Lover

by Sakshi Narula

A poem is a ray of hope, a friend who is as messed up as you but knows you better than the rest of the world. From the author of the celebrated poetry collection, Loveish comes this two book poetry series, The Art Of Staying Lost. Lover is the first in the series features love poems and notes. Lost, the second book in the series features poetry and prose about healing and letting go. Hearts break everyday but once in a lifetime we all go through an earth shattering one. Loneliness can be an alchemist, this despair is also a gift. Your heart maybe irreparably broken right now but this suffering is not permanent. Exploring every aspect of healing after a heartbreak, the poetry in in this collection implores you to heal and grieve at your own pace, until you don't have to anymore.

Genres: Poetry

127 pages, Paperback

Published October 28, 2020

About the author

Sakshi Narula is the author of the celebrated poetry collection, Loveish. Born in New Delhi, India she has since lived in over eight cities and three countries. Passionate about art and culture she finds happiness in writing and sketching. With her raw and relatable words she has managed to gain over 30k followers across Instagram and Twitter. Music, sketching and cooking are some of her other passions besides poetry. She calls the beach and the museum her happy place. Sakshi currently resides in Muscat, Oman with her family.

Reviews

[Asha Seth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Originally reviewed on www.badbookthief.com

I am a lover of poems. And the first chance I got to get my hands on Sakshi Narula’s ‘Lover’, I would’ve traded it for a bunch of breaths. I’ve been following her on Twitter for quite some time and I was totally intrigued by the lovely cover and the teasing blurb. I got lucky! She was kind enough to share an ARC of her book; which I’ve read thrice now, but my opinion of the book remains unbiased.



The book releases on 30th October, 2020. Lost is the second book in the series and will be released in January 2021. You can prebook on Amazon.

And now, I am going to tell you what made me fall for this book so hard!

You are scattered like autumn in my backyard

‘Lover’ is Sakshi’s first book in the ‘The Art of Staying Lost’ series. This handy collection is 125 pages long in the kindle format and filled with beautiful illustrations all over. Sprinkled with micro-poems every alternate page, this collection gives the reader just the right amount of pause to absorb the message the actual poems attempt to deliver. You will finish reading it in less than an hour and then wonder about what the book did to you.

Read me like your favorite book, word for word
Sing me like your favorite song, beat for beat
Chant me like a prayer, bead for bead

A lot many poetry books I’ve read that have tried to tackle the delicate topic of healing, but it was only in this collection I felt that was smartly handled. Because as a reader you do not want to read preachy prose, nor do you want to lament. Sakshi has tenderly worded grief arising from heartbreaks and loss without painting them in regrets and/or mistakes. Her writing clearly stems from her heart and perhaps, the experiences are personal; which makes the book all the more relatable.

My mouth has mailed you post cards since the day you left

In my opinion, these are not really poems, these are beautiful letters written to self, in most pieces, to the heart, nudging it to look at the sun and smile. That’s the best thing I guess – learning to accept is a step toward healing already. In the choicest of words and crafting some mesmerising, graphic phrases, Miss Narula has proven she sincerely wishes for her readers to heal without hurting.

I miss you like a lonely house misses a voice. A perfectly made bed longs for legs in knots and hands pinned on hands.

Her poems in ‘Lover’ have a very subtle hint of heartaches in the emotions captured, while marrying them with the hope to forgive and forget, and thus move on. That I felt was a very strong message that we need to remember. Poignant yet soothing, this book definitely leaves one wondering at how easy healing feels only if you allow yourself the time.

I will fold this sadness in words and pack it in an envelope, label it past, bury it in soil and call it a memory.

There are parts and pieces that have stayed with me, for they were so breathtaking that I had to write them down. And believe me, you’ll be doing the same because every word written in there is raw, relevant, real. Each one of us has had a heartbreak, at some or other point in life. And her words bring you home without feeling sad, but reminiscing about all the happy memories nonetheless.


All I have to say is this – if you are burning, hurting, from a troubled experience, memory, relationship, or loss, this book will work wonders in helping you shed some of that negativity, those apprehensions, the sourness, the shivers, and empower you to look the truth in the face and say, “You tried to break me, but I am stronger than you think.”

The only reason I'm holding back the last star is because I wanted more of it. Felt it was too short and I didn't get my fill of it.

What? Are you still thinking? Pick it up right away.

[Georgia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was kindly sent a copy of this book by the author for a review but all opinions are my own.

Wow this poetry book was so different to any I have read previously! I was sent a paperback e-copy of this book so i could fully appreciate the creativity that went into making this. This poetry collection not only has beautiful verses but also has some of the most stunning artwork i have come across in the book of this kind.

Each poem was thought out and beautiful. I loved how most of the poems had a drawing or illustration to connect with the subject matter.

Many different topics were covered here - from being brokenhearted, to being angry and coming to terms with rejection. There is something for everyone here. I love when I can connect to poetry especially when it deals with matters of the heart and can capture the essence of how those breakups can feel like they could kill you.

[Andrea Pole · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lover by Sakshi Narula is the first of a series entitled The Art of Staying Lost. Intermingling with stunning and original illustrations and beautiful script, each verse washes over the reader in a wave of contentment and peace. Heartbreak and grief are an inescapable part of the human experience but, as Ms Narula so eloquently and gently reminds us, they are not a permanent state of being. Descriptions of the feelings that come with falling in love are so astute and sharply observed as to be almost painful in their accuracy. I am longing to once again immerse myself in this truly sumptuous collection.

Many thanks to Sakshi Narula for providing me with a copy of this work. All thoughts are entirely my own.

[Siddu · Rating 5 out of 5]

First of all, I would like to thank the author for giving me a chance to read this wonderful book by her. I am grateful and would look forward for her book.
As for the book, I always longed to read good poetry however I haven’t got much chances to do the same. Lately I have been searching a lot for such books and this happened to come to me in the right time, and surely set a high expectation for my further reads.
A short but a very good read. A different set of emotions are expressed and described from the lover’s point of view, not to miss the pictures that made it more poetic and wonderful.
I would recommend the book for all those who love reading poetry.

[Tara · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am not a major poetry reader but these poems pull you in and settle into your soul. The relatableness of love and heartbreak and loss and loneliness is a soothing balm. Several pieces reminded me of my past, lost lovers, bad break ups, lost of a partner through death... you feel seen in a way you were not quite sure you needed.

[Tajwar Shakir · Rating 4 out of 5]

An ARC received in exchange for the honest review by the author

"Lover" by Sakshi Narula is a collection of a poetry comprising 127 pages. Its a simple read about the grievance of losing a lover as the title of the book suggests. The book has some really nice illustrations revealing the poetess's moods and emotions captured in these poems. I have enjoyed reading them.

The language is simple with simple tell tale heart of the one after being left alone seems spot on by Sakshi. It really tells truth that how difficult it is to survive the loss of a beloved and specially the one you have never thought of losing.

I shall rate it a good 4 stars read with a recommendation for all the broken hearts out there who are looking for a catharsis. You will find a lot related to after reading it. I have some personal favourites from this collection but really enjoyed reading the one entitled " "The Anatomy of Staying Lost" and "Chewing Gum". Sakshi has done justice to her feelings in this poetry collection and has beautifully portrayed and drawn the analogy of a broken heart in it. After all the "breakups" are like chewing gums we can neither swallow nor throw out at the end! Thumbs up! Read it to ease out your unspoken emotions after a breakup!

[Kathy_reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Remember, to be lost is as important as being found."

Thank you to Sakshi Natula for sending me this book.
I read her first poetry book "Loveish" earlier this year and really liked it.
This one has so many lovely illustrations and lot of different backgrounds and drawings, that match the theme of the poems very well and you can see the effort she put into it.

There are lots of references to nature and the sky, stars and galaxies in particular, which were so well accompanied by those gorgeous backgrounds.

My favorite poems are definitely 'Petta reddast' and 'Cassiopeia'.
The general theme of this poetry collection is love and everything that's comes with it, especially heartbreak and the feeling that you are lost after you lose someone you love.

If you like poetry, give this one a try when it realeased in October! It's currently up for preorder on Amazon.

4/5 stars

[Sara (onourshelves) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lover is a melancholic, evocative collection of poetry. The author is talented at weaving a picture with their words, and I genuinely enjoyed it. The illustrations used were absolutely lovely and really contributed to the beauty of the collection. I also specifically loved the poems that were a little more existential-- Cassiopeia and The Anatomy of Staying Lost are two I especially enjoyed.



Thank you to Sakshi Narula and NetGalley for the arc in exchange for an honest review

[Fatima Anwar · Rating 4 out of 5]

Name: Lover (The Art of Staying Lost #1)
Author: Sakshi Narua
Genre: Poetry
Rating: 4.3/5
Review:
Lover is collection of poetry and prose that is touching, soothing and yet heartbreaking for the readers. The poetries are intimate and delve on the topics of love, loss, self healing and letting go. The author has described this book as a ray of hope, to which I totally agree.
The poetries are beautiful and enchanting. And totally amazing. I totally recommend this book to all the poetry lovers.
If you are a fan of Noor Unnahar, this is definitely the book for you.

