Résumé
Baccara is a novel by French author Hector Malot, published in 1886.
The story is set around 1870 in Elbeuf and centers on Constant Adeline, the head of a family fabric manufacturing business.
The plot explores the conflict between tradition and modernity as Constant's family struggles to maintain their legacy amidst a changing economic landscape. After a financial loan goes bad, Constant takes a position as president of a club in Paris, where he gambles heavily at baccarat, racks up debts, and is accused of theft.
This leads to his resignation and a return to Elbeuf, where he ultimately commits suicide after convincing his mother to let his daughter marry his Jewish rival's nephew.