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Mumbai Hearts Club #1
Made in Mumbai
Maya Kotak is a spirited, happy-go-lucky Mumbai girl, just trying to rebuild her life after a painful divorce. Her plan? To start anew as the senior textile designer at Made in Mumbai — a chic, new, up-and-coming studio. But fate has other plans. Enter Gautam Kumar: the quintessential cold, broody self-made man and the owner of the studio's parent brand. Imagine Maya's shock when she realizes he's the same clueless guy she met 15 years ago!
Back then, she showed him around the city, shared a magical night, but it ended in a bitter fight. Now, as destiny shoves them together again, Maya finds herself drawn to the grump he has become. But life isn’t done with its plans. Just as sparks start to fly, Maya's world is turned upside down again—she's pregnant with her ex-husband's baby. Yikes!
With her family and friends drifting away, the only constant in her chaotic life remains Gautam. A man with his own dark past, and a vow to never settle down. But he can't seem to stay away from her and her soon-to-be bundle of joy. Amid shared homes and Diwali parties, secret office rendezvouses and doctor’s appointments, their hearts reconnect. But can these two navigate their tangled history and present-day drama to find out if they're truly a match made in Mumbai?
Dive into this laugh-out-loud, heartwarming romantic comedy that will keep you hooked from the first page. Grab your copy of Made in Mumbai on Kindle now and get ready for a whirlwind of love, laughter, and second chances!
Tropes: grumpy X sunshine, office romance, second chance, single mom, Mumbai fiction, Indian couple
Back then, she showed him around the city, shared a magical night, but it ended in a bitter fight. Now, as destiny shoves them together again, Maya finds herself drawn to the grump he has become. But life isn’t done with its plans. Just as sparks start to fly, Maya's world is turned upside down again—she's pregnant with her ex-husband's baby. Yikes!
With her family and friends drifting away, the only constant in her chaotic life remains Gautam. A man with his own dark past, and a vow to never settle down. But he can't seem to stay away from her and her soon-to-be bundle of joy. Amid shared homes and Diwali parties, secret office rendezvouses and doctor’s appointments, their hearts reconnect. But can these two navigate their tangled history and present-day drama to find out if they're truly a match made in Mumbai?
Dive into this laugh-out-loud, heartwarming romantic comedy that will keep you hooked from the first page. Grab your copy of Made in Mumbai on Kindle now and get ready for a whirlwind of love, laughter, and second chances!
Tropes: grumpy X sunshine, office romance, second chance, single mom, Mumbai fiction, Indian couple
366 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 26, 2024
122 people are currently reading
566 people want to read
About the author
Bhavini K. Desai
11 books153 followersBhavini K. Desai is a literary fiction author whose debut novel ‘The City of Pillars’ ranked in the top 10 on Amazon. She has worked as a copywriter, a content editor, and more recently, as a creative strategist. But she found her true calling in stitching words together and telling epic stories.
Her passion for contemporary issues and a teenage obsession with romance novels translated into her first novel, a love story set in the enchanting backdrop of Kashmir. And unlike your regular genres, she broke the rules by weaving a tale of romance, drama, adventure, and politics.
Bhavini is currently working as a creative strategist for an American skincare brand, while expanding on the Kashmir universe in The Heaven Series. She is also crafting a spinoff from The Queen’s Eyes while writing a swoony rom-com set in the dreamy city of Mumbai. You can find her daily writing and music updates on her Instagram.
Her passion for contemporary issues and a teenage obsession with romance novels translated into her first novel, a love story set in the enchanting backdrop of Kashmir. And unlike your regular genres, she broke the rules by weaving a tale of romance, drama, adventure, and politics.
Bhavini is currently working as a creative strategist for an American skincare brand, while expanding on the Kashmir universe in The Heaven Series. She is also crafting a spinoff from The Queen’s Eyes while writing a swoony rom-com set in the dreamy city of Mumbai. You can find her daily writing and music updates on her Instagram.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
December 17, 2025
2.5 stars
Made in Mumbai is a light-hearted, easy read with an undeniably cute vibe, but the realist in me couldn’t ignore a few bumps along the way. The beginning, though sweet, felt a little too dreamy to be truly pragmatic. Maya, however, was a delight. I loved her strength, resilience, and emotional clarity. Gautam was where the book lost me; his character felt inconsistent, swinging between being a gentleman and behaving like a complete hooligan, which made him hard to take seriously. What I did appreciate was the absence of explicit scenes, the use of only mild profanity, and the fun chapter titles inspired by Bollywood movies and songs, along with the music references that added a playful, distinctly Mumbai charm. Overall, it’s a pleasant read that’s enjoyable in the moment but doesn’t quite stay with you.
