By Carole Howard and the Library Staff

Pagosa resident Charlotte Goodwin is a talented author whose complex life inspired her to write a captivating autobiography called “Spirits and Miracles: The Twisted Path.” Charlotte has just donated a copy of her book to the library.

This poignant tale takes us through the first 53 years of Charlotte’s life as she overcomes a series of tragedies including a very difficult childhood, the death of a dear friend, abusive and alcoholic husbands, having to give up her first baby for adoption, a horrific snowmobile accident and losing all her household goods to a hijacker. Throughout it all, she never loses her optimistic spirit. Indeed, she appears to live a normal – even elite – life as a successful business woman, member of the Dallas Junior League and only woman commissioner of a Texas grand jury. Yet underneath she endures deep sadness and feelings of inferiority, mainly because of the many unhappy relationships in her life.

Meanwhile, since she was a youngster Charlotte had sensed she had some sort of special gift. She documents unexplained occurrences that go back to her childhood. In the second half of the book she explores her healing capabilities in depth after visits to two psychics, one in Dallas and one in Denver. Both advise her to accept and take advantage of her spiritual powers which, along with marriage to wonderful new husband named Don, change her life.

It is an interesting and inspiring story. Skeptics may doubt. Believers will appreciate. Readers in between will enjoy this well-written book, which is the first installment in what Charlotte expects to be at least a five-book series. She and Don have owned a condo in Pagosa since 2003 and have lived here full time for two years. You will read about her life in Pagosa in the sequel to “The Twisted Path” – as soon as she gets time away from her busy life here to write it.

Free Lifelong Learning lectures

Lifelong Learning lectures resume this Saturday, March 15 at 3 p.m. when Dr. Andrew Gulliford will speak on  “Preserving Native American Sacred Places” at the library. For the complete lineup of the spring series lectures arranged by program organizer Biz Greene, please visit the library web site at www.pagosalibrary.org.

Christian fiction

“Deep Blue” by Tom Morrisey is another mystery featuring former marine diver Beck Easton, this one revolving around a cave dive that uncovers a 140-year-old clue to a mystery that predates the Civil War. “Blink” by Ted Dekker features a graduate student with one of the world’s highest IQs and the ability to see multiple potential futures.

Crime fiction

“Strangers in Death” is a romantic suspense novel by Nora Roberts, writing as J.D. Robb, set in 2060 New York City. “Death Song” by Michael McGarrity is the 11 th novel in the acclaimed Kevin Kerney crime series set in New Mexico. “Spare Change” by Robert B. Parker is about a serial murderer who resurfaces after three decades in hiding.

Adult thrillers

“Ghost War” by Alex Berenson is another book featuring CIA agent John Wells in his fight against the Taliban in Afghanistan. “Kill Zone” by Marine sniper Jack Coughlin is a suspense story revolving around the capture of an American general by Middle East terrorists.

Self-help

“Web Sites for Dummies” from the highly popular Dummies series tells you all you need to know to create and maintain your own web site. In “Everyone’s Guide to Cancer Therapy,” top cancer authorities give you information for diagnosing cancer, options for therapy, news on genetic assessment and counseling, plus life-saving questions to ask your doctor. “Does This Clutter Make My Butt Look Fat” by Peter Walsh looks at your relationship with your body and offers ways to lose weight and live more.

Local history

“ Colorado: An Illustrated History of the Highest State” is a 400-page colorful story of our state’s land and its people by Thomas J. Noel and Debra B. Faulkner.

Women’s fiction

“Charm!” by Kendall Hart is the story of a 30-year-old woman who owns a successful cosmetics company but her enviable exterior hides deep heartache and painful secrets. “Snowfall at Willow Lake” is one of the Lakeshore Chronicles by Susan Wiggs, about an international lawyer who discovers the rewards of small-town life. “ Firefly Lane” by Kristin Hannah is the story of a friendship that endures everything from girlhood dramas to bitter betrayal. “Where the Heart Leads” by Stephanie Laurens is a mystery involving the street orphans of London who start disappearing.

Thanks to our donors

For books and materials this week we thank Jerry Brinton, Linda Bundy, Barbara Carlos, Jeff Dee, Mark Garcia, Karen Gavic, Bob Howard, Kathie Marchand, Jordan Rutherford and Tony Simmons.

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