12-year-old Bela has always dreamed about becoming a famous Bollywood star, and now the opportunity might finally be within her grasp. When a reality TV show gives her the chance to dance in front of the nation, she knows that she is performing for a place at the most prestigious stage school in Mumbai. Can Bela win the Dance Starz competition to bag a place at the Bollywood Academy and move one step closer to her dreams of stardom? And will child star Monica, the most "in" girl at school, see her as a friend or a rival?

The Guardian, Children’s Book of the Month July 2022

  • Puneet Bhandal is a former Bollywood film journalist and current owner of an Indian occasionwear boutique where her dresses are modelled by real-life stars including 'Miss England 2021'. Starlet Rivals is her debut novel.

Praise for the Series:

“A deliciously readable addition to the stage-school story canon for song-and-dance fans of 7+.”

— The Guardian, July 2022 Book of the Month

“This is everything readers could want – dream come true film opportunities, stays in the most glamorous locations, new friendships and the tiniest hint of romance. Young readers who love Ballet Shoes or The Swish of the Curtain, or who dream of stage stardom, or those who just love stories with great characters in exciting situations, they’ll all devour this new series. Applause all round!”

— LoveReading4Kids July 2022 Debut of the Month

“Not only is the book bursting with glamour and excitement, it also has thoughtful messages about the perils of the limelight and the importance of doing the right thing. A delightful page-turner.”

— BookTrust

“Readers will enjoy this glimpse into the glamorous world of Bollywood show business. This first book in a series opens the curtain for more scene-stealing moments in the future.”

-School Library Journal

“Boarding school, betrayal and Bollywood glamour – this book has it all. The first in Puneet Bhandal's brand new series is a riveting, rapturous read that's every bit as captivating as a show-stopping Bollywood dance. I would love to see it screened either as a movie or a Netflix series.”

— Paperback Snob

 

Previous
Previous

Intasimi Warriors Book Two: Odwar and the Shadow Queen

Next
Next

Bollywood Academy Book Two: Melody Queen