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WINDIGO PLAGUE : Fort Saskatchewan Volume I
A TALE OF HORROR ON THE PRAIRIES!
In the Spring of 1879, a Cree Trapper, formerly employed by the Northwest Mounted Police from Fort Saskatchewan, was alleged to have murdered all eight members of his family and dined on their flesh.
The trapper’s Cree name was Ka ki si Kutchin. English Swift Runner.
After his arrest, Swift Runner denies the charges, saying his family had starved to death, and told them he had eaten their flesh only after they had perished. While in custody, Swift Runner claims to be afflicted by the ‘wihitikow’ English windigo, an indigenous spirit said to possess and turn its victims homicidal and cannibalistic.
Unconvinced of the story, the NWMP launches an expedition to Athabasca Landing to find Swift Runner’s death camp.
As the expedition pushes north, the prisoner’s condition casts a growing shadow over the group, and in the distance, they hear the tormented shrieks of the windigo stalking them.
This is the unofficial story of that expedition.
In the Spring of 1879, a Cree Trapper, formerly employed by the Northwest Mounted Police from Fort Saskatchewan, was alleged to have murdered all eight members of his family and dined on their flesh.
The trapper’s Cree name was Ka ki si Kutchin. English Swift Runner.
After his arrest, Swift Runner denies the charges, saying his family had starved to death, and told them he had eaten their flesh only after they had perished. While in custody, Swift Runner claims to be afflicted by the ‘wihitikow’ English windigo, an indigenous spirit said to possess and turn its victims homicidal and cannibalistic.
Unconvinced of the story, the NWMP launches an expedition to Athabasca Landing to find Swift Runner’s death camp.
As the expedition pushes north, the prisoner’s condition casts a growing shadow over the group, and in the distance, they hear the tormented shrieks of the windigo stalking them.
This is the unofficial story of that expedition.
333 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 29, 2026
About the author
M.J. Preston
15 books33 followersM.J. Preston is a Canadian author known for his horror, science fiction, and crime thriller novels. A retired soldier and former ice trucker, Preston brings a unique perspective and a profound understanding of the Canadian landscape to his writing. His dedication to storytelling has seen him craft multiple novels, often inspired by his experiences and a deep fascination with folklore and the human condition.
"Windigo Plague: Fort Saskatchewan Volume I" is his latest release, showcasing his distinctive voice in the Canadian horror genre.
His other works include Canadian horror novels The Equinox and Acadia Event, and crime thrillers Highwayman and Four.
Check him out online:
Website: https://mjpreston.net
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/...
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MJPreston
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mjpre...
"Windigo Plague: Fort Saskatchewan Volume I" is his latest release, showcasing his distinctive voice in the Canadian horror genre.
His other works include Canadian horror novels The Equinox and Acadia Event, and crime thrillers Highwayman and Four.
Check him out online:
Website: https://mjpreston.net
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/...
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MJPreston
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mjpre...
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
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May 8, 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.
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.
May 3, 2026
Review of ARC from the Author
Another extraordinary novel by MJ Preston. The 5 stars isn’t just for the story being told, but for the manner in which MJ Preston writes and tells that story. It becomes a personal adventure being so captivated by a book. While it may stem from a true story, Windigo Plague is much more than a history lesson. It’s a tale of suspense, horror and questionable bedtime reading (in the best horror novel way possible).
I was hooked from the foreword. Usually I don’t like a lot of fluff in a book, but this was different knowing it would be a trilogy and felt in no way overwhelmed with all the characters and back stories for character building that was introduced.
MJ Preston’s writing gives the reader something to dive in to. To become one with the characters in the book, whether they are the good guy or the bad guy. I was so gripped by this book that I found myself talking to it while reading before I got to the next part in the story because I was so engrossed in it and became one with the story. I won’t lie, there was a couple of times I nearly had to put it down before bed wondering if I was about to have some Windigo nightmares.
What a fantastic read. I cried, I frantically talked at the book before I got to the next part of what was happening. 5 stars without a question of a doubt.
Congratulations MJ Preston on another piece of outstanding writing and a story that really grips the reader and pulls them in.
Another extraordinary novel by MJ Preston. The 5 stars isn’t just for the story being told, but for the manner in which MJ Preston writes and tells that story. It becomes a personal adventure being so captivated by a book. While it may stem from a true story, Windigo Plague is much more than a history lesson. It’s a tale of suspense, horror and questionable bedtime reading (in the best horror novel way possible).
I was hooked from the foreword. Usually I don’t like a lot of fluff in a book, but this was different knowing it would be a trilogy and felt in no way overwhelmed with all the characters and back stories for character building that was introduced.
MJ Preston’s writing gives the reader something to dive in to. To become one with the characters in the book, whether they are the good guy or the bad guy. I was so gripped by this book that I found myself talking to it while reading before I got to the next part in the story because I was so engrossed in it and became one with the story. I won’t lie, there was a couple of times I nearly had to put it down before bed wondering if I was about to have some Windigo nightmares.
What a fantastic read. I cried, I frantically talked at the book before I got to the next part of what was happening. 5 stars without a question of a doubt.
Congratulations MJ Preston on another piece of outstanding writing and a story that really grips the reader and pulls them in.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an advanced copy of this book and I must say, I loved it. If you liked any of his other books, you will love this one.
