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Busted in Bollywood

by Nicola Marsh (Goodreads Author)

3.91 of 5 stars 3.91 · rating details · 112 ratings · 46 reviews

Shari Jones needs to get a life. Preferably someone else's.Single, homeless and jobless, Indo-American Shari agrees to her best friend's whacky scheme: travel to Mumbai, pose as Amrita, and ditch the fianc her traditional Indian parents have chosen. Simple. Until she's mistaken for a famous Bollywood actress, stalked by a Lone Ranger wannabe, courted by an English lord, an...more

Paperback, 227 pages

Published December 6th 2011 by Entangled Publishing (first published November 30th 2011)

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Jan 04, 2012 RLA rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Nicola Marsh very kindly sent me a copy of this to read and review. Thank you, Nicola.

The heroine Shari agrees to go to Mumbai and pose as her best friend Rita, and use her brashness in an attempt to scare off Rita's arranged fiancé. However an idea that initially seems a hoot soon turns into a bit of a headache for Shari. Not only does she have Rita's crazy Aunt constantly feeding her delicious yet fattening food, but Rita's intended Rakesh has figured out the plan and agrees to go along with i...more Nicola Marsh very kindly sent me a copy of this to read and review. Thank you, Nicola.

The heroine Shari agrees to go to Mumbai and pose as her best friend Rita, and use her brashness in an attempt to scare off Rita's arranged fiancé. However an idea that initially seems a hoot soon turns into a bit of a headache for Shari. Not only does she have Rita's crazy Aunt constantly feeding her delicious yet fattening food, but Rita's intended Rakesh has figured out the plan and agrees to go along with it providing Shari will introduce him to Rita. Rakesh's business partner Drew, the hero, also knows Shari is faking it as Rita but seems to think she is some sort of con-artist/gold-digger. And if that is not enough Shari has also gained an admirer whom thinks she is a famous Bollywood actress. All this results in Shari having an amazing, if rather crazy, time discovering her Indian roots whilst landing a part as an extra, and falling in love with Drew.

I thoroughly enjoyed this, a lot more than I thought I would. The plot is so quirky that it is rip-roaringly fun to read. I love the eclecticness (is that a word?!) of the situations Shari seems to find herself in. Fun is the word here, and the entire book is! The romance is nice, but what is most special about this book is the solid friendship between Shari and Rita that is constant throughout the book.
The first person narrative is full of snark and self-deprecation that is humorous and witty, and I found it highly entertaining to read. The heroine's nickname habit did get on my nerves after a while, but I think it fit her zany character well. The culture and surroundings of Mumbai are beautifully described, and the food sounds mouthwatering!
Shari really does go on a journey, both a literal one and one of self-discovery and enjoyed every minute of it with her.

Nicola Marsh has done a fab job of writing a fun, rom-com style book that is very endearing.

Recommended.

Originally posted at http://everyday-is-the-same.blogspot....(less)

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Dec 15, 2011 Booklover rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: engagement-marriage-on-rocks, forced-proxy-marriage, keepers, love, cheating-grovel, parents, sibblings-best-friends, journalist-hoteliers, fun-humourous, misunderstanding

LOVED IT!LOVED IT!LOVED IT!

Absolutely fun warm sweet wonderful book.Loved each n every single character,adored Shari-Rita the most,both are sweet caring warm characters,enjoyed their witty banters and loved the way these two are always support each other through thick n thin.Loved their "Traditional Mojito Mondays along with Cheese cake" thinking of trying it out.Drew-Rakesh liked them a lot,enjoyed the way Shari plays along with Drew and how the love blossoms between them but then there's Lady...more

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May 07, 2012 Liz at Fictional Candy rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: romance, chick-lit

This story definitely has a wacky twist to start! Shari and Rita are Indo-Americans. Rita’s parents have just arranged a marriage for her, but she is not ready to get married to a stranger. Shari agrees to go to India in her place, to sabotage this engagement. By Shari going instead, Rita is not directly disobeying her parents. Loophole! Added on top of that, Shari has recently broken up with her boyfriend. And lost her job. And she’s been evicted. Yeah, definitely sounds like the girl could us...more This story definitely has a wacky twist to start! Shari and Rita are Indo-Americans. Rita’s parents have just arranged a marriage for her, but she is not ready to get married to a stranger. Shari agrees to go to India in her place, to sabotage this engagement. By Shari going instead, Rita is not directly disobeying her parents. Loophole! Added on top of that, Shari has recently broken up with her boyfriend. And lost her job. And she’s been evicted. Yeah, definitely sounds like the girl could use a little vacation to clear her mind! So off to India she goes.

But India is definitely full of surprises! Her visit there is packed full of fun and drama, and some of the best food you could hope to find. Oh yeah, one of Shari’s favorite things is Indian food, and there is definitely a lot of that in this book. Definitely make sure you eat before reading, or else you will get very hungry!

While in India she meets Drew. Drew is a bit of a jerk at first, he’s looking out for his friend – her fake fiancé, Rakesh. Even though he’s a jerk, she is attracted to him. Really, how could you not be? Drew seems to be the perfect blend of everything you want in a man. A bit mysterious, sexy, tall and handsome. Filthy rich! Haha! Not to mention he is very sincere and true to his friends and obviously into Shari in a big way. I absolutely loved Drew, I think he was the perfect addition to this knockout cast.

This was a really fun story. It was fast paced and full of action and drama. Shari is witty, daring and fun. And she has a sarcastic side that I really dug. Her thoughts were hilarious, but definitely a good thing she didn’t voice them all! Her best friend, Rita, seems like the awesome best friend we should all have. She knew Shari so well that she can see past what Shari says into the real truth. She gives Shari honest and sensible advice, and is just the all around great friend Shari needs. Rakesh is a fabulous man with a terrific sense of humor. I really enjoyed his insights and while not a major role in this cast, he is definitely a great character. Nicola really has a great talent for fleshing out the story, giving all of the characters and locations such great descriptions that you are instantly transported. Whether it was India, NYC’s Central Park, or Shari’s apartment, I felt like I was right there.

Busted in Bollywood has a lot to offer romance readers. It is funny and dramatic. There are some steamy scenes, but definitely safe enough for even teenagers to enjoy. I really loved this story, and would recommend it to anyone. I don’t by any means have an extensive knowledge of Indian culture, and this book didn’t leave me lost. Everything was explained, but explained so flawlessly and well that I didn’t feel like I was reading a text book. This story has a great flow, a lot of heart, and a superb cast. I hope you get a chance to read it!(less)

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Nov 07, 2011 Nas Dean rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

BUSTED IN BOLLYWOOD by author Nicola Marsh is a sensational story releasing in December 2011.

Shari Jones agrees to impersonate her best friend and travel to India to break-off Amrita's arranged engagement to Rakesh Rama. Going to a welcome party at the Rama's, she is called on her impersonation by Rakesh at first sight. He has seen the real Amrita's photo. Yet he wants Shari to continue the charade in exchange for fixing him a date with the real Amrita.

Then there is the added tension of Rakesh'...more BUSTED IN BOLLYWOOD by author Nicola Marsh is a sensational story releasing in December 2011.

Shari Jones agrees to impersonate her best friend and travel to India to break-off Amrita's arranged engagement to Rakesh Rama. Going to a welcome party at the Rama's, she is called on her impersonation by Rakesh at first sight. He has seen the real Amrita's photo. Yet he wants Shari to continue the charade in exchange for fixing him a date with the real Amrita.

Then there is the added tension of Rakesh's business partner, Drew Lansford, who also saw the file and thinks Shari is out to fleece business tycoon Rakesh by pretending to be his betrothed.

Shari has fun at Drew's expense by keeping up the charade all the while drawn to his mersmerizing eyes and hot bod!

And there's a stalker after Shari, taking her for a famous Bollywood star!
After clearing up the misunderstanding, Shari and Drew get in to a fling when he visits New York. While Rakesh and Rita get into a cozy romance after the first sight!

But what will happen when Rakesh's parents find out that Shari is not Rakesh's intended? And especially when they catch Shari in a clinch with Drew?

And can Shari get the happy-ever-after with Drew as is her heart's desire?
Opening up her heart and living with Drew back in Mumbai had restored her faith in herself. She felt herself healed from past betrayal by the vibrant country and the love of an incredible man. But can this love turn into something long-term?

BUSTED IN BOLLYWOOD is an incredible inner journey of Shari as well as the trip to Mumbai and her growing love of India. Shari experiences the exotic Indian cuisine amid the dazzled and frazzled Mumbai, with its unique smell of diesel fumes, sandalwood and smoke from burning cow-patties!

USA Bestselling Author Nicola Marsh's BUSTED IN BOLLYWOOD is truly a magical read. The witty banter and the flirting, the breathtaking romance, the spectacular emotional punch, and the believable conflict of how traditional Indian families organize and interfere in any and everything had me flipping pages late into the night. The vivid atmospheric details amid the fast paced story kept me spell bound!(less)

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Dec 12, 2011 Rachel Harris rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: favorite-adult-reads, made-me-laugh

This was a book that had me at the name. BUSTED IN BOLLYWOOD--the title alone conjures images of vibrancy, colors, and intrigue. Then I saw the cover and read the blurb, and knew I had to read it.

Before going into the many things I loved about this book, I only find it fair that I should warn you. . . Do NOT attempt to read this book on an empty stomach. In fact, do not even pick up the paperback or fire your Kindle without first eating a full meal, and bringing along a bag of your favorite snac...more This was a book that had me at the name. BUSTED IN BOLLYWOOD--the title alone conjures images of vibrancy, colors, and intrigue. Then I saw the cover and read the blurb, and knew I had to read it.

Before going into the many things I loved about this book, I only find it fair that I should warn you. . . Do NOT attempt to read this book on an empty stomach. In fact, do not even pick up the paperback or fire your Kindle without first eating a full meal, and bringing along a bag of your favorite snack food. Bonus points if the meal is Indian.

Now that's out of the way . . .

This book has amazing voice. So much that I turned into a total fan girl on Nicola, pausing after reading a few pages to Tweet her, and then pausing again the next day when I was half way thru to email her. Shari and Rita are girls you want to be friends with. I want to be invited to Mojito Mondays--even though I don't like mojitos. But still, their friendship was so real, so fiercely loyal and loving, that I didn't care how the story ended as long as these two girls had their own HEAs.

As for the ending, I loved how the story took me in unexpected directions. I normally figure out all the story plots for the romances I read, but I never mind as long as the writing is fun and the romance swoony. But there were several times in BUSTED that I wasn't sure how it would end, or where Nicola was taking me. I found myself stopping to think of all the possible scenerios and just enjoying hanging out with these characters.

Now yes, any discussion of this book would be ridiculous if you didn't mention the food. And the setting. And the beautiful pictures Nicola paints with her words. I felt as though I took a trip to India! All my senses were engaged as she brought the beautiful country to life.

And as this was a fun romantic comedy, I must talk about the romance. Drew, Drew, Drew . . . so freaking H-O-T. And the scorching love scenes between him and Shari? Don't even get me started. Goose bumps and smiles a plenty. In fact, gorgeous men were all over this book--Rakesh was probably one of my favorite characters--and at certain times, I couldn't decide who I wanted Shari with! Throw in zany in-laws, meddling family members, lying exes, and mistaken identities, and this story is just one huge wild ride.

BUSTED IN BOLLYWOOD was my first Nicola Marsh novel . . . but now that I've been exposed to her amazing combination of witty dialogue, hilarious situations, and super sexy romance, I guarantee you it won't be my last. (less)

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Jan 02, 2012 Saly rated it 4 of 5 stars

Okay first of all let me tell you I loved this book mainly because of the whole tone, fun and flirty even when talking about something as serious as heart-break and being Indian I loved the whole Indian references, the mother-in-law, the whole wedding tamasha, arranged marriages combined with today's modern values and a heroine who we see gain her self-confidence after a love-affair gone wrong.

Shari Jones is Indo-American but has always loved being a New Yorker and beyond Indian food and Bollywo...more Okay first of all let me tell you I loved this book mainly because of the whole tone, fun and flirty even when talking about something as serious as heart-break and being Indian I loved the whole Indian references, the mother-in-law, the whole wedding tamasha, arranged marriages combined with today's modern values and a heroine who we see gain her self-confidence after a love-affair gone wrong.

Shari Jones is Indo-American but has always loved being a New Yorker and beyond Indian food and Bollywood films doesn't know much about India and has never had much interest in her Indian roots, then her best friend Amrita asks her a big favour, impersonate her and go to Mumbai to break off Amrita's marriage and Shari agrees one of the prime motivators being, it will help her gain some distance over what a disaster her life has turned out to be.

Shari got involved with her boss, who was married but swore his marriage was over and she fell for it and found out differently, losing her job, respect and self-confidence. First off I love the relationships between the two friends and their little friend rituals and how Mumbai is described and Anjali, the aunt with whom Shari stays was funny as hell as well with her antics.

Shari discovers Mumbai and finds that her friend's husband to be Rakesh is not a toad and instead seems a perfect match for her friend and knows that she is not Amrita and asks her to get him an introduction when he goes to New York.

Then there is Drew, Rakesh's British business partner who annoys the heck out of Shari when he tells her he is on to her, she lets it play along for some time since she doesn't want to acknowledge their attraction and when she tells him the truth they have a conversation filled with sexual tension.

The first part was great, fun, filled with Indian culture and Bollywood references as well as seeing Shari finally embrace her Indian roots, then we go back to New York, where Amrita and Rakesh meet and hit it off instantly but Drew and Shari take time, Shari still has a lot to fix before she is able to trust again and even when they fall in bed, it is not easy, first is the place Shari is in life, not really settled when it comes to life, second the distance and third Shari herself.

She has a lot of doubts and Drew's snooty mother didn't help but Drew was really a great hero, wealthy, patient and sexy. He puts up with Shari's outbursts and rationally talks it out with her not allowing her to run. I liked how we Shari slowly emerge from a person who has been hurt to someone ready to trust herself again.

ARC provided by the author for review.(less)

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Dec 11, 2011 Lea rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: read-in-2011

Don’t be confused by the title of Nicola Marsh’s zany comedic romance Busted in Bollywood, it’s heroine Shari Jones doesn’t get arrested. Shari’s best-friend Amrita “Rita” Muthu’s parents have arranged her marriage to Rakesh Rama, the son of a wealthy Mumbai family. Rita wants no part of it and convinces buddy Shari to fly to Mumbai, India impersonate her and foil the whole marriage to the stooge plan.

Shari is going through a rough time. She has recently broken up with her married lover who also...more

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Dec 05, 2011 Marg rated it 4 of 5 stars

Fun, flirty and filled with fabulous sounding food!

Shari Jones has made a mess of her life. She's lost her boyfriend, her home and her job in one fell swoop, and yes, all those things are connected. So when her best friend Amrita gives her the chance to head to India to impersonate her Shari doesn't have anything to lose. All she has to do is dump the fiance that Amrita's parents have arranged for her to marry and then head back Stateside. Easy. Or not as the case may be.

Shari was born in India...more

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Nov 13, 2011 Katrina rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

A Bollywood success.

Busted in Bollywood will appeal to all the starry-eyed romantics that lurks in us all. Filled with humourous moments, sexy and flirty antics conflicts of interest and an insight into the Customs and traditions of the Indian community you will find this read a journey of many things. Your tastebuds will be tantalized, with the aromas wafting from this story, and the romance will leave you starry eyed.

