1961, St. Croix River, Minnesota. Philip Brandes has everything. The foremost lumber, oil, and export tycoon in the world, he has an adoring-forgiving-wife, beautiful children, business partners he trusts with his life. And immense wealth. Until tragedy strikes. Rewind to the beginning of the Brandes empire. A young immigrant, Val Brandes, wants his piece of the Industrial Revolution and a better life for his family. With no experience, the logging industry is his best bet, and Val soon becomes co-founder of Brandes & Olsen Lumber. As life becomes overwhelming, Val is willing to do whatever it takes to remain on top-a trait that Philip will inherit-which may be the key to solving an attempted murder. Croix is a riveting portrayal of the consequences of Val’s actions. Author Jay Johnson details the lengths to which one family has gone to remain on top, only to be faced with one question: Was it worth it?