My hopes were high
Knocked Up By A Billionaire Baller follows a woman impregnated by a professional athlete. The story introduces protagonist Nas alongside key characters: her best friend Kimora, love interest LeMelo, his cousin Kendrick, and antagonist Ashton. This book, one of two in a duology, establishes the setting and central conflict.
Character development is very prevalent throughout. Every character is vividly described in each scene, though this descriptive style can feel heavy-handed. The extensive focus on clothing and appearance makes sections read like advertising. Despite the plot-driven title, the narrative is character-driven with multiple perspectives that shift between first and second person. While this dual perspective approach creates a conversational tone, it sometimes feels as though the reader is listening to a phone conversation rather than reading.
The book's greatest weakness is redundant narration. This repetition disrupts pacing, slows the story, and forces the author's intended meaning onto the reader, eliminating one of the best aspects of reading: drawing your own conclusions. I wanted to enjoy this book more because Malicia Bond clearly enjoyed creating these characters, but the execution fell short of its potential.