I Used to Love You: Poems Inspired by Truth

by Emilia Mlak

she loves and hates

but at some point

obsession takes over…

A powerful self-illustrated collection of poems.

Who said poetry can't be gripping? Or that poetry books aren’t for you?

If you are new to poetry or enjoy a unique story behind the verses, then you should read this book.

This is a story of passion, hurt, mental health issues, and healing.

A story that stays with you for a long time.

More than just a collection of poetry, “I Used to Love You” is a journey through first love and desire, dating and connection, anxiety and jealousy, vulnerability and hope. The author paints a vivid portrait of intense emotions felt when meeting someone for the first time, mental health challenges, and how sweet romance can swiftly change into something dark.

In this book, you will find a web of words and simplistic sketches drawn by the author herself, helping you to fully immerse and feel the raw emotion that screams from the pages. Dive deep into two parallel worlds of intimacy, longing, devotion, as well as anxiety, danger and personality disorder.

The book is divided into four chapters, each offering something for you to explore and allowing you to choose the mood you want to immerse yourself

The LoveThe FadingThe ActThe New Me

If you enjoy a bit of romance with a twist, while also reading about self-healing, growth, and acceptance, then this love poetry book is for you.

Inspired by the experiences of others and the author’s own interpretations of the world, Emilia creates a gripping story that you will remember forever.

This is the book for you

You are new to poetryYou want to feel intimacy, desire, longing, and tendernessYou want to experience an emotional rollercoasterYou like fiction books inspired by truthYou cannot wait to see what happens on the next pageYou’re not afraid of topics like anxiety, personality disorder, addiction, violenceYou want to feel emotional connection while readingYou are into love poetry or books about datingYou like romantic books with a twistYou want to read about trauma and healingYou like reading about the mind and brainYou like psychologyYou like natureYou are interested in mental disorders and mental health issuesYou want to read powerful poetryYou love metaphors but the main theme is still visibleYou want to find something unique among fiction booksYou love and want to be lovedYou are looking for a standout gift among fiction books for women or fiction booksAnd much more!

This book stands out from all other fiction books and collections of poems as it

Poems inspired by truthA unique story behind itAuthor’s own sketches

Triggering poems were marked by a black dot in the corner.

Genres: Poetry

166 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 22, 2024

Reviews

[Jason Boje · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Vertigo. Contigo. I don't need any words."

Beautiful.

[Erin Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

cute, quick, deep poetry.

I am not a poetry reader generally, and I know nothing of what poetry shouldnlook like, prose etc, so I am not able to review or read these with a critical poetry eye, but I do know it should evoke some level of emotion - so, I let my emotions and feelings while reading this book of poems to lead the way. They definitely hit me right in the feels & I related to her story on so many levels. This book of poems has opened my mind to possible loving poetry.

[Natalia · Rating 3 out of 5]

Overall I enjoyed the poems, some of them didn´t say anything to me because I couldn't relate to them, and I am not used to this type of poetry, and also poems in English; but others were good.

I enjoyed the latest poems more, and I like the illustrations.

The poems that stand out more are The Leaf Story, directions, The Vine, clever, scar, done, acceptance, and time.

I think that to rate this type of book is difficult because it is something personal but for me, it is a good book, not my fav type of poem but I enjoyed it.

[Jana Versée · Rating 4 out of 5]

Emilia Mlak contacted me and ask if I wanted to read and review her book. Even though you could finish this beautiful collection of poems in one sitting, I took my time reading it. The poems seem very simple, yet the emotions and imagery are very thought-provoking and often recognizable. ´I Used to Love You´ has managed to capture the rawness and vulnerability of the human heart. I enjoyed it very much and would recommend to anyone starting out reading poetry.

[J. Barrett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful collection of poems

I loved this collection. There is a beautiful range of emotions and themes that flows throughout the book and takes you on a journey of mind and spirit. It is also illustrated perfectly with drawings that, while simple, resonate with the poems they accompany.