Made in Mumbai is a light-hearted, easy read with an undeniably cute vibe, but the realist in me couldn’t ignore a few bumps along the way. The beginning, though sweet, felt a little too dreamy to be truly pragmatic. Maya, however, was a delight. I loved her strength, resilience, and emotional clarity. Gautam was where the book lost me; his character felt inconsistent, swinging between being a gentleman and behaving like a complete hooligan, which made him hard to take seriously. What I did appreciate was the absence of explicit scenes, the use of only mild profanity, and the fun chapter titles inspired by Bollywood movies and songs, along with the music references that added a playful, distinctly Mumbai charm. Overall, it’s a pleasant read that’s enjoyable in the moment but doesn’t quite stay with you.
September 24, 2024
This book hit all the right spots!!! G and M made me smile so hard my cheeks hurt. Safe to say, I'll be obsessing over them for the next few weeks.
The plot, the writing, the characters, the jokes everything was spot on since page one. As a mumbai girl myself, this book made my heart sing.
Thank you for this amazing book, dear author.
The plot, the writing, the characters, the jokes everything was spot on since page one. As a mumbai girl myself, this book made my heart sing.
Thank you for this amazing book, dear author.
September 28, 2024
Sweetest story ever
One of the most sweetest stories I have read in a while. Literally couldn't put it down after I started. The story moves at the right pace, the characters are easy to get attached to. I just loved it.
One of the most sweetest stories I have read in a while. Literally couldn't put it down after I started. The story moves at the right pace, the characters are easy to get attached to. I just loved it.
January 28, 2025
i'm on a bhavini desai streak and i'm loving it
5 stars -`♡´-
────୨ৎ────
made in mumbai is the cutest little book ever!!!!!!!!
a second chance mumbai romance? yes yes yes yes a thousand times yes. a super short book with the softest mmc and a feisty fmc, this book will make you swoon so much. men with babies are such a weakness and gautam takes on that role like such a pro. my heart goes out to my girl maya, tbh she's so real. p.s kumar bhai has my whole heart.
"Then what do you feel?”
“Insanity! I don’t even know what that means but that’s what you make me feel. Nothing in my head makes sense. Yet. Except that without you, even if it all made sense, I wouldn’t like it.”
they are so soft and so domestic with each other. i love growing up romances and this one is so lighthearted and sweet. a perfect blend of good characters and good plot. so heartfelt and so cute, they are so found family coded. never once did gautam try to dim maya's light or taunt her for being too much and that moment when he said she's so sun and anyone looking at her would have to squint because of all the brightness>>>>>>> the mm, m1, m2 nicknames are SO ADORABLE, and i repeat gautam is the perfect father. i could sing gautam's praises all day bye😭😭
If he was the sea, she was where he ended now. And now he discovered, that his journey’s destination wasn’t Mumbai. It was Maya.
────୨ৎ────
i'm obsessed with this author i'm not even kidding. from deep meaningful plots in the heaven series to this lighthearted mumbai hearts club series, the range, the grip and the balance is absolutely perfect. if good writing with a properly sought out plot and lots of swooning for the mmc is what you're looking for, bhavini desai is the one hands down. her mmc's are now in my top 5 of all time.
5 stars -`♡´-
────୨ৎ────
made in mumbai is the cutest little book ever!!!!!!!!
a second chance mumbai romance? yes yes yes yes a thousand times yes. a super short book with the softest mmc and a feisty fmc, this book will make you swoon so much. men with babies are such a weakness and gautam takes on that role like such a pro. my heart goes out to my girl maya, tbh she's so real. p.s kumar bhai has my whole heart.
"Then what do you feel?”
“Insanity! I don’t even know what that means but that’s what you make me feel. Nothing in my head makes sense. Yet. Except that without you, even if it all made sense, I wouldn’t like it.”
they are so soft and so domestic with each other. i love growing up romances and this one is so lighthearted and sweet. a perfect blend of good characters and good plot. so heartfelt and so cute, they are so found family coded. never once did gautam try to dim maya's light or taunt her for being too much and that moment when he said she's so sun and anyone looking at her would have to squint because of all the brightness>>>>>>> the mm, m1, m2 nicknames are SO ADORABLE, and i repeat gautam is the perfect father. i could sing gautam's praises all day bye😭😭
If he was the sea, she was where he ended now. And now he discovered, that his journey’s destination wasn’t Mumbai. It was Maya.
────୨ৎ────
i'm obsessed with this author i'm not even kidding. from deep meaningful plots in the heaven series to this lighthearted mumbai hearts club series, the range, the grip and the balance is absolutely perfect. if good writing with a properly sought out plot and lots of swooning for the mmc is what you're looking for, bhavini desai is the one hands down. her mmc's are now in my top 5 of all time.
