Counting the Cost

· Simon and Schuster
4.4
87 reviews
Ebook
288
Pages
Eligible
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About this ebook

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.

Ratings and reviews

4.4
87 reviews
Melinda Nance
September 17, 2023
What happened to Jill Duggar Dillard was criminal, pure and simple. What a courageous woman she is, and what a wonderful man she married. It's absolutely unconsciable what her father has done to she and her husband, and each and every one of her siblings. Moral, legal, and ethical boundaries don't exist in her father's world except to control "modesty", and to scare his children and grandchildren into perfect obedience to himself, folks - not God, himself. This includes choosing marriage partners. Oh, and there's the money. The money HE controls. This man has made millions off the backs of his kids. He wants people to believe he's a good man. But charging your children money simply because they're yours? Withholding salary to people who "work" for you? Read the book.
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Anonymous ManPerson
September 13, 2023
This appears tp be written by a "least favorite" child who is actually jealous of her brother's criminal downfall.... growing up in a religious house is usually toxic and ALWAYS leads to either THIS type of jealousy, hate, and pettiness or your growth in Jesus Christ .... My parents were WAY worse(abusive and then some)and I still go to Sunday dinner there 2 times each month... forgive or continue this pettiness
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Jen Jackson
October 14, 2023
Amazing book and story by Jill. I am so proud of them both for their story. This story took courage, bravery, strength, love, care and so much more. This book is a must read or listen to Jill tell her story. So proud of you Jill, hubby and family that supported her. You will go so far in this world so proud of you all. Sending all my love and positive energy to you and your family.
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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.

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