Seeing Redd

by: Frank Beddor

Published by: Dial Press / Random

Reviewed by Alex McGilvery

Seeing Redd is the second book in the Looking Glass Wars trilogy by Frank Beddor.

Often the middle book of a trilogy is just filler between the introduction of the characters in the first book and the final conclusion of the third. This book is not filler. Beddor takes the world he introduced us to in the The Looking Glass Wars and adds levels of complexity. We see outside of the borders of Wonderland, and those lands are just as deliciously demented as Wonderland itself. As well the characters continue to grow and discover themselves. Alyss learns that it is harder to keep a throne than it is to win it.

The story picks up a few months after The Looking Glass Wars ended, Alyss has moved into a restored Wondertropolis and Heart Palace, but she has barely settled in before attacks begin on the outposts of her kingdom. Has Redd returned, or is this a new threat? Homburg Molly is a central character in the story as she tries to prove herself worthy of her post. Her ferocious loyalty is used against her and she finds herself a pawn in a plot to remove Alyss from her throne.

Like the first in the series, Seeing Redd starts off slowly. It is very much like setting up a line of dominos. When Beddor sets the dominos to falling, the story become a wild ride indeed to a conclusion that sets the stage for a terrific closing book to this delightful trilogy. I will be waiting impatiently for the last book in the trilogy to make its appearance.

Armchair Interviews says: Grab a seat in your favorite armchair and read this excellent fantasy series.

Author’s Web site: http://www.LookingGlassWars.com