The Scapegoat

The Scapegoat by Daphne Du Maurier, published by Penguin Books in 1972, is a captivating narrative that explores themes of identity and deception. This edition spans 320 pages and is presented in English. The story follows John, an English academic on vacation in France, who encounters a French aristocrat that looks just like him. In a twist of fate, he agrees to swap lives with the Comte de Gue for a week, setting off a chain of events that reveals the darker forces at play within the aristocrat’s world.

Readers will find a rich blend of fiction, romance, and fantasy as the plot unfolds, highlighting the complexities of human relationships and the consequences of choices made under duress. As John navigates the challenges of his new identity, he becomes embroiled in a web of intrigue that threatens not only his own safety but also that of the Comte’s family. This edition invites readers to delve into a thought-provoking exploration of fate and the duality of self, making it a significant addition to Du Maurier’s body of work.