Nicola has set forth vivid descriptions in this story, from the aroma of th...more

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Dec 11, 2011 Destiny Philipose rated it 5 of 5 stars

Busted in Bollywood was everything I could hope for in a romance novel! It was cute, funny, and the characters were exceptionally charming.

Nicola Marsh tells the story in a way that you feel like you actually KNOW main character Shari and her best friend Rita. Before long, their crazy scheme to send Shari across the world to India to pose as Rita to get out of an arranged marriage almost seems like a good idea. Once Shari makes it to India, the laughs begin.

Having married into an Indian family m...more

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Jun 30, 2012 Aislynn (Stitch Read Cook) rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: arc-s-to-review, ebook, netgalley-to-read, contemporary-romance, netgalley-read, read-in-2012

Shari has travelled from her home in New York to her home country of India. BUT she is not travelling as herself, but as her best friend Amrita! The two have decided that Shari would go in her place to check out the man Rita’s family has chosen for her to marry and ditch him.

Little does Shari know, things aren’t going to go as smoothly as she hopes! Able to fool Rita’s future in laws, she’s thrown for a loop when her ‘fiance’ up and outs her! With that in mind, she and Rakesh come to an agreeme...more

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Sep 24, 2012 Mickey (I'm A Book Shark) rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012, author-review, ereader

See full review here!

I received this book from the author for review. Here are my honest thoughts:

I totally felt like I was in India in this book! And there's ALL THE FOODS. Goodness. I'm glad I ate before picking up this book each time ;o) But overall I really enjoyed it. It's a fun, sexy, international jaunt that will make you laugh and love.

Shari Jones and her best friend Amrita make a plot to dash her arranged marriage in India. But Shari sees what Amrita would be missing by dumping the fian...more

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Nov 26, 2011 Shelley rated it 5 of 5 stars

If you know me, I'm not a huge fan of mainstream contemporary stories. It has to be REALLY special in order for me to like it. So, by giving Nicola Marsh's upcoming release 4 1/2 stars, that is huge. I really, really enjoyed this book. Busted In Bollywood is, in my opinion, an exciting and welcome combination of Sex and the City and Bollywood.

I have one word for my reaction to this book: hungry.

I know that seems a little weird, but Nicola did such a great job with painting the Indian culture &...more

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Mar 06, 2012 Romancing the Book rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: romance

Reviewed By~Desere
Review Copy Provided By~Author

In real life a arranged marriage in any woman or man's mind is something you would rather not think of, I am sure you will all agree that marrying someone you do not love and possibly do not even like and having to know that you will need to spend the rest of your life with this man or woman with no way out is one of the most terrifying thoughts ever. Not forgetting the fact that if you have not ever even met the other person how on earth are you s...more Reviewed By~Desere
Review Copy Provided By~Author

In real life a arranged marriage in any woman or man's mind is something you would rather not think of, I am sure you will all agree that marrying someone you do not love and possibly do not even like and having to know that you will need to spend the rest of your life with this man or woman with no way out is one of the most terrifying thoughts ever. Not forgetting the fact that if you have not ever even met the other person how on earth are you suppose to develop any feelings for them?

In Busted with Bollywood we meet Shari, she seems like your everyday kind of girl however she is anything but, she has just ended her affair with her married boss and now is not only out of a man but also out of a job and very much desperate for money.

In comes Shari's best friend Rita and her very dangerous plot to prevent her parents from forcing her to marry a man she cannot and never will love. Shari must go to India and pretend to be Rita in order to convince her "arranged husband to be" that she is not the woman for him and if they marry it will never work. Shari agrees seeing that she needs money and who would not want to go to India for a "holiday" and in exchange get paid for pretending to be someone else for only a little while.

However immediately after her arrival Shari is caught out and Rita's fiance knows she is not the real Rita but agrees to not out her in turn for in turn for a little favor. So what might be the real obstacle here you may ask? Drew Lansford, best friend and business partner of "her fiancee". He sees straight through Shari's facade and recons she is out to get his best friends money and anything else she can get her gold digger hands on.

Over time Shari has more on her plate than she can handle, there is her wise old aunt that is out on a mission to find Shari a husband of her own ,not to mention her "fiance's" highly dysfunctional family who puts her more on edge than she lets on. Throw into the mix Shari falling in love with the very handsome Drew and you have all the trimmings for a good old fashioned romance with a twist.

Now wanting to go back to her life in New York but with no money, no home, a heart belonging to the man who suspects her of being a gold digger and a severe empty bank account, she is not so sure she can make any right decisions, if indeed any.

In this fun, spunky and light enchanted story, Nicola Marsh delivers us straight to India and teaches us not only the story of love deep in the heart of Bollywood but also we learn all about the different Indian dishes and various cultures of India, making this not only a fun and flirty romance to read but also a very educational piece of writing, that certainly kept me reading to the end.

Never in all the history classes I sat though in school did I ever find that the teacher of the lesson was able to combine the culture of any country with a good story be it a romance or even a mystery, it just never happened. But Nicola Marsh has certainly done that and so much more in this book. It was like getting a history lesson and learning about a romance all in one.(less)

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Feb 12, 2013 Jaime rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I won this in a Goodreads giveaway.