October 17, 2024
G & M, they make your world so happy and bright.
I loved this book so much. Completed in one go which is like after years I have done for any book.
Loved the story so much 🫶🏻💫✨❤️.
Your books are amazing 💜❤️ I have read all your books till now and each one has a seperate emotion attached to and this book gives a fresh and romantic approach in the busy lives of Mumbai. A hope to love and be there for each other 💫✨🫶🏻☺️
I loved this book so much. Completed in one go which is like after years I have done for any book.
Loved the story so much 🫶🏻💫✨❤️.
Your books are amazing 💜❤️ I have read all your books till now and each one has a seperate emotion attached to and this book gives a fresh and romantic approach in the busy lives of Mumbai. A hope to love and be there for each other 💫✨🫶🏻☺️
November 10, 2024
“Oye, M?” He called out. She turned.
“Nothing!” Their girls screamed.
They grinned. Yeah, nothing.
Reading can sometimes feel like a chore, imagination stops working and leaves you feeling like your time has been wasted.
However, this book was a breath of fresh air! I kept wondering why I hadn't read it before. It played so vividly in my mind; my imagination and emotions fully engaged. It’s simple yet so good. I petition for this book to be turned into a movie!
Every element of the story does justice to its title. The evocative depiction of Mumbai—its rain, Marine Drive, vada pav, pav bhaji, and train journeys—transported me to the city itself. The grumpy-sunshine trope never gets old, and this workplace romance felt incredibly relatable.
The delightful quirks, such as Maya’s unconventional tutoring methods and the references to Sahid and Kareena, added layers of humor and charm. I loved how each chapter was titled after a movie, enhancing the overall experience.
Beyond its romantic elements, the story is inspiring in its own right. Although it belongs to the romance genre, it encouraged me to visit Mumbai and adopt a positive attitude like Maya’s. It also reminded me that it’s okay to have breakdowns once in a while.Gautam's journey is truly inspiring. It offers hope that there is light at the end of a dark tunnel, and he sets a high standard for men in fiction. I also loved the family dynamics among the five main characters: G, M, MM, M1, and M2.
In summary, I highly recommend this book. If you're looking for a quick read that evokes feelings of happiness and captures the essence of Bollywood, this is it! What are you waiting for? Go read it!
“Nothing!” Their girls screamed.
They grinned. Yeah, nothing.
Reading can sometimes feel like a chore, imagination stops working and leaves you feeling like your time has been wasted.
However, this book was a breath of fresh air! I kept wondering why I hadn't read it before. It played so vividly in my mind; my imagination and emotions fully engaged. It’s simple yet so good. I petition for this book to be turned into a movie!
Every element of the story does justice to its title. The evocative depiction of Mumbai—its rain, Marine Drive, vada pav, pav bhaji, and train journeys—transported me to the city itself. The grumpy-sunshine trope never gets old, and this workplace romance felt incredibly relatable.
The delightful quirks, such as Maya’s unconventional tutoring methods and the references to Sahid and Kareena, added layers of humor and charm. I loved how each chapter was titled after a movie, enhancing the overall experience.
Beyond its romantic elements, the story is inspiring in its own right. Although it belongs to the romance genre, it encouraged me to visit Mumbai and adopt a positive attitude like Maya’s. It also reminded me that it’s okay to have breakdowns once in a while.Gautam's journey is truly inspiring. It offers hope that there is light at the end of a dark tunnel, and he sets a high standard for men in fiction. I also loved the family dynamics among the five main characters: G, M, MM, M1, and M2.
In summary, I highly recommend this book. If you're looking for a quick read that evokes feelings of happiness and captures the essence of Bollywood, this is it! What are you waiting for? Go read it!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 24, 2024
Never read a desi romcom like this before. Truly another level. ♾ stars!!! M and G will always be famous!!!!
January 12, 2025
My heart is so full right now—full of G, M, MM, M1 & M2! I’m absolutely gushing over these cuties, and honestly, I finally believe that good things take time. Why? Because I can’t fathom why I hadn’t discovered this gem of a book earlier! 🥹
Maya Kotak is a total me vibe👀—talking Bollywood nonstop, adding drama to every moment, and somehow nazar-lagao-ing herself every time. She’s pure sunshine: a fighter, a darling designer, and a divorced queen who’s full-to-rapchik energy.🙅🏻♀️🫰🏻
Enter Gautam Kumar—cue me fanning myself. Our grumpy yet gorgeous billionaire boss, who started as a truck cleaner in Himachal Pradesh and worked his way up to a Range Rover lifestyle. Grump-meets-giggle-worthy? Sign me up. 🧎🏻♀️
The story kicks off with a flashback: 19-year-old Gautam, a wide-eyed boy running away to explore Mumbai, meets 19-year-old Maya, who’s busy beating up a grown man in the middle of the suburbs (iconic behavior, TBH). Maya, living out her Jab We Met fantasies, decides to be his Geet and drags him along for a day of full-on Mumbai exploration—street food, hidden gems, and cozy moments by the sea💞. But Bollywood-worthy drama ensues when their perfect day ends with misunderstandings and harsh words.
