Title: Windigo Plague: Fort Saskatchewan Volume 1

Author: MJ Preston

Release date: April 29th, 2026

*Huge thanks to MJ for sending me a digital ARC of this one!*

I’m a huge sucker for historical horror that’s based on real events, especially when they took place near where I’m currently living. When MJ reached out about this book, I was swamped, but so very, very intrigued, I agreed to fit it in.

Based on the true story of a Plains Cree trapper named Ka ki si Kutchin who was the first person legally executed by hanging for cannibalism in Canada at Fort Saskatchewan, on December 20, 1879. The English translation of his name was Swift Runner. Preston uses that as the back drop for the story, and because of that, you know you’re in for a dark ride.

What I liked: The book begins in early 1879, when Swift Runner stumbles into town, claiming his family have all perished during the harsh winter prior. After a bit of prodding, it’s revealed that in order for him to survive, he consumed his family, shocking those who learn this truth. Saying that, they suspect Swift Runner maybe under the influence of a dark traveler, a Windigo who has taken up residence within the man and is giving him his lust for blood.

From there, Preston details the search for Swift Runner as he’s kicked out of town and what happens to those who come into contact with the man. It’s a really well laid out mix of historical fact and author fictionalization of events.

Because of that, we get some truly blood-curdling moments, where Preston is able to unnerve even the most stoic of readers. One particular moment early on, where Swift Runner is trying to lure some local kids away with him was pristine, and even near the end, when a man (I won’t name him to prevent spoilers) arrives to search for his friend, after receiving a letter from them, will stay with you after you finish. The description of what happens to him when he encounters two other figures was horrifically perfect.

One thing I really enjoyed was the attention to detail and research Preston did, which he lays out nicely after the book is done. It was great to see his own notes on how he used some of the details on the public record, which helped to highlight the disturbing nature of this case as well as the timeframe it took place in.

What I didn’t like: I’ve never been a reader who processes dates well, so when each chapter begins with a date, it’s often lost on my reading brain. And though that is necessary for the historical fact aspect of this book, it wasn’t something that heightened the tension of the events anymore than if it was simply ‘chapter one,’ ‘chapter two’ and so on.

Why you should buy this: MJ’s done a wonderful job of taking a horrific true story and turning it into a dark, bleak thriller that had me captivated. As we get new characters introduced and their part in the story takes place, they’re given depth and weight, making sure they have purpose and are not simply a Redshirt character.

For fans of historical horror, this one hits all the high notes and you’ll be greatly rewarded. But beware, this one doesn’t hold back. Which makes it that much better.