Counting the Cost

The Untold Truth Behind the Duggars

For the first time, Jill Duggar and her husband, Derick, reveal the raw, unedited truth about life behind the scenes of 19 Kids and Counting, the hit TLC show that captivated the nation. In this New York Times bestseller, they pull back the curtain on the manipulation, secrets, and control that shaped their lives.

As the responsible second daughter of Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar, Jill was raised to embrace her family's strict patriarchal values—always caring for younger siblings, dressing modestly, and following rigid expectations for women. Higher education was discouraged, and parental authority extended well into adulthood, even after marriage.

But as Jill and Derick built a life of their own, the red flags became impossible to ignore. Though they tried to remain obedient family members, their growing awareness—and the responsibilities of raising their own children—pushed them to break free from the cycle of secrecy.

Through time, therapy, faith, and courage, Jill and Derick have found the strength to share their journey. Their story is a powerful testament to healing, faith, and the courage to stand up for the truth—a gripping and deeply relatable account of family, loyalty, and self-discovery.