Counting the Cost

Jill Duggar

Sep 2023 · Simon and Schuster · Narrated by Jill Duggar

About this audiobook

INSTANT NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER

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 that remained hidden from their fans.

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—they weren’t willing to rock the boat. 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 remarkable story of the power of the truth and is a moving example of how to find healing through honesty.

Ratings and reviews

I cannot recommend this book enough. the care that was taken to write it was so evident. Real bravery resounds through Jill's voice as she recounts monumental moments that shaped her journey. I admire Jill and Derrick for the compassion and honesty shone in these pages. I pray every Duggar family member reads it and is inspired to freedom and healthy relationships. Regardless of that, Jill is using her voice to help so many. What a gift.

Just finished her book. It's hard to find the words to describe how I feel, but I can relate. It was difficult to get through because it caused me to relive a lot of my own personal experiences, but I admire her and all that she's been through and the love she now has for herself and her family. She did a great job! Extreemly honest and genuine. Proof that one can come out the other side with a lot of support and therapy. I am proud of her as I KNOW what she did was not easy. I think her and I have very similar personalities.

Jill uses her point of view as a child to explain how and why her and her family have reacted to life under a tv camera. This point of view brings to light the impact of generational trauma and a lack of higher education. Her husband was the best rock in her life and reminds me of a romance novel. The raw feelings she expressed made me emotional. I believe everyone has something to relate to in this book. I hope she makes a FAT check! I'm rooting for you Jill!

About the author

Jill Duggar grew up as star on the hit TLC reality TV show 19 Kids and Counting. She was the first Duggar daughter to marry, and over 4.4 million people tuned in to watch the two-hour wedding special on television. Her life with husband Derick Dillard was featured on the show, Jill & Jessa: Counting On, and Jill is currently the oldest daughter living outside her parents’ home. Along with three of her sisters, Jill has previously written and published the New York Times bestseller Growing Up Duggar. Jill and Derick Dillard live in northwest Arkansas with their children.

Derick Dillard has been in the public eye since his first date with Jill Duggar, and over 4.4 million people tuned in for their two-hour wedding special on TLC. He starred on the TLC shows 19 Kids and Counting and Jill & Jessa: Counting On. Derick served in fulltime Christian ministry for five years, working in Asia while single, and then together with his wife Jill in Central America. Before going to law school, Derick worked in management at the Walmart headquarters in Bentonville, Arkansas, as a tax accountant. He is a practicing attorney, licensed in Arkansas and Oklahoma. Derick and Jill live in northwest Arkansas with their children.

Craig Borlase is a bestselling ghostwriter specializing in memoir. Previous works include the New York Times bestseller Finding Gobi and My Name Is Tani, the story of an eight-year-old chess prodigy.