Counting Backwards: A Novel [Paperback]

'A dual-timeline novel inspired by real events, COUNTING BACKWARDS examines the ways women's bodies have been used against them in American society both past and present. With well-developed, complex characters, the story truly comes to life as both Carrie and Jessa try to navigate the hands they've been dealt. As secrets and connections are revealed, layer by surprising layer, Friedland explores both responsibility and redemption with heft and grace.''A gripping, timely, and important read. In COUNTING BACKWARDS, Jacqueline Friedland has crafted a nuanced, powerful, and eye-opening novel, driving home the urgency and fragility of women's reproductive rights. This is a thought-provoking story, perfect for lively book club discussion.''A riveting story about the lengths people will go to control the destinies of others and the secrets we keep even from those we love the most. Jacqueline Friedland uncovers a shameful moment in our country's history and in so doing, brings into the light people whom time has largely forgotten.''Bold, timely, and inspired by shocking real-life events, COUNTING BACKWARDS had me gripped from its opening chapter. In this courageous and propulsive novel, Friedland doesn't shy away from tackling hard questions about social responsibility, ancestral loyalty, what we owe each other as women, and--perhaps most crucially--what we owe ourselves.''COUNTING BACKWARDS is a tightly woven dual-timeline novel that explores the way in which the sins of a family member can reverberate for generations and how society's mistreatment of women hasn't changed in decades. Jacqueline Friedland's ripped-from-the-headlines story is an Erin Brockovich for our times.''Fans of Jodi Picoult's SMALL GREAT THINGS (2016) and Chris Bohjalian's HOUR OF THE WITCH (2021) will appreciate Friedland's ability to balance weighty subject matter with moments of hope and genuine connection. With questions of reproductive rights and bodily autonomy echoing across generations, COUNTló2