Heart of Flesh

by Matthew Wolf

5000+ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5 star ratings on Audible
200,000+ copies sold
Top 5 on Audible

Return to the world of Farhaven...

In a city of hedonism and greed, Gray, Ayva & Helix must overcome a world of scheming and politics while fighting for their lives in the arena of flesh. Only a trick lies up the wicked Queen's sleeves, and they are to be restricted by a magical collar.

However, a terrible secret lies in the blood that spills upon the sands. Each winner consumes the the 'spark' of the defeated. Now the chance to grow stronger than ever sits before them, if only they can harness their true nature, and rise to become Grand Primus, the greatest warrior in Farhaven.

Time is running out as they must collect the nine elemental stones, band together the Great Kingdoms on the verge of war, and become the legends they were meant to be — or all will fall to darkness. At the same time, a grand evil rises; a shadow that threatens to consume the world.

775 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 2, 2025

Reviews

[Matthew Wolf]

As I'm the author, I won't rate/review, but I'll leave this space for updates for readers!!

Book 5 set to release for general public Sept 20th!

Amazon for Kindle - Sept 20th
Amazon for Audible - Nov 20th (earlier for KS backers)
www.mattwolfauthor.com for all Paperback / HC / Collector's Editions (signed) - Sept 20th (pre-orders available now)

Farhaven awaits! Thank you all for your support, most especially my Patrons and KS backers. Feel free to check out https://www.patreon.com/c/writerwolf for insider info and more <3

[Robin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

AMAZING! Heart of Flesh by Matthew Wolf is book 5 of the series, and I have been so excited for its release. The series keeps getting better by leaps and bounds. I am not kidding. Wolf's writing gets more polished, he amps up the action with the trials, and world building is great, and life and death scenarios have you unable to put it down, which is saying a lot since it is a hefty high fantasy book.

At no time did my interest lag. The characters get more complex, and the city of flesh setting is creepy but so good! I am so invested in the series now that the characters have taken on a life of their own. I cried several times through this last book as Gray, Ayva, Zane and Darius are such well-rounded characters now that I care about them, and I care about the new characters that we grow to love in each book. This book adds in romance and it's just the right amount. Excited to see how these relationships unfold.

Do yourself a favor and read the series. It really grows and gets better with each book, and book 5 does NOT disappoint. This was an epic addition to the series.

[John Goodwin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Matthew Wolf is the creator of the epic adventure-fantasy series The Ronin Saga. He is releasing the fifth book in the series, “Heart of Flesh.” In this episode, we explore how he transforms myth into vivid reality, with the Ronin—a once-legendary team of nine, each with specific powers—now returning over a thousand years later. Each volume introduces another of the Ronin as the series progresses. His introduction of the nine dragons in this fifth volume adds rich depth and sets the stage for an epic good-versus-evil showdown.

Matthew discusses his secrets for crafting compelling novel arcs that seamlessly contribute to the overarching story, revealing his approach to pacing that keeps readers hooked.

We also discuss the Writers & Illustrators of the Future Contests and the impact of past masters, such as L. Ron Hubbard, as inspiration for authors like Matthew.

Listen to Matt in episode #348 at https://on.soundcloud.com/MKFqQ4vqwnv...

[Jeff · Rating 5 out of 5]

Definitely worth the wait!

As a long time follower and reader of this series, Matthew Wolf has yet again raised the bar even higher than the previous book. Filled with even more adventure, twists, and heart wrenching peril to our main heroes, you can’t help but continue to want more. While this book satisfies the cliffhanger from the previous books, one can’t help but yearn for more stories from the Ronin Saga universe! With that said, if you haven’t read the side stories accompanied with the main story, you are surely missing out! The character development and story writing in this book has continued to exceed my expectations compared to the previous books. May you enjoy the read as much as I have :)

[Bob · Rating 5 out of 5]

My discovery of Matthew Wolf came through a fantastic recommendation from fellow readers Robin and Michelle J. Sullivan, who tipped me off about his new fantasy adventure series launching on Kickstarter.
​I've backed many authors through Kickstarter, but Matthew Wolf's writing instantly grabbed me and has not let go. His series is an enthralling journey down the rabbit hole! Wolf is truly an accomplished weaver of tales, demonstrating an artistry and narrative depth that many authors never achieve.
​I've been so impressed that I have backed every book in this series and eagerly look forward to his next release date. If you're looking for a compelling and immersive fantasy adventure, you need to read Matthew Wolf!

Thanks in Advance
A Fellow Human

[Derrell · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a beta reader I must say with my Entire Chest that this is now my new favorite in the series! From the amazing story to the continued development of our beloved Ronin's and other characters we love. Without a question this must been a fun book to write for it surely is a fun book to read. Unexpected moments to unforgettable ones. The fire has definitely been turned up to high in this installment! 🫡🫡 in my opinion this is definitely a Must Read!

[Xander · Rating 5 out of 5]

Matt Wolf has created such a fascinating and enthralling universe with the Ronin Saga and his 5th and latest installment is the best to date. Knocking it out of the park once again. I sit on the (knifes') edge of my seat awaiting the next!

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fantastic ride, start to finish. Matthew Wolf has found a way to absorb us back into the world of the Ronin and the adrenaline doesn’t let go until the very end! Must read!!

[Bryan Nelson-Wysoglad · Rating 5 out of 5]

Outstanding. Another great addition to an outstanding series.

[Donald Donegan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Arc read this, was an amazing continuation of the story. The character development and story progression were on point. Love the action scenes and being able to picture it perfectly.

[Samantha Thompson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book series ended my year long rereading cycle. Ended up reading the first four books in less than a month and than got to enjoy the wait and updates through Kickstarter.
Safe to say Matthew Wolf was not wrong in say this is the best one of the series yet!