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One Tiny Cry
The night they told me my baby didn’t survive, I heard it. One tiny cry.
I ran and never came back. Not for sixteen years. Not until a stranger found me and handed me a note that chilled me to my core: It’s happening again. Come home before she dies too.
Now I’m back in the hometown I swore I’d escape forever. My mother is dying. My best friend Caitlin vanished years ago. And someone is watching me — leaving dolls that look like me, knowing my secrets, dragging me back to the night that ruined everything . . .
I ran and never came back. Not for sixteen years. Not until a stranger found me and handed me a note that chilled me to my core: It’s happening again. Come home before she dies too.
Now I’m back in the hometown I swore I’d escape forever. My mother is dying. My best friend Caitlin vanished years ago. And someone is watching me — leaving dolls that look like me, knowing my secrets, dragging me back to the night that ruined everything . . .
246 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 25, 2025
344 people are currently reading
102 people want to read
About the author
Christina Delay
4 books44 followersChristina Delay is an award-winning author of psychological suspense, as well as young adult fantasy written under the pen name Kris Faryn.
A wanderer by heart, Christina’s latest adventure has led her and her family—a supremely patient husband, two adorable patooties, and mischievous, senior citizen cat—to the southwest of France.
When not planning their next quest, Christina can be found writing in her garden, hosting writing retreats in the Caribbean and other exotic places, sneaking in a nap, or convincing her patooties to call her Empress.
If you love books about complex characters who never know when to quit, with a good bit of will-they or won’t-they tension, sign up for her newsletter.
A wanderer by heart, Christina’s latest adventure has led her and her family—a supremely patient husband, two adorable patooties, and mischievous, senior citizen cat—to the southwest of France.
When not planning their next quest, Christina can be found writing in her garden, hosting writing retreats in the Caribbean and other exotic places, sneaking in a nap, or convincing her patooties to call her Empress.
If you love books about complex characters who never know when to quit, with a good bit of will-they or won’t-they tension, sign up for her newsletter.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
September 8, 2025
I received a free copy of, One Tiny Cry, by Christina Delay, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This was a pretty heavy read. I did not know who to trust, in this book. This book was to heavy, dark, and cultish for me, I did not like the ending at all.
September 26, 2025
4 stars for me.
Darla get creepy message, she have to comeback to town that she run away from. Her mother is sick, being take care of Trina, a nurse who also helped when Darla was giving birth to her stillborn daughter all those years ago. Her old friends are not happy when Darla come back ,they want to know reason why she left. But there was one more friend with them in the past, Caitlyn who died, but was it really accident ,or something more sinister? Then there is Abe head of the church, who threaten Darla all those years ago.Something is not right, and Darla need to find out what is going on in this town.
Will Darla get clousure about Caitlyn death?
Will she survive the church?
Who is the enemy,and who is the friend?
I didn't expect to like this book so much, the secrets and twist were getting better and better,this is a book that you read in one day. I like Darla, she does feel guilty for leaving her mother, even when her reasons were solid,and I like how she decided to help.The tension and mystery keep me turning pages, and I'm satisfied with the ending. My first book by this author,but not the last.
If you like twists, mystery, and never ending secrets this thriller is for you.
Thank you netgalley and JOFFE books publisher for arc.
Darla get creepy message, she have to comeback to town that she run away from. Her mother is sick, being take care of Trina, a nurse who also helped when Darla was giving birth to her stillborn daughter all those years ago. Her old friends are not happy when Darla come back ,they want to know reason why she left. But there was one more friend with them in the past, Caitlyn who died, but was it really accident ,or something more sinister? Then there is Abe head of the church, who threaten Darla all those years ago.Something is not right, and Darla need to find out what is going on in this town.
Will Darla get clousure about Caitlyn death?
Will she survive the church?
Who is the enemy,and who is the friend?
I didn't expect to like this book so much, the secrets and twist were getting better and better,this is a book that you read in one day. I like Darla, she does feel guilty for leaving her mother, even when her reasons were solid,and I like how she decided to help.The tension and mystery keep me turning pages, and I'm satisfied with the ending. My first book by this author,but not the last.
If you like twists, mystery, and never ending secrets this thriller is for you.
Thank you netgalley and JOFFE books publisher for arc.
September 11, 2025
What a twisty, turny, anxiety inducing, thrilling novel! I've never read anything by this author before and had no idea what to expect, but this book was awesome. I was cheering for Darla from page one. She was a one-woman army in trying to sort out what was really happening in her hometown. Despite people thinking she was crazy, she knew something wasn't right, and she went full force in figuring it out. I loved the descriptions of the wooden figurines throughout the book. Also how Darla advocated for her mom, knowing something wasn't right. And what Darla found in the attic had me shook. I highly recommend this novel.
Thank you, Netgalley, Joffe Books, and Christina Delay for an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you, Netgalley, Joffe Books, and Christina Delay for an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
October 26, 2025
5/5
I love a good folk-horror story and this was terrific. Had me hooked from the very beginning and truly didn’t let go until the last page.
Full of rich characters, the story revolves around the themes of guilt, regret and “old time religion” in a small town. Surprisingly suspenseful with a lot of shady characters.
Am I glad I read it? Wholeheartedly! I’m not sure that I would have changed anything.
