What do you think?
Rate this book
One in a Million
Sarah-Jane Crosse, SJ to her friends, is desperate to avoid going to her parents’ ruby wedding anniversary party. She’s terrified of introducing her new husband, Tom, to her estranged sister, Alison, because the sisters have history. Alison covets everything that belongs to SJ.
With her anxiety spiralling, SJ knows she often has a couple of glasses of wine too many and after a disastrously drunken night she reaches out for help. However, sadly help does not begin at home. Tom is not supportive. Seemingly in denial he misses SJ’s distress calls, and SJ begins to second-guess herself.
Everyone drinks, right?
It's hardly a massive problem?
She’s perfectly fine, isn't she?
Meanwhile, her very supportive best friend, Tania, has a surprising secret and SJ is determined to help her out. But navigating through this lot isn’t easy.
With the help of an ever-faithful dog, a few reformed characters, and a lot of self-reflection and home truths, the future is looking a whole lot brighter for SJ and the statistics speak for themselves - she is one in a million...
A moving, heart-rending and uplifting novel of love, hope and self-renewal.
With her anxiety spiralling, SJ knows she often has a couple of glasses of wine too many and after a disastrously drunken night she reaches out for help. However, sadly help does not begin at home. Tom is not supportive. Seemingly in denial he misses SJ’s distress calls, and SJ begins to second-guess herself.
Everyone drinks, right?
It's hardly a massive problem?
She’s perfectly fine, isn't she?
Meanwhile, her very supportive best friend, Tania, has a surprising secret and SJ is determined to help her out. But navigating through this lot isn’t easy.
With the help of an ever-faithful dog, a few reformed characters, and a lot of self-reflection and home truths, the future is looking a whole lot brighter for SJ and the statistics speak for themselves - she is one in a million...
A moving, heart-rending and uplifting novel of love, hope and self-renewal.
322 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 11, 2026
10 people are currently reading
52 people want to read
About the author
Della Galton
70 books86 followersDella Galton (aka Della Parker) writes novels set in Dorset, featuring quirky characters and very often a dog or two. She's had more than 2000 short stories published and she's run out of fingers to count her books on.
She is a popular speaker at writing conventions and the agony aunt for Writers' Forum Magazine.
When she is not writing she enjoys walking her dogs around the beautiful Dorset countryside and beaches.
She is a popular speaker at writing conventions and the agony aunt for Writers' Forum Magazine.
When she is not writing she enjoys walking her dogs around the beautiful Dorset countryside and beaches.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
There are always lots of articles about Dry January, Sober Spring and Sober October and the benefits of not drinking alcohol. But reading this novel about SJ gives an insight into life for an alcoholic. Of course Sj is in denial, she doesn't drink that much, or at least she doesn't think she does until she meets Kit, who works for a help group. Her struggles to reduce her drinking are not helped by her husband who minimises her fear that she is drinking too much and her parents upcoming party where she has to face her sister for the first time in years. Only when she's hospitalised does she take back control.
SJ is not always a likeable character, she has her flaws for sure, but you cannot help feeling for her as she battles her demons.
It's a raw, real novel, emotional and poignant.
SJ is not always a likeable character, she has her flaws for sure, but you cannot help feeling for her as she battles her demons.
It's a raw, real novel, emotional and poignant.
February 10, 2026
Perfect for the fans of Rowan Coleman, Dani Atkins and Jojo Moyes. 💞💕really enjoyed this book
One woman's journey to wrestle with her past and find happiness 🗝️
Meanwhile, her very supportive best friend, Tania, has a surprising secret and SJ is determined to help her out. But navigating through this lot isn’t easy.
One woman's journey to wrestle with her past and find happiness 🗝️
Meanwhile, her very supportive best friend, Tania, has a surprising secret and SJ is determined to help her out. But navigating through this lot isn’t easy.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
One in a Million is a beautifully observed story about one woman wrestling with her past, confronting the truths she’s tried to outrun, and slowly finding her way back to herself. It’s moving, heartfelt, and quietly empowering — the kind of novel that sits with you long after you’ve finished.
SJ is a wonderfully relatable protagonist: warm, flawed, anxious, and trying so hard to hold everything together. Her dread over facing her estranged sister, her complicated marriage, and her growing awareness that her relationship with alcohol isn’t as harmless as she tells herself all feel painfully real. The author handles these themes with a gentle, empathetic touch, never sensationalising SJ’s struggles but instead allowing her to unravel and rebuild at her own pace.
