Counting Backwards: A Novel

Erin Brockovich meets Before We Were Yours by Lisa Wingate, Counting Backwards has the tight pace of a thriller with the personal, emotional themes of a women's fiction novel.

BUY THE BOOK

Published Mar 11, 2025

336 pages

Average rating: 8

2 RATINGS

|

Community Reviews

Tanja
Jun 25, 2025
8/10 stars
Counting Backwards is a compelling and thought-provoking novel that masterfully weaves together dual timelines—following Jessa, a modern-day attorney in 2022 New York City, and Carrie, a woman navigating life in 1920s Virginia. As their stories unfold, a powerful and unexpected connection between them emerges, making for an engrossing and emotionally rich read.

What This Book Tackles:

✔ Reproductive Rights (not abortion)
✔ Infertility
✔ Immigration
✔ Women's Rights

One of the standout aspects of Counting Backwards is how it addresses these important and relevant topics with depth and nuance—without feeling like it's pushing a political agenda. The storytelling is immersive, the historical details are beautifully crafted, and the emotional weight of both women’s journeys keeps you turning the pages.

The audiobook narration deserves a special mention—the dual narration was done exceptionally well, bringing both Jessa and Carrie's stories to life in a way that deepened the emotional impact of the novel.

While the pacing slows in some areas, the payoff is worth it. The connection between Jessa and Carrie is revealed in such a satisfying way, making this novel a rewarding and insightful read.

A solid 4-star book that sparks conversation and reflection—I highly recommend it for readers who enjoy historical fiction with strong female leads and meaningful themes.

Thank you NetGalley, the publisher, and Harper Muse Audiobooks for provide advanced copies in exchange for my honest review!

See why thousands of readers are using Bookclubs to stay connected.