage and a daughter Abby never knew existed.

This revelation throws Abby and her family into turmoil. Sarah, utterly devastated by the betrayal, struggles to reconcile her twenty-year marriage with this newfound knowledge. Peter, initially defensive, slowly begins to unravel, grappling with the consequences of his actions and the pain he has caused. Abby, caught in the middle, experiences a profound sense of loss and betrayal. Her carefully constructed worldview collapses, forcing her to confront her own identity and question everything she thought she knew about her family.

The story then expands to encompass the past, revealing Peter's perspective and the circumstances surrounding his secret marriage. We learn about his young love and the choices he made that led to his dual life. This parallel narrative humanizes Peter, offering a glimpse into the difficult choices and unforeseen consequences that shaped his actions. We see the motivations behind his secrecy and understand, without necessarily condoning, the complexities of his situation.

Throughout the narrative, Josie, the younger sister, plays a crucial role, providing a counterpoint to Abby's emotional turmoil. Josie's unwavering support and youthful perspective offer a sense of grounding amidst the chaos. The relationship between Abby and her sister deepens as they navigate the family crisis together. Abby also forms a connection with her half-sister, revealing a surprising and unexpected bond that emerges from their shared past.

The overarching themes of the novel explore the fragility of trust, the enduring power of family, and the complexities of forgiveness and reconciliation. It questions the nature of truth and the impact of secrets on relationships. Ultimately, "What I Thought Was True" is a poignant exploration of how families cope with devastating revelations, and how even in the face of betrayal and heartbreak, love and understanding can prevail, albeit in unexpected ways. The novel highlights the importance of communication, self-discovery, and the enduring strength of familial bonds, even when severely tested.