Fast-forward 15 years: Maya is now a divorcee and a soon to be single mom to the adorable MM (the real MVP of the story), and Gautam is her boss. What follows is an office romance with forbidden clauses, jealous coworkers, and a nightmarish ex-husband. But the real magic? Gautam stepping up, falling head-over-heels for Maya, and making her and MM the center of his world.
Their chemistry is pure chef’s kiss. Maya’s journey—from heartbreak to hope—is inspiring, and watching Gautam transform into “Best Dad of the Year” material melted my heart. Their moments together—sneaky office flirts, medical checkups, and day/night escapades—were equal parts heartwarming and swoon-worthy. 🫶🏻
And let’s not forget the side characters! Kumar Bhai and Leo? Absolute scene-stealers.
The title Made in Mumbai caught my attention, but the story? It stole my heart. Indian stories, especially ones rooted in places I’ve lived and loved, always hit different. And that ending—with all three of them together? I never want to stop reading. 🥹🤍
Maya Kotak is a total me vibe👀—talking Bollywood nonstop, adding drama to every moment, and somehow nazar-lagao-ing herself every time. She’s pure sunshine: a fighter, a darling designer, and a divorced queen who’s full-to-rapchik energy.🙅🏻♀️🫰🏻
Enter Gautam Kumar—cue me fanning myself. Our grumpy yet gorgeous billionaire boss, who started as a truck cleaner in Himachal Pradesh and worked his way up to a Range Rover lifestyle. Grump-meets-giggle-worthy? Sign me up. 🧎🏻♀️
The story kicks off with a flashback: 19-year-old Gautam, a wide-eyed boy running away to explore Mumbai, meets 19-year-old Maya, who’s busy beating up a grown man in the middle of the suburbs (iconic behavior, TBH). Maya, living out her Jab We Met fantasies, decides to be his Geet and drags him along for a day of full-on Mumbai exploration—street food, hidden gems, and cozy moments by the sea💞. But Bollywood-worthy drama ensues when their perfect day ends with misunderstandings and harsh words.
Fast-forward 15 years: Maya is now a divorcee and a soon to be single mom to the adorable MM (the real MVP of the story), and Gautam is her boss. What follows is an office romance with forbidden clauses, jealous coworkers, and a nightmarish ex-husband. But the real magic? Gautam stepping up, falling head-over-heels for Maya, and making her and MM the center of his world.
Their chemistry is pure chef’s kiss. Maya’s journey—from heartbreak to hope—is inspiring, and watching Gautam transform into “Best Dad of the Year” material melted my heart. Their moments together—sneaky office flirts, medical checkups, and day/night escapades—were equal parts heartwarming and swoon-worthy. 🫶🏻
And let’s not forget the side characters! Kumar Bhai and Leo? Absolute scene-stealers.
The title Made in Mumbai caught my attention, but the story? It stole my heart. Indian stories, especially ones rooted in places I’ve lived and loved, always hit different. And that ending—with all three of them together? I never want to stop reading. 🥹🤍
August 24, 2025
Made in Mumbai is one of those books that feels straight out of a Bollywood script... heartwarming, a little over the top, and very, very filmy. It’s the kind of story you don’t want to put down, not because it’s groundbreaking, but because it’s pure comfort reading.
The characters and setting tug at your emotions, and while you know it isn’t a “big deal” kind of book, it still leaves you with a smile and a warm aftertaste. Think of it as a feel-good film on paper... predictable in parts, but exactly what you’d pick when you just want to be entertained.
The characters and setting tug at your emotions, and while you know it isn’t a “big deal” kind of book, it still leaves you with a smile and a warm aftertaste. Think of it as a feel-good film on paper... predictable in parts, but exactly what you’d pick when you just want to be entertained.
December 1, 2024
The depiction of Single mom in India might be the closest to reality, and Bhavini wrote it soo beautifully giving strength to all single mom out there... and regarding the story line, i have travelled Mumbai without actually going, there was a warm description to the city... The chemistry between two stranger was soo charming, it felt like a warm hug while reading it...you need to give a try in order to experience Mumbai city..✨️
December 20, 2024
One of the best books I have read in a while, makes me want to explore the streets of Mumbai on a rainy day. M and G are so perfectly written and are just made for each other. Loved the book, loved them.
December 11, 2024
OMG...What a masterpiece...I have been crying ever since Part 2 started...man they are sooo funny...Maya and Gautam🫣💖
October 15, 2024
This week has been a whirlwind of Bhavini K. Desai's magic. I binged through her works and just couldn’t get enough! Her writing style is captivating, making her characters feel so real and complex.
Made in Mumbai was the icing on the cake. I particularly loved how she captured the essence of Mumbai—the city's charm, chaos, and heart were perfectly woven into the storyline. The romance, emotions, and plot twists kept me hooked, and I found myself completely immersed in G and M's journey.
When I stumbled upon Bhavini baking a new creation for Siddharth and Tara’s book, my excitement shot through the roof! I can’t wait to see what she has in store for these characters next. She just has this incredible ability to make every book feel unique while staying true to her signature emotional depth and nuanced character arcs.
Made in Mumbai was the icing on the cake. I particularly loved how she captured the essence of Mumbai—the city's charm, chaos, and heart were perfectly woven into the storyline. The romance, emotions, and plot twists kept me hooked, and I found myself completely immersed in G and M's journey.
When I stumbled upon Bhavini baking a new creation for Siddharth and Tara’s book, my excitement shot through the roof! I can’t wait to see what she has in store for these characters next. She just has this incredible ability to make every book feel unique while staying true to her signature emotional depth and nuanced character arcs.
October 23, 2024
Rating - 4½/5
A MUST READ IT.
TROPES -
Grumpy×sunshine
office romance
Second chance
Greenest flag no, greenest forest
What else reason you need to read a nice Indian book. Tbh it's been long since I read something with Indian location and Indian culture and trust me I'm not disappointed because this book satisfied me. This book can easily be included into your comfort book.
M and G are just swooning and power couple for me. And please can somebody get me G 🥺😭
Narration was amazing, so was the writing. And trust me with that. There's no unnecessary drama like Hindi serial. It's all nice.
Do give it a try.
A MUST READ IT.
TROPES -
Grumpy×sunshine
office romance
Second chance
Greenest flag no, greenest forest
What else reason you need to read a nice Indian book. Tbh it's been long since I read something with Indian location and Indian culture and trust me I'm not disappointed because this book satisfied me. This book can easily be included into your comfort book.
M and G are just swooning and power couple for me. And please can somebody get me G 🥺😭
Narration was amazing, so was the writing. And trust me with that. There's no unnecessary drama like Hindi serial. It's all nice.
Do give it a try.
August 20, 2025
♡ “She was like bursts of sunshine on a rainy day. Like that sun that he had seen on Juhu Beach after the rainy spell on Carter Road.” ♡
Next stop in my author binge journey: The Tale of G and M. It all starts with a flashback. A 19-year-old Gautam's first time in the city of dreams, meeting the 19-year-old Maya, exploring Mumbai, but then parting ways on a bitter note. However, this one day gave this young truck driver, a goal, building a business from ground up and setting it up in this very city, “Mayanagri” ✨ Maya's city, because if Mumbai was a person, it would be Maya. She is a sunshine fairy, with her bubbly energy, her love for sweets, and movie references. And even with that overzealous nature, Maya is grounded, strong, and her personality feels like everything this world needs.
On her way to rebuild her life after her divorce, Maya joins Made in Mumbai (Gautam's company), but rebuilding her life takes a whole new meaning when she realizes that she is pregnant.
The way the author writes about being a single mother in India is quite accurate and I love how the deep topics were wrapped up in banter.
The book is divided into two parts and even that has its own significance. The chapter names in first part (Maya's pov) were movie names while the second part (Gautam's pov) had songs & ghazals as chapter titles, which resonated more with him - brilliant if you ask me.
There was also this unique "Gundee Awards" arc that felt like an epilogue but still not quite exactly that. Again, very entertaining!!
“I cried. I need more love” - I am definitely using this line in real life!!!
M, G, MM are the most adorable family and G is the most adorable new dad ever.
I won't give many spoilers, but to sell you Gautam Kumar... The guy realised what he said was wrong and his outburst was a sort of trauma response within 15 hours and then he grovelled!!! And that extended epilogue, wonderful🤌
♡ And that is how I got the girl, the girl's girl, and two more girl's girls. ♡
What an end line! Maya(M), Megha (MM), Meher (M1), Mukti (M2); seriously, SO DAMN CUTE!!!
What I would have loved to see more of office gossip, like Riya and Rustom's thoughts about Gautam and Maya being a thing.
But even that doesn't affect my love for this book which managed to transport me to Mumbai and experience the magic of it without ever visiting.
If you want a good romantic comedy that you don't want to ever stop reading, this is it!!
Next stop in my author binge journey: The Tale of G and M. It all starts with a flashback. A 19-year-old Gautam's first time in the city of dreams, meeting the 19-year-old Maya, exploring Mumbai, but then parting ways on a bitter note. However, this one day gave this young truck driver, a goal, building a business from ground up and setting it up in this very city, “Mayanagri” ✨ Maya's city, because if Mumbai was a person, it would be Maya. She is a sunshine fairy, with her bubbly energy, her love for sweets, and movie references. And even with that overzealous nature, Maya is grounded, strong, and her personality feels like everything this world needs.
On her way to rebuild her life after her divorce, Maya joins Made in Mumbai (Gautam's company), but rebuilding her life takes a whole new meaning when she realizes that she is pregnant.
The way the author writes about being a single mother in India is quite accurate and I love how the deep topics were wrapped up in banter.
The book is divided into two parts and even that has its own significance. The chapter names in first part (Maya's pov) were movie names while the second part (Gautam's pov) had songs & ghazals as chapter titles, which resonated more with him - brilliant if you ask me.
There was also this unique "Gundee Awards" arc that felt like an epilogue but still not quite exactly that. Again, very entertaining!!
“I cried. I need more love” - I am definitely using this line in real life!!!
M, G, MM are the most adorable family and G is the most adorable new dad ever.
I won't give many spoilers, but to sell you Gautam Kumar... The guy realised what he said was wrong and his outburst was a sort of trauma response within 15 hours and then he grovelled!!! And that extended epilogue, wonderful🤌
♡ And that is how I got the girl, the girl's girl, and two more girl's girls. ♡
What an end line! Maya(M), Megha (MM), Meher (M1), Mukti (M2); seriously, SO DAMN CUTE!!!
What I would have loved to see more of office gossip, like Riya and Rustom's thoughts about Gautam and Maya being a thing.
But even that doesn't affect my love for this book which managed to transport me to Mumbai and experience the magic of it without ever visiting.
If you want a good romantic comedy that you don't want to ever stop reading, this is it!!
August 23, 2024
Maya Kotak. The fairy that carries confetti in her pocket and beats men who whistle at her. She is all the sprakles and all the colours in the city of Mumbai, she is salted caramel on a plain cheesecake and the salty sea breeze on a rainy day. It took Gautam 15 long years to realise this. But then, in his own words -- he is a slow learner, and always excels at second chances!
Gautam Kumar. *Sigh*
While I was writing the first half from Maya's POV, Gautam was a grump that shone from tiny chinks in his armour. A pearl in the depth of that sea which I hadn't tested yet. But once I switched at mid-point, and began writing from his perspective, I fell in love with a man like that. Now, now, I know, he is the kind of character that leaves too many unreal expectations in his wake. Girls like me might find themselves exhausted looking for a Gautam in real life. But hey, at least we get to keep him between the pages of this book.
A 'full-on' self-made hero. A misunderstood man. A consumate lover. A devoted father. And as Maya likes to call him -- an inorganic mule.
This book started as a fun romcom to test my limits as an author. Having written nothing but political romance, angst and drama for the last 12 years, it was a test of the diversity of my skill for myself. How was I to know that I would end up writing a love letter to my most favourite city in the world?
I am a Mumbai born and bred, and some might call it a bais that I love this city the most. But I do. And Made in Mumbai is as much an ode to sassy but sweet girls like Maya and grumps with fluffy hearts like Gautam, as it is to Aamchi Mumbai. This is me sincerely wishing that every reader sees Mumbai like I see it, and once, at least once, gets the pleasure of eating a piping hot vada pav with a fried salty green chilli from a street-side shack!
Lots of love and please write long, descriptive reviews. I want-to want-to want-to read them all!
Gautam Kumar. *Sigh*
While I was writing the first half from Maya's POV, Gautam was a grump that shone from tiny chinks in his armour. A pearl in the depth of that sea which I hadn't tested yet. But once I switched at mid-point, and began writing from his perspective, I fell in love with a man like that. Now, now, I know, he is the kind of character that leaves too many unreal expectations in his wake. Girls like me might find themselves exhausted looking for a Gautam in real life. But hey, at least we get to keep him between the pages of this book.
A 'full-on' self-made hero. A misunderstood man. A consumate lover. A devoted father. And as Maya likes to call him -- an inorganic mule.
This book started as a fun romcom to test my limits as an author. Having written nothing but political romance, angst and drama for the last 12 years, it was a test of the diversity of my skill for myself. How was I to know that I would end up writing a love letter to my most favourite city in the world?
I am a Mumbai born and bred, and some might call it a bais that I love this city the most. But I do. And Made in Mumbai is as much an ode to sassy but sweet girls like Maya and grumps with fluffy hearts like Gautam, as it is to Aamchi Mumbai. This is me sincerely wishing that every reader sees Mumbai like I see it, and once, at least once, gets the pleasure of eating a piping hot vada pav with a fried salty green chilli from a street-side shack!
