State of Redemption is an intriguing political thriller. Upon his return to his childhood hometown in northern Vermont, Matt comes to realize that an assault he witnessed decades ago was in fact an as yet unsolved murder. He discovers that the crime and its subsequent cover-up involved prominent citizens with current day political ambitions. As the story unfolds, McKeown demonstrates a good understanding of politics, back room influence-wielding and human nature. The book is nicely paced with a well thought out plot. In addition to the engaging plot, there is substantial food for thought regarding justice and redemption from both personal and community perspectives. Read it!