[Courtney · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this collection of poems that told a story about love, loss, pain, mental health issues, and the healing journey. It was a brief read, yet it effectively allowed me to connect with and experience a range of emotions. I loved the images throughout each of the poems, which wove the story together. I'm in no way an expert on poetry, but I thoroughly enjoyed this assortment of poems.

[Elise · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really loved how Emilia was able to put so much emotion into some of her really short poems, I feel like that’s so powerful. I found myself gravitating to a lot of the poems in the middle of the book and towards the end. I think this book is perfect for everyone since it has different stages of a love story, whether it be romantic, platonic, or within yourself.

[Hannelore Gorter · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyed these poems very much. A life story written in poetry.
I experienced love and passion, but also sadness.
A unique story, compliments to the writer!

[Staci Wilson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Pretty poetry

Although some of the subject matter is dark, this is very pretty poetry. My favorite poem was the title one, ‘I used to Love You’. There is also artwork throughout.

[Milahtje · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was a fun and quick read. I’ve never read poetry so it was the first time but I enjoyed reading it and some poetry’s were really nice! Thanks to the author for sending this book to me.

[Rosie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love that this wasn’t normally something I would read, but honestly loved it 💕 the illustrations were so fun! The healing poems were some of my favorite. Whether you’re a romantic or not, you’ll enjoy :)

[Ana · Rating 5 out of 5]

beautiful

An evocative story told through a collection of poems. This book covers the emotions of new found love , through a relationship, through rocky patches and a sorrowful end and then learning to love yourself once more . I Used to love you , digs through and claws at those feelings of desperation and depression and had me at times in tears. Absolutely beautiful! I loved every page !

[Shantel (Nixy) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This Poetry collection has so much emotion. These Poems are about love and heartbreak. You can feel the pain the author went through as she wrote this collection. These types of Poetry collections always get me in my feelings because I can always relate to them in someway. If you have experienced some pain in anyway from a relationship I feel like you should read this.

[MelQ · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Raw, Resonant Echo

Reading Emilia Mlak's poetry collection, “I used to love you”, was an extraordinary journey. Her poetry is a raw, heartfelt dialogue with the myriad experiences women navigate in relationships and within society's defined roles. Each short poem is a testament to the power of a few carefully chosen words to convey immense truth and evoke powerful emotions.
A particular line, "I hear your voice / but brain / ate its corner”, from the poem "Can't think”, struck me like lightning. It's a prime example of how Mlak writes directly from the heart and speaks straight to the soul. Her ability to distill complex thoughts and feelings into such simple, yet incredibly potent, verses is breathtaking. You'll find yourself pausing, rereading, and simply marveling at the depth of understanding contained within so few words.
It’s a collection that fearlessly explores how love both fulfills and hurts, as well as issues of identity, and finding one’s place in the world, with stunning clarity. Among my personal favorites were also “Tattoo”, “Keeper's thing”, and “Letter”, each leaving a lasting imprint. I used to love you is a truly thought-provoking read that will resonate deeply and leave you breathless with its profound insights.

[carl · Rating 5 out of 5]

imaginative

**Book Review: "I Used to Love You" by Emilia**

"I Used to Love You" is a self-illustrated poetry collection by Emilia that delves into the intense emotions of love, obsession, mental health struggles, and healing. Structured in four chapters—The Love, The Fading, The Act, and The New Me—the book captures the emotional journey from the exhilaration of first love to the depths of mental health challenges. Emilia's straightforward yet poignant language and evocative sketches enhance the reader's immersion into her world.

The book's accessibility makes it appealing to both new and seasoned poetry readers, and its honest exploration of tough topics like personality disorders, addiction, and violence adds depth. Triggering poems are marked for reader awareness, reflecting the author's sensitivity. Overall, "I Used to Love You" is a compelling read that blends romance with psychological depth, making it a standout for those seeking a profound emotional connection through poetry.

[Chrysanthi Gatidou · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Some love stories end in poetry.”

