The violation of a law, the violation of a duty, are both definitions of the word “transgression“. In the book, Transgression: A Novel of Love and War, by James Nichol, those prime examples of defining the meaning of the word “transgression” are vividly brush stroked with Nichol’s word paintings.

Set during World War II and postwar, the historical aspect of the novel is fascinating, and the story line evokes mystery and intrigue as well. It is a story primarily of war and love, and the confines of such relationships within the framework of search and seizure in the Nazi stronghold in France. Transgression is a metaphor, in my opinion, for how war affects the emotional aspect of individuals, and what they will do or might do in to survive under harsh circumstances and extreme duress. Life under seige by the oppressor (and the oppressor is often ourselves), and how an individual’s coping mechanism is put into play is at the forefront of the novel.

The dangers of love affairs that cross the lines of political affiliation are explored in depth in this dramatic novel 1941, as Adele Georges tries to find her father who has been captured by the Nazis. While in the process of doing so, she meets a German soldier named Manfred who befriends her, tries to be helpful, and herein begins a romance that dooms her in the eyes of both sides fighting the war.

Their affair is hidden from Adele’s family who would not stop at anything to kill Manfred if they knew about the affair. And, by the same token, the Nazis would not stop at anything to kill him, if they found out about the affair. They are in a romantic bind. Eventuallly Manfred is deployed to Eastern Europe.

Adele is thought to be a collaborator for the other side, and the events depicted within this infrastructure in the book are explicit in detail, as they unfold before the reader’s eyes.

Within this framework there is a mystery lingering, the mystery of a disturbing find in a field. The year is 1946 and the gruesome discovery has been found by a child. This discovery begins a search for truth and identity in a postwar climate in Canada.

Through the detective work by the police chief (who is a character in himself), secrets are revealed that have followed Adele from one country to another.

If I sound vague, it is intentional, as I am trying not to reveal too much of the story line, because each detail is part of the whole.

Nichols’ writing is beautiful, yet gruesome at times, but each ugly act is pertinent to the story line, and not written for shock value. The historical aspect of Transgression is infused with much data.

From war and love to family and loss, the book is overwhelming, and the ending more so. Transgression is really a book that tells two stories in one, but is done so with such skill, as the two stories eventually fuse into one. James W. Nichol is masterful in his details and depictions of the horrors of war and the after effects that linger, as the past looms ever present in Adele’s life. It is a haunting read, filled with mystery and intrigue, and one that I highly recommend.
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Sunday November 1, 2009 – 14th of Cheshvan, 5770