Counting the Cost

By: Jill Duggar, Derick Dillard - contributor, Craig Borlase - contributor

Narrated by: Jill Duggar

Length: 7 hrs and 7 mins

Publisher's summary

For the first time, discover the unedited truth about the Duggars, the traditional Christian family that captivated the nation on TLC’s hit show 19 Kids and Counting. Jill Duggar and her husband Derick are finally ready to share their story, revealing the secrets, manipulation, and intimidation behind the show in this “no-holds barred” (People) instant New York Times bestseller.

Jill and Derick knew a normal life wasn’t possible for them. As a star on the popular TLC reality show 19 Kids and Counting, Jill grew up in front of viewers who were fascinated by her family’s way of life. She was the responsible, second daughter of Jim Bob and Michelle’s nineteen kids; always with a baby on her hip and happy to wear the modest ankle-length dresses with throat-high necklines. She didn’t protest the strict model of patriarchy that her family followed, which declares that men are superior, that women are expected to be wives and mothers and are discouraged from attaining a higher education, and that parental authority over their children continues well into adulthood, even once they are married.

But as Jill got older, married Derick, and they embarked on their own lives, the red flags became too obvious to ignore.

For as long as they could, Jill and Derick tried to be obedient family members—but now they’re raising a family of their own, and they’re done with the secrets. Thanks to time, tears, therapy, and blessings from God, they have the strength to share their journey. Theirs is a “complicated, remarkably relatable story of faith and family loyalty” (Salon) and a moving example of how to find healing through honesty.

©2023 Jill Duggar (P)2023 Simon & Schuster Audio

Raw and Honest

Jill reads this story like a girlfriend you’re having coffee with telling you about her life. She is raw, real and honest even when it hurts. It’s amazing how she’s able to reminisce on the beauties of her childhood while opening painful wounds and uncovering lies, deception and betrayal that were buried beneath. I started and finished listening to this book all in one day, I simply could not go to sleep until I finished it. Rather you’re a longtime follower of the Duggars, have only read the tabloids or just enjoy a good memoir this is the book for you.

I guess I’m an awful person?…

I expected this to go a lot harder on her parents. She was involved in litigation with them so I assumed it would go there. It felt more like the vivid depiction of a parent who is a total bully without any real resolution of dealing with that aspect. She did a great job narrating her story and for what it was I felt it was good enough to warrant 4 stars overall but the story needed more honesty. I felt a bit bait and switched with this purchase. Still interesting and if you watched the show at all you will enjoy the look behind the scenes. Very interesting.

What a Pioneer! Jim BOB please go away!!!!!

So proud of this brave young woman!! So many times I’ve felt ostracized. Singled out. Rejected. Betrayed & I thought I was simply doing the right thing as I knew in the name of the father. Jill’s story definitely reminds me of how I’ve had to carry my own cross… I finally feel I’m not alone. I feel as if she has simultaneously walked beside me in learning one of life’s hardest lessons while we are at the same age in life. & that life lesson is that enemies do not come in the form of family. They come in the form of your closest, immediate family members. That was a hard pill to swallow but am so glad she spoke to the millions of American girls in their 20s & early 30s that are not alone. Jill, you mean the world to me. Thank you for being so brave and sharing this story for all of us.

Pride comes before destruction Jim Bob. Money makes people funny. God has a way of raising the right hand of his kids & humbling those who have wronged them. Vengeance is God’s

Finding your own way

I found echoes of my own story in this open and honest book. I especially loved the detail in her finding her own views on things like pants, alcohol, and even her nose ring. It was compelling and I finished it in two days

Beautiful

Many family situations can be complex, both beautiful and a great source of sorrow. I felt Jill did a wonderful job helping the reader understand just how difficult that journey can be.

This was very enlightening

I appreciate hearing this from Jill’s own words. I am so very sorry for the pain and grateful for some recovery and more healing as time passes.

"Highs aren't Erased or invalidated by the lows.."

"Highs aren't Erased or invalidated by the lows.."

I really needed that perspective in my life right now.

I thoroughly enjoyed listening. Thank you for sharing your story.

Refreshingly honest

I was so impressed with all the growth Jill has done over the last few years through all her trials and how she can candidly speak of the warts associated with her upbringing whilst still emphasizing the good times and love for family and above all her unshakable faith in our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Love and Respect

This was done in such great taste. Jill showed that even though you may not always agree with your parents, especially as an adult, there is still love and respect. Praying for continued healing in this family.

A brave and honest story!

A brave and honest story around her family and life growing up. Admire her positivity and strength. Great book that I listened to in one day