Would I recommend it? Absolutely 😊
I love a good folk-horror story and this was terrific. Had me hooked from the very beginning and truly didn’t let go until the last page.
Full of rich characters, the story revolves around the themes of guilt, regret and “old time religion” in a small town. Surprisingly suspenseful with a lot of shady characters.
Am I glad I read it? Wholeheartedly! I’m not sure that I would have changed anything.
Would I recommend it? Absolutely 😊
October 4, 2025
First, I want to thank Christina Delay, Joffe Books and Zooloo Book Tours for providing me with this book so I can bring you this review.
DANG!!!! I was NOT expecting One Tiny Cry from Christina Delay so be so twistedly tabooish! This is a story that is so totally out of the box that will have everyone talking!! I am a very open minded person/reader but OMG did she shock me (and that is hard to do)! I seriously thought Christina should have put trigger warnings on this book of the topics that might be sensitive to her readers. That being said, once you get past the shock value of sensitive subjects I ended up loving the book and couldn’t get enough of it. Christina Delay is a new author to me and now has me questioning what else she has written that I would like.
“You gotta cut away the dead for a chance at life” Is the first written line in the first sentence in the first paragraph in the first chapter that intertwines a very powerful meaning within the book. For me that quote I found to be more eye opening into what I am going through at the moment.
It was a breath of fresh air to see that Christina gave Darla a love of gardening and plants. Not that I am a garden or into plants but it was a nice change of pace. It was a blessing in disguise that she chose her passion as it would be beneficial later.
My heart totally broke for all the pain that Darla was going through. Watching your parents die is not an easy thing to go through. Many times I wanted to hop in and comfort her.
As stated earlier this book may not be for everyone. Christina deals with very sensitive subjects such as church cults, suicide, rape, insemination, dying parent, incest, drugging and Addison’s Disease.
Christina’s book is very addictive and fast paced that you will find yourself binge reading it til the wee hours of the morning. She is an incredible storyteller with an eye for description and detail. Even with all the shock value and the topics it covered, this book kept me entranced from start to finish! This book I would give a 5 star rating to.
DANG!!!! I was NOT expecting One Tiny Cry from Christina Delay so be so twistedly tabooish! This is a story that is so totally out of the box that will have everyone talking!! I am a very open minded person/reader but OMG did she shock me (and that is hard to do)! I seriously thought Christina should have put trigger warnings on this book of the topics that might be sensitive to her readers. That being said, once you get past the shock value of sensitive subjects I ended up loving the book and couldn’t get enough of it. Christina Delay is a new author to me and now has me questioning what else she has written that I would like.
“You gotta cut away the dead for a chance at life” Is the first written line in the first sentence in the first paragraph in the first chapter that intertwines a very powerful meaning within the book. For me that quote I found to be more eye opening into what I am going through at the moment.
It was a breath of fresh air to see that Christina gave Darla a love of gardening and plants. Not that I am a garden or into plants but it was a nice change of pace. It was a blessing in disguise that she chose her passion as it would be beneficial later.
My heart totally broke for all the pain that Darla was going through. Watching your parents die is not an easy thing to go through. Many times I wanted to hop in and comfort her.
As stated earlier this book may not be for everyone. Christina deals with very sensitive subjects such as church cults, suicide, rape, insemination, dying parent, incest, drugging and Addison’s Disease.
Christina’s book is very addictive and fast paced that you will find yourself binge reading it til the wee hours of the morning. She is an incredible storyteller with an eye for description and detail. Even with all the shock value and the topics it covered, this book kept me entranced from start to finish! This book I would give a 5 star rating to.
September 22, 2025
This page turner is a dark and mysterious psychological thriller set in a small, close-knit Texan community.
Sixteen years ago, Darla Caraway fled her childhood town shortly after one of her gang apparently committed suicide. The girls body was never found, but blood and hair were discovered on Suicide Rock near to the creek that the teenagers often gathered to drink and smoke. Her friends assumed that it was the death of their friend that caused Darla to run, but she had her own dark secret! Darla has been bumming around sleeping in her mum's battered old car or sofa surfing with friends. Her latest job is work that she loves. She's an assistant at a garden nursery using skills taught to her by her long dead father. All is well until a man turns up with a package in her name, telling her that she must return. The messenger is a P.I. hired by someone from her hometown, and the message is clear "..... come home before she dies, too." Other contents of the package prove its authenticity, and Darla is further shocked to read. "It's happening again." She has to return, but what she finds is saddening. Her mother is in end of life care, surviving on charity, and the house is neglected and all but falling down. The plot turns mysterious and sinister over the next few days as Darla discovers that her old church and the lifeblood of the community is really a weird cult! Who can she trust? Her old close friends are almost all against her except for Emmie. She must discover what the cult is and its secrets and who is next to die!
This is a compelling tale of sadness and family love with plenty of tension and twists as the story quickly arrives at the final sting!
