Kate To Kagoshima by Poppy Kuroki

Poppy Kuroki’s Gate to Kagoshima takes readers on a breathtaking journey to 1800s Japan in this historical fantasy romance. With a story full of time travel, samurai, and family secrets, it’s perfect for fans of The Hurricane Wars and The Time Traveler’s Wife. This novel combines compelling historical settings with a love story that transcends time, making it an intriguing read for romantasy lovers.

Thank you Poppy Kuroki, Harper Perennial, and HarperCollins for the free book!

Overall, this was an amazing story with a fascinating setting in late 1800s Japan during the last of the samurai. The concept of time travel and meeting one’s ancestors was an exciting premise, and the inclusion of the looming Satsuma Rebellion added an extra layer of tension. I really enjoyed the historical grounding of the novel and the way it brought this period of Japanese history to life.

However, I felt the book lacked emotional depth. The writing often felt more factual than emotional, which made it challenging to connect with the characters and the story’s emotional stakes. Despite the intriguing premise, I struggled to truly bond with Isla and Kei, which made the romance feel less impactful. I loved the concept of the story, but I do wish there had been more depth and development in the characters and their emotional journeys.

While the setting and premise were fantastic, Gate to Kagoshima ultimately left me feeling like there was a missed opportunity to fully immerse in the emotional and romantic aspects of the plot. It’s a good read for those interested in historical fantasy, but if you’re looking for deep character connections, it may fall a bit short.