On The Table Read Magazine, “the best entertainment eBook magazine UK“, Michael Weiss’s A Thousand Gates of Prayer weaves a captivating tale of forbidden love in Japan, blending rich cultural heritage with suspense and resilience, inviting readers to explore universal human connections.
A Thousand Gates Of Prayer
Born in Jerusalem, Michael Weiss grew up surrounded by the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, an environment where division and tension were ever-present. Yet, rather than letting this backdrop define his work, Weiss has chosen to focus on universal human experiences, crafting stories that bridge cultures, languages, and borders. His debut novel, A Thousand Gates of Prayer, transports readers to the serene landscapes of Hakone, Japan, where a forbidden romance unfolds against a backdrop of tradition, change, and resilience.
Set in the misty hills of Hakone, A Thousand Gates of Prayer explores the tender yet defiant love story between Miyuki, a young woman tied to her village’s ancient customs, and Masahiro, the heir to a prominent Kyoto family. Their connection is tested by familial expectations and societal pressures, but the stakes rise when a massive construction project threatens to erase Miyuki’s village. The couple’s private romance transforms into a public fight to protect their way of life, uncovering a dangerous web of corruption in the process.
With vivid depictions of Japanese culture and landscapes, the novel weaves together passion, suspense, and a deep exploration of loyalty and sacrifice, appealing to readers who cherish historical romance and literary fiction.
Expanding the Narrative
Weiss’s storytelling extends beyond this single work. His second novel, Sunrise Over Numbi Gate, takes readers to South Africa’s Kruger National Park, where Emily, a young American woman, is kidnapped during a safari. Her unexpected ally, Thabo, one of her captors, risks everything to help her escape, creating a gripping tale of trust and survival. Through these narratives, Weiss explores love’s ability to transcend cultural and societal boundaries, offering readers not just romance but a deeper reflection on human connection.
Building Bridges Through Publishing
Beyond writing, Weiss has founded Timeless Love Publishing, a platform dedicated to global romance fiction and amplifying diverse voices. The publishing house aims to foster empathy and understanding through stories that celebrate love in its many forms, inviting authors worldwide to contribute their unique perspectives. For Weiss, each book is a thread in a broader tapestry of human connection, crafted with care and compassion.
Michael Weiss
Weiss’s own journey reflects the same resilience and creativity found in his stories. A former investigative journalist and IDF Spokesperson’s Unit member, he has built a career as an award-winning entrepreneur in culinary tourism and travel tech. He founded GoJerusalem.com, YallaBasta.co.il, and bitemojo, the world’s first self-guided food tour app, which operates in 14 cities and has been recognized by Booking.com and the World Tourism Organization.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, he launched Mask&Co, a leading designer mask brand in Israel. In 2025, he turned his passion for storytelling into Timeless Love Publishing, a venture that aligns with his mission to inspire and heal through literature.
Living in Jerusalem with his wife, Yael, and their four children, Weiss draws from his diverse experiences to craft stories that resonate across continents. A Thousand Gates of Prayer is more than a romance—it’s a journey through love, heritage, and the courage to challenge fate. For readers who crave emotional depth, cultural immersion, and thrilling narratives, Weiss’s work offers a powerful and unforgettable experience.
Find more from Michael Weiss now:
https://timelesslovepublishing.com
Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and Threads (michaelweissauthor)
Kindle: https://amzn.to/3IemqfE
Paperback: https://amzn.to/3TlQRTF
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