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 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 Pariss 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 Marks 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.
