Birthrates have plunged, causing Earthlings to wonder if they will become an endangered species. They discover that their DNA has been modified to enhance romance between younger men and older women, thereby causing the plunging birthrates. Roger Hopkins, a retired data analyst extraordinaire for the British SIS, and legendary ladies man, is coaxed out of retirement to head the group trying to figure out the cause of the newfound romantic interests. The head of the perpetrators of the DNA changes is a beautiful alien woman. She and Hopkins ultimately become involved, both romantically and professionally. But they encounter enormous Earthling resistance, as well as plots to assassinate by both shooting and explosion. But the aliens are a much more developed civilization in many respects, so the Earthlings finally are able to benefit from their them. The book weaves politics, romance, and a modest amount of science fiction to produce its twists.