The Tamir Trilogy is truly a `proper' trilogy - that is, a single story, broken up into three volumes, as opposed to a series of self-contained, interconnected books. Book 2 (Hidden Warrior) continues the story, as Tobin tries to fit in at court with her cousin, the Prince, the other noble children, and their squires. By this point in the trilogy, Tobin knows the truth about herself, leaving her to not only to cope with her own destiny, but to struggle with a secret that threatens to change everything and everyone around herself.

While not as dark and gothic as the first volume, this one is equally as bleak. We see a young `boy' struggling with the knowledge that he's really a `girl' inside, and fighting the thoughts and feelings of the one, which do not mesh with the other. Confusing matters further is Tobin's awkward relationship with Ki, his long-time, faithful squire. By the end of this second volume, it's clear that they have feelings for one another, even if one can't express them and the other can't really understand them. In Ki, we find the friend every tgirl craves - never have I loved a supporting character more.

Once again, for transgender readers, Tobin's emerging conflicts really hit home, and are handled beautifully. It's a heartbreaking struggle to witness (and to share), but there is a glimmer of hope on the horizon. We get the sense that the truth truly will set her free.