For the second book in the Don’t series, CJ England gives readers an extremely moving tale of discovering what is truly important in life. The origin of the Phoenix is ingeniously creative, and the quest he is given only makes for more enthrallment. This skilled author takes the classic good vs. evil premise, adds in a legend and the result is a most remarkable story of devoted love.

Until recently, Aithne was a familiar for her vampire brother. Since he found his mate, she can now live life as she wishes and her desire for excitement has led her to working at a traveling carnival as a gypsy fortune teller. Aithne also hopes to locate the one man who would make her existence more complete, as she has always been lonely. Unfortunately, the only man who seems to take real notice of her is the owner of the carnival, Milcham Phoenix, and his reason for constantly watching her seems to be caused by distrust of her profession.

His name actually tells his true identity, as Milcham is the Phoenix, the single being from the beginning of our world who did not let temptation sway his actions. Although he was generously rewarded for his convictions, he longs for a mate, a woman to be his partner during his immortal years. Milcham has looked all over the world for this special woman, and when he senses Aithne could possibly be the one, he fears admitting the truth even to himself. Although there is intense desire between these two, trust is slower to build. And while Milcham and Aithne ponder what perhaps the future holds for them, the wicked being who is constantly watching them both ups his malevolent plan.

Something magical happens in a CJ England story and you want to believe. With descriptive words and innovative situations, her original worlds come alive and seem particularly real, even when supernatural incidents arise. Ms. England lets readers experience every moment of DON’T TEMPT THE PHOENIX, as genuine feelings are conveyed through thoughts, words or deeds. There are several heartbreaking scenes when the outcome is emotively unsure, and then there are the encounters filled with blazingly steamy fervor where limitations are only set by the imagination of those involved. And I must say the ideas of the hero and heroine are often enthusiastically motivated, especially during various carnival rides. I never knew these exhilarating rides could also be so stimulating in more than one way. Milcham and Aithne are a most unusual couple, as their backgrounds are definitely not the norm, yet these differences only make them more endearing for all they have endured. During the story their self-sacrifices will deeply touch you, while their protective and caring natures prove what is frequently left unspoken. With countless emotions pouring from the pages, there is never an instant when the sentiments of the reader are not being stirred by the graphically visual portrayals. There is plenty of tension throughout this story, and whether it comes from imminent danger or is only pent-up sexual yearnings, each depiction will raise your heart rate. A couple of secondary characters are extremely intriguing, and I sincerely hope Ms. England gets the chance to tell their fascinating paranormal stories. DON’T TEMPT THE PHOENIX expertly interweaves magic, passion and destiny into a spellbinding romance overflowing with fiery sensuality.

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