A historic police procedural with loads of supernatural and creepy elements that's inspired by a true story. Who wouldn't enjoy that.
While it is a complete story in itself, it is set up for more. I can't wait to see the further entries in the Fort Saskatchewan series.
A historic police procedural with loads of supernatural and creepy elements that's inspired by a true story. Who wouldn't enjoy that.
While it is a complete story in itself, it is set up for more. I can't wait to see the further entries in the Fort Saskatchewan series.
May 18, 2026
MJ Preston’s latest book is inspired by a true story, one I had never heard of before reading this book. How could I have not heard about this story? The man ate his family! This was way before my time, but still... I’ve read a lot of serial killer books.
This is a story about what might have happened from beginning to end surrounding the facts of the story. I don’t want to spoil anything, so I won’t go into the details of the story. There are LOL, gross and disgusting, scary, and sad moments. This book has it all from nuns to windigos.
The way MJ Preston describes things, it’s like you are right there with the characters. I love how MJ always manages to put humor in his writing, even in horror books. This one doesn’t disappoint.
I have yet to read anything by MJ Preston that I didn’t love, and I’m pretty sure I’ve read everything he’s published. His novels are easy to read and hard to put down. The first novel I read by MJ Preston, The Equinox, reminded me of Stephen King in his early days. I set out to read everything else he wrote.
Once you start the book, you won’t want to put it down.
I wish I were a writer, so I could more eloquently express how awesome MJ Preston’s books are. If you enjoy horror and/or a good serial killer book, you won’t be disappointed. This was another great read!
I can’t wait for Book 2.
Love His Books!
This is a story about what might have happened from beginning to end surrounding the facts of the story. I don’t want to spoil anything, so I won’t go into the details of the story. There are LOL, gross and disgusting, scary, and sad moments. This book has it all from nuns to windigos.
The way MJ Preston describes things, it’s like you are right there with the characters. I love how MJ always manages to put humor in his writing, even in horror books. This one doesn’t disappoint.
I have yet to read anything by MJ Preston that I didn’t love, and I’m pretty sure I’ve read everything he’s published. His novels are easy to read and hard to put down. The first novel I read by MJ Preston, The Equinox, reminded me of Stephen King in his early days. I set out to read everything else he wrote.
Once you start the book, you won’t want to put it down.
I wish I were a writer, so I could more eloquently express how awesome MJ Preston’s books are. If you enjoy horror and/or a good serial killer book, you won’t be disappointed. This was another great read!
I can’t wait for Book 2.
Love His Books!
May 15, 2026
Windigo Plague is a cryptid horror story set in Canada in the late 1800s. Swift Runner, a local indigenous man, is wanted for the murder of his family, including his children, and worse, consuming their flesh. But after he’s arrested, what he tells the police sounds too incredible to be true, for he claims it wasn’t him who was responsible for the deaths, but the windigo, a creature of Native lore. The men are skeptical but can’t ignore the strange occurrences and afflictions that soon begin to take place. Now, they have to determine the truth of what really happened in order to save themselves.
I love cryptid horror, and the wendigo is one of my favorites, so this story had a lot of appeal to me. Swift Runner was a real man who really did get arrested for the murder of his family, so that brought another level of interest. The writing felt a bit flat at times and the ending was a bit too drawn out for me, but overall, this is a solid story and I will read more from this author.
I love cryptid horror, and the wendigo is one of my favorites, so this story had a lot of appeal to me. Swift Runner was a real man who really did get arrested for the murder of his family, so that brought another level of interest. The writing felt a bit flat at times and the ending was a bit too drawn out for me, but overall, this is a solid story and I will read more from this author.
May 19, 2026
A Truly Great Work of Horror
You never know what to expect from am Indie author but this is a gem. In some cases the horror is subtle and psychological, in others it is horrifyingly real and gruesome. From MJ Preston we get a work of pure horror, melded carefully around historically real events. This novel bears pieces of Lovecraft and King and dares to travel those heights of characterization and horror. When I got to the end I can say with satisfaction that I had no idea the author was going there. When you hit the point in the book where it say the end, you know it never will be.
You never know what to expect from am Indie author but this is a gem. In some cases the horror is subtle and psychological, in others it is horrifyingly real and gruesome. From MJ Preston we get a work of pure horror, melded carefully around historically real events. This novel bears pieces of Lovecraft and King and dares to travel those heights of characterization and horror. When I got to the end I can say with satisfaction that I had no idea the author was going there. When you hit the point in the book where it say the end, you know it never will be.
May 3, 2026
As another old gunner, it was great to see the artillery origins of the RCMP presented. MJ Preston presents a vivid picture of Canada’s past, warts and all, that really brought this period in Canada’s past to life for me. I really enjoyed the story, I don’t want to say much about the story so I don’t spoil the story for anyone. I will say I started reading it on a rainy Sunday and I couldn’t put it down until I finished it. MJ’s writing draws me in, and just doesn’t let me go. I look forward to additional books in this series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Oh wow! MJ Preston knocks it outta the park again with yet another grand story, and equally grand characters. And the ending has left me with the hunger of a Windigo wanting, and waiting for Volume 2.
May 14, 2026
Windigo Plague was one of those books I couldn’t put down. Creepy, tense and genuinely unsettling without overdoing it. If you like horror that slowly gets under your skin, definitely read this one.
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews