Gate to Kagoshima

Isla is determined to uncover the truth of her Japanese ancestors and leaves her beloved Scotland behind to investigate. Not long into her visit, however, she gets trapped in a strange storm that transports her nearly 130 years into the past. Isla’s situation becomes even more complicated as she realizes she is now living in the time of her ancestors, as well as the last days of the honorable samurai. As she builds connections to the samurai and their families, she has to consider if she can bear withholding her knowledge of the violent demise looming closer or if she should interrupt history to save those she’s come to love. It’s apparent that Kuroki spent time researching her subject matter and illustrates it with care and respect. Readers may regret some stilted dialogue and inconsistent pacing, but those who like timeslips and historical romances will find familiar footing here.