Emilia Mlak’s I Used to Love You is a poetry collection that doesn’t just talk about heartbreak—it lives in it. The poems feel deeply personal yet universally familiar, capturing the messy, complicated emotions that come with loving and losing someone.

The writing is simple but powerful. Mlak doesn’t rely on complex structures or intricate metaphors; instead, she delivers raw honesty in short, impactful verses. Some poems are just a few lines long, hitting like a gut punch, while others offer a slower unraveling of emotions.

If you’ve ever found yourself staring at old texts or reminiscing about a love that’s slipped away, you’ll see yourself reflected in these pages. It’s a book that reminds us that even the most painful endings can be transformed into something beautiful.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4/5) – A heartfelt, deeply relatable poetry collection for lovers of modern poetry and introspective storytelling.

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my first foray into poetry, and I love it. Each poem was another step in life, and it doesn't cut corners; it doesn't mince words.

From first love and that butterflies in your stomach feeling to the unbelievable of "he chose me". Through marriage and infidelity, and trying to forgive indiscretions and heal, to appear stronger, but in actuality, be falling apart.

Battling with yourself, trying to be what society thinks you should be. Eventually giving up on your relationship because it's not what's best, it only brings pain and regret. Falling into depression because you couldn't be what your relationship wanted to be.

Then, finding yourself and the beauty in life without obsessing over someone who didn't care about you enough to not hurt you; and finding yourself opening up to people who don't judge and ultimately become your family.

It was beautiful.

[Ash · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a wonderful poetry collection. I haven't read poetry since I was in school. As a child I didn't understand the style of writing and found poetry confusing, I'd formed an opinion that I didn't like it and hadn't picked up any poetry since. 
The author of 'I Used To Love You' reached out to me and asked if I'd like to read the collection. I found the writing extremely relatable and easy to comprehend, it has made me want to branch back out and read more poetry. Some of the poem's had gorgeous little illustrations to go with them which really helped add that extra layer of emotion.
My personal favourites from the collection are Clever, Us, Keeper's Thing and I'm Not Concerned.
I'm so glad my eyes have been opened back up to poetry, I feel like I've been given a wonderful gift. I look forward to reading more of this author's work in the future.

[Jola · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent ! The author is a promising talent ! Read and enjoy the psychological portrait of lovers created by Emilia Mlak. How many times I read I discover something new.This book is with me ! I love poetry and I know capturing emotions and part of life in rhytmic verses is an Art with a capital A ; finding universal content and picture myself in the poetic vibes of the poet like Emilia is the quintessence and priceless.The vibrant and intriguing content from the beginning such as " meeting you",through " tattoo", "scar" ,"bus","flu" or "creatures" to name a few is the journey of our own LOVE ,being fortunate to be loved with upside downs as the part of growing up .It is a BIG YES to read and discover ,what is unknown .When we cannot express ourselves "I used to love you " does it !

[Abdul · Rating 5 out of 5]

On the road of words from love to heartbreak!

I Used to Love You by Emilia Mlak is a raw and suggestive collection of poems that dips deep into the turbulent seas of love, mental health, and healing.

Mlak's self-illustrated work stands out with its striking portrayal of how romance can shift from sweet to dark, arresting the intensity of new love, heartbreak, and recovery.

Her poems are accessible to those new to poetry, with an uplifting conclusion that brings a sense of hope.

Mlak’s ability to convey such profound feelings in a few words is awe-inspiring, making this book a must-read for anyone seeking an after-devotion experience.

[Ebony · Rating 5 out of 5]

Emilia reached out to me to give an honest review of her poetry 💘
I have been wanting an emotional release, and here she was, with her book on a platter.

This collection of poems was so beautiful. A journey through loving someone who isn't meant for you.. from falling to picking up the pieces. It took me some time to move through Emilia's words. I was moved, I felt broken, I cried, I healed. I wanted to savor the moments. It was like falling through a spiral of nostalgia and coming out with a new perspective. Emilia your writing is wonderful, thank you for giving me the opportunity to read your work. I will cherish these words.

