A story of prison and death row inmates, The Enchanted (available on Edelweiss) could easily be categorized as something very different than what it actually is – an imaginative and lyrical debut. It is told from the point of view of a convict whose magical interpretations of prison life allow him to find absolute joy while isolated from the rest of humanity. For readers of Alice Sebold and Toni Morrison, it's a very unique and engaging read.
FYI: Library Journal just gave it a starred review, and I tend to listen to those smarty pants people over there:
"Filled with themes of pain and suffering and still a pleasure to read, this impressive debut from author/journalist Denfeld (All God’s Children) is set in a decaying, dark, corrupt prison, but as the opening line reveals, it “is an enchanted place.” The Lady, a death-row investigator (similar to mitigation specialist Denfeld) uses her unique perspective as a victim of terrible childhood abuse and conditions to research the lives of inmates. Working with her are a fallen priest, who is hiding secrets and hurt of his own, and the warden, whose wife is dying of cancer. Much of the story is told from the fantastical perspective of a reclusive prisoner on death row, preferring to remain unseen for his own protection and those around him. In many ways, this is a tale about being seen, understood, possibly forgiven, and maybe even loved. VERDICT While dark enough to appeal to fans of fantasy and horror (think Stephen King’s The Green Mile), this is also a work of love and redemption. Read this magical book, and prepare to be spellbound." —Shaunna E. Hunter, Hampden-Sydney Coll. Lib., VA
– Annie