Lots of love and please write long, descriptive reviews. I want-to want-to want-to read them all!
September 8, 2024
Sadly, this book was not for me. I really wanted to read a good Indian romance book and this one had the potential but it was lacking.
Firstly, the FMC. She was a ‘pick-me’ girl and was trying really hard to be “that” girl. She failed. I really don’t think anybody sings Bollywood songs that much, especially in their office space and act so unprofessionally in their office. Seriously, I cringed so hard every time she did something like that. I don’t have anything else to say about her. She was just a cringy character. Also when she said all those mean things to Gautam after their first meeting ended.. I wanted to slap her.
Secondly, the MMC. I’m so glad he got the success he deserved. But he wasn’t anything special. And his dialogue, ““Oye, M?” “Hmm?” She glanced up. “Nothing,” he grinned.” What is this ?? It’s so annoying.
Their relationship never felt romantic to me because they never developed into something romantic. It felt forced. And some dialogues with the word ‘only’, I mean I get it .. Indians like to use it very much in their figure of speech but was it really required in the dialogues too ?
AND LETS NOT FORGET THE GUNDEE AWARD !!😂😂 could it be anymore cringy ?
and it had a scene copy pasted from a Turkish series - Kiralik așk, which was a poor adaptation of the original scene.
Firstly, the FMC. She was a ‘pick-me’ girl and was trying really hard to be “that” girl. She failed. I really don’t think anybody sings Bollywood songs that much, especially in their office space and act so unprofessionally in their office. Seriously, I cringed so hard every time she did something like that. I don’t have anything else to say about her. She was just a cringy character. Also when she said all those mean things to Gautam after their first meeting ended.. I wanted to slap her.
Secondly, the MMC. I’m so glad he got the success he deserved. But he wasn’t anything special. And his dialogue, ““Oye, M?” “Hmm?” She glanced up. “Nothing,” he grinned.” What is this ?? It’s so annoying.
Their relationship never felt romantic to me because they never developed into something romantic. It felt forced. And some dialogues with the word ‘only’, I mean I get it .. Indians like to use it very much in their figure of speech but was it really required in the dialogues too ?
AND LETS NOT FORGET THE GUNDEE AWARD !!😂😂 could it be anymore cringy ?
and it had a scene copy pasted from a Turkish series - Kiralik așk, which was a poor adaptation of the original scene.
September 10, 2024
Maya actually is the star of this book, I know I know I need to talk about Gautam but Maya she is something else. The way she handled situations and I laughed so many times when she is throwing dialogues like waving hands and saying it means talk to my hand sia lmao, she is so funny.
Gautam trying to be angry at her first but unknowingly caring and falling in love eventually with her and also MM is just so beautiful to see. His love for MM made me feel my heart will burst out sometimes because he loved her without any conditions.
To see them so happy with leaky roof hehehe and MM, m1 and m2 drilling about limited sugar intake god this family is so full of energy that I thoroughly enjoyed reading them.
My top fav line is
Oye, M ? He called. She turned
Nothing! Their girls screamed
Gautam trying to be angry at her first but unknowingly caring and falling in love eventually with her and also MM is just so beautiful to see. His love for MM made me feel my heart will burst out sometimes because he loved her without any conditions.
To see them so happy with leaky roof hehehe and MM, m1 and m2 drilling about limited sugar intake god this family is so full of energy that I thoroughly enjoyed reading them.
My top fav line is
Oye, M ? He called. She turned
Nothing! Their girls screamed
June 25, 2025
“Made in Mumbai” – A story I wish I could unread just to fall in love with again.
Finished it in less than 24 hours, and I'm still not over it 😭
Maya is everything I love in a protagonist—confident, funny, effortlessly charming. She made me smile, laugh, and admire her every step. And him—oh, the self-made, quiet, intense guy with a soft spot for her? The kind who sees her for everything she is and adores her without limits? I’m done for.
It’s a romcom, yes, but it hits deep—moments of tenderness, backstories that pull your heart, and the sparkling chemistry between two beautifully imperfect people.
If you love messy, magical cities, lovable characters, and stories that feel like home—read this. Immediately.
10/10. My brain is still in Mumbai with them. 🥹🩷
Finished it in less than 24 hours, and I'm still not over it 😭
Maya is everything I love in a protagonist—confident, funny, effortlessly charming. She made me smile, laugh, and admire her every step. And him—oh, the self-made, quiet, intense guy with a soft spot for her? The kind who sees her for everything she is and adores her without limits? I’m done for.
It’s a romcom, yes, but it hits deep—moments of tenderness, backstories that pull your heart, and the sparkling chemistry between two beautifully imperfect people.