Sometimes, you can't second-guess your decisions (because doing so may cause you to over-think which is sometimes detrimental to your state of mind).

But that's exactly what Shari does when she poses as her best friend Amrita and goes to India to break up an arranged marriage. Her farce is quickly discovered by Rakesh (the crazy-rich fiancee) and Drew (the Bollywood Boy/best friend). When Rita finally meets Rakesh, the four are tossed about between NYC and India...more

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Jan 02, 2012 Sonia rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: my-book-challenge

I just finished reading Busted in Bollywood, and I feel kind of giddy. This book was really good! The characters were so colorful and believable. Nicola Marsh painted such a beautiful picture of Mumbai, India, which has always fascinated me.She brought it to life for me in a whole new way. I highly recommend Busted in Bombay.

Busted in Bombay tells the story of a beautiful friendship between Shari and Amrita who would literally go to the ends of the earth for each other. Shari is suffering the co...more

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Dec 19, 2011 Karla V rated it 3 of 5 stars

The book begins with best friends Shari and Amrita plotting to end Amrita's arranged marriage by sending Shari to India in her place to meet her fiancé and his family.

When Shari gets to India, she stays with Amrita's auntie and is overwhelmed by the heat, the chaotic traffic, the lack of mojitos (or any alcoholic drink, for that matter), the loudness and amount of people, and, specially, the high-calory, mouth-watering Indian sweets.

Shari attends a party at the Rama's house and meets Amrita's...more The book begins with best friends Shari and Amrita plotting to end Amrita's arranged marriage by sending Shari to India in her place to meet her fiancé and his family.

When Shari gets to India, she stays with Amrita's auntie and is overwhelmed by the heat, the chaotic traffic, the lack of mojitos (or any alcoholic drink, for that matter), the loudness and amount of people, and, specially, the high-calory, mouth-watering Indian sweets.

Shari attends a party at the Rama's house and meets Amrita's fiancée, Rakesh Rama, and is very surprised to find out that he already knows she's not Amrita and that he wants a chance to meet her in person in New York. Later at the party, Shari meets Drew, Rakesh's partner, who is not only rude to her, but also mistakes her for a famous actress and invites her to audition for a movie he's sponsoring.

Apart from the knowledge of Indian cultural aspects, the book is filled with clichés and becomes very tiresome to read right after the 4th chapter, in which a conversation between Rakesh and Shari leads to an inquiry about favorite movies. (her favorite movie is Dirty Dancing and the fake fiancée shows to be very in touch with his feelings and emotions by saying his favorite one is Casablanca).

As the book develops, there is the constant bickering and teasing between Shari and Drew that makes for the well-know chick-lit formula... and there's nothing wrong with that formula, except that in this case we don't get to see much depth from the characters, which makes for a so-so read, filled with superficial relationships. And it took a lot of the fun out of the "fights filled with sexual tension".

This is a great book for lovers of the exotic Indian culture, with its endless mention of Indian sweets, drinks and tourists spots. Really, the foods described will fatten you up just by reading about them! The book could also be taken as a tribute to Bollywood movies and their stars. In fact, the author quotes many of their names and even makes the heroine be stalked by a guy who mistakes her for no one less than Aishwarya Rai.

If you're looking for a quick, light, fun chick-lit for your vacation, this is may be your book. ;)

*eARC received from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.*(less)

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Dec 02, 2011 Better Read Than Dead (Kelly & Kristin) rated it 4 of 5 stars

Busted in Bollywood was just what I needed after a week-long reading marathon. I needed something light, fun, and sexy with a whole load of drama thrown into mix. Written in first person, Shari draws you into her journey to Mumbai, India to dump her best friends arranged-fiance. Ms. Marsh does a wonderful job bringing you into the Indian culture. Explicit details about their food, customs, and of course...the world of movie making in India.

We find Shari Jones with a broken-heart and downing moji...more Busted in Bollywood was just what I needed after a week-long reading marathon. I needed something light, fun, and sexy with a whole load of drama thrown into mix. Written in first person, Shari draws you into her journey to Mumbai, India to dump her best friends arranged-fiance. Ms. Marsh does a wonderful job bringing you into the Indian culture. Explicit details about their food, customs, and of course...the world of movie making in India.

We find Shari Jones with a broken-heart and downing mojitoes with her best friend, Amrita Muthu. Shari has agreed to travel from New York to India to impersonate Amrita. Amrita's parents have promised her to a man she has no desire to meet, much less marry. Interesting part is...she hasn't even seen his picture, throwing it in the trash when her parents gave it to her. Now, Rakesh, said sorta-fiance, is much smarter than Amrita or Shari gives him credit for - not to mention rich.

Shari arrives in Mumbai and meets Amjali...Amrita's crazy aunt. Her aunt is on the facade and has her own reasons for helping. Amjali is fantastically funny and left me laughing out loud on several occasions. She is a fiercely protective woman, placing herself directly in the lions den in order to save her niece from a lifetime of regret. She believes Amrita should be allowed to make her own decisions about love.