Sixteen years ago, Darla Caraway fled her childhood town shortly after one of her gang apparently committed suicide. The girls body was never found, but blood and hair were discovered on Suicide Rock near to the creek that the teenagers often gathered to drink and smoke. Her friends assumed that it was the death of their friend that caused Darla to run, but she had her own dark secret! Darla has been bumming around sleeping in her mum's battered old car or sofa surfing with friends. Her latest job is work that she loves. She's an assistant at a garden nursery using skills taught to her by her long dead father. All is well until a man turns up with a package in her name, telling her that she must return. The messenger is a P.I. hired by someone from her hometown, and the message is clear "..... come home before she dies, too." Other contents of the package prove its authenticity, and Darla is further shocked to read. "It's happening again." She has to return, but what she finds is saddening. Her mother is in end of life care, surviving on charity, and the house is neglected and all but falling down. The plot turns mysterious and sinister over the next few days as Darla discovers that her old church and the lifeblood of the community is really a weird cult! Who can she trust? Her old close friends are almost all against her except for Emmie. She must discover what the cult is and its secrets and who is next to die!
This is a compelling tale of sadness and family love with plenty of tension and twists as the story quickly arrives at the final sting!
October 14, 2025
I honestly don't think my words can give this book as much credit as it deserves, but let's get into it! It starts off at a gentle pace, taking its time to build momentum, but once it got going, it absolutely took off.
The story becomes fast-paced and effortlessly readable, with a great flow that keeps you turning pages. As a fan of short chapters, I was delighted. Each one pulled me deeper into the chaos, making it impossible to stop at just one more.
What begins as a slow burn quickly transforms into a roller coaster of emotions. The plot is completely unpredictable, dark, and twisty in all the best ways. I genuinely had no idea what I was in for, and by the end, my mind was blown, and my psyche felt shaken, in the most satisfying way possible.
Beautifully put together, gripping from the start, and exceptionally well written, this is a story that doesn’t just entertain. it lingers. It is a dark, clever, and emotional ride that I won’t forget anytime soon.
The story becomes fast-paced and effortlessly readable, with a great flow that keeps you turning pages. As a fan of short chapters, I was delighted. Each one pulled me deeper into the chaos, making it impossible to stop at just one more.
What begins as a slow burn quickly transforms into a roller coaster of emotions. The plot is completely unpredictable, dark, and twisty in all the best ways. I genuinely had no idea what I was in for, and by the end, my mind was blown, and my psyche felt shaken, in the most satisfying way possible.
Beautifully put together, gripping from the start, and exceptionally well written, this is a story that doesn’t just entertain. it lingers. It is a dark, clever, and emotional ride that I won’t forget anytime soon.
October 6, 2025
I’ll be honest, it took me a while to get into this book and throughout I was convinced it was 3/3.5 stars.. however, from the 70% mark it become really intense and I’ve ended up rounding it to 4 stars!
It is a fast paced book with a storyline I’ve not read before. Think religious cults..
The characters were written well as I found myself hating one of them and feeling sorry for another, the way they are written definitely evokes emotions.
I would say the story is quite heavy so proceed with caution before reading. If you have any content triggers, I advise you to read any trigger warnings beforehand.
I recommend this to anyone who enjoys a thriller with religious cult behaviour!
Thank you zooloosbooktours and Christina for letting me be a part of this tour!
I give this 4 stars!
It is a fast paced book with a storyline I’ve not read before. Think religious cults..
The characters were written well as I found myself hating one of them and feeling sorry for another, the way they are written definitely evokes emotions.
I would say the story is quite heavy so proceed with caution before reading. If you have any content triggers, I advise you to read any trigger warnings beforehand.
I recommend this to anyone who enjoys a thriller with religious cult behaviour!
Thank you zooloosbooktours and Christina for letting me be a part of this tour!
I give this 4 stars!
October 11, 2025
This was my first read by this author, but given it's my favourite genre to read, I love looking out for new authors and great thrillers.
This storyline took us on a journey with Darla, back to her past.
After giving birth to a stillborn at home, Darla is convinced that she heard a cry and fled from the situation.
Now called back by a strange note from her dying mother, she must face what happened and work out who really sent the note and what dangers the town possesses.
This was actually a pretty creepy read right from the start.
I have this strange fear of creepy dolls, so that element really didn't offer me any respite - but with the hints at the cult and the fact that we really couldn't trust anyone we met, I have to admit to having a slight chill throughout this read.
The storyline was well worked through and although this is a pretty standard format thriller, I liked the way it was presented and the way the threads all wove together, coming to an exciting conclusion in the end.
The characters were well developed and I liked Darla.
Being a relatable character made it easier to root for her and fear for her safety as the story progresses.
This was a tense and atmospheric read that had me immersed and racing through the pages.
I'm already looking forward to my next read from this author.
This storyline took us on a journey with Darla, back to her past.
After giving birth to a stillborn at home, Darla is convinced that she heard a cry and fled from the situation.
Now called back by a strange note from her dying mother, she must face what happened and work out who really sent the note and what dangers the town possesses.
This was actually a pretty creepy read right from the start.
I have this strange fear of creepy dolls, so that element really didn't offer me any respite - but with the hints at the cult and the fact that we really couldn't trust anyone we met, I have to admit to having a slight chill throughout this read.
The storyline was well worked through and although this is a pretty standard format thriller, I liked the way it was presented and the way the threads all wove together, coming to an exciting conclusion in the end.
The characters were well developed and I liked Darla.
Being a relatable character made it easier to root for her and fear for her safety as the story progresses.
This was a tense and atmospheric read that had me immersed and racing through the pages.
