Book Review: “Horizontal Collaboration” by Navie, Carole Maurel

“Horizontal Collaboration” by Navie (Author), Carole Maurel (Illustrator) (2019)

Genre: Graphic Novel, Historical Fiction

Page Length: (electronic review edition)

Synopsis: “Horizontal Collaboration” is a term used to describe the sexual and romantic relationships that some French women had with members of the occupying German forces during World War II. In this poignant, female-centered graphic novel created by writer/artist duo Carole Maurel and Mademoiselle Navie, the taboo of “sleeping with the enemy” is explored through the story of a passionate, and forbidden, affair. In June 1942, married Rose (whose husband is a prisoner of war) intervenes in the detainment of her Jewish friend and then accidentally embarks on a secret relationship with the investigating German officer, Mark. There is only one step between heroism and treason, and it’s often a dangerous one. Inside an apartment building on Paris’s 11th arrondissement, little escapes the notice of the blind husband of the concierge. Through his sightless but all-knowing eyes, we learn of Rose and Mark’s hidden relationship, and also of the intertwined stories and problems of the other tenants, largely women and children, who face such complex issues as domestic violence, incest, and prostitution. This fascinating graphic novel tackles the still-sensitive topic of who it is acceptable to love, and how, and the story’s drama is brought vividly to life by intimate and atmospheric illustrations.

Review:

This graphic novel covers the taboo subject of “sleeping with enemy” within the context of World War II. The main character Rose intervenes in the detainment of her Jewish friend and then embarks on a secret relationship with the investigating German officer, Mark. It’s complex, emotional, and a very deep story that had me hooked from the very first page.

The story starts in present day and then transports its readers back to wartime France. The people in Rose’s complex building are on high alert because of the Nazi regime and are under great duress. These people are like a tight-knit family and community. They look out for each other and as the story progresses we get a look at their lives as well. Each woman profiled in the story is going through inner turmoil though other might not see it on the outside. A woman who dreams of being a glamorous singer gets a gig that is anything but, one woman is exploring her sexuality, and one is caring on secret relationship. Each person has their own secrets which will eventually come to light.

The story takes a look at history from both sides and I wished the book was a bit longer so I could get a deeper look. I wanted to know even more about the characters, their backgrounds, and stories. But for all that is packed in this graphic novel in such a story time the writer and artist did a fantastic job. I loved the variety of art techniques used in this novel to give it a realistic look and feel, as well as being able to convey the characters emotions to the readers.

This was a difficult story to read at times and it was heartbreaking. But I did enjoy it. Horizontal Collaboration is a interesting story and graphic novel. If you are someone that enjoys history based graphic novels, check out this book.

*Trigger Warnings: Suicide, Violence, Domestic Violence

Final Verdict: