Picture a storyteller who weaves Bollywood flair with American dreams, crafting romances that pulse with heart and humor—meet Nisha Sharma! A rising star in young adult and contemporary romance, Sharma has captivated readers with her vibrant tales of love, culture, and self-discovery. Her debut, My So-Called Bollywood Life, was an NPR Book of the Year, and her knack for blending South Asian heritage with universal themes has made her a standout in multicultural fiction.
Born to Indian immigrants in the United States, Sharma grew up immersed in Bollywood movies, ’80s pop culture, and romance novels. This unique blend fuels her stories, where strong female protagonists navigate love and identity with wit and warmth. From her award-winning YA novels to her steamy adult romances, Sharma’s work is a celebration of joy, resilience, and cultural pride.
The Making of Nisha Sharma
Raised in Pennsylvania, Nisha Sharma’s childhood was a tapestry of Indian traditions and American life. Bollywood films, with their dramatic love stories and vibrant dance sequences, sparked her imagination, while her parents’ immigrant journey instilled a drive for success. Initially on a pre-medical track at Muhlenberg College, Sharma switched to an English major, graduating in 2007. She later earned an MFA from Wilkes University, where her master’s thesis became her debut novel, My So-Called Bollywood Life. This leap from law as a backup plan to full-time writing showcases her bold pursuit of passion, shaped by her family’s support and her love for storytelling.
Nisha Sharma’s Unforgettable Stories
Sharma’s novels are a delightful mix of romance, humor, and cultural richness. Her debut, My So-Called Bollywood Life (2018), follows Winnie Mehta, a Bollywood-obsessed teen navigating love and heartbreak with a nod to fate and film. The novel’s RITA Award win marked Sharma as the first South Asian author to claim the honor, cementing her place in YA romance. Her follow-up, Radha & Jai’s Recipe for Romance (2021), blends kathak dance and culinary drama, showcasing her ability to craft fresh, heartfelt stories.
In adult romance, Sharma shines with The Singh Family Trilogy, starting with The Takeover Effect (2019), a steamy tale of corporate intrigue and forbidden love. Her If Shakespeare Were an Auntie trilogy, including Dating Dr. Dil (2022), reimagines Shakespearean plays with South Asian flair, infusing modern dating woes with humor and heart. Sharma’s style—vivid, emotionally rich, and culturally authentic—brings South Asian characters to life, challenging stereotypes and celebrating everyday triumphs.
Her writing process is as dynamic as her stories. Sharma often starts with a “what if” question, letting her imagination run wild. Whether exploring arranged marriages or dance competitions, her novels balance steamy romance with themes of family, legacy, and self-empowerment, making them resonate with diverse readers.
Why Nisha Sharma Matters
Nisha Sharma’s impact on romance literature is profound. By centering South Asian characters in joyful, empowering narratives, she challenges the “brown pain” trope, offering instead stories of success and love. Her work resonates with South Asian readers, particularly young fans who see themselves in her characters, often for the first time. Sharma’s advocacy for marginalized authors and her DEI background further amplify her influence, pushing for inclusivity in publishing. Teaching at Muhlenberg and engaging fans on TikTok, she builds a community that celebrates diverse voices and happily-ever-afters.
- Born: United States, to Indian immigrant parents
- Key Works: My So-Called Bollywood Life, Radha & Jai’s Recipe for Romance, The Singh Family Trilogy, Dating Dr. Dil
- Awards: RITA Award for Best Young Adult Romance (2019)
- Fun Fact: Sharma lives in Pennsylvania with her Alaskan husband, cat Lizzie Bennett, and dog Nancey Drew.
Snag My So-Called Bollywood Life or Dating Dr. Dil and dive into Nisha Sharma’s vibrant world of romance and culture!