What do you think?
Rate this book
Scapegoat
Bruges, 1558—a city of faith and ferocity, grandeur and terror, where whispers can turn to accusations, and justice serves power above truth.
When young Matthias arrives in Bruges, he is drawn into the orbit of François van Daele and Willem de Clerc, two men living quietly in the shadows—until a jealous rival brands them as sinners. Dragged into a society ravenous for vengeance, they face sentences of unspeakable cruelty—caught in a corrupt inquisition where innocence is condemned, and guilt walks free. As the grip of authority tightens, loyalties fray, truths are twisted into confessions, and the city itself turns predator, hunting those who dare resist its will.
Yet even in Bruges’ darkest corners, songs are sung, stories endure, and redemption may still be found—for those willing to pay its price. Guided by Knowledge, a towering puppet from the morality play The Summoning of Everyman, François must confront a world gone mad and search for truth within its lies.
Inspired by actual events, Scapegoat is a searing tale of power, persecution, and the enduring strength of human bonds. Rich in historical detail and haunting allegory, it is a story of courage in the face of tyranny—and the hope that even in the darkest times, truth, love, and the loyalty of a true friend may find a way.
When young Matthias arrives in Bruges, he is drawn into the orbit of François van Daele and Willem de Clerc, two men living quietly in the shadows—until a jealous rival brands them as sinners. Dragged into a society ravenous for vengeance, they face sentences of unspeakable cruelty—caught in a corrupt inquisition where innocence is condemned, and guilt walks free. As the grip of authority tightens, loyalties fray, truths are twisted into confessions, and the city itself turns predator, hunting those who dare resist its will.
Yet even in Bruges’ darkest corners, songs are sung, stories endure, and redemption may still be found—for those willing to pay its price. Guided by Knowledge, a towering puppet from the morality play The Summoning of Everyman, François must confront a world gone mad and search for truth within its lies.
Inspired by actual events, Scapegoat is a searing tale of power, persecution, and the enduring strength of human bonds. Rich in historical detail and haunting allegory, it is a story of courage in the face of tyranny—and the hope that even in the darkest times, truth, love, and the loyalty of a true friend may find a way.
141 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 11, 2025
10 people want to read
About the author
Donald Proffit
3 books27 followersDonald Proffit, a visionary in the creative arts and former arts educator, has been short-listed for the 2024 William Saroyan International Writing Prize in nonfiction for his memoir, Hardship Alaska. With a background in music, dance, and visual arts, Donald has presented workshops and original performances worldwide, including in Israel, where his work helped foster dialogue among Israeli, Palestinian, and American youth. His accolades include a John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts Teacher Fellowship and the D. Bennet Mazur Award for Lifetime Achievement from the Personal Liberty Fund of the New Jersey Lesbian and Gay Coalition.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 of 1 review
October 13, 2025
Scapegoat by Donald Proffit is a masterful dive into the shadows of 16th-century Bruges, blending historical depth with intense human drama. Proffit crafts a tense, morally intricate tale where innocence and guilt collide under the weight of corrupt authority. The story’s richly textured setting, vivid characters, and haunting allegorical elements make it not just a historical novel, but a gripping meditation on loyalty, courage, and the enduring power of truth. A haunting, unforgettable read that stays with you long after the last page.
Displaying 1 of 1 review