Jaime has always been the epitome of confusion, conflicts, and contradictions. Lying is second nature to her, and she does not mind a bit of shoplifting, either. The only certainty in her life is that she must honor the last wish of her beloved grandfather. Jaime leaves home, desperate for a new life on Salt Spring Island. However, a chance error lands her in Lundi, a small town where she finds a temporary home and job. With unforeseen circumstances foiling her every attempt to leave the place, will Jaime ever find a real home? What happens when the secrets from her past resurface? Find out in Also Known as Jaime Dorn, a novel by Karen Emilson.

I loved how Karen Emilson explores Icelandic culture and details their rituals, culinary delights, and ways of life. The people of the quirky town of Lundi created a tapestry of love and warmth with their unique personas, staunch values, and peculiar traits. I admired the close-knit community steadfastly supporting their neighbors behind a façade of endless scuffles and banters. Their easygoing, small-town lifestyle and unconditional acceptance of Jaime’s drifting existence astounded me. Emilson did a superb job of portraying Jaime, highlighting her complicated story and questionable morals that made her more endearing instead of alienating her. Reading about her journey of finding her true self was a fulfilling experience. As an employee of the local funeral home, Jaime’s reflections on death helped me appreciate it as a part of life and cherish the fleeting moments on earth. Sprinkled with many shades of love, friendship, and a dash of mysticism, Also Known as Jaime Dorn is a wholesome read.

Also Known as Jaime Dorn by Karen Emilson is an unforgettable coming-of-age novel about a young woman who leaves her life behind to pursue something greater. Jaime Dorn learns an ugly secret about her parents, which gives her the strength to forget her past and start a new, wonderful life elsewhere. Making her way in the world, Jaime does what she knows best: she lies and steals. Soon, she meets a man who appears to know who she truly is. He tells her something about her deceased grandfather and that she must keep her promises. Shortly after, Jaime finds herself stuck in a small town, hoping nobody will ever discover why she ran away from home. Jaime fears that if her new friends discover the truth about her, they will also realize she isn't worth helping or saving. Will her past ever catch up to her? Will she ever find her place in the world?

Also Known as Jaime Dorn is a humorous, moving, and remarkable story. Karen Emilson skillfully portrays the wannabe artist who feels like an outsider and tries to find her life path while carrying a heavy burden. This story has so much emotion as it deals with loss, guilt, insecurity, abandonment, family, love, culture, and small-town life. It's beautifully written and a wonderfully relevant read for those who struggle to find their place in the world. It is for anyone who wants to become a better version of themselves, feel confident and whole, fall in love or feel worthy of love, want to be accepted for who they are, build the courage to embrace their true self, heal, and keep their promises.