Laurel wants to know why her father is so cruel to her.

She knows she looks exactly like her grandmother, but what could she have done that makes her father take things out on her.

Laurel works at the textile mill during the day and goes to painting school at night.

One day she finally decides she has had enough and leaves in the night from Philadelphia to where her grandmother lives in Maryland in hopes of finding out just what happened between her father and her grandmother.

Her trip was a harrowing one, but she made it. Her grandmother is just as cruel to her as her father has been all these years. Did she make the trip for nothing?

Laurel decides she must find out and stays longer even though she misses her home, her painting, and especially Cillian.

We follow Laurel as she is determined to find the mysteries and secrets her family holds.

THE TRUTH OF THE MATTER is a very enjoyable read with writing that pulls you in.

Ms. Fleming does a marvelous job with descriptions of the characters, places, and feelings.

This book is a lovely, heartwarming read based on the author's research of her own family but does have some harsh moments

It will appeal to women’s fiction fans, historical fiction fans, and those readers who enjoy a family saga along with life lessons.

THE TRUTH OF THE MATTER is a pleasant, satisfying read that will stay with you and one that will lift your spirits as you see how the family endured hardships, made the best of them, and became closer. 5/5

This book was given to me by the author in exchange for an honest review.