In the future, women have become a precious commodity in the Province of Blackfell. A plague that swept the entire world in earlier times has rendered most women incapable of conceiving female children. Because of this, the population has slowly decreased over the years. If not for the discovery of a secret diary and a special formula, mankind would no longer exist. Using the secret formula and its precious ingredient, specially gifted artists paint portraits of women from the past who are then retrieved and transported through time to become brides for the wealthy hierarchy and bear sons for them.

When gifted artisan Conlean is commissioned by his father, the Patriarch, to paint him a bride portrait, Conlean has no idea what manipulations will take place with this request. The woman Conlean is told to paint for the Patriarch's bride is a brilliant gene scientist from present-day Philadelphia -- Dr. Jordan Connor -- whose specialty is experimentation in fertility. Since the supply of the special ingredient needed to paint the portraits is dwindling and no more can be manufactured, the future of Blackfell is on the edge of extinction. Rogue forces are working behind the scenes to prevent this any way they can, and they're convinced that Jordan's research is the answer.

Conlean and Jordan are attracted to each other from the start, even though he knows she's to be his father's bride. Besides, artisans aren't allowed to become personally involved with the women they paint. However, Conlean can't deny his feelings for long, especially when Jordan sets about seducing him into helping her return home. The seduction soon turns to love for both of them, and the chain of events this sets in motion will change things forever for them and for Blackfell.

Ms. Fobes makes a triumphant return to the paranormal romance scene with a unique plot premise and wonderful characters. With a medieval feel to the setting, as well as the use of time-travel, this story explores an innovative concept of the future that's exciting and contemplative. She leaves a few dangling threads in the epilogue to set us up for the next story in the trilogy, which is set for publication in April 2006. A wonderful read for those who crave something rare and special in a paranormal romance.