The North Branch Murders

The project unites diverse economic groups behind the project and numerous environmental and conservation groups against it. It also attracts the attention of Johnny Johnson, a bizarre character sometimes referred to as the "town drunk" or the "horny hermit."

The murder of Lizbeth Scott, who was living with Kate and Ben, re-unites the Pierces with Brad Jackson, State Police Criminal Investigator. It also starts events that culminate in two other deaths and the climactic shoot out at the Pierces' country home.