[Bedside Book Review · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to the author for sending me the ARC to read. Lover, The Art of Staying Lost (Book 1), is a compilation of poems and prose that speak of the heartbreak following a lost love. The book takes the reader on a journey through grief, longing, hope and continued love.
It is a tender compilation of touching poems and short pieces of prose that are relatable and soul searching. Although these poems depict a heartbreak at losing a love so deep that the narrator is torn apart there is at no point any form of hate or malice within the words. Instead it is gentle, comforting and tender with hope for being able to move on.
I enjoyed this book a lot, it is beautifully put together with a mix of images, poetry and prose.

[bella · Rating 4 out of 5]

This poetry collection was like being enveloped by a weighted blanket while listening to it storm outside. Sakshi Narula explores the topics of love, heartbreak, healing, loneliness, and longing with great depth and tenderness. While these topics are familiar and common in modern poetry, I seldom felt that any of the pieces were trite or overly simple (which I find is an issue with other modern poetry collections I have read). It's clear that Narula has truly poured a bit of herself onto the page, making each piece resemble an intimate conversation with an old friend or lover (or even, at times, oneself). Many of the poems could be felt viscerally, almost as though the words filtered through to my heart and took root there. Despite the melancholy mood of several of the pieces, the collection overall infused me with a sense of hope and left me feeling a certain lightness after having been seen and understood by the words within.

I would certainly purchase a physical copy of this book in order to get the full experience of sinking into its lush lines and to be able to better appreciate the accompanying illustrations. Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for providing this ARC!

[Bea (beansbookshelves) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an advanced reader copy by the author of this book to read in exchange for an honest review.

Lover written by Sakshi Narula is the first book of the series "The Art of Staying Lost". Throughout the book, you are able to find some lovely illustrations, some of which were actually hand drawn by the author herself. I fell in love with Sakshi's poetry as soon as I read her first book and I'm glad to be given this opportunity again. Reading this book was like looking into a mirror; I could actually relate to her poems and it felt like I was reading a book about myself. Some of my favourite poems are "Furkat", "Horizon" and "Nargis". If you're trying to heal (whatever problem may caused you to feel the way you feel), I invite you to read this book.

Rating: 4/5 stars.

[Manon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lover by Sakshi Narula is a collection of poems about heartbreak, loneliness, grief and above all about healing. Narula's writing is personal, intimate and thoughtful. She explores love and the loss of love in a strong way. Her poems are written without shame and regret, which made me feel hopeful and empowered.

The poems are complimented by beautiful illustrations. I read the book in under one hour, so it's a short read. But a good one.

Lover is the first book in The Art of Staying Lost-series. The second book, Lost, will be released in January 2021.

[Atul Bhatnagar · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent collection of prose and poems, beautifully crafted with illustrations and drawings. Sakshi has outdone herself. Perfect follow-up to Loveish. Can't wait to get my hands on the paperback. Awesome read, great gifting idea this festive season.

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

***Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review***
Having gone through a divorce recently, this book of poems spoke to me in ways I cannot even fully comprehend. I am moved and inspired and don't feel as alone.

[Tanya Lopez · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book of poetry was absolutely beautiful and I will definitely be reading the second book in the collection.
I liked that this poetry was a little more traditional and less like “Instagram caption” poetry, although I do think there’s a time and a place for that style as well.

My only real critique is that I wish there were more illustrations! There were a few I would seriously purchase and put up in my home.

Thank you to NetGalley & the publisher for providing me with an advance reader’s copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Steven Streeter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lovely book. The full review can be found here:
https://www.weekendnotes.com/lover-th...

[Robert Ullrich · Rating 5 out of 5]

I commented on this collection by Sakshi Narula while updating. As I said, Sakshi has found the key to blending love and loss into words which will touch your heart and soul. The flow is what I find one of the strongest points in her writing. Poetry, and I would know as a fellow poet, comes from life's experiences, good and bad, uplifting or crushing. I believe there is truth in her poetry. The kind of truth which can move even the coldest of broken hearts. It moved mine.

[Pretty Little Bibliophile · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a poetry collection that I absolutely loved. My heart just glided and skidded and stopped and jumped at the beautiful way in which Narula's words danced among each other. The cadences were simply stunning and I lived and loved and had my heart broken through them. Oh my my

I absolutely loved this collection. The words of Narula are pure magic and I desperately look forward to THE ART OF STAYING LOST, Book 2 - LOST.

