Saint X

Saint X cover
Good Books rating 3.83

Technical:
  • ID: 1347
  • Added: 2025-10-05
  • Updated: 2025-10-05
  • ISBN: 9781529014303
  • Publisher: Pan Macmillan
  • Published: 2020-02-20
  • Formats: 15
  • Reviews: 3
Buy online

Saint X by Alexis Schaitkin is a gripping tale that blends acute social commentary with a deeply moving narrative. The story begins with the mysterious disappearance of Alison, a college-age girl, from a luxury resort on the Caribbean island of Saint X. Her younger sister, Claire, is left to grapple with the aftermath, especially when the investigation into Alison's murder stalls and the two local men suspected of the crime are released due to lack of evidence. Years later, Claire's life takes an unexpected turn when she recognizes one of the suspects as her taxi driver in New York City. This encounter sets her on a relentless pursuit of the truth, leading to an unlikely intimacy between her and Clive Richardson, the man once suspected of her sister's murder. The novel delves into themes of class, race, familial bonds, and community, offering a flawlessly drawn and emotionally charged story. As Claire shadows Clive, hoping to uncover the truth, the narrative hurtles toward a devastating conclusion that leaves a lasting impact. Saint X is a masterful exploration of obsession, grief, and the complex relationships that form in the wake of tragedy.

Reviews
What is Quinn Reading · Quinn · 2025-04-20
engaging 4.50

The book is deeply researched and atmospheric, with a detached narrative style that is both sharp and engaging. The story's layers and character development are particularly noteworthy.

Quinn found 'Saint X' to be a deeply atmospheric and meticulously researched novel. They appreciated the detached narrative style, which added a layer of intrigue and depth to the story. The character development was particularly strong, and the way the plot unfolds keeps readers engaged throughout. The book's exploration of complex themes is handled with a sharp and insightful touch, making it a standout read.


Quick quotes

    Shaitkin's book is deeply researched, atmospheric, and sharp as hell

    unfolding in a kind of detached narrative style that doesn't keep its

    The story's layers and character development are particularly noteworthy

Debbish · Debbish · 2020-03-07
mixed 3.00

The book has a polarizing effect on readers, with some finding it confusing while others are deeply satisfied. It's a story that invites a wide range of interpretations.

Debbish found 'Saint X' to be a polarizing read, with opinions on the book varying widely among readers. They noted that while some found the book confusing, others were deeply satisfied with its narrative and themes. The story's ability to invite such a range of interpretations is a testament to its complexity and depth. The book's exploration of themes like class and race adds layers that make it a compelling read, despite its polarizing nature.


Quick quotes

    Thankfully I wasn't alone in my confusion

    this book seems to have readers at both ends of the satisfaction spectrum

    The story's ability to invite such a range of interpretations is a testament to its complexity and depth

The New York Times · The New York Times · 2020-02-18
hypnotic 4.00

The book is hypnotic and delivers acute social commentary on class, race, and familial bonds. Its weblike narrative structure adds to its hypnotic quality.

The New York Times found 'Saint X' to be a hypnotic read, praising its acute social commentary on themes such as class, race, and familial bonds. The narrative structure is described as weblike, which adds to the book's hypnotic quality. This structure allows the story to unfold in a way that keeps readers deeply engaged. The reviewer appreciated the depth and complexity of the themes explored, making it a thought-provoking and memorable read.


Quick quotes

    Saint X is hypnotic, delivering acute social commentary on everything from class and race to familial bonds and community

    its weblike narrative structure adds to its hypnotic quality

    The reviewer appreciated the depth and complexity of the themes explored