Embellished Plague

I thought this was a collection of poetry, but it felt more like rambling and venting in an unorganized way. For me a couple of the “poems” were insightful and deep, and I appreciate Isha Mahmood for sharing her art. But the bad grammar, bad punctuation, and indistinguishable breaks from one poem to the next was distracting and detracted from what I was reading and experiencing.

In all my novel reading years (avid reader here!) never has a book ever made me cry like this one has. It was beautiful from start to finish. I was reminded of many of my own memories that it felt as if this book was written specially for me. Though the memories this book invoked were painful, the author did a good job on using words to magically heal us by strengthing our confidence and pacifying us, all at the same time.A must read for many women who feel suffocated by their responsibilities for their culture, religion, gender, family, etc.This has gone all the way to #1 on my list of favorite books, and there is not much in that catergory (so one can assume how picky I tend to be). Honestly can not wait for her other book. While I wait, I shall read this once more ; ]

Every woman should read this !

This is an amazing book!The writer's issues are very stongly relatable, especially being a south asian woman, and that's why I loved the read even more.The topics that're covered in the book are very strong, which I loved reading.I recommend this book to anyone and everyone, it is a fantastic read.Great job, Isha!From one Isha to another <3

Embellished Plague is beautiful collection of poetry from the very essence of the lovely Isha Mahmood.The style in which it is written makes it accessible for everyone to understand and engage with; the topics she explores are relatable to almost everyone but there is a real sense of raw emotions that are tapped into and can leave the reader feeling as though they have had a meaningful conversation with a confidant.She carefully crafts and discusses the pains of childhood, relationships and faith: the challenges that come with being a Muslim, a person of colour and accepting ones identity. Each chapter is a journey as evokes a variety of emotions. It can leave you feeling broken as you remember your own trials, it can leave you feeling empty as you resonate with the feelings of lost relationships but it also fills you up with optimism and makes you feel hopeful as you find strength in her words that things can and will be better.What I enjoyed most about Embellished Plague was how I felt as though Isha was writing about me: it was personal. There is a real sense of beauty and majesty in words when you can empathise with literature in such a way as reading becomes cathartic.After reading this in its entirety, I found the collection of poetry to be about self love. The positivity it leaves you with is absolutely refreshing.

I received “Embellished Plague” a couple of days ago. And truth be told: I already read it 3-4 times. Why is that? “Embellished Plague” is soul touching, raw and relatable. It takes you on a poetical journey through relatable and philosophical topics, making you wonder and question your own thoughts. It makes you think. Think twice about the words you are reading. This is only because Isha allows the readers to read a part of herself, the deepest part of her soul. And that is why you will find yourself being captivated and drawn by the beautiful and tragic poems.Every time I finish this book, I think to myself: What a journey. Thank you Isha. And that is why I most certainly recommend Embellished Plague for every soul out there.

A well written book full of relatable and emotional pieces, which reading as a woman makes me thankful that the topics covered are being addressed on a larger platform for others to be able to relate and find comfort in being aware that they are not alone in dealing with these issues.I'm praying this will (hopefully) be deeply thought-provoking for males, giving them an insight of how different and difficult life actually is, and has been for young girls & women in our society from the very start, and the constant pressures we face.You'll find yourself punching the air in triumph over the fact that someone is finally voicing topics that are usually tabboo or shoved under the carpet. A definite must read

I purchased Isha Mahmood's Embellished Plague recently, it's fast become one of my favorites. The collection of poems highlights the flaws us women in certain cultures (especially the south Asian community) face today. It's a deeply profound, thought provoking and empowering book. I strongly recommend everyone to read this.

Beautifully written, multiple copies were ordered and distributed to the wonderful women in my life

'Embellished plague'... A beautiful heart warming and soul touching book.It will take you on a journey through Isha's beautiful mind and soul. I felt emotional while reading this book and many will be able to relate. It is beautifully written and very captivating, i read it in one sitting and truly felt every word.I would highly recommend this book.

Great read

Amazing 😭❤

Stunning book and beautiful poems ❤