4.5stars! Please read it! the literary value of this contemporary love poetry is just off the charts!

[John Dolan · Rating 5 out of 5]

“My mouth has mailed you postcards since the day you left.”
Love poetry can be mawkish, and modern stuff all the more so. Much of it comes across as clutches of cliched phrases thrown thoughtlessly and carelessly onto the page.
However, ‘Lover’ by Sakshi Narula is nothing like that. The poet’s contemplations on love and lost love read like yearnings ripped from the core of her being. Dying with a dying fall, her words whisper like dry autumn leaves slowly sashaying to the ground. This collection rewards a slow and thoughtful reading.
“Have you ever felt that only the stars understand, what it is like to be dead and still shine?”

[sinag · Rating 3 out of 5]

3/5 stars!

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

I liked this poetry book for its simpleness and easy-to-read format. It's not too flowery, and you really can feel the emotions the poet was trying to convey in her entries. However, the overall topic of love and loss is too saturated already for me and I hope there's something new or different this poetry book had given us.

[Amy Littleford · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am very privileged to be the first person to hold a physical copy of this beautiful book. I want to thank Sakshi for trusting me with her proof copy and I'm very grateful for getting the chance to read this ARC.

"I want to stop screaming poetry into the atmosphere where words crash and burn"

When I read Sakshi's first book, Loveish, I thought that was the best formatted poetry collection I had ever read but Sakshi has beaten herself with this book. The interior is absolutely stunning and I cannot imagine the amount of work went into creating this beautiful collection. All the small details that must have taken so many painstaking minutes, hours, days, months!

"a notorious poem in the sky about you
floating somewhere without coordinates"

This collection explores love in such an intense way that you can literally feel the emotions playing out. It speaks of heartbreak, lust, letting go, clinging on, the pain that comes with not being loved in return. I could go on. Some of the poems felt like a battle against each other. One would speak of letting go and wanting to be forgotten but then another you could feel the intense pain of being replaced, wondering if they still think of you. It felt like a battle between the brain and the heart and I absolutely loved it! I also loved how Sakshi incorporated her culture in this collection as it gave the book a richer meaning.

"Why does art stab my heart like a knife and make it bleed blue?"

My favourite pieces are Pomegranates and Cassiopeia! It was lovely to see the season incorporated into the book throughout! If you enjoy poetry then I really recommend this collection. It releases on 30th October so not long to wait!

Amy x

[Sophs · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was free and sent to me as an ARC from NetGalley. However, all opinions are of my own.
Another beautiful poetry book. This deals with love, life, death and the want for someone who, quite apparently doesn’t love you back. I always find that one or two poems stay with me and I have definitely taken one from this.

[Channa Kanniah · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am not usually one for poetry books, but I wanted to give them a go, as I support all genres of writing and publishing of said books.
I found the poems beautiful, some sad, some insightful, and one or two I could relate to.
If you like poems, I suggest giving this one a go, it's short and and a fine read before you go to bed.

[thereader_ · Rating 3 out of 5]

Idk wat to say about this book.. I have really mixed reviews for it.. the title is lover but it's really more of a heartbreaks types poems & even though they are touchy but still not really that upto the mark. As the series suggest the art of staying lost well the magic is also lost.

[Tiffany · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sakshi’s poetry is full of powerful emotions. Truly beautiful!

[Neva Bell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful

I love Sakshi's writing. Relatable, beautiful, and at times - heartbreaking. This book was no exception. Loved it. Looking forward to Book 2.

[Erika Sarutobi · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5 stars
RTC

[Shirley · Rating 3 out of 5]

Original review

This book was provided by the author through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you Sakshi Narula and Netgalley!

Lover is the first book in the The Art of Staying Lost and it’s a poetry collection about heartbreak and loneliness. 

Lover is the first poetry collection by Sakshi Narula and I liked it. This poetry collection started with a preface and after reading it, I knew that I was going to like this collection. The poems are really beautiful, and some of them had lovely illustrations. 

I really enjoyed reading this collection. It was filled with poems about the different emotions you feel while being heartbroken. I think that these poems were relatable and I’m looking forward to reading the next poetry collection in the series!

[Natasha · Rating 4 out of 5]

Like its companion book, Lost, it was a juxtaposition of many forms and ideas, and a treat to read.
So many images conjured up with some economy of words. It stays with you long after you finish.