You would not be holding this book in your hands right now if it weren’t for some very special people who helped bring Gate to Kagoshima to life. My mother, the best mom in the world, who has read everything I’ve written and has always given her helpful, unfiltered advice. You have always supported my dream of being a writer, and I’m forever grateful.
My amazing UK agent, Edwina de Charnace, and US agent, Jason Yarn, who were some of the first people to give this book a chance and whose infinite enthusiasm has made this journey a joy from the very beginning.
Mr. Tierney, my fifth-grade teacher, who wrote in my school report that I had talent and should pursue my dream.
Lexi Cooper, Sarah Karwisch, Alice Creangă, James Reid, SJ, and Julie Golden, thank you for being early draft readers who gave me the feedback and encouragement I needed to bring the book to its full potential.
My lovely editor, Sara Nelson, for her personalized touch and enthusiasm. Edie Astley, Amy Baker, Doug Jones, Megan Looney, and the rest of the fantastic team at Harper Perennial who have brought Gate to Kagoshima to life in America. It’s an absolute dream come true to work with you all.
I also want to thank Michele Matsunaga, who set me up with a guided tour in Kagoshima. The tour guide, Kiyoko Tokunaga, who tirelessly answered my many questions about Takamori Saigō and the Satsuma Rebellion. And Hiroshi Wakamatsu, a descendent of Takamori Saigō’s wife, who kindly gave an endorsement for the book and expressed his delight that I was writing about his family history.
To my husband for his love and support, and my son, Jack Valentine, who was a newborn when I started writing this, and who is an endless source of joy and inspiration. I love you all.