I'm already looking forward to my next read from this author.
October 4, 2025
Delay is a new-to-me author and One Tiny Cry was the perfect way to ease myself into her books.
The empty crib cover immediately set alarm bells ringing - any book that involves a missing child whatever their age - is angst inducing.
I have read stories similar to this before, but Darla's was a whole lot darker, and those dolls creeped me out no end!
It's a twisty read and it's full on fast - the plot is addictively good - trust me when I say you won't want to wait!
Guaranteed to make your pulse pound and send your anxiety sky high.
Immensely enjoyable.
The empty crib cover immediately set alarm bells ringing - any book that involves a missing child whatever their age - is angst inducing.
I have read stories similar to this before, but Darla's was a whole lot darker, and those dolls creeped me out no end!
It's a twisty read and it's full on fast - the plot is addictively good - trust me when I say you won't want to wait!
Guaranteed to make your pulse pound and send your anxiety sky high.
Immensely enjoyable.
October 5, 2025
A perfect creepy read for this time of year.
I thought what a cute cover then I read the blurb and the cover suddenly became very creepy.
Then I started the book - OMG it was so good, cults, missing friend, strange messages, the suspense built so much I couldn’t look away I was shushing everyone who even dared to speak to me!
A twisty tale just right for dark evenings under a blanket, but maybe bring a torch 😀
Thank you @zooloosbooktours for having me on this tour
#ChristinaDelay #OneTinyCry #JoffeBooks #zooloosbooktours
@joffebooks @authorchristinadelay
I thought what a cute cover then I read the blurb and the cover suddenly became very creepy.
Then I started the book - OMG it was so good, cults, missing friend, strange messages, the suspense built so much I couldn’t look away I was shushing everyone who even dared to speak to me!
A twisty tale just right for dark evenings under a blanket, but maybe bring a torch 😀
Thank you @zooloosbooktours for having me on this tour
#ChristinaDelay #OneTinyCry #JoffeBooks #zooloosbooktours
@joffebooks @authorchristinadelay
October 6, 2025
3.5 stars
This book was not at all what I was expecting from the synopsis. There may need to be trigger warnings since the story does include religious elements and cultish features.
It is a quick read thriller that definitely kept my interest. There are some very heavy, dark elements. The story kept me guessing so that you were not sure who was trustworthy and who the main character should be afraid of.
The story is well written so it was easy to keep turning the pages. Once I got to a certain point I could not put it down.
The end was not at all what I was expecting.
This book was not at all what I was expecting from the synopsis. There may need to be trigger warnings since the story does include religious elements and cultish features.
It is a quick read thriller that definitely kept my interest. There are some very heavy, dark elements. The story kept me guessing so that you were not sure who was trustworthy and who the main character should be afraid of.
The story is well written so it was easy to keep turning the pages. Once I got to a certain point I could not put it down.
The end was not at all what I was expecting.
December 23, 2025
Strange story. At times, hard to follow. And the ending!! Come on. Really!? Supposed to be a stand alone. We need answers! More!!
September 30, 2025
Rare / Possibly Unique Twist Ending Elevates Great Tale To Exceptional. The very subtitle Joffe Books chose to put on this book of "a brand new totally addictive psychological thriller with a shocking final twist" gives away that there is one here, so I feel zero remorse for mentioning that in the title of this review. If you as the reader of my review feel that it is a spoiler even as generic as it is worded... well, that is on you. :)
As to the actual tale here, it really is exactly what Joffe's marketing people claim: very addictive. This is a story with a seemingly normal ish character with a particular job and a fun quirk gets an ominous threat to return to her home town... where things go from bad to worse. There are reasons she left... and she didn't even have any clue what was actually going on here.
Blending elements of the classic The Lottery tale (at least in overall feel and foreshadowing) with the far more recent Gothictown by Emily Carpenter (featuring a fictional yet all too real version of my own real-world home County outside of Atlanta), this is absolutely a tale psychological thriller fans are going to eat up.
And then that ending. Wow. And yes, I'm returning to it and you're still not going to have any actual idea what is happening with what I'm about to say about it. I've seen other authors achieve a similar bone-chilling, almost horrific twist, but I'm not going to name the author or book or situation... because that would begin to give you an idea here. Similarly, there is one book in particular that gets tossed around in the zeitgeist quite a bit these days that *actually* bears remarkable resemblance here... but even though that limits the books in question to only a handful or so, I'm not going to give any hints other than what I've already said.
Delay did an great job with this tale overall. It was dark and creepy, yet also had its more lighthearted moments, particularly where the quirk I mentioned above shines through. It had several tender moments which really help explain the ultimate motivations of our main character, and both of these play into making the final twist all that it is.
Finally, as this *is* a sub 250 page book with a *lot* going on... this is absolutely one of those "quick read" books perfect for when you want to read and want to be absorbed into a tale... but also don't have a lot of time for it, for whatever reason. Or maybe you're the opposite and looking for something to kill a few hours while sitting on a beach or poolside somewhere or (more accurately for the fall/ coming winter season at least for some of us in the Northern Hemisphere as this book is released in early October, maybe by a fireside) chilling out. Either way, this book is going to be one you're going to want to read.
