TL;DR
Saint X by Alexis Schaitkin is a haunting novel about the unresolved disappearance of a young woman during a family vacation and her sister's obsessive quest for the truth years later.
What is Saint X about
Saint X is a novel by Alexis Schaitkin that delves into the unresolved disappearance and death of Alison, an eighteen-year-old girl, during a family vacation at a Caribbean resort. The story is told from the perspective of her younger sister, Claire, who was only seven at the time. Years later, Claire's chance encounter with one of the prime suspects rekindles her obsession with uncovering the truth behind Alison's death. The book explores themes of grief, obsession, and the complexities of familial relationships. It is a gripping and emotional journey that culminates in a powerful conclusion.
Saint X 5 Key Takeaways
Alison's Disappearance
Alison, the older sister, disappears on the last night of the family vacation at a resort on the Caribbean island of Saint X. Her body is found days later, leading to the arrest of two local men who are soon released due to lack of evidence.
Claire's Obsession
Years later, Claire, now an adult living in New York City, becomes obsessed with uncovering the truth behind Alison's death, especially after a chance encounter with one of the original suspects, Clive Richardson.
Shadowing Clive
Claire begins to shadow Clive, hoping to gain his trust and waiting for a slip that will reveal the truth about her sister's death. This pursuit becomes an all-consuming obsession.
Unlikely Attachment
As Claire continues to follow Clive, an unlikely attachment forms between them. Both are deeply affected by the same tragedy, leading to an exploration of their complex emotions and shared past.
Emotional Climax
The novel builds up to an emotionally powerful ending where Claire confronts the truths she has uncovered and grapples with who her sister really was and how the tragedy has shaped her own identity.
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Saint X Best Reviews
- 'Saint X is hypnotic. Schaitkin's characters...are so intelligent and distinctive it feels not just easy, but necessary, to follow them. I devoured [it] in a day.' – Oyinkan Braithwaite, New York Times Book Review
Top Saint X Quotes
- 'When you lose the person who is most essential to you, who do you become?'
- 'Grief is a shape-shifter. It can make you unrecognizable to yourself.'
Who should read Saint X?
Saint X is ideal for readers who enjoy psychological thrillers, mysteries, and emotionally complex narratives. Fans of Emma Cline's The Girls and Lauren Groff's Fates and Furies will find this book particularly engaging. The novel provides a deep exploration of grief and obsession, making it a compelling read for those interested in character-driven stories.
Saint X FAQs
Is Saint X based on a true story?
Saint X is not a true story, but it parallels the tragic disappearance of Natalee Holloway and other high-profile true crime cases.
What happened to Alison in Saint X?
Alison returned to the resort, had an encounter with a past love interest, and then tragically fell to her death at a dangerous waterfall.
How old is Claire in Saint X?
Claire is seven years old when her sister Alison disappears and is found dead. Years later, as an adult, she becomes obsessed with uncovering the truth behind Alison's death.