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Counting the Cost

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Counting the Cost

By: Jill Duggar, Derick Dillard, Craig Borlase
Narrated by: Jill Duggar
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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. Entertainment & Celebrities Religious Studies Celebrity Marriage Heartfelt Inspiring Thought-Provoking
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That it was an honest experience of trying to set boundaries after having to many in the meaningless areas and non in the most critical. Where the power dynamics are clear and display.

Boundaries

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Thank you to Jill for putting this story together.
It was beautiful narrated and one of the few stories I preferred to listen to then read.

The balance was just perfect. It still answer all the questions that I had had over the years while still making sure that they only spoke from their perspective. Bother Jill and Derek maintained the positive aspects that her parents had made in their life while still speaking of the trauma and struggles that they faced.

Such a beautifully honest story

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It really gives an insight into the behind the scenes of the reality TV world. Deeply moving account of family relationships and how they are never black and white or go one direction.
Makes you question your own relationship with God and the toxic dynamics you have with your own family whilst also appreciating the good memories and love you have for them.

Deeply moving and honest

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I'm so proud of Jill! I've never met her but I feel like a proud sister after listening to this. I cried many times as I can absolutely identify with many things she's walked through and have great empathy for those, and the other challenges I've not experienced. I was captived by the Duggers on TV but as I've grown through my own adulthood and healing from abuse, I became concerned with their wellbing. I'm so encouraged to see how Jill has come through so much having grown into a much more confident and free woman. I love that she's been able to see the hard truths and yet her faith in her heavenly Father has stood strong, in all the best ways. Well done Jill and Derek! I pray your sees continued healing and progress. 💜🙏🏽

Wow! I could hardly put it down (press pause).

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It was heart breaking to read. Those kids were emotionally abused as children not to mention how greedy the father is.

Tracey

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In the spirit of reconciliation, Audible acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.