“One of the best young adult epic fantasy series of the decade, author Parris Sheets is a master of wordplay in Beyond the Flame. Each chapter reveals something new to readers. The twists and turns are entertaining, and the clues left behind are enough to intrigue readers to want more. I loved the arc Piper’s character takes, and I cannot wait to see what happens next as she continues on the path she has decided for herself. Felix and Vienna are great companions for Kole and help him bounce off ideas when he is indecisive or simply give him support. The ending shocked me. I was not expecting it at all, and now I am even more excited about what the author has in store for readers as the story continues in the next novel. The world-building has gotten better (if that is even possible), and the character development is fantastic. I would highly recommend this series to anyone who loves a good story. Beyond my expectations! Outstanding!”

“Author Parris Sheets really knows how to draw a reader in, and YA fans and adult readers alike will certainly be transfixed by this captivating work of fantasy fiction, which also blends some fantastic science fiction and adventure elements into its core world-building. I found the work really easy to jump into and follow, but the plot also grew in complexity and nuance as I got deeper and deeper into the reading experience. There were some very emotional highs and lows for Kole in this work, and the close narration around his actions, dialogue, and inner thoughts made it feel like I knew him personally by the book’s end. As such, I found myself both immersed and totally invested in Beyond the Flame from cover to cover and would recommend it to all fantasy fans looking for a high-quality series to lose themselves in.”

“Parris Sheets gives us another fantastic book in the ‘Essence of Ohr’ series with Beyond the Flame, and where I did not think I could be caught off guard with another twist, it happened in a big and crazy way. It feels like Kole just cannot get a break and as a parent to a teenager, it doesn’t sit right all of the time. I just want to hug him and tell him that the big bad monsters can wait, but if Sheets has anything to say about it [and Sheets has EVERYTHING to say about it] that’s not on the cards. The biggest surprises were two-fold. One is an alliance that feels completely bonkers, and the second is a trust issue that explodes into a genuine what-the-heck-is-happening climax. The twins remain my favorite co-conspirators and you can really see the cast maturing from the angst of the first and second books. I fear what happens in Beyond the Flame might force a relapse but it would be warranted. The writing is visually compelling, clean, and extremely addictive, the pacing is pitch perfect and the overall story is richly fulfilling. Very highly recommended.”

“I loved how Beyond the Flame was a journey that actually had Kole and company moving and the interactions with the Souls were part of that, but being along the way to Zeal and not a direct point to point Soul seeking came across as organic. Kole really has trouble with the belief that he might have to give up his own life to save everyone else. Not just his friends and allies but everyone on Ohr. It’s not fair and readers know this too, and a child has to contend with this, especially when Vienna and Felix seem ready to throw themselves under the bus without hesitating. The action sequences in the latter third of the book are among the best in any YA fantasy fiction I’ve read. Sheets’ growth as a writer is evident as she moves from strength to strength with each book and that’s always exciting to witness. Book three is excellent and book four, when it arrives, will probably be even better.”

“Beyond the Flame is a stellar continuation of the ‘Essence of Ohr’ saga that fantasy lovers will devour with relish. Author Parris Sheets’s world-building is simply phenomenal. There is an easily discernable quality to the depth and lore of the world that seeps through the pages. Sheets weaves an absorbing yarn full of magic, wonder, and plenty of action that will keep your eyes glued to the pages from start to finish. The characters feel well-fleshed out, with distinct personalities and conflicts that make them stand out. I particularly enjoyed the dynamic between Kole, Vienna, Felix, and Piper. Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed the book and highly recommend it to young adult fantasy lovers.”