From the author of Ayuni and Passage from Aden comes Sarah Ansbacher’s new historical novel, based on a true story, Wave After Wave.

Uncovering a forgotten piece of history, Wave After Wave recounts the journey of the largest convoy of Jewish refugees to travel down the Danube during WWII in an attempt to escape Nazi-occupied Europe. It is a story that encompasses devastating loss, remarkable resilience, and a glimmer of hope.

The story opens in 1938 in Vienna where newlywed Lilly is looking forward to the future with her husband until the Nazi annexation of Austria throws everything into uncertainty. Suddenly, their Jewish heritage turns them into outcasts, facing persecution and daily humiliation. Despite their tireless efforts to emigrate, no country will grant them the visas they desperately need. Then Kristallnacht, the Night of Broken Glass, shatters Lilly’s world.

With the outbreak of war, Lilly remains trapped in Vienna, fearful of what lies ahead. Her cousin discovers a possible escape: joining a group of Jewish refugees on a daring journey down the Danube River and across the Black Sea to British-controlled Mandatory Palestine. Leaving comes at a price, and will test their resilience to the limit. With danger and difficulties at every turn, can Lilly and all the other refugees survive the journey and reach the Promised Land?