What really shines is the emotional honesty. SJ’s internal questions — Everyone drinks, right? It’s hardly a massive problem? I’m perfectly fine… aren’t I? — capture that fragile space between denial and self‑recognition. Watching her reach out for help, only to find it lacking at home, is heartbreaking. But the story balances that heaviness with hope: a loyal best friend, a secret that brings unexpected clarity, a faithful dog who never leaves her side, and a handful of people who prove that change is possible.
This is ultimately a novel about renewal — about choosing yourself, even when it’s hard, and discovering that you’re stronger than you ever believed. It’s tender, uplifting, and full of small, luminous moments that make the journey worthwhile.
A moving, heart‑rending, and ultimately hopeful read. SJ truly is one in a million.
With thanks to Delta Galton, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
SJ is a wonderfully relatable protagonist: warm, flawed, anxious, and trying so hard to hold everything together. Her dread over facing her estranged sister, her complicated marriage, and her growing awareness that her relationship with alcohol isn’t as harmless as she tells herself all feel painfully real. The author handles these themes with a gentle, empathetic touch, never sensationalising SJ’s struggles but instead allowing her to unravel and rebuild at her own pace.
What really shines is the emotional honesty. SJ’s internal questions — Everyone drinks, right? It’s hardly a massive problem? I’m perfectly fine… aren’t I? — capture that fragile space between denial and self‑recognition. Watching her reach out for help, only to find it lacking at home, is heartbreaking. But the story balances that heaviness with hope: a loyal best friend, a secret that brings unexpected clarity, a faithful dog who never leaves her side, and a handful of people who prove that change is possible.
This is ultimately a novel about renewal — about choosing yourself, even when it’s hard, and discovering that you’re stronger than you ever believed. It’s tender, uplifting, and full of small, luminous moments that make the journey worthwhile.
A moving, heart‑rending, and ultimately hopeful read. SJ truly is one in a million.
With thanks to Delta Galton, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I will hold my hands up and say not only is this not my usual genre, but I had no real idea wha the story was about- which made it even more surprising how deeply One in a Million affected me. I didn’t expect to feel so emotional, but the story stirred feelings I haven’t really sat with in a long time.
SJ’s struggles with self-confidence, self-acceptance, and using alcohol as a crutch resonated far more than I anticipated. The breakdown of her relationships from her marriage, to her sister and her friendships contributed to her lack of self control ultimately feeding into her addiction. It was an uncomfortable read at times- in the way that truth sometimes is- but also incredibly human and compassionate.
What this book does so well is challenge the stereotype of what alcoholism looks like. It isn’t always park benches and obvious rock bottoms. Sometimes it’s seemingly “functioning” people, quietly struggling behind closed doors, convincing themselves - and their families - they’re fine because everyone else is drinking too. It also highlighted how our own perspectives are not always accurate. SJ grew up believing a certain narrative, and it isn’t until much later after honest discussions with her sister that she realises everything wasn’t as it seemed. I think that is something we can all relate to.
This was a moving, honest, and ultimately uplifting read that hit me deep in my feels and somewhat challenged me to re-evaluate my own circumstances. Life really is too short. The novel was a reminder that being honest with yourself and asking for help doesn’t mean failure - and that change, however small, really can make you one in a million.
SJ’s struggles with self-confidence, self-acceptance, and using alcohol as a crutch resonated far more than I anticipated. The breakdown of her relationships from her marriage, to her sister and her friendships contributed to her lack of self control ultimately feeding into her addiction. It was an uncomfortable read at times- in the way that truth sometimes is- but also incredibly human and compassionate.
What this book does so well is challenge the stereotype of what alcoholism looks like. It isn’t always park benches and obvious rock bottoms. Sometimes it’s seemingly “functioning” people, quietly struggling behind closed doors, convincing themselves - and their families - they’re fine because everyone else is drinking too. It also highlighted how our own perspectives are not always accurate. SJ grew up believing a certain narrative, and it isn’t until much later after honest discussions with her sister that she realises everything wasn’t as it seemed. I think that is something we can all relate to.
This was a moving, honest, and ultimately uplifting read that hit me deep in my feels and somewhat challenged me to re-evaluate my own circumstances. Life really is too short. The novel was a reminder that being honest with yourself and asking for help doesn’t mean failure - and that change, however small, really can make you one in a million.
February 12, 2026
Thank you LBT for having me on this review tour and for this gifted copy of the epub.
Wow what a book this was. I loved this read so much. This was such a powerful book. I couldn’t put this down.
