Zareen, a Verbot Virgin, had been chosen to travel to the Temple of Time to retrieve her people's sacred talisman, stolen by a powerful wizard who resided in the Tower of Time, on the Lake of Doom. She was warned by the Verbot Doma that her journey would be perilous and that, without caution, she could very well be locked within the Temple for the rest of her days. But she was a warrior maiden, brave and determined.

Knowing she had to be constantly on her guard against any evils she might encounter, she set out on her quest. Confrontations with an assortment of creatures from the seductive shape-changing volans, beguiling web spinners, disgusting trolls, snake-like Cromas, persistent wizards, and midnight blood-takers made her voyage to the distant tower treacherous. During a surprise meeting with a brilliant helpful green dragon-like driag, she found worthy companions in the mysterious Merl and his brilliant ahver, a glowing sprite-bird-entity called Blanca. The stalwart Merl, while helping her retrieve the stolen Starlight Crescent, tempted her to give into the sensuous feelings running rampant between them, forcing Zareen to question her virginal vows. But what would be Zareen's reaction when she found out the truth? What would she do when she uncovered the deception he had wrought on her? Would she ever be able to trust him and his professed love for her?

Jane Toombs writes her stories with awesome detail, drawing pictures of places, creatures, and people so that we see them clearly. Though this reviewer would not claim this to be your standard Romance story, there is a definite slant toward that genre. You will find yourself entertained by the persistence of this young maid, as she determinedly completes her mission, and her magical companion, who is not all he seems. With her action filled novel, full of imagination and brilliant detail, Ms. Toombs offers us a look at another world in TEMPLE OF TIME: FORBIDDEN, where the fantastic is dealt with heroically. A great addition to any Fantasy lover's collection.
Reviewed By: Gayle Armstrong
© August 2004