[Karmin Gentili · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book of poems takes the reader on a full circle journey that begins with the joy and euphoria of finding new love. As the people explore their joint interest, passions bloom into a fully committed relationship.

Unfortunately, life takes a toll on the couple. They work to navigate the challenges and difficulties of a day-to-day long-term relationship.

The main character continues her journey through the dissolution of the relationship and struggles with learning to find the person she lost through the years.

In the end, she recognizes that her entire journey has shaped her into a stronger person.

[Eve L-A Witherington · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a great book working through emotional turmoil of loving someone and feeling the loss of them in your life how it impacts you with memories and flashbacks to happier times all completed with little hand drawn illustratiuons addimng to the raw emotion of the book.

My favourite poem was I used to love you, quite fitting being the title of the collection of poetry!

To me it swas a simple but emotional concept of love's effect on your heart

Agony too following directly from the former poem, of the impact of losing your cloest love directly impacting the rest of your life in situations, with how powerful love can be.

Simply beautiful collection of moving poetry.

[Holly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you so much to the author for sending me across a copy of this in exchange for a honest review. I really felt how raw the emotion was in this, how raw the love, the loss and the hurt was. And it was beautiful. A beautiful, emotion filled poetry book. I found so many of the poems to be so relatable too and feel like most people could relate to some in here. I loved that some poems were long and some were short it was a nice variation and the illustrations added throughout were a lovely addition too

[Claire O'Connor · Rating 5 out of 5]

This unique collection of short poetry is presented with poignant and elegant line drawings that delve into the raw emotions of needing, grieving and acceptance we all experience at the end of a relationship.
Each piece brings something different to the table for consideration, resonating with anyone who has been in a long term relationship that ended.
At first glance the short pieces using simple language may not seem to be as deep as they really are, but Emilia has skillfully evoked emotions with simple (sometimes not fully fluent) language. Brava! I highly recommend this anthology.

[Serena Bennett · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am not usually a poetry person, but I was asked to review I Used to Love You: Poems Inspired by Truth by Emilia Mlak—and I was pleasantly surprised. The poems are heartfelt, honest, and easy to connect with. As someone with ADHD and a short attention span, I really appreciated the length of each piece—short enough to hold my focus but still emotionally powerful. My favourite was “Meeting You” – deeply relatable and beautifully written. A lovely collection that might even convert non-poetry readers like me.

[Aegelis · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Life's Story of Love Told Through Poetry

With a focus on the weight of words, the width and depths of feelings are on display, a way for all of us to relate who have experienced similar. As the title suggests, there is love lost, but the before and after are given as well. Sincere, nebulous, ethereal, each short poem uses carefully selected words and full vocabulary. On many, I had a difficult time connecting, needing more description or surrounding context, but the core is solid enough to look at the abstract art and appreciate the work.

[Olga Ziminska · Rating 5 out of 5]

Poetry deserves to be recited and that is exactly what I did as I read along. Emilia’s words hit like a song and like a sledgehammer to the heart.

This journey through love and pain and losing one self….wow. The feeling of hopelessness replaced by the feeling of healing and hope. This was an emotional journey.

And the illustrations were just the cherry on top. I read this on Kindle but I think this needs to be on my bookshelf.

[Sabrina Flanagan · Rating 3 out of 5]

3/3.5 Stars

I was provided this book in exchange for a review. I love how the poems came together at the end of the book. They told a story and a took you on a journey. My only critique was that some of the poems didn’t flow or the rhyming felt forced. I’m not sure how to put it, since I’m not an avid poetry reader. My favorite poems were Safe distance and safe place. I resonated with those most!

[Holly Roberson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a collection of true and raw feelings. Emilia has given us all an in-depth look into her soul. Shel has let us know that having feelings and expressing them is food for your souls. Her writing style captivates your heart, mind and every nerve in you body. Not many of us can say we haven’t at one time or another wanted to yell these things from the mountain tops. Thank you Emilia for your bravery of putting yourself out there.