"The Money Master" by Gilbert Parker is a gripping novel that immerses readers in the rich history and vibrant personalities of French-Canadian culture. Set in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the story follows the life of Jean Jacques Barbille, a successful businessman and financial genius who must navigate complex relationships and personal conflicts to maintain his wealth and power. Jean Jacques Barbille, a wealthy egoist and philosopher from a small Quebec parish, returns from Paris with a Spanish girl named Carmen Dolores as his wife. When their daughter Zoe grows up, Carmen realizes that her husband doesn't pay attention to her, so she leaves him. Jean doesn't want her to get married, so Zoe and her boyfriend go west. The mill then burns down, and Jean's money is stolen. What will they do? Will Jean ever go back to his wife?
Gilbert Parker was a Canadian novelist and politician born on November 23, 1862, in Camden East, Ontario, Canada. He was the son of a Canadian businessman and a New England mother. After studying law in Toronto and being admitted to the bar, he turned his attention to writing, becoming a successful journalist and author. Parker's literary career began with the publication of his first book, "The Trespasser," in 1894, which was a collection of short stories set in the backwoods of Canada. He quickly gained international recognition for his works, which often focused on Canadian and British colonial history, as well as themes of love, betrayal, and social justice. In addition to his literary pursuits, Parker was also an active politician, serving as a member of the Canadian House of Commons from 1906 to 1911. He was also knighted in 1919 for his contributions to Canadian literature and politics. Parker died on September 6, 1932, in London, England, at the age of 69. His legacy lives on through his numerous novels, short stories, and contributions to Canadian literature.