I loved how relatable SJ was. She just was someone I wanted to give a hug to and become friends with. I felt for her. I feel like I am her sometimes just barely holding it together and her relationship with alcohol isn’t what she makes it out to be and I feel this. I have people in my life that struggles with this and someone else I know tries to say he doesn’t but I feel he doesn’t understand he does so it’s really hard to get him to see the issues!!!
The way the author writes is so good and how SJ reaches out for help and struggles for it at home. I couldn’t imagine although I guess I could imagine cause I’ve been through it still am in ways where I don’t feel supported or understood or anything. So this really just stuck with me. This book has really just stuck with me.
But the story does offer hope and that’s what I loved. Like something happens and just offers hope and clarity and just goes to show that hope shouldn’t be lost and should always believe it can happen. I’m trying really hard for that but it’s super hard for me.
Overall this was a really powerful story and it’s one I think everyone should read because it will resonate with someone somehow I just know it will. So do me a favor and go get this book.
Wow what a book this was. I loved this read so much. This was such a powerful book. I couldn’t put this down.
I loved how relatable SJ was. She just was someone I wanted to give a hug to and become friends with. I felt for her. I feel like I am her sometimes just barely holding it together and her relationship with alcohol isn’t what she makes it out to be and I feel this. I have people in my life that struggles with this and someone else I know tries to say he doesn’t but I feel he doesn’t understand he does so it’s really hard to get him to see the issues!!!
The way the author writes is so good and how SJ reaches out for help and struggles for it at home. I couldn’t imagine although I guess I could imagine cause I’ve been through it still am in ways where I don’t feel supported or understood or anything. So this really just stuck with me. This book has really just stuck with me.
But the story does offer hope and that’s what I loved. Like something happens and just offers hope and clarity and just goes to show that hope shouldn’t be lost and should always believe it can happen. I’m trying really hard for that but it’s super hard for me.
Overall this was a really powerful story and it’s one I think everyone should read because it will resonate with someone somehow I just know it will. So do me a favor and go get this book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Sarah-Jane Crosse, SJ to her friends, is desperate to avoid going to her parents' ruby wedding anniversary party. She is terrified of introducing her husband, Tom, to her estranged sister, Alison, because the sisters have history. Alison covets everything that belongs to SJ. With her anxiety spiralling, SJ knows she often has a couple of glasses of wine too many and after a disastrously drunken night, she reaches out for help. However, sadly, help doesn't begin at home. Tom is not supportive. Seemingly in denial he misses SJ's distress calls, and SJ begins to second guess herself.
SJ is an alcoholic in denial. Hit is trying to help her, but her husband Tom plays down her fears that she drinks too much. She also fears meeting her sister at their parents ruby wedding party.
SJ is a flawed character, I actually felt sorry for her. She was not getting the help she needed from the person she needed it the most from. This emotional read is filled with hope.
Published 11th February 2026
I would like to thank #NetGalley #BoldwoodBooks and the author #DellaGalton for my ARC of #OneInAMillion in exchange for an honest review.
SJ is an alcoholic in denial. Hit is trying to help her, but her husband Tom plays down her fears that she drinks too much. She also fears meeting her sister at their parents ruby wedding party.
SJ is a flawed character, I actually felt sorry for her. She was not getting the help she needed from the person she needed it the most from. This emotional read is filled with hope.
Published 11th February 2026
I would like to thank #NetGalley #BoldwoodBooks and the author #DellaGalton for my ARC of #OneInAMillion in exchange for an honest review.
February 11, 2026
As someone who sometimes finds her bottle of wine emptying rather faster than it should, I found this book a particularly uncomfortable read. But my goodness, it was such a powerful one, as SJ wrestled to tackle her very real demons, always in denial, only able to change things when she'd finally hit rock bottom. Her friendships old and new, her difficult family, her less than perfect marriage, her journey to self destruction - I was with her every step of the way, at her side as she spiralled, increasingly beyond reason or control. Although she's not always likeable, I really felt for her, and found her far too easy to identify with - but was equally in her corner as she finally sought to rebuild her broken relationships and pursue new ones that might bring her happiness. It's a particularly emotional read, but a really heartfelt, honest and inspiring one, immensely readable and ultimately both hopeful and uplifting - and it certainly made me think a little and consider making some changes. A stunning read, and very much recommended.
January 31, 2026
SJ and her sister Alison have not spoken for years. After finding out Alison had slept with her first husband, SJ has avoided her at all costs to protect herself. As their parents anniversary party looms a meeting becomes inevitable and this is the tipping point that makes SJ understand that she is an alcoholic.
Told emotionally yet with care and respect, the author shows how a person can slowly come to understand their problem and how being at the very depth of despair can be the start of a new life.
