One of the best Zola!

Probably one of the best Rougon-Macquart. Epic of visiting department stores facing the small trade doomed to extinction. Largely inspired creations of the time (Bon Marché, Louvre ...), this novel combines finance, urban planning and the tremendous spirit of Octave Mouret contractor. His love for the little Denise, poor and awkward saleswoman, allows to give the social dimension dear to Zola. As usual, the detailed descriptions, bordering Documentary, give an idea of ​​the enormous work done by the author.