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Mumbai Hearts Club #2
Nicked in Mumbai
Dr Ritu Kapadia is a guarded, no-nonsense interventional cardiologist from New York, landed in Mumbai for an extended break. With forty around the corner, she’s finally ready to leave behind the scars this city gave her and head back to a quieter life. For good. What she doesn’t see coming is Mumbai nicking her neatest plans. The scalpel in question? NiP. Also known as Nilay Patel, the obnoxious, entitled, alpha couture designer who is worshipped like god and ogled like fashion royalty. With his heart in big trouble, of the literal kind, he lands in her OPD as the patient from hell. And, boom!
What begins as one isolated explosion soon turns into recurrent collisions. Sneering through smiles at mutual friends’ parties and hiding from people convinced they are dating, Ritu groans her way to treating this couture menace. But in rolls the Mumbai winter, and brings with it surprise showers, stolen moments, babysitting dates and hilarious run-ins. And miracle of all miracles — they start to see each other differently.
Biting snarls get traded for hot looks, toddler name-calling starts sounding suspiciously good. And the scars of their past? They begin to look like strange blessings. But when old wounds flare up and Ritu’s return to New York looms closer, life throws them its cruelest question. Has one tiny nick — in an artery, in fabric, in two fiercely guarded hearts — already stitched together a love story that neither saw coming?
From the author of 'A King's Oath' and 'The Circle of Exile' comes a hearty romantic comedy.
Dive into this hilarious, heart-melting, chemistry-drunk romance about Mumbai’s madness, late-blooming sparks, larger-than-life fashion gods and sassy doctors who finally meet their match!
alpha x black-cat, enemies to lovers, forced proximity, curvy FMC, women in STEM, medical romance, Mumbai fiction
If you loved Made in Mumbai and Sued in Mumbai, this is the highly anticipated Book 2 from the same universe!
Guest Appearance from Made in
MAYA KUMAR (née KOTAK)
GAUTAM GRUMPY KUMAR
MM (Megha, Megha, MEGHA!) GAUTAM KUMAR
What begins as one isolated explosion soon turns into recurrent collisions. Sneering through smiles at mutual friends’ parties and hiding from people convinced they are dating, Ritu groans her way to treating this couture menace. But in rolls the Mumbai winter, and brings with it surprise showers, stolen moments, babysitting dates and hilarious run-ins. And miracle of all miracles — they start to see each other differently.
Biting snarls get traded for hot looks, toddler name-calling starts sounding suspiciously good. And the scars of their past? They begin to look like strange blessings. But when old wounds flare up and Ritu’s return to New York looms closer, life throws them its cruelest question. Has one tiny nick — in an artery, in fabric, in two fiercely guarded hearts — already stitched together a love story that neither saw coming?
From the author of 'A King's Oath' and 'The Circle of Exile' comes a hearty romantic comedy.
Dive into this hilarious, heart-melting, chemistry-drunk romance about Mumbai’s madness, late-blooming sparks, larger-than-life fashion gods and sassy doctors who finally meet their match!
alpha x black-cat, enemies to lovers, forced proximity, curvy FMC, women in STEM, medical romance, Mumbai fiction
If you loved Made in Mumbai and Sued in Mumbai, this is the highly anticipated Book 2 from the same universe!
Guest Appearance from Made in
MAYA KUMAR (née KOTAK)
GAUTAM GRUMPY KUMAR
MM (Megha, Megha, MEGHA!) GAUTAM KUMAR
402 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 25, 2025
15 people are currently reading
32 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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January 8, 2026
Where do I even begin with Nicked in Mumbai? This book was supposed to be a “let me just start it” read that turned into a how-did-I-finish-this-in-a-day situation. A random 6 a.m. thought later, and here I am—emotionally invested, smiling like a fool, and proudly declaring myself a lifetime member of the Mumbai Hearts Club. Bhavini, you’ve done it again. Sold. 💛
"𝑻𝒐 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒍𝒆𝒏𝒈𝒕𝒉 𝒐𝒇 𝒍𝒊𝒇𝒆, 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒅𝒊𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒏𝒄𝒆 𝒃𝒆𝒕𝒘𝒆𝒆𝒏 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒇𝒆𝒆𝒕 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒆𝒂’𝒔 𝒘𝒂𝒗𝒆𝒔, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑩𝒐𝒎𝒃𝒂𝒚 𝒔𝒂𝒏𝒅𝒘𝒊𝒄𝒉. 𝑻𝒉𝒆𝒚 𝒆𝒂𝒄𝒉 𝒇𝒆𝒆𝒍 𝒔𝒎𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒆𝒓 𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝒆𝒙𝒑𝒆𝒓𝒊𝒆𝒏𝒄𝒆𝒅 𝒊𝒏 𝒋𝒐𝒚."
That opening dedication alone was enough to reassure me that my reading meter was safe and my heart would only be gently, lovingly nicked. And oh, what a joyful nick it was.
This story is refreshing, warm, funny, and everything I want from an enemies-to-lovers rom-com. Enter Ritu Kapadia—a 39-year-old cardiologist on a break, back in her childhood heaven, Mumbai. She’s brilliant, sassy, deeply human, and someone you instantly root for. Watching her step into an emergency in place of Dr. Shravan (and surprise—she’s Maya’s Maasi!) was such a delight.
And then there’s Nilay Patel—fashion designer, couturier, walking diva, and occasional demigod a-hole (Ritu’s words, not mine). Their first meeting? Chef’s kiss. The banter? Iconic.
"𝐇𝐞𝐫 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐨𝐬𝐞, 𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐬𝐡 𝐟𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐭𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐝 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐛𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐬 𝐡𝐞 𝐡𝐚𝐝 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐬𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐨𝐧 𝐚 𝐰𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧’𝐬 𝐟𝐚𝐜𝐞, 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬 𝐩𝐮𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐞𝐤𝐛𝐨𝐧𝐞𝐬 𝐡𝐢𝐠𝐡, 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐩𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐧 𝐦𝐚𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐧 𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐦𝐚𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐦𝐲 𝐬𝐤𝐢𝐧 𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐛𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭. 𝐍𝐢𝐥𝐚𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐨𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐛𝐮𝐫𝐧 𝐨𝐟 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐣𝐢𝐛𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐝." — The way Nilay is completely mesmerized while still being his obnoxious, narcissistic self had me grinning nonstop. Every exchange sparkles with wit, charm, and that delicious tension that makes enemies-to-lovers so addictive.
What I loved even more was how real these characters felt. A 39-year-old FMC and a 41-year-old MMC, both successful yet still struggling in deeply personal ways. Ritu’s body image issues rooted in childhood trauma and Nilay’s fear of loneliness after being abandoned for his “feminine” talent were handled with so much sensitivity. Their growth—individually and together—felt organic, comforting, and honest.
The dual POV worked beautifully, though if you ask me to choose, I’ll happily admit I adored Nilay’s POV just a little more. A man in love, vulnerable, expressive, and absolutely smitten? Yes, please.
The love here wasn’t loud or forced—it was gentle, natural, and full of quiet moments that linger. (Okay, except for that airport scene—sir really said I will run through Mumbai traffic for love, and I was howling.)
The health arc hit hard in the best way. No unnecessary drama, just raw emotion, fear, love, and relief. It felt achingly real.
And then—standing ovation time—Megha (MM). The cutest little human ever. Nilay with her? My heart officially melted. I adore a man who knows how to love a woman and a child.
By the time I reached the end, I was already missing Ritu, Nilay, Maya, Gautam, and MM like they were real people. I’m so glad they weren’t just side characters—they are the story.
I already want to reread this, even though I’m now left with an empty heart, no idea how to make a Mumbai sandwich, and absolutely no clue where one finds a man with toddler-like tendencies and a heart this big. This book was pure joy—and I loved every page of it. 💕
"𝑻𝒐 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒍𝒆𝒏𝒈𝒕𝒉 𝒐𝒇 𝒍𝒊𝒇𝒆, 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒅𝒊𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒏𝒄𝒆 𝒃𝒆𝒕𝒘𝒆𝒆𝒏 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒇𝒆𝒆𝒕 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒆𝒂’𝒔 𝒘𝒂𝒗𝒆𝒔, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑩𝒐𝒎𝒃𝒂𝒚 𝒔𝒂𝒏𝒅𝒘𝒊𝒄𝒉. 𝑻𝒉𝒆𝒚 𝒆𝒂𝒄𝒉 𝒇𝒆𝒆𝒍 𝒔𝒎𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒆𝒓 𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝒆𝒙𝒑𝒆𝒓𝒊𝒆𝒏𝒄𝒆𝒅 𝒊𝒏 𝒋𝒐𝒚."
That opening dedication alone was enough to reassure me that my reading meter was safe and my heart would only be gently, lovingly nicked. And oh, what a joyful nick it was.
This story is refreshing, warm, funny, and everything I want from an enemies-to-lovers rom-com. Enter Ritu Kapadia—a 39-year-old cardiologist on a break, back in her childhood heaven, Mumbai. She’s brilliant, sassy, deeply human, and someone you instantly root for. Watching her step into an emergency in place of Dr. Shravan (and surprise—she’s Maya’s Maasi!) was such a delight.
And then there’s Nilay Patel—fashion designer, couturier, walking diva, and occasional demigod a-hole (Ritu’s words, not mine). Their first meeting? Chef’s kiss. The banter? Iconic.
"𝐇𝐞𝐫 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐨𝐬𝐞, 𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐬𝐡 𝐟𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐭𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐝 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐛𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐬 𝐡𝐞 𝐡𝐚𝐝 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐬𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐨𝐧 𝐚 𝐰𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧’𝐬 𝐟𝐚𝐜𝐞, 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬 𝐩𝐮𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐞𝐤𝐛𝐨𝐧𝐞𝐬 𝐡𝐢𝐠𝐡, 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐩𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐧 𝐦𝐚𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐧 𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐦𝐚𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐦𝐲 𝐬𝐤𝐢𝐧 𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐛𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭. 𝐍𝐢𝐥𝐚𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐨𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐛𝐮𝐫𝐧 𝐨𝐟 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐣𝐢𝐛𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐝." — The way Nilay is completely mesmerized while still being his obnoxious, narcissistic self had me grinning nonstop. Every exchange sparkles with wit, charm, and that delicious tension that makes enemies-to-lovers so addictive.
What I loved even more was how real these characters felt. A 39-year-old FMC and a 41-year-old MMC, both successful yet still struggling in deeply personal ways. Ritu’s body image issues rooted in childhood trauma and Nilay’s fear of loneliness after being abandoned for his “feminine” talent were handled with so much sensitivity. Their growth—individually and together—felt organic, comforting, and honest.
The dual POV worked beautifully, though if you ask me to choose, I’ll happily admit I adored Nilay’s POV just a little more. A man in love, vulnerable, expressive, and absolutely smitten? Yes, please.
The love here wasn’t loud or forced—it was gentle, natural, and full of quiet moments that linger. (Okay, except for that airport scene—sir really said I will run through Mumbai traffic for love, and I was howling.)
The health arc hit hard in the best way. No unnecessary drama, just raw emotion, fear, love, and relief. It felt achingly real.
And then—standing ovation time—Megha (MM). The cutest little human ever. Nilay with her? My heart officially melted. I adore a man who knows how to love a woman and a child.
By the time I reached the end, I was already missing Ritu, Nilay, Maya, Gautam, and MM like they were real people. I’m so glad they weren’t just side characters—they are the story.
I already want to reread this, even though I’m now left with an empty heart, no idea how to make a Mumbai sandwich, and absolutely no clue where one finds a man with toddler-like tendencies and a heart this big. This book was pure joy—and I loved every page of it. 💕
January 15, 2026
Nicked in Mumbai was awesome. that is my first impression for this story. Maya's Awesome Masi, about whom, we only heard about in Passing X Maya's Favorite Obnoxious client we met in Copper Chimney. The man gave me "I'm the king of the world" vibes the first time we saw him in Made in Mumbai. I distinctly remember calling him gutsy when he flirted with Maya like it was his right. Then, his own book came, one year and 2 months after I had read Made in Mumbai for the first time.
Lo and Behold, A Black Cat meets a Pookie (only for his doctor, mind you!) The alpha hero, with slight god complex is battling a heart condition, an angina to be exact, he meets a doctor who refuses to take his obnoxiousness.
He falls in love. who wouldn't? If you think love comes at a certain age, you're wrong and this book is proof. They met when he was 41 and she was at the brink of 40. It was, in the simplest terms, not love at first sight, which felt appropriate because at that point in life, maybe love at first sight would seem like a little too cliché.