I liked the character of SJ and was interested to see how her journey to sobriety would pan out. It was a slow process and well written. This book was a good read, as well as thought provoking and I would recommend.
Thanks to Netgalley, the author and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
Told emotionally yet with care and respect, the author shows how a person can slowly come to understand their problem and how being at the very depth of despair can be the start of a new life.
I liked the character of SJ and was interested to see how her journey to sobriety would pan out. It was a slow process and well written. This book was a good read, as well as thought provoking and I would recommend.
Thanks to Netgalley, the author and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 13, 2026
Oh how Della Galton has written this lovely novel about hope and self love! I was hooked in the first chapter. I loved the delicate, yet realistic way she addressed the struggle and impact of SJ’s drinking. The lens of the main character constantly justifying her choices without diving into underlying causes is so well done. As a reader you are enveloped in SJ’s world, yet see the impact from the outside as well. For such a serious topic, the author finds a lighter way to move through SJ’s situation that keeps the reader engaged. Grab this heartwarming story now! It’s available in all formats, including Kindle Unlimited.
Thank you to Della Galton, Boldwood Books, NetGalley and LoveBooksTours for the advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you to Della Galton, Boldwood Books, NetGalley and LoveBooksTours for the advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
An extremely emotional story about an alcoholic’s journey to acceptance of her disease and to finding a way to recover and heal. The story takes the reader through blackouts, memory failures and devastation as she finally comes to see how the disease is ruining relationships and herself. It is a beautifully written devastating narrative that will grip your heart.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Such an emotional rollercoaster of a story!
SJ is struggling with her life, she’s concerned that she is drinking too much and is dreading meeting up with her estranged sister at her parents Ruby Wedding celebration.
As SJ grapples with her demons we follow her attempts to overcome her dependence on alcohol. She finds a support network and is determined to sort herself out.
So many external pressures are lining up too, and it’s compelling to find out if she succeeds.
A very honest portrayal of a woman who is becoming aware of her addiction, we see some very serious issues that rock her whole world. We also witness her strength and determination to seek help and to move forward with support. Yes there are dark times but also some very uplifting and inspiring moments that show the importance of a caring community and a drive to find yourself again.
Very thought provoking issues that are shared in a very detailed and meaningful way.
A heartwarming story filled with hope.
SJ is struggling with her life, she’s concerned that she is drinking too much and is dreading meeting up with her estranged sister at her parents Ruby Wedding celebration.
As SJ grapples with her demons we follow her attempts to overcome her dependence on alcohol. She finds a support network and is determined to sort herself out.
So many external pressures are lining up too, and it’s compelling to find out if she succeeds.
A very honest portrayal of a woman who is becoming aware of her addiction, we see some very serious issues that rock her whole world. We also witness her strength and determination to seek help and to move forward with support. Yes there are dark times but also some very uplifting and inspiring moments that show the importance of a caring community and a drive to find yourself again.
Very thought provoking issues that are shared in a very detailed and meaningful way.
A heartwarming story filled with hope.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Firstly, thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for this ARC.
This was a very emotional, thought provoking story, SJ is full of anxiety, with a hard past, trying to navigate the fact she might or might not have an alcohol problem, coping with the stress of an upcoming party for her parents, where she will see her estranged sister. Everything becomes too much. I loved this book!
This was a very emotional, thought provoking story, SJ is full of anxiety, with a hard past, trying to navigate the fact she might or might not have an alcohol problem, coping with the stress of an upcoming party for her parents, where she will see her estranged sister. Everything becomes too much. I loved this book!
February 8, 2026
This was a thought provoking psychological fiction read, that is raw and full of emotion.
SJ is a flawed and anxious well written character from her first reflection on her day to day habits to the denial and rationalisation of her alcohol drinking.
We get to see the depth of her explaining away experiences and justifying her denial with being able to function in the day time.
With deep hurt she is going through the motions of life in any way that she could which have then become daily habits and blurred the edges between living and merely continuing.
Through the story I did feel deeply sorry and a sadness for SJ but I also felt that hope and deep strength along side her.
SJ is a flawed and anxious well written character from her first reflection on her day to day habits to the denial and rationalisation of her alcohol drinking.
We get to see the depth of her explaining away experiences and justifying her denial with being able to function in the day time.
With deep hurt she is going through the motions of life in any way that she could which have then become daily habits and blurred the edges between living and merely continuing.
Through the story I did feel deeply sorry and a sadness for SJ but I also felt that hope and deep strength along side her.
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews