I’m giving this book a 3-star because I had to give it something, but I didn’t read enough to accurately assess its overall quality. Unfortunately, I had to DNF this book, due to triggering content in some of the first pages. I didn’t see a content warning in the description or early pages, so it really caught me off guard.

Sometimes I read poetry and find myself whispering “okay, *clap*" along the way. This was one of those books. This felt like poetry, a raw account of self discovery, and a meditative teaching all at the same time. I soaked up the rhythm of these poems. If you are someone who cares about doing the deep spiritual work of knowing/learning yourself and reflecting on sacred spaces - this will totally be your vibe.

The book is divided into 6 sections: Wars, You, Mourning, Earthquake, Stillness, and Me. Topics include self love and identity, romantic love and attachment, and learning who we are and why that is powerful.

There were a few pieces of that felt disjointed from the rest of the book/section, but I didn’t mind too much. This is worth the read.

Nisha says she is not a poet, but I’m shocked this is her first book. I’m so glad she decided to share her truth with us. Thanks to Expressions of Nisha and NetGalley for the copy.

"I Had to Break Me" is an emotionally captivating story that delves into the depths of self-discovery and personal growth. The narrative follows the journey of the protagonist as she confronts and overcomes life's obstacles, ultimately finding strength and resilience from within. Nisha beautifully weaves together themes of love, loss, and redemption, creating a poignant and thought-provoking tale that will leave readers reflecting on their own lives. As the story unfolds, we witness her growth and transformation, which serves as a powerful reminder that it is through our darkest moments that we often find our true strength. The exploration of themes like love and loss is beautifully handled in "I Had to Break Me." Nisha's nuanced portrayal of relationships, both romantic and familial, adds depth and complexity to the narrative. The raw emotions conveyed throughout the book are incredibly moving and will resonate with readers on a profound level. Moreover, Nisha's prose is poetic and lyrical, creating an immersive reading experience. Her vivid descriptions bring the settings to life, enabling readers to visualize every scene with clarity. The pacing of the story is well-balanced, keeping readers engaged and eager to uncover the protagonist's fate.

This is a collection of poems divided into 6 categories - Wars, You, Mourning, Earthquake, Stillness and Me.
I thought the whole book was beautifully written and very easy to understand.

Thank you to the author, to Netgalley, and Expressions of Nisha for this free eArc in exchange for my honest opinion. The Author shared a collection of poems that, if you listen, can tell you more in a few lines than most memoirs do in hundreds of pages. The style reminds me of Rupi Kaur, whose writing I love. I wanted to read the book on the sole premise of a healthcare opinion due to my profession as a nurse. WAR was the sexton that related with me the most. I had so many emotions during that section that really spoke to the longing of sorrow side to my personality. I thought the whole book was beautifully and deeply written. I hope to see more pieces of art from this writer.

Nisha has a beautiful way of presenting inner turmoil and its back and forth battles with the mind.
Each section of this collection felt like a new breath being taken as you wonder whether or not the soul can overcome its tragedy.

First of all, I want to thank the author and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. I had to break me by Nisha is coming out on March 9, 2023.

I absolutely love poetry. This author did such a great job with expressing her feelings. The way she writes is beautiful and the poetry is easy to understand. I can see how this book had negative reviews and it may not be for everyone but I loved it.

#poetryselflovemindfulnessmeditation #NetGalley

this book should have a trigger warning. I found it to be pretty triggering and a lot of post trauma linked to it. I couldn't even finish the book because I was overwhelmed, this might be for someone but definitely not for me. Also, I would make this book 18 +

Prose on a variety of subjects that follows the author's life

Experience in healthcare & technology "this computer takes me away for healing other beings I have become useless without my ability to click and type"

YOU - a breakup? finding of ones self & being reliant on others for happiness, depression. Solitude vs. sharing life with someone

Personal account of earthquake in Nepal in 2015 - this was especially interesting to read about having been there in 2016 and seeing the aid organizations and people still rebuilding

Running & how it feels on the body

Feeling emotions deeply, choosing to be happy, just me in this moment

I love poetry and the author able to deliver a well written and emotional prose in this memoir. I’m not that good at reviewing poetry in general because i believe that each poet’s has their own signature in every words that they’ve ever written for their poem.

Amazing works, able to deliver the emotion and feelings that the author have been going through towards a beautifully written poem.

Thank you Netgalley and Author for this E-ARC in exchange of an honest reciew

Thank you NetGalley and Nisha for the chance to read and review this book.

While I think the writer covers some really important themes (like what happens to women at religious sites, and the concerns of doctors) the style of writing didn't appeal to me the way that it should have. I feel like there is an audience for this book though, which is why I will be refraining from reviewing this elsewhere as I don't want my review to impact it badly.

There isn't really any criticism that I can offer, except that this style wasn't for me.