They started with tolerating each other, then became cordial acquaintances, then become friends, and the rest is history. In all this, as is probably the tradition of the Mumbai Hearts Club, he falls first, and does something brave that many botch up. Sees that he is obnoxious. Recognizes that the girl he loves does not deserve it. Changes for her. And only for her. It isn't about a personality transplant. it is about being the person she needs you to be and that, was very Darcy of Nilay Patel.
One think I absolutely saw coming in this story was that he would fall first (or maybe the cover was the biggest hint of them all) what I didn't see coming was that Ritu would be the one trying to deny her feelings. But that gave us an epic bollywood coded airport scene so who am I to complaint?
Nilay, in his first appearance in the series did not seem like quite the man he turned out to be in his own book. I knew he was a decent man, what I was delighted to find out was that he was a man secure in his masculinity. A man who had no problem expressing his emotions or his love.
Ritu, we meet really for the first time on page in flesh only in her own book, so her journey, in my head started page 1 of Nicked in Mumbai and she was everything I saw in a perfect older FMC. Calm, composed, not overdone in her femineity and never overshadowed by her profession as a doctor. One of the many good things about Bhavini's writing is that she writes balanced, realistic and human characters into her story.
No one character is absolutely free of error and no one life is overtly dramatized for the plot, which helps because that way, the stories fly. you don't get bored and suddenly its six in the morning and then you thank god its Christmas.
Lo and Behold, A Black Cat meets a Pookie (only for his doctor, mind you!) The alpha hero, with slight god complex is battling a heart condition, an angina to be exact, he meets a doctor who refuses to take his obnoxiousness.
He falls in love. who wouldn't? If you think love comes at a certain age, you're wrong and this book is proof. They met when he was 41 and she was at the brink of 40. It was, in the simplest terms, not love at first sight, which felt appropriate because at that point in life, maybe love at first sight would seem like a little too cliché.
They started with tolerating each other, then became cordial acquaintances, then become friends, and the rest is history. In all this, as is probably the tradition of the Mumbai Hearts Club, he falls first, and does something brave that many botch up. Sees that he is obnoxious. Recognizes that the girl he loves does not deserve it. Changes for her. And only for her. It isn't about a personality transplant. it is about being the person she needs you to be and that, was very Darcy of Nilay Patel.
One think I absolutely saw coming in this story was that he would fall first (or maybe the cover was the biggest hint of them all) what I didn't see coming was that Ritu would be the one trying to deny her feelings. But that gave us an epic bollywood coded airport scene so who am I to complaint?
Nilay, in his first appearance in the series did not seem like quite the man he turned out to be in his own book. I knew he was a decent man, what I was delighted to find out was that he was a man secure in his masculinity. A man who had no problem expressing his emotions or his love.
Ritu, we meet really for the first time on page in flesh only in her own book, so her journey, in my head started page 1 of Nicked in Mumbai and she was everything I saw in a perfect older FMC. Calm, composed, not overdone in her femineity and never overshadowed by her profession as a doctor. One of the many good things about Bhavini's writing is that she writes balanced, realistic and human characters into her story.
No one character is absolutely free of error and no one life is overtly dramatized for the plot, which helps because that way, the stories fly. you don't get bored and suddenly its six in the morning and then you thank god its Christmas.
December 30, 2025
And with that, My 2025 reading year comes to an end!
Nicked in Mumbai by Bhavini K. Desai has been an amazing rom-com with its delicious banter and its stunning take on love. I am so happy that Nick in Mumbai is my last read for 2025 and that I am closing this year's reading in such a good feel.
Nicked in Mumbai follows Ritu Kapadia - Our Cardiologist who is in between works and on a break in Mumbai finds herself replacing Dr Shravan for some weeks where she meets this obnoxious patient, Mr Nilay Patel - (NiP to mere mortals) who is a famous couturier, a diva, a self centred with a massive ego.
From their first meeting itself, their witty banter brought a smile to the reader. Their chemistry was on point which soon turned into smouldering flirting and love. The first half of the book was into Ritu's pov and the second half was Nilay's. Watching Nilay's yearning and slowly falling in love was phenomenal. I can do that again and again.
I also love how our MMC and FMC were not perfect despite being so successful in their life. It was refreshing to read about an older FMC (39) and older MMC (41) and how even at their age, they fell in love and had to hide like teenagers from her OWN NIECE.
“Then don’t shift back to Maya’s house.”
“Why?”
“We won’t be able to meet.”
“Why not? I am an adult.”
“Who sneaks out of her niece’s house like she is a teenager out to meet her secret boyfriend.”
Ritu struggled with body image even tho she was known as one of the best cardiologist which stemmed from a previous trauma. But Nilay was here to show her how beautiful she was.
“Whatever your reasons to stiffen when your body comes up, whatever your beliefs or assumptions… as a man who designs clothes for women’s bodies and now a man who knows yours intimately, I can say this with authority that I am smitten by every curve, every dip, every line. If my opinion matters at any point to you, replay these words.”
“Your face is so pretty that men could go to war for it,” he murmured to her. “If you smile slowly at a man, he would lose that war for you.”
As for Nilay - he too has his own demons. Estranged from his only remaining family, and having societal prejudice just for the fact that he was a male couturier. You could see me giving Ritu a standing ovation for how she defended Nilay in front of his father and brother.
Now there are some tiny aspects that I didn't really like. I do not speak Hindi nor do I understand the language. So I would have appreciated the translation in the paragraph itself where Hindi was spoken - for example "Ab laga diya, madam" (the translation next to it) but it's not a big issue.
It was also really funny to see Nilay's assistant running, floundering and just being scared of NiP's presence entirely. I reckon this book will make a great Bollywood movie.
✎ ❥ 𝙵𝚊𝚟𝚘𝚛𝚒𝚝𝚎𝚜 𝚀𝚞𝚘𝚝𝚎𝚜 & 𝙼𝚘𝚖𝚎𝚗𝚝𝚜
“Why do all limpets find me?” She breathed.
“What?”
“Nothing.” Ritu glanced up, and Nilay was looking straight at her with his bored, entitled mouth curled slightly, humour in his eyes. She found herself holding back a laugh. She hated how there was an inside joke with a man as obnoxious as this one. Now she had seen it all in life.
“What are you doing this weekend, Doctor?”
“Not sure. Why do you ask?”
“Will you fly with me to Patan?” The bite she was about to fill in her mouth stumbled. “Excuse me?”
“As my doctor,” he clarified.“As your doctor? Are you the President or something? Why would a doctor fly with you? You are not in any danger. Relax”
“Are you trying to figure me out, Doctor?” His amused words were closer. Ritu looked him in the eye — “I have you already figured out,” she pointed to his chest. “Every last plumbing line. You yourself submitted the maps.”
“How do you know so much about this place, NiP?”
“Nilay.”
“Everybody calls you NiP. In fact, I haven’t met anybody who calls you Nilay. Some special reason? Or you like them rolling on the floor in front of you, pronouncing your grand brand name?”
“My brand is grand?”
“To those who are psyched by things like that.” Told y'all, NiP for mere mortals but Nilay for his Doctor - GAAAAH I love him.
“Addition to the rules: you cannot make smart-ass comments.”
“You make smart-ass comments, not me.”
“Oh man, trust me, Ritu, you cut, burn and don’t even show mercy when you start to fire.”
“Your self-centredness.” She held her hands up immediately. “No offence. That’s how you came across.”
“Ok, ego shattered.”
“You have a whole couture company, plus your partners and suppliers, plus your customers and fans to massage your ego. It’s not about to even shake with my one word.”
“You’d be surprised.” The way this man went from not giving a fuck to caring about everything she said.
“You are saying I need to submit a stress test to take you up with me tonight?” He cocked his head. “I ran with you through half of Sidhpur. I twirled with you. Don’t make me bring out the real obnoxious now.”
Her mouth twisted — “Go ahead.”
“I kissed you senseless and you were panting. Not me.”
Her mouth opened.“Want me to demonstrate it again?” She shoved at his chest.
“Careful,” he held his chest. “That part is broken.”
“How is it that you are an obnoxious diva with your staff and a toddler with me?”
“Talent. Some say I was born with it, others believe I picked it up along the way. I would like to believe I honed it.”
“This one.” His eyes popped open. And the woman standing in front of him, playing that song on her phone for him, felt like the one. He startled.
“You are weird.”
He blinked, because now she sounded like the one.
“You briefed your team for a rain song and liked one that is about the wind? You are really weird. I pity your team. I hope their world-class perks are worth your crazy.”
Nilay smiled. Now he knew she was the one.
“Defeated, she trudged into the reception, making him follow with a smirk. He hated to see her defeated, unless, she was defeated by his hardheaded demands. Then, he probably was the happiest man alive. It was rare that she bowed to them, so when she did, he savoured it. Shamelessly.”
“You are talking like a housewife.”
“I am a househusband.”
“Whose?”
Did he hear some heat in that question? Nilay glanced up and smirked — “Jealous, Doctor?”
“In your dreams.”
“You gossip about me with your niece?”
“You are not that important. It came up in conversation.”
“You might be the only woman who does not consider me god.”
“Thank god for that.”
And he couldn’t stop laughing.
“Why are you making me ok?” She sobbed. “Why are you hell bent on returning me to the girl I had forgotten?”
“Is that a bad thing?” He palmed the back of her head. She shrugged. Nilay gently peeled her back from his chest and cupped her face in his palms. He thumbed her tears away — “The girl I met was pretty phenomenal. I am just uncovering more phenomenal sides of her.”
How can you not fall in love with him after this???
“You did something today that I never expected of anyone in my life, Nilay.” He caressed her hair. “I have not felt as strong as I do with you here, Ritu.” Her breath hitched.
“I didn’t know I needed a future until I looked at you and couldn’t look away.” Her head moved on his chest.
“I didn’t know I needed to cook for somebody other than myself until you ate my vagharelo rotlo and relished it.”
“And, Doctor?”
“Hmm?”
“Make me ok for you.”
“I am not scared of being alone or weak anymore,” his voice broke. “I am scared of dying. Now that you are here, I don’t want to go.”
“He took his eyes up to her — masked jaw, capped hair, pretty brown eyes staring unblinkingly at the internal wiring of his heart. That was the moment he decided that he would ask her. He would ask her to marry him. Have his kids. Take care of his heart. Put him in his place. Walk on sand with him. Let him cover her eyes when she sleeps. Devour the food he cooks. Settle here or in New York, or wherever she wanted. But settle with him.”
“Because you matter, because you are more to me than anybody else. Happy?”
He bit back his smirk. “Go on.”
“That’s it.”
“I can listen to more.”
“More what?”
“More grovelling.”
“This is enough for your ego.”
“I have been blabbering like a lovesick fool for days to you, about everything. Whatever I thought was your problem with me, I worked to fix it, and told you about it. Everything. And I am not this chirpy outside. If you haven’t registered it yet, here is me telling you — nobody knows even one-tenth of what you know about me. And this is information that I have volunteered with all my free will. Now tell me, what else is your problem so that I can fix it and we can move on. Although, looking at your track record, I am certain it will be something you’ve cooked up in that brainy but idiotic head of yours and not really true…”
“I don’t know if we will have children or not, but a life with you, with or without them, will be amazing. A life with you, give me that. The future I have been seeing every time I look at you… Give me that, Ritu.”
“With love, respect and the unique brand of bonding between them, she had also anticipated the practicality of two strong individualities from different walks of life colliding. Instead, she had found them more similar than different, and ready to blend instead of holding their own. And, let’s face it, they had bigger fish to fry. The fish in question had not materialised this time. See? Even her thoughts had become obnoxious like his. A baby was a fish to fry? Since when?” Guess when you get married to someone your thoughts and manners start to bleed together and similarly.
“Why are you roasting yourself here?”
And the obnoxious was back too.
“New hobby.”
“You got tired of roasting me?” Even after they got married the banter didn't stop.
Now I did love the Epilogue, BUT I would have preferred it to be in Nilay's POV. In my opinion I felt that Nilay's POV had more feelings and depth but nonetheless, Nicked in Mumbai has been an phenomenal read x
Nicked in Mumbai by Bhavini K. Desai has been an amazing rom-com with its delicious banter and its stunning take on love. I am so happy that Nick in Mumbai is my last read for 2025 and that I am closing this year's reading in such a good feel.
Nicked in Mumbai follows Ritu Kapadia - Our Cardiologist who is in between works and on a break in Mumbai finds herself replacing Dr Shravan for some weeks where she meets this obnoxious patient, Mr Nilay Patel - (NiP to mere mortals) who is a famous couturier, a diva, a self centred with a massive ego.
From their first meeting itself, their witty banter brought a smile to the reader. Their chemistry was on point which soon turned into smouldering flirting and love. The first half of the book was into Ritu's pov and the second half was Nilay's. Watching Nilay's yearning and slowly falling in love was phenomenal. I can do that again and again.
I also love how our MMC and FMC were not perfect despite being so successful in their life. It was refreshing to read about an older FMC (39) and older MMC (41) and how even at their age, they fell in love and had to hide like teenagers from her OWN NIECE.
“Then don’t shift back to Maya’s house.”
“Why?”
“We won’t be able to meet.”
“Why not? I am an adult.”
“Who sneaks out of her niece’s house like she is a teenager out to meet her secret boyfriend.”
Ritu struggled with body image even tho she was known as one of the best cardiologist which stemmed from a previous trauma. But Nilay was here to show her how beautiful she was.
“Whatever your reasons to stiffen when your body comes up, whatever your beliefs or assumptions… as a man who designs clothes for women’s bodies and now a man who knows yours intimately, I can say this with authority that I am smitten by every curve, every dip, every line. If my opinion matters at any point to you, replay these words.”
“Your face is so pretty that men could go to war for it,” he murmured to her. “If you smile slowly at a man, he would lose that war for you.”
As for Nilay - he too has his own demons. Estranged from his only remaining family, and having societal prejudice just for the fact that he was a male couturier. You could see me giving Ritu a standing ovation for how she defended Nilay in front of his father and brother.
Now there are some tiny aspects that I didn't really like. I do not speak Hindi nor do I understand the language. So I would have appreciated the translation in the paragraph itself where Hindi was spoken - for example "Ab laga diya, madam" (the translation next to it) but it's not a big issue.
It was also really funny to see Nilay's assistant running, floundering and just being scared of NiP's presence entirely. I reckon this book will make a great Bollywood movie.
✎ ❥ 𝙵𝚊𝚟𝚘𝚛𝚒𝚝𝚎𝚜 𝚀𝚞𝚘𝚝𝚎𝚜 & 𝙼𝚘𝚖𝚎𝚗𝚝𝚜
“Why do all limpets find me?” She breathed.
“What?”
“Nothing.” Ritu glanced up, and Nilay was looking straight at her with his bored, entitled mouth curled slightly, humour in his eyes. She found herself holding back a laugh. She hated how there was an inside joke with a man as obnoxious as this one. Now she had seen it all in life.
“What are you doing this weekend, Doctor?”
“Not sure. Why do you ask?”
“Will you fly with me to Patan?” The bite she was about to fill in her mouth stumbled. “Excuse me?”
“As my doctor,” he clarified.“As your doctor? Are you the President or something? Why would a doctor fly with you? You are not in any danger. Relax”
“Are you trying to figure me out, Doctor?” His amused words were closer. Ritu looked him in the eye — “I have you already figured out,” she pointed to his chest. “Every last plumbing line. You yourself submitted the maps.”
“How do you know so much about this place, NiP?”
“Nilay.”
“Everybody calls you NiP. In fact, I haven’t met anybody who calls you Nilay. Some special reason? Or you like them rolling on the floor in front of you, pronouncing your grand brand name?”
“My brand is grand?”
“To those who are psyched by things like that.” Told y'all, NiP for mere mortals but Nilay for his Doctor - GAAAAH I love him.
“Addition to the rules: you cannot make smart-ass comments.”
“You make smart-ass comments, not me.”
“Oh man, trust me, Ritu, you cut, burn and don’t even show mercy when you start to fire.”
“Your self-centredness.” She held her hands up immediately. “No offence. That’s how you came across.”
“Ok, ego shattered.”
“You have a whole couture company, plus your partners and suppliers, plus your customers and fans to massage your ego. It’s not about to even shake with my one word.”
“You’d be surprised.” The way this man went from not giving a fuck to caring about everything she said.
“You are saying I need to submit a stress test to take you up with me tonight?” He cocked his head. “I ran with you through half of Sidhpur. I twirled with you. Don’t make me bring out the real obnoxious now.”
Her mouth twisted — “Go ahead.”
“I kissed you senseless and you were panting. Not me.”
Her mouth opened.“Want me to demonstrate it again?” She shoved at his chest.
“Careful,” he held his chest. “That part is broken.”
“How is it that you are an obnoxious diva with your staff and a toddler with me?”
“Talent. Some say I was born with it, others believe I picked it up along the way. I would like to believe I honed it.”
“This one.” His eyes popped open. And the woman standing in front of him, playing that song on her phone for him, felt like the one. He startled.
“You are weird.”
He blinked, because now she sounded like the one.
“You briefed your team for a rain song and liked one that is about the wind? You are really weird. I pity your team. I hope their world-class perks are worth your crazy.”
Nilay smiled. Now he knew she was the one.
“Defeated, she trudged into the reception, making him follow with a smirk. He hated to see her defeated, unless, she was defeated by his hardheaded demands. Then, he probably was the happiest man alive. It was rare that she bowed to them, so when she did, he savoured it. Shamelessly.”
“You are talking like a housewife.”
“I am a househusband.”
“Whose?”
Did he hear some heat in that question? Nilay glanced up and smirked — “Jealous, Doctor?”
“In your dreams.”
“You gossip about me with your niece?”
“You are not that important. It came up in conversation.”
“You might be the only woman who does not consider me god.”
“Thank god for that.”
And he couldn’t stop laughing.
“Why are you making me ok?” She sobbed. “Why are you hell bent on returning me to the girl I had forgotten?”
“Is that a bad thing?” He palmed the back of her head. She shrugged. Nilay gently peeled her back from his chest and cupped her face in his palms. He thumbed her tears away — “The girl I met was pretty phenomenal. I am just uncovering more phenomenal sides of her.”
How can you not fall in love with him after this???
“You did something today that I never expected of anyone in my life, Nilay.” He caressed her hair. “I have not felt as strong as I do with you here, Ritu.” Her breath hitched.
“I didn’t know I needed a future until I looked at you and couldn’t look away.” Her head moved on his chest.
“I didn’t know I needed to cook for somebody other than myself until you ate my vagharelo rotlo and relished it.”
“And, Doctor?”
“Hmm?”
“Make me ok for you.”
“I am not scared of being alone or weak anymore,” his voice broke. “I am scared of dying. Now that you are here, I don’t want to go.”
“He took his eyes up to her — masked jaw, capped hair, pretty brown eyes staring unblinkingly at the internal wiring of his heart. That was the moment he decided that he would ask her. He would ask her to marry him. Have his kids. Take care of his heart. Put him in his place. Walk on sand with him. Let him cover her eyes when she sleeps. Devour the food he cooks. Settle here or in New York, or wherever she wanted. But settle with him.”
“Because you matter, because you are more to me than anybody else. Happy?”
He bit back his smirk. “Go on.”
“That’s it.”
“I can listen to more.”
“More what?”
“More grovelling.”
“This is enough for your ego.”
“I have been blabbering like a lovesick fool for days to you, about everything. Whatever I thought was your problem with me, I worked to fix it, and told you about it. Everything. And I am not this chirpy outside. If you haven’t registered it yet, here is me telling you — nobody knows even one-tenth of what you know about me. And this is information that I have volunteered with all my free will. Now tell me, what else is your problem so that I can fix it and we can move on. Although, looking at your track record, I am certain it will be something you’ve cooked up in that brainy but idiotic head of yours and not really true…”
“I don’t know if we will have children or not, but a life with you, with or without them, will be amazing. A life with you, give me that. The future I have been seeing every time I look at you… Give me that, Ritu.”
“With love, respect and the unique brand of bonding between them, she had also anticipated the practicality of two strong individualities from different walks of life colliding. Instead, she had found them more similar than different, and ready to blend instead of holding their own. And, let’s face it, they had bigger fish to fry. The fish in question had not materialised this time. See? Even her thoughts had become obnoxious like his. A baby was a fish to fry? Since when?” Guess when you get married to someone your thoughts and manners start to bleed together and similarly.
“Why are you roasting yourself here?”
And the obnoxious was back too.
“New hobby.”
“You got tired of roasting me?” Even after they got married the banter didn't stop.
Now I did love the Epilogue, BUT I would have preferred it to be in Nilay's POV. In my opinion I felt that Nilay's POV had more feelings and depth but nonetheless, Nicked in Mumbai has been an phenomenal read x
December 29, 2025
A cardiologist, a couture designer, and a city that never sleeps - this is a love story with pulse served with a Bombay sandwich on the side (perfectly cut into 9 neat squares)!
Nicked in Mumbai by Bhavini K. Desai is a delightful enemies-to-lovers romantic comedy that effortlessly weaves together humor, heart, and genuine emotion. The story centers around Dr. Ritu Kapadia, a cardiologist from New York who finds herself in Mumbai for an extended break. Her path crosses with Nilay Patel, a successful yet arrogant couture designer whose heart troubles bring him to her OPD, setting off a series of amusing and tension-filled encounters.
The chemistry between Ritu and Nilay is electric, marked by sharp, witty banter that gradually softens into flirtatious exchanges and meaningful moments. Their initial antagonism is both humorous and engaging, slowly giving way to mutual respect and affection as they begin to see beyond each other's facades. The transition from biting sarcasm to playful teasing adds depth to their relationship, making their journey from adversaries to lovers all the more satisfying.
Ritu is portrayed as a strong, sassy woman battling her own insecurities, particularly regarding body image, which has influenced her relationships and self-perception. Nilay, on the other hand, is a self-made man who prides himself on his independence but fears vulnerability and loneliness. The growth of both characters is beautifully depicted as they learn to open up and support each other, blending mature care with the giddy excitement of newfound love. Their shared moments are heartwarming and adorable and made me feel giddy, from Ritu’s earnest attempt to prepare a fancy yet healthy salad for Nilay, to him surprising her with sunflowers and her eagerly savoring the vagharelo rotlo he cooks for her. Their secret rendezvous and attempts to keep their romance hidden add a layer of fun and lightheartedness to the narrative.
Supporting characters like Maya, Gautam, and their daughter MM bring additional warmth and humor to the story. Their presence enriches the narrative, providing moments of levity and heartfelt connection. The way Ritu and Nilay stand up for each other in front of their families is particularly moving, showcasing their loyalty and deepening bond.
One of the standout aspects of the novel is its vivid portrayal of Mumbai. From the serene vibes of Juhu Beach to the Bombay sandwich (sans butter), the city itself becomes a charming backdrop that infuses the story with authenticity and local flavor. You feel transported into the heart of Mumbai, experiencing its sights, sounds, and tastes alongside the characters.
Overall, Nicked in Mumbai is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a romance filled with humor, heartfelt moments, and relatable characters. Bhavini K. Desai masterfully combines witty dialogue, emotional depth, and a vibrant setting to create a story that is both entertaining and deeply moving. This one is sure to leave you smiling and longing for more.
Nicked in Mumbai by Bhavini K. Desai is a delightful enemies-to-lovers romantic comedy that effortlessly weaves together humor, heart, and genuine emotion. The story centers around Dr. Ritu Kapadia, a cardiologist from New York who finds herself in Mumbai for an extended break. Her path crosses with Nilay Patel, a successful yet arrogant couture designer whose heart troubles bring him to her OPD, setting off a series of amusing and tension-filled encounters.
The chemistry between Ritu and Nilay is electric, marked by sharp, witty banter that gradually softens into flirtatious exchanges and meaningful moments. Their initial antagonism is both humorous and engaging, slowly giving way to mutual respect and affection as they begin to see beyond each other's facades. The transition from biting sarcasm to playful teasing adds depth to their relationship, making their journey from adversaries to lovers all the more satisfying.
Ritu is portrayed as a strong, sassy woman battling her own insecurities, particularly regarding body image, which has influenced her relationships and self-perception. Nilay, on the other hand, is a self-made man who prides himself on his independence but fears vulnerability and loneliness. The growth of both characters is beautifully depicted as they learn to open up and support each other, blending mature care with the giddy excitement of newfound love. Their shared moments are heartwarming and adorable and made me feel giddy, from Ritu’s earnest attempt to prepare a fancy yet healthy salad for Nilay, to him surprising her with sunflowers and her eagerly savoring the vagharelo rotlo he cooks for her. Their secret rendezvous and attempts to keep their romance hidden add a layer of fun and lightheartedness to the narrative.