When you do, I very much encourage you to write your own review. It doesn't have to be long. Just 26 words will be accepted anywhere you're reading this review. This paragraph alone clocks in at 49 words. Just tell us what you thought, in whatever words you have.
Very much recommended.
As to the actual tale here, it really is exactly what Joffe's marketing people claim: very addictive. This is a story with a seemingly normal ish character with a particular job and a fun quirk gets an ominous threat to return to her home town... where things go from bad to worse. There are reasons she left... and she didn't even have any clue what was actually going on here.
Blending elements of the classic The Lottery tale (at least in overall feel and foreshadowing) with the far more recent Gothictown by Emily Carpenter (featuring a fictional yet all too real version of my own real-world home County outside of Atlanta), this is absolutely a tale psychological thriller fans are going to eat up.
And then that ending. Wow. And yes, I'm returning to it and you're still not going to have any actual idea what is happening with what I'm about to say about it. I've seen other authors achieve a similar bone-chilling, almost horrific twist, but I'm not going to name the author or book or situation... because that would begin to give you an idea here. Similarly, there is one book in particular that gets tossed around in the zeitgeist quite a bit these days that *actually* bears remarkable resemblance here... but even though that limits the books in question to only a handful or so, I'm not going to give any hints other than what I've already said.
Delay did an great job with this tale overall. It was dark and creepy, yet also had its more lighthearted moments, particularly where the quirk I mentioned above shines through. It had several tender moments which really help explain the ultimate motivations of our main character, and both of these play into making the final twist all that it is.
Finally, as this *is* a sub 250 page book with a *lot* going on... this is absolutely one of those "quick read" books perfect for when you want to read and want to be absorbed into a tale... but also don't have a lot of time for it, for whatever reason. Or maybe you're the opposite and looking for something to kill a few hours while sitting on a beach or poolside somewhere or (more accurately for the fall/ coming winter season at least for some of us in the Northern Hemisphere as this book is released in early October, maybe by a fireside) chilling out. Either way, this book is going to be one you're going to want to read.
When you do, I very much encourage you to write your own review. It doesn't have to be long. Just 26 words will be accepted anywhere you're reading this review. This paragraph alone clocks in at 49 words. Just tell us what you thought, in whatever words you have.
Very much recommended.
October 2, 2025
Christina Delay’s One Tiny Cry is a haunting, twist-filled thriller that takes readers on an emotional and unpredictable journey. From the outset, the story sets up a mysterious situation that immediately pulls you in, daring you to piece together the truth. What begins as a seemingly straightforward mystery quickly evolves into a layered, emotionally charged narrative full of secrets, revelations, and shocking turns.
One of the novel’s greatest strengths is its ability to subvert expectations. Just when you think you’ve found your footing or guessed where the story might be heading, Delay flips the script with a revelation that feels both unexpected and inevitable. The twists are bold, and they keep you turning the pages with urgency, desperate to see what could possibly come next.
Beyond the suspense, there’s an emotional core to this novel that makes it resonate on a deeper level. The characters are flawed, human, and compelling, and their struggles feel raw and real. Delay balances the tension of the mystery with moments of heartbreak and vulnerability, giving the story both edge and heart.
The pacing is tight and deliberate, carrying readers from one surprise to the next without ever feeling rushed. Delay’s prose has a natural flow, building atmosphere and suspense while keeping the story grounded in character emotion. By the end, the novel leaves you reeling—not just from the shocking twists, but from the powerful emotions woven into the narrative.
One Tiny Cry is not the story you might expect when you first open its pages—but that is exactly what makes it so compelling. It is a gripping, unpredictable, and deeply affecting read that lingers long after the final twist. Christina Delay proves herself a master of both suspense and emotional storytelling, delivering a novel that is impossible to put down.
One of the novel’s greatest strengths is its ability to subvert expectations. Just when you think you’ve found your footing or guessed where the story might be heading, Delay flips the script with a revelation that feels both unexpected and inevitable. The twists are bold, and they keep you turning the pages with urgency, desperate to see what could possibly come next.
Beyond the suspense, there’s an emotional core to this novel that makes it resonate on a deeper level. The characters are flawed, human, and compelling, and their struggles feel raw and real. Delay balances the tension of the mystery with moments of heartbreak and vulnerability, giving the story both edge and heart.
The pacing is tight and deliberate, carrying readers from one surprise to the next without ever feeling rushed. Delay’s prose has a natural flow, building atmosphere and suspense while keeping the story grounded in character emotion. By the end, the novel leaves you reeling—not just from the shocking twists, but from the powerful emotions woven into the narrative.
One Tiny Cry is not the story you might expect when you first open its pages—but that is exactly what makes it so compelling. It is a gripping, unpredictable, and deeply affecting read that lingers long after the final twist. Christina Delay proves herself a master of both suspense and emotional storytelling, delivering a novel that is impossible to put down.
September 25, 2025
Darla receives a message from a private investigator that he has been searching for her. Now he has found her, he will deliver his message. The message appears to be off Darla's mother. The message reads "it's happening again. Come home before she dies too". Sixteen years ago, Darla left home to make a new life with a new name. It seems she left after she gave birth to her newborn daughter and then she heard her cry. One tiny cry. Then then she was told she didn't survive, did she imagine the cry? When she arrives at home, her mum tells her she hasn't got long to live and she doesn't know anything about the message. It becomes clear to Darla that her mother wasn't the one who sent the message after all. Her suspicions grow and she feels compelled to find out who sent the message. And more importantly, who is the person in danger? She believes that she's the one who can save the person so she starts to investigate. The things she discovers are shocking. So shocking, in fact that even her friends don't believe her. The author keeps you gripped in this sinister tale. It's so gripping. You feel compelled to finish. The truth reveals itself with a truly strange and sinister conclusion. I love the pace of this book. The characters and especially the conclusion. This author has the talent for writing engaging plots with mysterious and yet sinister characters. Another great book from this author. The taboo topic really added to this storyline. A truly fantastic book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 25, 2025
I appreciate how quick a read this was. I had never read anything by this author before.
The mystery starts off fairly quickly and we learn a little about our MC Darla. She left her hometown behind and tried to remain anonymous.
But she wasn't as under the radar as she thought.
As the story unfolds we learn that Darla left almost two decades ago after giving birth to a baby that was allegedly stillborn. She left it seems, without a word to anyone. Not her friends or her mother. Breaking her moms heart in the process. She returns to a mom that seems gravely ill.
I liked the pace. It was well written and easy to get into. I also liked the insidious nature of certain characters. The premise was good and rang true of the secrets small towns sometimes hold. The MC being a plant lover was also a plus.
I didn't quite enjoy the MC making rash decisions and placing herself in danger every two seconds. But, I guess it happens. We don't always thinks before we act.
I was given the opportunity to read this ARC by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Looking forward to reading the authors other books.
The mystery starts off fairly quickly and we learn a little about our MC Darla. She left her hometown behind and tried to remain anonymous.
But she wasn't as under the radar as she thought.
As the story unfolds we learn that Darla left almost two decades ago after giving birth to a baby that was allegedly stillborn. She left it seems, without a word to anyone. Not her friends or her mother. Breaking her moms heart in the process. She returns to a mom that seems gravely ill.
I liked the pace. It was well written and easy to get into. I also liked the insidious nature of certain characters. The premise was good and rang true of the secrets small towns sometimes hold. The MC being a plant lover was also a plus.
I didn't quite enjoy the MC making rash decisions and placing herself in danger every two seconds. But, I guess it happens. We don't always thinks before we act.
I was given the opportunity to read this ARC by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Looking forward to reading the authors other books.
September 9, 2025
I've always been a fan of Christina's books, and this one is her best one yet. It was a fast read simply because I couldn't stop reading it! I had to know more. Guessing will not do you any good while reading this book; I guessed wrong about five times before I just gave up guessing and let the book surprise me time and again. This is a story about a girl who lost her baby (they said it was stillborn, but she swears she heard one tiny cry) then runs away. Then a private investigator finds her and tells her she needs to come back home to care for her sick mother. Coming back home to a town that feels betrayed by her leaving them, she discovers so many secrets about her best friend's death, her stillborn baby, and the mega church that basically runs the town. Honestly, you will never guess the ending! This is a book that I'm still thinking about days after finishing it. I also need to reread it to see if I can find some clues to the crazy ending!
October 2, 2025
This was crazy bonkers at times and I loved every minute. Anything to do with religious cults is up there with my favourite genres, and One Tiny Cry is one of the best I’ve ever read. But it did get more out there as we progressed. No-one believes Darla that there is something weird going on in the town she left sixteen years ago, though as the reader we never doubt her for a moment. Nothing indicates that she might be an unreliable narrator.
I really wanted to slap Darla’s ‘best friend’ Emmie, who starts out on her side, but then starts to agree that she needs therapy for her imagined threats. And as for her other friends? As they say – with friends like that who needs enemies .
In the meantime, Darla’s mum is really sick and seems to be going downhill too fast. She is being cared for by nurse Trina, the same nurse who delivered Darla’s stillborn baby girl sixteen years ago. Trina gave me the creeps.
Darla loves gardening like her late father, and has a plant called Percy (plus a dozen plant ‘patients’) who she takes with her when she goes home, and even straps him in with a seat belt. Oh and she talks to him. Maybe talking to a plant is a bit odd, but who am I to judge. Sounds like me and my dog (yes, she has her own seat belt).
The twist at the end may be a bit much for some readers, but I thought it was ridiculously brilliant. This maybe one of my favourite books of 2025.
Many thanks to @ZooloosBT for inviting me to be part of this blog tour.
I really wanted to slap Darla’s ‘best friend’ Emmie, who starts out on her side, but then starts to agree that she needs therapy for her imagined threats. And as for her other friends? As they say – with friends like that who needs enemies .
In the meantime, Darla’s mum is really sick and seems to be going downhill too fast. She is being cared for by nurse Trina, the same nurse who delivered Darla’s stillborn baby girl sixteen years ago. Trina gave me the creeps.
Darla loves gardening like her late father, and has a plant called Percy (plus a dozen plant ‘patients’) who she takes with her when she goes home, and even straps him in with a seat belt. Oh and she talks to him. Maybe talking to a plant is a bit odd, but who am I to judge. Sounds like me and my dog (yes, she has her own seat belt).
The twist at the end may be a bit much for some readers, but I thought it was ridiculously brilliant. This maybe one of my favourite books of 2025.
Many thanks to @ZooloosBT for inviting me to be part of this blog tour.
September 11, 2025
In "One Tiny Cry" we meet Darla, who's dragged back to a past she'd rather forget after a private investigator finds her.
She must unravel the cryptic clues left by her late friend, a quest that puts her at odds with almost everyone she knows.
The slow building tension and atmospheric writing create an exceptional experience, while all the characters were well fleshed out and relatable.
Darla's determination is relentless and I was rooting for her while she navigated a world where nobody can be trusted.
The race to the end had me turning the pages into the night, and the explosive finale and final twist was excellent, with all loose ends tied up as neatly as a gift wrapped pot plant.
I received an advance copy of this book and this is my own opinion.
She must unravel the cryptic clues left by her late friend, a quest that puts her at odds with almost everyone she knows.
The slow building tension and atmospheric writing create an exceptional experience, while all the characters were well fleshed out and relatable.
Darla's determination is relentless and I was rooting for her while she navigated a world where nobody can be trusted.
The race to the end had me turning the pages into the night, and the explosive finale and final twist was excellent, with all loose ends tied up as neatly as a gift wrapped pot plant.
I received an advance copy of this book and this is my own opinion.
October 4, 2025
👏 This was a work of art! 👏
This one really had me thinking and I didn't guess the ending, which is rare for me so amazing!
The story follows Darla who returns home after a mysterious note finds its way to her. With a Cult gripping her town, she has to unpick a very dark past to find the truth... however dark abd uncomfortable it is.
The writing was excellent - Christina is very talented.
She hooks you and keeps you on your toes, you think you have the answer but then you are thrown around another twisty corner and onto a new part of the plot.
A literal rollercoaster ride.
The characters are great and Darla is utterly amazing. She is strong and resilient, determined in find out the truth.
An utterly brilliant book and if you enjoy psychological thrillers then this is one for you!
This one really had me thinking and I didn't guess the ending, which is rare for me so amazing!
The story follows Darla who returns home after a mysterious note finds its way to her. With a Cult gripping her town, she has to unpick a very dark past to find the truth... however dark abd uncomfortable it is.
The writing was excellent - Christina is very talented.
She hooks you and keeps you on your toes, you think you have the answer but then you are thrown around another twisty corner and onto a new part of the plot.
A literal rollercoaster ride.
The characters are great and Darla is utterly amazing. She is strong and resilient, determined in find out the truth.
An utterly brilliant book and if you enjoy psychological thrillers then this is one for you!
October 5, 2025
This is a gripping, well written storyline and plot with surprising and shocking revelations and a roller-coaster of twists.
It's thoroughly enjoyable and captivating from start to finish, and what an unexpected twisty ending.
There are strong characters, some to like and others to hate. I particularly liked the main character, Darla, and admired her determination to find out the truth at all costs. She is up against ruthless people, treacherous evil, and danger.
This book I would recommend to others who enjoy a really good psychology thriller.
My thanks to Joffe books for the advanced copy. This is my honest and unbiased review of this book.
It's thoroughly enjoyable and captivating from start to finish, and what an unexpected twisty ending.
There are strong characters, some to like and others to hate. I particularly liked the main character, Darla, and admired her determination to find out the truth at all costs. She is up against ruthless people, treacherous evil, and danger.
This book I would recommend to others who enjoy a really good psychology thriller.
My thanks to Joffe books for the advanced copy. This is my honest and unbiased review of this book.
October 26, 2025
This book caught me off guard in the best way. I went in expecting a small-town mystery, but it turned out to be so much more. It is twisted, emotional, and full of moments that had me actually pausing to process what I just read.
We follow Darla, who left her hometown years ago after tragedy struck. She is forced back when a private investigator shows up with a message that chilled me: “Come home before she dies, too.” From there, everything unravels. What she finds when she returns isn’t just her broken-down family home. It is a town built on secrets, manipulation, and something far darker than anyone imagined.
I loved that Darla wasn’t your typical thriller heroine. She is flawed, grieving, and just trying to survive. Her connection to gardening added such a human touch to all the chaos. It felt like her way of finding life and control when everything else around her was falling apart.
This story covers some really heavy and sensitive topics, so definitely check those before diving in. The way it’s written feels raw and purposeful, not included just for shock value. Christina Delay’s writing is vivid and layered. She knows exactly how to pull you in and keep you up late flipping pages.
By the end, I felt heartbroken, angry, and completely satisfied all at once. It is haunting, fast paced, and full of those “wait, what just happened?” moments. Definitely a 5-star read for me.
Thank you NetGalley and Joffe Books for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This story covers some really heavy and sensitive topics, so definitely check those before diving in. The way it’s written feels raw and purposeful, not included just for shock value. Christina Delay’s writing is vivid and layered. She knows exactly how to pull you in and keep you up late flipping pages.
By the end, I felt heartbroken, angry, and completely satisfied all at once. It is haunting, fast paced, and full of those “wait, what just happened?” moments. Definitely a 5-star read for me.
Thank you NetGalley and Joffe Books for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
We follow Darla, who left her hometown years ago after tragedy struck. She is forced back when a private investigator shows up with a message that chilled me: “Come home before she dies, too.” From there, everything unravels. What she finds when she returns isn’t just her broken-down family home. It is a town built on secrets, manipulation, and something far darker than anyone imagined.
I loved that Darla wasn’t your typical thriller heroine. She is flawed, grieving, and just trying to survive. Her connection to gardening added such a human touch to all the chaos. It felt like her way of finding life and control when everything else around her was falling apart.
This story covers some really heavy and sensitive topics, so definitely check those before diving in. The way it’s written feels raw and purposeful, not included just for shock value. Christina Delay’s writing is vivid and layered. She knows exactly how to pull you in and keep you up late flipping pages.
By the end, I felt heartbroken, angry, and completely satisfied all at once. It is haunting, fast paced, and full of those “wait, what just happened?” moments. Definitely a 5-star read for me.
Thank you NetGalley and Joffe Books for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This story covers some really heavy and sensitive topics, so definitely check those before diving in. The way it’s written feels raw and purposeful, not included just for shock value. Christina Delay’s writing is vivid and layered. She knows exactly how to pull you in and keep you up late flipping pages.
By the end, I felt heartbroken, angry, and completely satisfied all at once. It is haunting, fast paced, and full of those “wait, what just happened?” moments. Definitely a 5-star read for me.
Thank you NetGalley and Joffe Books for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
October 20, 2025
One Tiny Cry by Christina Delay
🌟🌟🌟🌟
A story which will have you turning page after page. Darla who had left her childhood village, is tracked down and told to return. Is she ready to face her fears?
Not many are pleased to see Darla return, and they all question why now? What follows is a story of betrayal, unlikely friendships and history that noone wants uncovered
A missing baby, a missing best friend, a church which focus' on saving people
Not my usual read, but i really enjoyed it and can't wait to read more from this author
Thanks to #zooloosbooktours #joffebooks for giving me a copy of this book to review
🌟🌟🌟🌟
A story which will have you turning page after page. Darla who had left her childhood village, is tracked down and told to return. Is she ready to face her fears?
Not many are pleased to see Darla return, and they all question why now? What follows is a story of betrayal, unlikely friendships and history that noone wants uncovered
A missing baby, a missing best friend, a church which focus' on saving people
Not my usual read, but i really enjoyed it and can't wait to read more from this author
Thanks to #zooloosbooktours #joffebooks for giving me a copy of this book to review
October 8, 2025
Wasn't sure what I expected but this exceeded it. The darker reader in my really enjoys cult reads so this definitely kept my attention.
I loved the twists, turns and the tense build up. I could really feel the atmosphere brewing.
The descriptions throughout were vivid, adding to the feel of it all. It actually did have a sinister feel at times but this just gripped me even more.
I did struggle to connect with the characters but it didn't spoil anything, I still found myself racing through. This was an enjoyable page turner!
I loved the twists, turns and the tense build up. I could really feel the atmosphere brewing.
The descriptions throughout were vivid, adding to the feel of it all. It actually did have a sinister feel at times but this just gripped me even more.
I did struggle to connect with the characters but it didn't spoil anything, I still found myself racing through. This was an enjoyable page turner!
October 22, 2025
From the moment I started reading this story, I was captivated by the way the past and the current time line held the storyline together. It had a mystery, conflicting emotions, characters who hid who they were and what they did as well as moments of intense wanting to finding out what had happened and who it involved.
I definietely recommend this book if you like intrigue, but you may need to consider that your own emotions may overflow with the story, which mine did and pulled at me.
I definietely recommend this book if you like intrigue, but you may need to consider that your own emotions may overflow with the story, which mine did and pulled at me.
September 11, 2025
Wow! Once I got into this story, I didn't want to put it down. There are some really disturbed people in this world and they're on full display in this book. I thought i had figured out what was going on here, but boy was i wrong! I was given a complimentary copy of this book and the opinions are my own.
September 27, 2025
Thank you to Christina Delay for the opportunity to ARC read this book.
I enjoyed this story - the mystery was intriguing and kept my attention. I think some more meat could have been added to the last fourth of the book to really sink home the twist and resolution of the story but overall it was entertaining to read and nicely written.
I enjoyed this story - the mystery was intriguing and kept my attention. I think some more meat could have been added to the last fourth of the book to really sink home the twist and resolution of the story but overall it was entertaining to read and nicely written.
September 29, 2025
A Must Read
Sixteen years ago Darla left home and hasn't been back since. Now a stranger approaches her with a message telling her to come home before someone dies. Darla didn't want to go but she couldn't ignore the message either and reluctantly packs up her car and sets off. I was gripped by this book from day one. It made me laugh and shed the odd tear too. A must read.
Sixteen years ago Darla left home and hasn't been back since. Now a stranger approaches her with a message telling her to come home before someone dies. Darla didn't want to go but she couldn't ignore the message either and reluctantly packs up her car and sets off. I was gripped by this book from day one. It made me laugh and shed the odd tear too. A must read.
September 30, 2025
Best book I’ve read in a long time. Had me invested in the story almost from page one. Engaging characters, suspenseful, and twists I didn’t see coming. I enjoyed it so much I purchased the author’s other two books. Highly recommended!
I’d like to thank Joffe Books for the opportunity to read and review this book.
I’d like to thank Joffe Books for the opportunity to read and review this book.
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