Waltzing the Waves (subtitled One man’s Odyssey from the Spanish Civil War to the Rescue of Europe’s Jews) is Bat-Zion Susskind-Sacks’ second novel.

Discover the extraordinary life of Juan Pedro Marinelarena—known as Peter—in Waltzing the Waves, a sweeping historical epic inspired by real events and based on the life of a remarkable individual. From his beginnings as a fisherman in the Basque village of Bakio to his heroic exploits across continents, Peter’s story is a stirring tribute to courage, love, and the indomitable human spirit.

Set against a meticulously researched historical backdrop, the novel vividly portrays some of the most pivotal events of the 20th century. Readers are immersed in the turmoil of the Spanish Civil War, where Peter rescues hundreds of children, and follow him across Europe, Mexico, California and Africa as he confronts the horrors of war and oppression. When anchored in Bulgaria, he encounters Holocaust survivors and risks everything to lead daring efforts to bring thousands of refugees to safety in the emerging State of Israel.

The novel also intertwines the powerful story of Sonia, a Holocaust survivor whose journey from the nightmare of Auschwitz to renewal in Israel is deeply moving and inspiring. Her encounter with Peter shapes the narrative’s profoundly redemptive conclusion.

Along the way, readers will meet richly drawn fictional characters alongside encounters with historical figures such as Leon Trotsky and Ernest Hemingway. With its vivid settings, historical depth, and gripping narrative, Waltzing the Waves will captivate fans of historical fiction as well as readers intrigued by the history of the Spanish Civil War, World War II, and the founding of Israel.

At its heart, this novel celebrates the enduring power of love, justice, and hope. Peter’s odyssey is a testament to the courage and compassion that can light the way even in the darkest of times. For anyone seeking a compelling story rooted in history, Waltzing the Waves offers an unforgettable and inspiring experience.

Waltzing the Waves is available in both paperback and e-book formats on most Amazon sites worldwide. Find it at this link or alternatively by searching by book name (and if necessary, subtitle or author) in the Amazon search bar.

Special Offer: If you wish to obtain a copy of Waltzing the Waves with a personalised dedication signed by the author, please email me at susskindbatzi@gmail.com.

Full cover design (Back, spine, front)