“An incredibly well written collection of poetry that deals with topics such as heartbreak, family, grief, and love. I personally related with many of these poems and it made me feel better that someone else has felt the way I do. Each poem made me want to read more and more. I’m looking forward to see what this author has planned next.”

“I began following Michaela on Instagram where I found myself captivated by the power of her concise writing. Her ability to say so much with so few words is a skill she has honed and perfected. When I purchased the book, I was expecting the same thought-provoking pieces, but what I found was so much more. This book truly showcases her depth and talent as a writer. I fell head-over-heels in love with the sections “Childhood” and “Perspective,” which are honest and raw accounts of her adolescence and adulthood. When He Leaves You is a breath of fresh air and a multifaceted contribution to the poetry world.”

“Having just been left by ‘him’ after an eight year relationship (albeit in hindsight a bad one); reading this hit me deep. In the hour or so that I read through each page, I went through a series of turbulent and inspiring emotions. Reading this genuinely helped me heal, come to terms with my loss, and realise my self worth, all at once. Certain words hit me and it was like I had an epiphany; I was worth so much more than I had put up with for so long, and I was going to be just fine. I keep this book on my bedside now, and flick through it each night that I feel the need. Thank you do much for beautifully put together words that felt like they told my story, and made me see my worth.”

“I found Michaela’s Instagram page during a very difficult season of life, and am so glad I did. The words she writes capture so perfectly what I can’t express, myself. Her openness and vulnerability are so genuine. A reminder that it’s okay to not be okay, but also an encouragement to heal.”

“My copy arrived on Saturday. Today was the day I actually opened it and started reading. I didn’t put it down until I had read it all the way through. I think the last time I experienced such a whirlwind of emotion in such a short period of time was when I first watched the Carl and Ellie sequence in Up. Reading this book literally took my breath away. I’m still trying to catch my breath as I write this. I didn’t know poetry could do that.

Some other details that I just absolutely adored: it makes sense when read cover to cover. The cover feels nice and smooth in the hand. And it has an ISBN number, making it a Real Book (unlike certain other poetry “books” I’ve been given).”

“Her debut book of poetry has great depth of emotion. Her poetry is fabulous, so relatable, so precise, so human, a must read. The grieving, the loss, the letting go of love; then to heal from the heartaches of living in this brief space of time we have. Truly touching words, I loved every page, I look forward to another book from her. My faves are on pages: 83, 84, 87, 134 & 146.”