Review: Counting the Cost by Jill Duggar

Title: Counting the Cost

Author: Jill Duggar

Series/Standalone: Standalone

Genre: Nonfiction, Memoir, Adult

Pages: 287

Publisher: Gallery Books

Year Published: 2023

Format: Audiobook

"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 really shows 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 ankel-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 paternal 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 a blessing 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."

My Rating: 5/5

I think that after seeing a few episodes of 19 Kids and Counting, you know that there is more going on than meets the eye. But if you watched it as it came out how would you know. I really think that this delves into so many of the things that viewers didn't think to look for behind the scenes. I would strongly recommend the audiobook if you're curious.

Thanks for reading,

Sidny