A new novel by French author Olivier Delacroix is sparking critical conversation around the pervasive, yet often unspoken, experience of imposter syndrome. *Le Syndrome de l’imposteur* (*The Imposter Syndrome*), published today by Fayard, fictionalizes the internal struggles of journalist Théo Sorgues as he navigates a demanding career and personal life, mirroring a phenomenon impacting an estimated 60 to 70% of people [[1]].the book arrives as awareness of this psychological pattern – characterized by self-doubt and a fear of exposure despite demonstrated success – continues to grow across professional and personal spheres [[2]].
The unsettling feeling of being an imposter, the quiet fear of being exposed… Author Olivier Delacroix delves into these deeply personal anxieties with his new novel, Le Syndrome de l’imposteur (Fayard), a topic many keep hidden both at work and at home. The book is already sparking conversation about a phenomenon increasingly recognized in today’s high-pressure world.
Delacroix’s protagonist, Théo Sorgues, navigates the cutthroat world of media while keeping a journal that chronicles his wavering self-confidence, his struggles in his personal life, and his complex family relationships. This fictional character embodies the doubts experienced by countless readers. How can we recognize the signs when we ignore them ourselves?
Olivier Delacroix and Le Syndrome de l’imposteur: A Novel That Names a Common Experience
Published January 28, 2026, by Fayard, this debut novel follows journalist Théo as he spirals into self-doubt. Olivier Delacroix summarizes his literary project with a striking statement: “The imposter syndrome, it’s you, it’s me. It’s women and men who have opened up about the lack of self-confidence that shakes us, sometimes to the point of losing our minds. At work, with family, in love, imposter syndrome flirts with the danger of falling, but it can also push us to surpass ourselves. Théo Sorgues suffered from it; he’s my hero. He fought against others, but also against himself in the violent world of the media. This journal retraces his trials, his doubts, and his resurrection.”
Beneath the fiction, the novel addresses a very real phenomenon: imposter syndrome. This psychological experience affects all generations, yet isn’t formally recognized as a medical condition. Individuals often experience success and recognition while internally feeling fraudulent, almost guilty of deceiving others.
Key Signs of Imposter Syndrome in Everyday Life
Simply naming these feelings can bring clarity. Described by psychologists Pauline Rose Clance and Suzanne Imes, the phenomenon involves persistent self-doubt despite evidence of success. Studies estimate that around 60 to 70% of people experience it at least once. Common signs of imposter syndrome include attributing success to luck or others; minimizing one’s accomplishments; striving for perfection at the cost of burnout; alternating between overwork and procrastination; and rejecting compliments and promotions for fear of being exposed.
What Signals Should Raise Concerns at Work, With Family, or in Love?
Doubt becomes problematic when it permeates all areas of life. At work, it can lead to overextending oneself or being afraid to apply for new opportunities. Within families, it can create a sense of inadequacy as a parent or partner. In romantic relationships, it can fuel a fear of abandonment if one’s true self is revealed.
If these thoughts persist and lead to exhaustion, even burnout, many seek professional help or take questionnaires like the Clance test. Théo’s story offers a reassuring mirror for self-recognition.
© Fayard
