Synopsis "Timber River"
The logging industry is booming in Stillwater, the first city in the state of Minnesota. One of the leading families includes a vivacious young lady, Anna, who falls into the grips of the dashing, yet evil, Colin McKinney. McKinney is plagued by paranoia and will stop at nothing to advance his position in the business, as well as gaining access to the family fortune. There is another family, residing across the Saint Croix River from the lumber baron mansions overlooking Stillwater. Nels Swenson, a Swedish widower, has raised two fine young men. Together the family owns and operates the local general store and a successful livery service. Swenson is a kind man, well thought of in the community. He has experienced working on the river with the logging crews before opening his own businesses. Much to the disapproval of his two sons, Nels has decided to temporarily return to logging, in order to finance expansion of the Swenson shops. The families first clash when McKinney, thinking that Nels must be an internal spy from the saw mill, attempts to murder Swenson at the dangerous boom site. Swenson is saved by Heinrich, the disadvantaged brother of Marta, who brings beauty, intellect, and charm to the valley. She eventually falls in love with Lars, the gentle, caring Swenson son, and the two are married. Anna, meanwhile, becomes enthralled with Colin. They become engaged and marry, in spite of the warnings from her faithful sister Heida. This inion is not a natural loving relationship, but a dark plot for McKinney to elevate his position at the mill. Anna soon discovers her mistake. Her overbearing husband trusts no one, and his behavior toward the romantic Anna borders on violence. Anna unexpectedly finds love and solace in the arms of Karl, Lars' brother. The couple desperately wants to openly express their love for each other, but fear of McKinney's reprisal keeps their affair secret. Anna's family, especially Heida, provides support for Anna, including a plan to separate Colin from their future lives. The plan cannot be completed, however, until Colin confronts the dangers inherent in the wild Minnesota forest.
