Another good entry into the serial, with a lot of political machinations. Here, as the title would suggest, the plot revolves around the baby shower to celebrate Ojo and Penelope's pregnancy. As with so many parties, things take an interesting turn. What I am finding so fascinating about this series is that the world is so nuanced and each of the authors adds something new to the mix without changing the overall world-building. I love Kris and although Michiko didn't feature that much in this episode, I find her internal turmoil intriguing.
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.

All of the characters in Born of the Blade are struggling with their biggest challenge yet: a baby shower. It seemed a bit like an episode of a sitcom, or else maybe just a middle part of a book but as a separate part of the serial it was a bit strange. Of course, the baby shower itself is filled with much more than baby presents, but still. To me it felt like filler, and this is only the 3rd episode. I’m curious to see where this is going.

Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for providing me with a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!

Baby Shower continues the excellent story being told in Born to the Blade. This third episode does indeed feature a baby shower that is political not friendly. Baby Shower focuses on character interaction and builds on the subtleties of episode two, Fault Lines.

TL;DR

Baby Shower is another enjoyable entry in the saga of Born to the Blade. Recommended.

Story

Baby Shower deals with the fallout from Penelope’s revelation and Ojo’s seemingly until now unexplored feelings towards her. Kris continues to deepen ties with Quloo but advances no further upon their journey to become a warder. Michiko puts in brief appearances and is conflicted between duty to Mertika and her homeland of Kakute.

Ojo is square in this episode’s sights, and that’s wonderful. He continues to be the most interesting character, and his sense of loss at Penelope’s departure breaks the heart but doesn’t stop him from his duties. Hardly any action or magic appears here, but the interpersonal dynamics become increasingly clear. In particular, Lavinia’s cruelty is on display and makes her the Cruella De Vil of Born to the Blade. Except, you know, with a sword and much crueler. I loved the verbal fencing which she initiates.

Writing

Cassandra Khaw penned episode three, and it flows well with the other two in the series. If I were more familiar with each author’s work, maybe I could differentiate between each installment. But as of now, each episode maintains the same level of quality throughout. In this episode, the titular baby shower stood out. I liked the description of the…exhibits? Performance art? Whatever you want to call it, I thought it made a tense party much more interesting.

Conclusion

Episode three gives us more insight into the characters and hints at mysteries that will hopefully pop up soon. The episode advances Ojo’s plot while incrementally moving the others forward. I enjoyed the interaction between characters here and am ready for episode four. Baby Shower is another satisfying addition to the Born to the Blade serial.