Once Shari meets Rakesh, she realizes that Amrita must meet him...and not just because he knows Shari isn't Amrita...but because he is simply amazing. Funny, rich, handsome, smart...everything any woman would want. However, a serious issue arises when Shari agrees to continue with the charade so neither family becomes suspicious. Someone enters the picture that could ruin everything, all the while, sweeping Shari off her feet. Someone else knows that Shari is not Rakesh's beloved Amrita. Someone else who is funny, rich, handsome, smart, and sexy-as-hell.

Once back in America, things begin to take off. Romances blossom, parents come out of the woodwork, drama arises, sex ensues. You know...all that fun stuff.

I enjoyed this book immensely. The only complaint I have is that it started off entirely too slow. I need books to get right down to it. The first couple of chapters were fluff...stuff I could have lived without. Now, with that said, Ms. Marsh knows how to keep the sexual tension flowing and the pages turning. Rama Mama is someone I hope I never meet in person.

*This book was provided by Entangled Publishing via NetGalley as an uncorrected e-proof in exchange for my honest review.(less)

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Nov 28, 2011 Shannon rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: kindle, net-galley

Shari agrees to go to India to scare off/dump her friend's unwanted fiance from an arranged marriage. Most of the book is centered on Shari and what happens during and after her adventure in India.

A nice little (very little) taste of India, Indian food and Bollywood.

An easy read that doesn't go very deep into the story, the characters, or even the relationships between the characters. Shari is obsessed with how horribly her life has gone wrong and how bad her last relationship was, but the autho...more

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Apr 01, 2012 Preet rated it 4 of 5 stars

I bought myself a copy of this book because I wasn't able to get through it while it was on NetGalley. Come on, it's Bollywood! Being an Indian female who enjoys her Bollywood movies made me feel like it was mandatory that I read it. There's no way I can't love characters being bombarded with marriage proposals while being trapped in a slew of mixups.

First off, warning...You will want to eat a lot of food from this book. Keep a snack handy. Visit a friendly Indian neighbor, head on over to your...more

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Dec 10, 2011 Amanda (Amanda's Weekly Zen) rated it 3 of 5 stars

Busted in Bollywood by Nicola Marsh is a fun light read about Shari Jones. Shari Jones finds herself in a real mess, homeless, broken hearted and unemployed. Unsure that her life will turn around anytime soon her best friend Rita proposes an outrageous scheme that involves Shari posing as Rita in an attempt to get rid of her fiancé whom Rita’s traditional Indian parents have chosen for her. Not seeing anything more promising on the horizon Shari agrees to the scheme and travels to India only to...more Busted in Bollywood by Nicola Marsh is a fun light read about Shari Jones. Shari Jones finds herself in a real mess, homeless, broken hearted and unemployed. Unsure that her life will turn around anytime soon her best friend Rita proposes an outrageous scheme that involves Shari posing as Rita in an attempt to get rid of her fiancé whom Rita’s traditional Indian parents have chosen for her. Not seeing anything more promising on the horizon Shari agrees to the scheme and travels to India only to find that nothing goes according to plan and once again she has placed herself in a position where she could very well have her heart broken. Shari has a decision to make, should she risk it all and take the pieces of her new life and begin to put them together or should she play it safe, stay in New York and hope that someday opportunity and love will come her way again.

This book is a quick read and it is fun. There is nothing really substantial about this book. The characters are one dimensional and the relationships are superficial but the book is a page turner, full of laughs, a little bit of shock and ultimately what everyone wants in a good tale of love lost and found again, a happy ending.

What this book really has going for it, besides being fun to read, is a great exploration of Indian food. There is a lot of food in this book and some very rich descriptions of the spicy and the sweet. I enjoy it when books can step outside their primary purpose and give us a little cultural education. How accurate the food accounts are I could not tell you not being all that familiar with Indian food myself, but each one is a delicious little morsel you will savor.

There are also some nice blurbs about the culture in India and Bollywood movies that this reader found interesting. Since a majority of the story takes place in India, we, along with Shari discover its secrets and delights. By the end of this book you will find yourself ordering Indian food and curling up in front of a Bollywood film.
Those who want something fun to read over their holiday vacations will find this a great read. It can be read in just a couple of days and will leave you with happy, satisfied feeling.

Publication Date: December 6, 2011

Note: I was given this book for review. In no way does that fact effect what was written in this review.

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Jul 03, 2012 Adite rated it 4 of 5 stars

Bollywood-style romances, with songs and dances, and their own variation of the Hollywood rom-com cute meet, have found an audience globally. Nicola Marsh's Busted in Bollywood is a fun romantic comedy set partly in Mumbai, home of Bollywood industry, and New York. Featuring a multinational cast of characters, Nicola builds the romantic tension as well as gives an insight into Indian cultural nuances on dating, marriage, and food. The story is about Shari Jones, an Indo-American girl, who agrees...more

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Jul 16, 2012 Samantha Robey rated it 4 of 5 stars

I received a copy of Busted in Bollywood in exchange for an honest review. I thought this book was great! I’ve read quite a few Bollywood books, so I am aware of the cultural and how the women must deal with arranged marriage. MC Shari Jones gets roped into a crazy scheme by her BFF Amrita – who is about to become the victim of an arranged marriage. When Amrita is called upon to travel from New York to Mumbai to meet her fiancé and his family for the first time, she somehow convinces Shari to go...more

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Jan 19, 2012 Maria rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

This took me a while to read as I had to do so in my computer time. No e-reader as yet, you see. Well, what can I say?