If you love messy, magical cities, lovable characters, and stories that feel like home—read this. Immediately.
10/10. My brain is still in Mumbai with them. 🥹🩷
May 10, 2025
When i began reading it, it felt like a light and breezy read. Which ofcourse it was. I liked that it was an easy read and I could finish it within a day or two. That being said , what I DID NOT like was the fact that the characters were toooooooo good and tooooo nice and toooooo sweet. Everyone from the cute office staff to the gynecologist and even the Hawaldaar!!!! Too good to be true. Maya was plain irritating. The worst part for me was that ONLY muslim character was a goon!! how convenient!!! There were a whole lot of spelling errors. The writing could've been a lot better.
February 19, 2025
Fresh, Light hearted romance. I picked up this book with no expectation, a clear mind. Before picking it up, i didn't read any reviews, didn't see any bookstagram or etc. But it is totally worth the time.
If I hadn't had to sleep, I would have finished this in one night. It is that damn good.
I'm not giving any spoilers here.
But let me tell you. Read this. You will really really enjoy the love, the cuteness, emotions and of course our MFL Maya or "M" and MML Gautam or "G".
If I hadn't had to sleep, I would have finished this in one night. It is that damn good.
I'm not giving any spoilers here.
But let me tell you. Read this. You will really really enjoy the love, the cuteness, emotions and of course our MFL Maya or "M" and MML Gautam or "G".
May 3, 2025
My first romance book by Indian Author that I actually liked. The FMC is fun and likeable. The MMC is soo cute. The first part of the book was more enjoyable than the second half (personally to me). Overall, reading this book made me smile and happy and I am not a rain lover yet I missed rains during reading this. You if wanna read this, please read this on a rainy day with a cup of coffee/tea something warm and just enjoy.
May 12, 2025
Maya is a VIBE! 💋
This book took me out of my reading slump, low days and days filled with sadness.
I loveeee the way Gautam takes care of Maya even when she throughs numerous tantrums. The book is written in third person's pov, which makes it better tbh bcoz you can really feel and know what both the characters want to express at the same time.
I had so much fun while reading this. ALSO, DO READ THE BONUS CHAPTERS!!! THEY'RE SOO ADORABLE 🎀🥰
This book took me out of my reading slump, low days and days filled with sadness.
I loveeee the way Gautam takes care of Maya even when she throughs numerous tantrums. The book is written in third person's pov, which makes it better tbh bcoz you can really feel and know what both the characters want to express at the same time.
I had so much fun while reading this. ALSO, DO READ THE BONUS CHAPTERS!!! THEY'RE SOO ADORABLE 🎀🥰
December 29, 2024
Reading the story of G & M was pure perfection. The references to different places in Mumbai made me smile because I could envision it and all the Josh references made me so happy because I always thought I was the crazy girl in love with that movie.
Suffice to say, this is definitely one of my favourite reads from last year.
Suffice to say, this is definitely one of my favourite reads from last year.
December 31, 2025
This was my first Bhavini desai book and I wanted to read one before the year ends. Honestly, I liked it okayish at the start but then the middle and then the end I love it …. This was a really sweet story and the back story of each of the character felt way too real….🥹 Hoping to read more of her work next year!
October 12, 2024
Maya and Gautam, a match made in Mumbai-heaven! This was my first book by Bhavini K Desai, and with this book, I think, she became one of my favourite authors. Absolutely loved her writing style, and the unique characters <3
January 20, 2025
3.7 stars.
cute Desi romance
grumpy-sunshine-yes
past history- yes
pregnancy journey-yes
MM going all out for FMC and the baby (MM/ Megha) - a big yes
Turn off your brain and just enjoy this little , cute journey of G( Gautam) and M ( Maya)
cute Desi romance
grumpy-sunshine-yes
past history- yes
pregnancy journey-yes
MM going all out for FMC and the baby (MM/ Megha) - a big yes
Turn off your brain and just enjoy this little , cute journey of G( Gautam) and M ( Maya)
February 28, 2025
I like romcoms and I like Mumbai.
This was a fun, short read. Not the best, but I read it anyway and was less harsh than I'd be on a Western romance novel. I need more Desi romance rep. And this was cute, although the writing was a bit stilted!
This was a fun, short read. Not the best, but I read it anyway and was less harsh than I'd be on a Western romance novel. I need more Desi romance rep. And this was cute, although the writing was a bit stilted!
June 5, 2025
Delightful. Such a different voice from her other two series but still done so well! I am not a fan of the overly bubbly FMC, but I still managed to enjoy this because of the added depth to the characters
September 6, 2025
3.5 - The story was good. But maybe i was expecting a bit more. I couldn’t keep up with the pace. The ending seems to be rushed. The build up was not there. It was a quick and light read but I think could’ve been better.
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