Sister of the Bollywood bride by Nandini Bajpai

Mini does not know much about planning an Indian wedding. In fact, she does not know anything at all. But she is determined that her big sister Vinnie will have the big Bollywood wedding her mum would have wanted. Neither Vinnie nor their father have the time or resources to help so Mini is on her own, determined to deliver a perfect day. With less than two months to go, Mini has no time for distractions or complications, particularly those that come in the form of the good looking and mysterious Vir, who has an uncanny ability to appear whenever Mini is in need of help.

Sister of the Bollywood Bride is a fun and light-hearted read for young adults. Mini is an extremely likeable and sympathetic character and an unusual lead for a young adult romance. It is refreshing to read a story highlighting a first generation immigrant Indian family in the United States. While the premise of the novel – a teenager organising an elaborate wedding almost singlehandedly – may be a little implausible, it is an interesting focus around which to showcase Indian culture and traditions.

Sister of the Bollywood is not a complicated read but Bajpai does touch on the continuing after effects of grief and what that can do to family relations. The novel is also a shining example of what can be achieved when communities rally around to help one of their own. The straightforward writing, appealing romance and climatic third act will ensure that this book is enjoyed by teenagers of all ages.

Themes: Weddings, Indian Culture, Family, Romance, Community, Grief.

Rose Tabeni