Counting the Cost

Written by Jill Duggar, Derick Dillard and Craig Borlase

Narrated by Jill Duggar

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.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Simon & Schuster Audio
• Release date: Sep 12, 2023
• ISBN: 9781797171098

Jill Duggar

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 three sons.

Reviews for Counting the Cost

[Maria Celeste Martinez · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Amazing book! Finished it in two days. Jill has done a wonderful job telling her story in a very clear and powerful way. You are helping so many, Jill! Thank you.

[Lucy · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

There was a lot of truth and rawness. I watched all of the seasons of this show and was always intrigued by it all. Hearing the behind the scenes from Jill herself puts a lot into perspective. She obviously loves her family but just wants to set the record straight.

[Gus Hill · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

This book was everything I expected and more! I was happy to hear a story that there are others going through similar experiences as me.

Thank you Jill & Derrick for sharing your story

[Alexis Christenson · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Woh what a story. Praise God that it was told.

[Alexis Houston · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I couldn’t put the book down! I finished it in a day. Thank you for sharing all of this, Jill.

[Catherine Pierce · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I really appreciate how Jill kept her faith, while navigating the complexities of her upbringing. As someone who's had a similar background in terms of restrictive religion, her insight was so emotionally mature and full of grace. I especially appreciated the recap at the end, describing what this book was intending to accomplish, and what it was not. I truly feel that God led me to this book, and I am thankful that Jill took the time and effort to write this.

[The Dulas · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

It was nice to see a personal perspective of the history and trauma Jill endured. It was also nice to see even through the differences and conflicts, she maintained a positive outlook for reconciliation.

[kristen mcfall · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I loved listening to this book and hearing the opinions. It was very interesting and answered many questions. Of course, there’s more than one side to a story, it was insightful to hear this one.

[Susan Smith · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

A fabulous audiobook. I enjoyed Jill’s narration of her story.

[Sarah · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

So well written and expressed. It was heartbreaking but also heartwarming. I cried so many times. Jill is so open, honest, and detailed about her journey. Such a good read!

[Rick Decker · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Like it was very good book
Would recommend it to everyone

[Kerr Howell · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I cannot imagine how hard it must of been to pen or type this book out for Jill. It is heart breaking to hear what fame, pressure, and money can put a family through, on top of the extreme religious teachings. I love Jesus and have followed Him for 22 years, and I can tell you that when you are a part of a community that focus on control and not the Holy Spirit lead and forming Jesus in you, it is dangerous and traumatic. I hope that the duggars can continue the process of reconciliation and grace. Manipulation and Recognition can cause someone to go down a path that is hard to get out. Jill great job articulating what your heart and life and even your soul wanted to say.

[Evelyna · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Loved that Jill provided a space to share truth while still remaining respectful and balanced about how to view things! This is not a book for drama and gossip but of seeking healing and finding out missing pieces on the journey of being made whole. She’s honest and transparent which is so refreshing and relatable. Well written and had me crying at some points and laughing at others!

[Cordell Warm · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Gracefully written and thought provoking. Definitely a good read and I highly recommend it!

[shelbi.wilson90 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

So proud of Jill for sharing her story! You are loved!

[Ben88Byler · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I’m so sorry for what you experienced. It seemed to me that you genuinely wanted to honor Christ and Christ wanted you to seem Him for who He is. I love the way that The Lord took care of you by sending a good husband to take care of you and protect you.

[jnickianderson · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

The story all fan (or former fans) of the show need to hear.

[Emily Jaynes · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Great read! It was nice to get closure on a long story that always felt unfairly reported on. I grew up watching the Duggars and was in close proximity to some of the teachings. As I grew up, I grew in wisdom, much like Jill and it was really nice to be able to hear her perspective on life. This book shows the "gray" in life - people are not all good and all bad. Jill's story allows us to see the depth in the people in her life. It might be harder for us to accept that someone we might not like is "all bad" but it's the truth. Jill did a great job exploring this! Loved it.

[msucci0974 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

I really loved this book and the honesty and courage that Jill had in sharing her story. This really shows the true nature of being in the spotlight and on the 19 kids and counting show.

[Michelle Cullipher · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Such a brave woman to bare her soul. Wonderful book!

[Benjamin Birch · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Insightful. This book opens us up to a world behind the the cameras and shows us a path of healing and growth. I am so glad they are on a path of healing. This book shows the mistakes and triumphs of a very interesting family. I love the struggles which are real.

[Ivey Veal · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Great book! Very well written. A good look into the life of those born into religious cults.

[Topeka · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

I can appreciate that Jill was able to tell this story in HER way - giving just enough detail without making it a tell-all book and sharing it from her viewpoint. It was great to hear about the history, the show, their lifestyle and especially, her growth and healing processes.

[Paula Cameron · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I found this novel very interesting. Jillian explains her up bringing as a Christian.

[Lil “Lil American” American · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

A beautiful and raw autobiography. An insight into the path of true healing.

[raekeenan21 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I felt Jill did a great job telling her story. She was respectful to her parents, but stayed true to her goal of being real and transparent with the world. The Dillards have shown great courage to share their side, and I’m happy they did.

[Tonia Hill · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Excellent book by Jill. My heart aches for her but I’m so thankful that she has a loving husband to support her.

[Trudy Chambers · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Jill and Derek are such an inspiration. You both are what true Christianity should look like. You both restored my faith in walking with the Lord again. Thank you for your honesty and kindness. It truly was refreshing to see how you stayed true to yourself.

[Dasha Estalilla · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I admire Jill’s courage to write this book. And I commend Derick’s leadership and care for his wife in some of the most unfathomable times. This book was needed and goes very well after you watch Happy Shiny People documentary on Prime.

[Beth Jennings Villarreal · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Kudos to her for speaking her truth and taking time to look into the teachings that were pumped into her.