Supporting characters like Maya, Gautam, and their daughter MM bring additional warmth and humor to the story. Their presence enriches the narrative, providing moments of levity and heartfelt connection. The way Ritu and Nilay stand up for each other in front of their families is particularly moving, showcasing their loyalty and deepening bond.
One of the standout aspects of the novel is its vivid portrayal of Mumbai. From the serene vibes of Juhu Beach to the Bombay sandwich (sans butter), the city itself becomes a charming backdrop that infuses the story with authenticity and local flavor. You feel transported into the heart of Mumbai, experiencing its sights, sounds, and tastes alongside the characters.
Overall, Nicked in Mumbai is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a romance filled with humor, heartfelt moments, and relatable characters. Bhavini K. Desai masterfully combines witty dialogue, emotional depth, and a vibrant setting to create a story that is both entertaining and deeply moving. This one is sure to leave you smiling and longing for more.
January 3, 2026
Nicked in Mumbai is a light, feel-good read with strong rom-com energy. It’s still quite basic and fairly predictable... you can usually see where things are heading, but there’s real comfort in that. If you’ve read Bhavini’s earlier books, there’s also a nice sense of continuity as her little character universe starts knitting together. Familiar faces popping up feels a bit like bumping into old friends at a café.
The pacing works smoothly for about 90% of the story, then the last stretch suddenly takes off at breakneck speed. It’s like the book remembered it had a train to catch. Fun, but I do wish that energy had been spread out a little more evenly.
What really keeps me coming back to Bhavini’s books, though, is the setting. Mumbai is the real star here... vibrant, warm, chaotic, and full of heart. That everyday-life-meets-romance vibe is what gives the story its charm and what so many readers clearly love as well.
Overall, it’s a simple, cosy weekend read. Not groundbreaking — but definitely enjoyable, familiar, and full of that Mumbai soul.
The pacing works smoothly for about 90% of the story, then the last stretch suddenly takes off at breakneck speed. It’s like the book remembered it had a train to catch. Fun, but I do wish that energy had been spread out a little more evenly.
What really keeps me coming back to Bhavini’s books, though, is the setting. Mumbai is the real star here... vibrant, warm, chaotic, and full of heart. That everyday-life-meets-romance vibe is what gives the story its charm and what so many readers clearly love as well.
Overall, it’s a simple, cosy weekend read. Not groundbreaking — but definitely enjoyable, familiar, and full of that Mumbai soul.
January 9, 2026
"How long has life been?" She asked
"41 years."
"How long has it felt?"
Only Bhavini K. Desai can craft confessions that are heart-wrenching and relatable at the same time.
Maybe, one day, I get to stand on Juhu beach, feel the waves touching my feet, and ask myself the big question: "How long has life felt?"
Mumbai Hearts Club really brings in the energy of Mumbai. It ignites my hope of visiting the city one day. The mood she sets is absolutely beautiful, whether it’s the detail of Ritu’s "extra-salad sandwich" or the sunflowers Nilay buys. Everything feels like a colourful scrapbook filled with joyous, memorable moments.
A Match Made in (Mumbai) Heaven
Nilay Patel: A definitely "obnoxious" couture designer who drinks green tea from a white mug (it needs to be white both inside and out).
Dr Ritu Kapadia: A guarded, no-nonsense interventional cardiologist from New York, who gets "is she crazy" glances from the sandwich seller for asking to cut down on butter.
Maya: I have to mention her, for me, Mumbai means Maya, and the energy of this book would be nothing without her!
I loved how they fell for each other. Seeing Ritu’s mind fill up with thoughts of him, while Nilay finds the most unique ways to connect, like sending her his "heart reports" and getting his BP checked just because she asked.
If he isn’t showing you his hometown and kissing you in the rain, then what is love? If she isn’t literally taking care of his heart and promising to stay by his side through it all, then what is love?
Their journey, from the doctor’s chambers to the airport gate, panned out perfectly. Watching them enjoy the waves on the beach or babysitting MM was just so incredibly wholesome.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Ritu makes me believe that we should always dream big. No dream is "just" a dream; they all mean something, whether they come from our teenage selves or our adult selves. There is so much to learn through this book.
So, grab the opportunities when they're presented to you, go to the beach, and who knows? You might just find your own "obnoxious" other half!
"41 years."
"How long has it felt?"
Only Bhavini K. Desai can craft confessions that are heart-wrenching and relatable at the same time.
Maybe, one day, I get to stand on Juhu beach, feel the waves touching my feet, and ask myself the big question: "How long has life felt?"
Mumbai Hearts Club really brings in the energy of Mumbai. It ignites my hope of visiting the city one day. The mood she sets is absolutely beautiful, whether it’s the detail of Ritu’s "extra-salad sandwich" or the sunflowers Nilay buys. Everything feels like a colourful scrapbook filled with joyous, memorable moments.
A Match Made in (Mumbai) Heaven
Nilay Patel: A definitely "obnoxious" couture designer who drinks green tea from a white mug (it needs to be white both inside and out).
Dr Ritu Kapadia: A guarded, no-nonsense interventional cardiologist from New York, who gets "is she crazy" glances from the sandwich seller for asking to cut down on butter.
Maya: I have to mention her, for me, Mumbai means Maya, and the energy of this book would be nothing without her!
I loved how they fell for each other. Seeing Ritu’s mind fill up with thoughts of him, while Nilay finds the most unique ways to connect, like sending her his "heart reports" and getting his BP checked just because she asked.
If he isn’t showing you his hometown and kissing you in the rain, then what is love? If she isn’t literally taking care of his heart and promising to stay by his side through it all, then what is love?
Their journey, from the doctor’s chambers to the airport gate, panned out perfectly. Watching them enjoy the waves on the beach or babysitting MM was just so incredibly wholesome.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Ritu makes me believe that we should always dream big. No dream is "just" a dream; they all mean something, whether they come from our teenage selves or our adult selves. There is so much to learn through this book.
So, grab the opportunities when they're presented to you, go to the beach, and who knows? You might just find your own "obnoxious" other half!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 29, 2025
4.5 stars
This was such a light, refreshing, therapeutic read. Truly a mills and boons kinda book in today’s age.
I could not get enough of “obnoxious” Nilay and “sassy” Ritu, but it was their soft sides esp Nilay’s where my heart melted🌻
Mumbai through your lens is a place I keep falling in love over again and again🥹 My next trip home is going to be with this perspective and I cannot wait for it. The chapter titles, the playlist🤌🤌
And we have the cutest Bambi eyes Cupid ever, MM🎀
Maya, the ultimate cupid🤌 Loved G, M and MM’s cameos.
Overall absolutely loved the book, the pacing, the plot, the characters😭🤌
This was such a light, refreshing, therapeutic read. Truly a mills and boons kinda book in today’s age.
I could not get enough of “obnoxious” Nilay and “sassy” Ritu, but it was their soft sides esp Nilay’s where my heart melted🌻
Mumbai through your lens is a place I keep falling in love over again and again🥹 My next trip home is going to be with this perspective and I cannot wait for it. The chapter titles, the playlist🤌🤌
And we have the cutest Bambi eyes Cupid ever, MM🎀
Maya, the ultimate cupid🤌 Loved G, M and MM’s cameos.
Overall absolutely loved the book, the pacing, the plot, the characters😭🤌
December 27, 2025
"NiP has my heart ❤️💜✨💫🤌🏻🫶🏻🫰🏻
This love story gives me hope — that no matter where you are in life, true love will always find its way to you. It will hold you close, cherish you deeply, and remind you that you are worthy and the most beautiful soul in the world."
This love story gives me hope — that no matter where you are in life, true love will always find its way to you. It will hold you close, cherish you deeply, and remind you that you are worthy and the most beautiful soul in the world."
December 28, 2025
One nick. One tiny nick- in an artery, in fabric, in their lives, had paved the way for something so beautiful🌻
Nicked in Mumbai — what a breath of fresh air. Who says we can’t fall in love at 40? Nilay and Ritu completely won my heart. I loved how their story moves through winter, summer, monsoon, and spring—it felt so natural and beautiful. MM is the cutest little cupid ever. No one can resist her charm, not even an obnoxious man like NiP 😄. Googoogaga!!
Talking about the plot, the way the author weaves real-life issues into the story is just amazing. Her storytelling always surprises me. And oh, the chapter titles inspired by 90s and 2000s music—such a nostalgic touch. You actually relive those songs while reading.
I couldn’t stop myself from finishing this in one sitting, though I tried to slow down just to savour every chapter and every moment. Maya Kumar, in NiP’s words—you’re the star! It was so lovely getting glimpses of Maya and Gautam in Nicked in Mumbai. Ritu 🌻NiP, you two are such cute fools—getting scared of your own niece and hiding from her just to keep your little secret 😆. I’m really going to miss this series. Thank you, author, for making Christmas so memorable with this one. ❤️
Nicked in Mumbai — what a breath of fresh air. Who says we can’t fall in love at 40? Nilay and Ritu completely won my heart. I loved how their story moves through winter, summer, monsoon, and spring—it felt so natural and beautiful. MM is the cutest little cupid ever. No one can resist her charm, not even an obnoxious man like NiP 😄. Googoogaga!!
Talking about the plot, the way the author weaves real-life issues into the story is just amazing. Her storytelling always surprises me. And oh, the chapter titles inspired by 90s and 2000s music—such a nostalgic touch. You actually relive those songs while reading.
I couldn’t stop myself from finishing this in one sitting, though I tried to slow down just to savour every chapter and every moment. Maya Kumar, in NiP’s words—you’re the star! It was so lovely getting glimpses of Maya and Gautam in Nicked in Mumbai. Ritu 🌻NiP, you two are such cute fools—getting scared of your own niece and hiding from her just to keep your little secret 😆. I’m really going to miss this series. Thank you, author, for making Christmas so memorable with this one. ❤️
Review of advance copy received from Author
NiP was never meant to be Nilay Patel. When I wrote him, for as short a moment as I did in Made in Mumbai, he was meant to be nothing more than a passing fashion designer -- entitled, eccentric and ending just as quickly as he had begun.
Maya's 'maasi' from America, who was 'awesome' and was stuck due to her Green Card procedure, was meant to stay stuck in America. Because when I wrote Made in Mumbai, I never wrote it with the intention of keeping characters open for spin-offs or sequels. And yet, somehow, Nilay sprung off the pages and a thought from thin air turned into Ritu, the awesome maasi returning from America. An arrogant couturier with an ego a mile long and an interventional cardiologist who could just as easily bulldoze her way through him.
They brought back the magic of 90s and 2000s Bollywood music for me, reminded me of the songs I had forgotten, of soft heroes who had once made up the dreams of countless girls and heroines who were unapologetic about their body types. They brought back a faith long forgotten-- that the best moment is the one that is yet to come. Because one tiny nick today might just pave the way for your heart's joy tomorrow.
Maya's 'maasi' from America, who was 'awesome' and was stuck due to her Green Card procedure, was meant to stay stuck in America. Because when I wrote Made in Mumbai, I never wrote it with the intention of keeping characters open for spin-offs or sequels. And yet, somehow, Nilay sprung off the pages and a thought from thin air turned into Ritu, the awesome maasi returning from America. An arrogant couturier with an ego a mile long and an interventional cardiologist who could just as easily bulldoze her way through him.
They brought back the magic of 90s and 2000s Bollywood music for me, reminded me of the songs I had forgotten, of soft heroes who had once made up the dreams of countless girls and heroines who were unapologetic about their body types. They brought back a faith long forgotten-- that the best moment is the one that is yet to come. Because one tiny nick today might just pave the way for your heart's joy tomorrow.
January 1, 2026
Started the year with this amazing feel good, funny, entertaining book.Nip and his doctor..Waah.Maya and our showstopper MM soo sooo googoogaga.and the way he calls her 'doctor' everytime it makes my heart flutter.The obnoxious but exceptional Nilay Patel can make everybody's heart melt.This is such a relaxing,happy,light hearted story that we all will definitely enjoy💯💯💯💯💯
P.S: This book will give you a big sandwich cravings
P.S: This book will give you a big sandwich cravings
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