'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-centred graphic novel set in occupied Paris, 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.
Through the sightless but all-knowing eyes of the concierge's blind husband, we witness not only Rose and Mark's hidden relationship but also the intertwined lives of the building's other residents, each carrying their own secrets.
Critical Praise
“...breathtaking in its ambition. Don't expect a sweet, or even melancholy, love story here; this is an uncompromising read that gets under the skin.” — Shelf Abuse
“Moving, beguiling and evocatively rewarding, Horizontal Collaboration is a beautiful tragedy and potent reminder that love takes no prisoners.” —Comics Review
“...a balance of war-time romance and tragedy presented beautifully. Recommended for anyone who likes period pieces, particularly those created by and about women.” — Grovel: Graphic Novel Reviews
Want to learn more?
Read about the artistic process behind the book and discover how artist Carole Maurel created the striking "love at first sight" scene using abstract silhouettes and perspective:
- Horizontal Collaboration Cover Design
- Falling in Love - An in-depth look at the crafting a key emotional moment.
Carole Maurel cut her teeth on animated films before devoting herself to illustration, in particular, graphic novels. Her 2017 book The Apocalypse According to Magda was awarded the Artémisia Avenir award, which celebrates women in comics.
Navie is a screenwriter for press, cinema and television. She has a degree in history from The Sorbonne in Paris, where she specialized in the history of fascism – making Horizontal Collaboration an excellent fit for her first graphic novel.