It's romance author Nicola Marsh's love song to Bollywood. Bollywood? The Indian Hindi language film industry to be precise. Nicola is a Harlequin Mills and Boon author. She writes exquisite romance novels. She's also a fan of what could be called Bollywood 'masala' movies. Movies with lots of singing, dancing, crazy plots and over the top characters. Pure entertainment. If you l...more This took me a while to read as I had to do so in my computer time. No e-reader as yet, you see. Well, what can I say?

It's romance author Nicola Marsh's love song to Bollywood. Bollywood? The Indian Hindi language film industry to be precise. Nicola is a Harlequin Mills and Boon author. She writes exquisite romance novels. She's also a fan of what could be called Bollywood 'masala' movies. Movies with lots of singing, dancing, crazy plots and over the top characters. Pure entertainment. If you like a film, you can actually watch it over and over again and never be bored. I should know, I've watched loads of them along with my family.

This novel could be described as Bollywood meets Mills and Boon.

If you enjoy romantic fiction (as I do) and Bollywood masala movies (as I also do!) you'll adore this! It's a little gem. Entertainment all the way. I could actually picture this as a Bollywood movie as I read, dance scenes and all. I think that was the idea.

Shari the heroine, a feisty New York lass of Indian origin, somewhat down on her luck after coming out of a bad relationship, agrees to help out her best friend, Amrita. She goes to Mumbai to ditch Amrita's unwanted fiance. The results are beyond what anyone could foresee and Shari finds her knight in shining armour too.

I know slightly more about India than most western readers would which can be a pain. I first thought the Rama and Muthu families were south Indians who had migrated to Mumbai. Then I noticed a predominance of north Indian names in the families and I thought 'hey?'. The wedding scene I read was north Indian too. Then it struck me! Mumbai (Bombay!) is in western India. Hindi movies are watched in northern India and there are a great many south Indians in the Bollywood film industry. Enough said. A north Indian Bollywood actor recently had an arranged marriage with a south Indian and the wedding was a traditional northern one. The truth is, Mumbai is a bit of a cultural melting pot. I could almost hear Shari telling me to quit the hell analysing and get on with reading the book. So I did.

I found the scenes where Shari visited her Indian birthplace very touching and think that there could possibly be material for another novel there. Shari's parents' love story maybe?

My conclusion? Paisa vasool, as we say in (north) India. That means value for money, BTW.

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Nov 21, 2012 Becky rated it 5 of 5 stars

Busted in Bollywood is a flirty, light hearted story of friendship, culture and self-discovery. I found the storyline to be interesting and a great insight into Indian culture and cuisine. Nicola certainly paints a picture of Mumbai and Indian traditions which motivates the reader to not only continue reading but to scoff down a huge plate of jalebis in the process. If like myself you find yourself slightly adverse to romance novels I recommend this book as a starting point. Busted in Bollywood...more

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Feb 07, 2012 Stella rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012, for-review, romance

Busted in Bollywood is an entertaining, funny romantic chick lit (reminded me of Sophie Kinsella's books and heroines), the narrator's voice was fresh and funny, and the setting was very colourful due to the Indian culture and traditions as well as all the exotic food and smells. The story got a bit slow in the middle, but still a very enjoyable read!

Nicola Marsh's writing is wonderfully evocative, the picture she painted of Mumbai was pulsing with life (and noise!). I'll definitely check out o...more

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Jan 03, 2012 Katie Cody rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: contemporary

Living someone else’s life, even a movie star’s, may not be all it’s cracked up to be.

“Busted in Bollywood” was one crazy rollercoaster ride of crazy schemes, unexpected romance, and realizing a happy ending really isn’t so far away after all.

Sheri is a very interesting heroine and it was a great joy following her along her journey to find her happily ever after. I laughed at many of the crazy situations she got into and rooted for her to make it out.

Very well written I think people who like c...more

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May 14, 2013 Rj rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: get-from-elibrary, contemporary-romance, four-star, read-in-2013, romance

A fun, humorous read - I enjoyed the trip to Bollywood and drooling over all the Indian foods as much as I enjoyed the romances! I'm seriously off to hunt down some Indian sweets.

I enjoyed the varied cast of characters, and the romances between Shari & Drew and Rita & Rakesh had great chemistry. My favorite though was Auntie Anjali - loved her! Comic relief and loads of fun. I'd take her guided tour around Mumbai any time.

This is my first Nicola Marsh read and she did a fantastic job of...more

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Apr 10, 2012 Rhianna rated it 3 of 5 stars

Too Drawn-Out for my Tastes

Shari Jones hasn't had much luck in the love department and it's wreaked havoc on her life thanks to the affair she was having with her boss. Broke, jobless, and squating on her BFF's couch she's one heck of a pity-party worthy mess. When her BFF, Amrita, gives her a chance to pay her back and help them both in the process Shari is more than a little unsure. Posing as Amrita while visiting the man she's been arranged to marry—while sabotaging the engagement—has it's pl...more Too Drawn-Out for my Tastes

Shari Jones hasn't had much luck in the love department and it's wreaked havoc on her life thanks to the affair she was having with her boss. Broke, jobless, and squating on her BFF's couch she's one heck of a pity-party worthy mess. When her BFF, Amrita, gives her a chance to pay her back and help them both in the process Shari is more than a little unsure. Posing as Amrita while visiting the man she's been arranged to marry—while sabotaging the engagement—has it's plan flaws but it could be the chance at an adventure she'd be a fool to skip.

