WritersNAuthor sits down with Grammy & Emmy-nominated writer, producer, and debut novelist Maxim Langstaff to discuss SASQ’ET
By WritersNAuthor
Some novels entertain.
Others leave readers questioning everything they thought they knew.
SASQ’ET is one of those rare books.
Blending literary fiction, historical mystery, environmental storytelling, and one of the world’s greatest legends, Maxim Langstaff’s debut novel invites readers into a journey where science, mythology, and humanity collide deep within the wilderness of the Pacific Northwest.
Known internationally for producing award-winning projects with Sir George Martin, The Beatles, John Denver, PBS, and the Wildlife Conservation Society, Langstaff has spent decades telling stories that reach millions. Now, he turns his attention to fiction in a novel that is as emotionally profound as it is suspenseful.
We recently sat down with Maxim to discuss his remarkable creative journey, his passion for nature, the mystery surrounding Sasquatch, and why SASQ’ET is about far more than Bigfoot.
WritersNAuthor
You’ve enjoyed an extraordinary career spanning music, film, television, wildlife conservation, and now fiction. What inspired you to finally write your first novel?
Maxim Langstaff
“The answer is really embedded in the question,” Langstaff says with a smile.
“The book reflects much of my own story—my own journey. What inspired me wasn’t one defining moment so much as the creative process itself. Creating has a way of generating its own momentum. The more I wrote, the more inspired I became.
“If I had to point to one thing, it would actually be the Prologue. It wasn’t originally part of the novel, but once it appeared, it became my north star. Looking back now, I believe the entire novel lives inside those opening pages.”
From The Beatles to Bigfoot
Working alongside artists such as Paul McCartney, Elton John, Willie Nelson, Brian Wilson, and countless other legendary musicians would intimidate most creatives. For Langstaff, however, those experiences became lessons in humility.
“Oddly enough,” he explains, “working with iconic artists made me realize how much like the rest of us they really are…”
Later…
Nature Is the Main Character
Rather than simply serving as a backdrop, the Pacific Northwest becomes one of the novel’s most unforgettable characters.
“It isn’t just a setting,” Langstaff explains.
“It’s alive…”
Then…
The Mystery of Bigfoot—and Ourselves
One of the most fascinating moments in our conversation came when discussing the legendary Sasquatch.
Rather than asking readers to believe, Langstaff asks them to wonder.
“When I began writing this book, I didn’t believe such a creature could exist…”
Later…
Writing Without Fear
Langstaff’s philosophy on creativity is refreshingly unconventional.
“Stop trying to control the writing…”
Ending with…
One Final Question
As our conversation comes to a close, we ask Maxim what he hopes readers will carry with them long after they’ve turned the final page.
He pauses.
“I hope they leave with joy… perhaps a little insight… and maybe just enough doubt about their own certainty to become more curious about the world around them.”
“Mostly,” he says, “I hope they feel a little less alone.”
Discover SASQ’ET
Official Website: https://sasqetthebook.com/
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- Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/247812199
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