Sasq'et

by Maxim Langstaff

Description
In 1939, a deadly confrontation in the Canadian wilderness shatters young Albert Pingree’s life and leaves him the keeper of a truth so staggering it could tear apart mankind’s understanding of itself. Sixty years later, his granddaughter Mallory — a small-town veterinarian in rural New Hampshire, inherits more than his fortune; she inherits his secret. When Albert is found dead behind his remote British Columbia cabin, Mallory is drawn into a world of deception, lost identity, and scientific obsession. Inside a locked candle box, she uncovers a horrific relic — a severed hand too large to be human — and a note that beckons her toward the impossible.

Mallory recruits Dr. George Avery, the world’s leading field zoologist to help her identify what she has found. At first, he is reluctant, unaware of the magnitude of what she has brought to him. As the puzzle begins to take shape, he is confronted by what the answers they find, reveal.

Delving deeper, their growing affection ignites a sense of purpose, even as they face the shadows of the past and the dangers of their pursuit. In the haunting wilds of the Pacific Northwest, nature’s grandeur and brutality are ever-present. Tangled forests and untamed rivers, bears, wolves, and the ancient reverence of Indigenous traditions surround them, blurring the lines between myth and reality. Their quest becomes a journey not only to solve a mystery, but to reconcile love, loneliness, and the immortal question of our place in a world still ruled by secrets.

660 pages, ebook

Published April 7, 2026

Reviews

[Erin Maxson · Rating 5 out of 5]

If I could give this book 10 stars I would.

Seriously, my friends and reading club are going to be sick of hearing me talk about how stunning this book is.

I haven’t read a book like this in all my 31 years. Extremely well researched, detailed and poignant.

The characters and context around this story are so unique, yet relatable that I have a hard time picking out a favorite.

Throughout this story, you follow Mallory as she is thrust into a quest she was never prepared for. Along with her sidekick, her dog Kemo, she is introduced to some of the world’s most profound scientists and experts along the way.

The themes within are so elegantly woven into the story and characters that you find yourself immersed in their thoughts and perspectives as you go about your day after putting the book down.

This is a longer book (around 600ish pages) but I am devastated that it’s over. As a debut novel, I am blown away by the craft and talent of Langstaff. His ability to create the perfect blend of mystery and science, myth and reality makes this book hard to put down and inevitably will be a book that I won’t forget any time soon.

If you love climate fiction, sci-fi, folklore or cryptozoology, this book will fill your cup immensely. Even if you don’t know about any of those things, this book will grab you by the heart and mind with ease.

Thank you to NetGalley and the author for this early read. I can’t say enough good things about it.

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

I normally would not pick up a 600+ page novel about Sasquatch, but SASQ’ET by Maxim Langstaff completely surprised me. Part suspense thriller, part wilderness expedition, the book weaves together the history of conservation in America, zoology, wildlife biology, ecology, folklore, and Indigenous traditions in a way that feels both deeply researched and highly readable.

The novel has the feel of National Geographic crossed with an investigative thriller, following George and Mallory through a world of scientific research, wilderness exploration, and the mystery surrounding something that may or may not exist. Despite its length, it became a true page-turner for me.

I never thought in a million years that I would enjoy a 600-page novel about Sasquatch, yet here we are. The novel has a way of making the wilderness itself feel mysterious, ancient, and slightly unsettling long after you finish reading it.

[Liz · Rating 5 out of 5]

For Mallory, identity is everything, especially when it comes to unraveling the secret of her grandfather, Albert. When Albert is found dead behind his cabin, everything seems like confusion, but once Mallory begins to investigate, hidden truths are revealed. For this reason, she asks for the help of Dr. George Avery, the world's leading field zoologist, to help her identify what she has found.

I really enjoy this captivating book from beginning to end, which undoubtedly keep the reader on the edge of their seat at several points. I think this author did a great job describing the scenes, they are all vivid and full of detail.

I highly recommend this captivating novel for its modern style and fresh plot. Believe me when I say it's worth reading.

[Joe Woolworth · Rating 5 out of 5]

I went into Sasq'et thinking it would just be a fun Sasquatch mystery story.
It ended up being way more interesting than that.

What surprised me most was how much real science and research is underneath the story. Like a lot of people, I always assumed Bigfoot was one of those things you don’t really take seriously. But the book doesn’t try to convince you what to believe — it just makes you start asking better questions. Great ending!

The best way I can describe the feel of the book is like Jurassic Park meets Indiana Jones, but with a thoughtful edge to it. It has that adventure energy, the wilderness exploration, the mystery, and the sense that something bigger might be out there — without ever feeling over the top.

I also appreciated that it respects the reader. It doesn’t lecture you or push an agenda. It just tells a compelling story and lets you come to your own conclusions.

If you like adventure stories with real-world grounding and a little bit of “what if?” woven in, this one’s definitely worth picking up.

[Ourslowchapters · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC - Sasq’et by Maxim Langstaff

I normally gravitate towards literature fiction and romance, this book was not something I’d normally pick up but was drawn in by the description.

The story is written without any feeling of being rushed, the writer has taken his time to use historical facts and science to build a believable story full of passion whilst leaving room for mystery. It had me questioning my own existence and purpose in life (as well as what’s actually out there that we remain unsure about), whilst researching some curiosities in some parts!

I really enjoyed this book and would highly recommend to anyone, especially if it’s different to your usual genres as you will be pleasantly surprised!

[The Sassy Bookworm · Rating 3 out of 5]

Book Review: Sasq'et by Maxim Langstaff**

Rating: ★★★☆☆

I recently finished *Sasq'et* by Maxim Langstaff, and it was quite a mixed bag for me. The story kicks off back in 1939 with a tragic event in the Canadian wilderness that turns young Albert Pingree’s life upside down. Fast forward sixty years, and his granddaughter Mallory, a small-town vet in New Hampshire, inherits more than just his estate—she inherits his secret. After Albert is found dead near his remote cabin in British Columbia, Mallory stumbles upon a chilling discovery: a severed hand that's far too large to be human, tucked away in a locked candle box, along with a cryptic note leading her on a path toward something unbelievable.

Mallory enlists the help of Dr. George Avery, a top field zoologist, who initially hesitates but soon realizes the enormity of what they've uncovered. Together, their investigation leads them deep into the wilds of the Pacific Northwest, a place where nature’s beauty and danger collide and ancient Indigenous legends blur the boundary between myth and reality. Beyond just solving a mystery, their journey becomes an emotional exploration of love, isolation, and humanity's place in a world still full of secrets.

Now, about my reading experience: First off, the cover of this book is stunning—definitely eye-catching! That said, *Sasq'et* took me quite a while to get through. It’s not that the story isn’t compelling; in fact, Langstaff does an impressive job weaving historical facts and scientific details into a passionate and believable narrative. But the writing can be pretty dense and dry at times, with lots of detailed descriptions that slowed my pace. The author clearly took his time to create a richly textured world, which I appreciated, but it sometimes felt like the story got bogged down in exposition.

Despite this, I was hooked from the start because of the intriguing premise and the way the plot gradually unfolded with plenty of mystery. If you enjoy slow-burning stories with strong attention to detail and don’t mind a bit of heaviness in the prose, *Sasq'et* might be worth your time.

Overall, it was an engaging read with some pacing issues that kept it from being a five-star favorite for me—but I still found plenty to admire in Langstaff’s storytelling.

⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️

[Marsala Rypka · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maxim Langstaff's brilliant novel, SASQ'ET, is an astounding piece of work. It is a love story between two people and their quest for the truth about a mythical creature and how it's existence may alter what is known about the origin of humans. I found it fascinating but more than that, the poetic prose stirred my soul and caused me to weep for the ignorance and egotistical arrogance, the hubris of mankind that believes we are superior to nature and all other creatures—a way of thinking that will ultimately lead to our own demise. It is a profound piece of work that required tremendous research. It informs, inspires, and imparts so much wisdom that lays out the beauty and interconnectedness of all life. It is over 600 pages, and yet I was left speechless and sad when it ended. I had to sit quietly, ponder and digest its effect on me. It is one of the most intelligent books I have ever read, while still being highly entertaining. The book mixes fact with fiction, takes place in locations around the world, and is filled with danger and adventure. It would make a gripping TV series. Bravo Maxim. I am in awe of your writing. - Marsala Rypka

[Steven Finkelstein · Rating 5 out of 5]

In 1939, young Albert Pingree learns a truth, and it’s one so shocking that it colors and impacts the rest of his life. 60 years later, his granddaughter Mallory, a vet living in rural New Hampshire, learns of the secret that Albert guarded for so long. Now, she has become the next keeper of his knowledge. When Albert is found dead, Mallory is thrust into a world of deception add intrigue she never would have dreamed existed.

Having found a relic that points to untold horrors, Mallory teams up with Dr. George Avery, a renowned zoologist. As their hunt for the truth draws them ever deeper into the wild, they face a multitude of dangers. This story is imaginative, powerful, and mysterious. It’s certain to keep readers on their toes.

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

I didn’t expect to get this into a book about searching for Sasquatch—but here we are.
Sasq’et isn’t just a story, it’s an experience. The narration pulls you in fast, and before you know it, you’re deep in this world that feels way more real than it should. It’s got that perfect mix of mystery, research, and storytelling where you start questioning what you actually believe.
It’s one of those listens where you finish a chapter and just sit there for a second like… “wait a second.”

Highly recommend if you want something different from the usual fiction lineup. I enjoyed all the real world research and stories surrounding the mystery and how the main characters were skeptical.

[R.Z. · Rating 3 out of 5]

Sasq'et is the story of a young woman who inherits the estate and secrets of a grandfather she had barely met. She discovers a mysterious package at one of his cabins containing an oversized severed hand, too big to be ape or human. Because her grandfather was rich and famous, he had many contacts, so she is able to tap into these to attempt tracking the origin of the mysterious hand. If you, the reader, believe that strange creatures live in remote areas, you might enjoy this story. I did, though I found it somewhat difficult to keep track of all the characters in the novel, which is why I gave it a 3-star rating.

[Eric F · Rating 5 out of 5]

There is a kind of discomfort that does not come from fear, but from recognition. Like when a story feels too close to something real you have been avoiding. That is how Sasq’et by Maxim Langstaff felt to me. It put me between curiosity and discomfort, in a quiet space where I started to question things I usually ignore.

What affected me most was not the mystery. It was the idea that maybe we are not in control of truth like we think. Maybe there are parts of reality, and even parts of who we are, that we choose not to see. It made me reflect on my own life, especially the things I avoid thinking about.

[Charlie R · Rating 5 out of 5]

I didn't know what I was getting into when I started this book, but that made it even better. It starts with this cool mystery about a mysterious key and a hidden past, but it grows into something way bigger. The author is an anthropologist, so the nature in the book feels super real, like the forest is actually a character. While reading, I kept thinking about myths and if they might actually be true. What I liked most was the atmosphere. It felt so quiet and intense. It helped me realize how thin the line is between stories and reality when you are alone in the woods at night. It’s an original story that pulls you in.

[Maps R · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you love nature and believe there is still much more to discover, this is a book for you. This book is fantastic; it brings a perspective of reality on what is behind passion and long-lasting love for what you do. A grandpa who has been in the wilderness for a long time has discovered tons of secrets. All these secrets are the spice of the story that will unfold by the hand of Mallory, the granddaughter, who has also been very consistent with the wilderness connection. I really liked the twist it took when she decided to discover Grandpa’s secret and work on it. You will connect with a family tradition, feel the life of a scientist, and a passionate woman.

[May G. · Rating 5 out of 5]

A vibrant tale

Are you ready to unravel a mystery that defies the imagination?
With an unlikely ally by his side, he will face hidden dangers and shocking truths on a quest that blurs the line between legend and reality. It is a story of courage, connection, and the relentless pursuit of knowledge in a universe full of wonders and enigmas. Are you looking for a read that will captivate you, make you reflect, and transport you to a world where the extraordinary awaits? This book is a must-read; it’s time to discover a plot that will hook you from the first page and leave you thinking long after you’ve finished it.

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

In rugged northern New England, the land is rough and the people are tougher. But Mallory Pingree's life is about to be turned upside down. Her grandfather Albert stumbled across a huge discovery when he was younger, and chose to keep that a secret and hidden. Now that he is gone, the keeping of this discovery falls to Mallory. She wants to first figure out exactly what this means, so she enlists the help of an expert and together they attempt to tackle the question of whether this should be revealed to the world.
A high stakes and highly emotional tale of secrets, family sagas, trust and courage.

[R.K. Emery · Rating 5 out of 5]

There’s something hauntingly beautiful about Sasq'et and the way the author tells the story.

Maxim Langstaff blends myth, wilderness, and human emotion into a read that will stick with the reader.

It feels like watching a movie, remaining deeply personal.

The mystery at the center keeps the pages turning, overall, it's thoughtful, engaging, and perfect for readers who enjoy stories where folklore and humanity intersect.

[Christine Vaughan-Chatfield · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book drew me in from the very start The way it’s written, the high attention to detail made it feel like I was reading a true story.

I learnt so much from this book - there’s so much interesting information, even though it’s a novel. It’s got to be the most interesting fiction book I’ve ever read.

Thank you to the author and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Michael Fitzpatrick]

A cinema-verite for the mind still open to the inexplicable. Sasq’et pulls you through the train to the conductor's car and barrels ahead to its totemic finish. A masterfully crafted lexicon of the primal and the pristine, from dust to dust, sex in the woods, marauding bears, what more could you ask?

[C. Gonzales · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sasq'et is the kind of book that quietly pulls you in but then is hard to put down once it gets to the heart of it.
Maxim Langstaff creates an atmosphere that feels easy to become deeply connected to and includes both nature and folklore.
Ultimately this was folklore-inspired fiction and atmospheric storytelling.

[Ginger A · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my gosh, this book is AMAZING! An adventure that consumed me from beginning to end! The author goes into detail that is memorizing on so many levels. If you buy one book this year, buy this one! You won't be disappointed!

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I fell in love with this story from the first chapter. It starts in the early 1900’s in the Canadian Wilderness. It fill his life and then into the inheritance his granddaughter finds. It’s a long story, but worth every word. Loved it!

[Steven J · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this book

Why did I love this? There are many reasons. I'll limit my review to my top reasons.

Sasq'et is a fun read that took me on a journey from the halls of academia to the deep forests of Siberia and British Columbia. The mystery at the center of the story was intriguing all the way through the book. The science was thought provoking and interesting. The characters were very real and made me care about them. And the action made me unable to put the book down. This is a book that challenged what I believed and opened my eyes in the most unexpected ways. I have already recommended Sasq'et to my friends and family, and I recommend it to you.

[C'est Moi · Rating 5 out of 5]

SASQ'ET is a-m-a-z-i-n-g. Take historical fiction and combine with myth, mystery and adventure, and you have your 600+ page epic summer read.

If you loved Shantaram, you will love SASQ'ET. If you loved DaVinci Code, you will love SASQ'ET.

I've ordered the audiobook as well to take on my walks.

If you visit
https://sasqetthebook.com, you'll see an option
to guide you through the various characters in the book.