But as Indo-American Shari reconnects with the land of her birth and attempts to fool the family Amrita is supposed to marry into the adventure gets crazy. A case of mistaken identity, getting busted, and possibly falling in love with an English lord is no everyday occurance in this New Yorker's life.

I wanted to like BUSTED IN BOLLYWOOD. I really did! I have always loved the drama and colorful fashion of Bollywood culture but something was just missing. It read a bit like a never-ending episode of Sex and the City, and not in a good way. Shari is a bit of an idiot at the start so I'd hoped she'd get her life together but she felt only the tiniest bit less shallow and foolish at the book's end. I personally just can't stand shallow characters without some secret depth. The entire book from start to finish had a very jerky pacing and while the love scenes were steamy and the humor (mostly provided by Amrita's aunt) amusing it just couldn't redeem the novel for me.

Keeping in mind I'm not a big reader of contemporary romances (I prefer paranormals) this one just didn't win me over. The pacing definitely made it a difficult read for me and I was surprised how little of the book centered on the action in India before moving back to NYC. If you're in the mood for something a bit outlandish and silly with a heroine you might want to smack some sense into and a splash of Indian flavor you might really love it.

***Review copy received via NetGalley. (less)

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Jul 14, 2012 Anjana rated it 4 of 5 stars

4.5 Stars.

I spent the first 15 minutes after I finished reading this book trying to google everything I can about Nicola Marsh. I couldn't help it, I had to know if she was Indian. Sadly, I still don't know. Only thing I could find out about her was that she's from Australia. All I can say is, if she's not Indian, you'll never guess it because she has done a fantastic job with this book.

Bused in Bollywood has so found a place on my favorites shelf. Really, there's nothing not to ~~like~~ love. The...more 4.5 Stars.

I spent the first 15 minutes after I finished reading this book trying to google everything I can about Nicola Marsh. I couldn't help it, I had to know if she was Indian. Sadly, I still don't know. Only thing I could find out about her was that she's from Australia. All I can say is, if she's not Indian, you'll never guess it because she has done a fantastic job with this book.

Bused in Bollywood has so found a place on my favorites shelf. Really, there's nothing not to ~~like~~ love. The story begins with Shari having drinks with her friend Amrita before she leaves for Mumbai, where she'll be impersonating Amrita to help break off her engagement to a man she has never met. I know, it sounds crazy right? But Shari has her own reasons for agreeing to Amrita's insane request; she's hoping to find some clarity. After being dumped, fired and kicked out by her ex-boyfriend/ex-boss/ex-landlord (yeah, it's all the same guy), it's understandable that she's a little shattered so a trip to Mumbai could be just what she needs right now.

'Look up stupid in the dictionary and you’ll find my picture.
Along with revealing stats: Shari Jones, twenty-nine, five-seven, black hair, hazel eyes, New Yorker. Addicted to toxic men like my ex, cheesecake, and mojitos (not necessarily in that order), and willing to do anything for a friend, including travel to India and impersonate aforementioned friend in an outlandish plot to ditch her fiancé.
See? Stupid.'

Marsh had me hooked right from the very first line. Believe me, you don't want to be drinking anything while you're reading this book. I'm embarrassed to admit this but Shari's narration was so hilarious that I was snorting water on my iPad. Personally, I loved everything about this one.
You'd think that it's because I'm from India but frankly, I've read a ton of books that're kind of based on India and I've usually found myself bored with most of them. So yeah, I'm not biased.
Marsh has captured the fun/entertaining side of the Indian culture perfectly; her descriptions - right from the food, people and country - are so vivid that they truly paint a picture. However, the two things that really made this book are Shari - I absolutely loved her character/personality - combined with Marsh's awesome writing (refer to the above-mentioned quote for a sneak peek).

Busted in Bollywood is fun, colorful and entertaining. It's the kind of book that'll have you grinning stupidly while feeling all warm and gooey on the inside. Reading this lifted my mood so I hope others can appreciate it the way I did. (less)

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About Nicola Marsh

USA TODAY bestselling Aussie author Nicola worked as a physiotherapist for thirteen years before she tired of saying "I'm going to write a book one day" and actually did it. She started writing late 2001 and found once she started she couldn't stop!

Nicola currently writes for Harlequin Mills and Boon Kiss series, has published 38 books and sold over 3 million copies worldwide.
Her first mainstream...more

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Quotes from Busted in Bollywood

“Late twenties, single, female. Do the math.
Flirty flings were fabulous until you hit the big three-O, all downhill
from there. Biological clocks started ticking like time bombs waiting to
detonate, gravity exerted more force on your life than your mom, and
suddenly, the dog-ugliest creep looked like Jake Gyllenhaal.” — 2 people liked it

“All pomp and show.” Anjali’s glare at the house would’ve exploded bricks if she’d had superhuman powers. “A fat cow needs a big barn.” — 1 person liked it

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