Atmosphere

by Taylor Jenkins Reid

An epic novel set against the backdrop of the 1980s space shuttle program and the extraordinary lengths we go to live and love beyond our limits.

In the summer of 1980, astrophysics professor Joan Goodwin begins training to be an astronaut at Houston’s Johnson Space Center, alongside an exceptional group of fellow candidates: Top Gun pilots Hank Redmond and John Griffin; mission specialist Lydia Danes; warm-hearted Donna Fitzgerald; and Vanessa Ford, the magnetic and mysterious aeronautical engineer. As the new astronauts prepare for their first flights, Joan finds a passion and a love she never imagined and begins to question everything she believes about her place in the observable universe.

Then, in December of 1984, on mission STS-LR9, everything changes in an instant.

Atmosphere is Taylor Jenkins Reid at her best: transporting readers to iconic times and places, with complex protagonists, telling a passionate and soaring story about the transformative power of love, this time among the stars.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Fiction, Romance, Historical, Adult, Contemporary, Literary Fiction

368 pages, Hardcover

Expected publication June 3, 2025

About the author

Taylor Jenkins Reid is the New York Times bestselling author of Carrie Soto Is Back, Malibu Rising, Daisy Jones & The Six, and The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo, as well as four other novels. Her next novel, Atmosphere, will be published in June 2025. She lives in Los Angeles.

Reviews

[sana · Rating 5 out of 5]

god dammit.

[emma]

"by taylor jenkins reid" is all i need to know

[Claudia Lomelí · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gracias BookUp por la copia avanzada de este libro, que desde ya se vuelve de mis lecturas favoritas del 2025. Decir que no lo podía soltar se queda corto. Taylor Jenkins Reid me sorprende más y más con cada libro que saca.

Además me hizo darme cuenta de lo mucho que amo los libros sobre astronautas y el espacio. He leído muy pocos, pero de esos pocos, TODOS me han encantado. Necesito más.

Lo único que me hubiera gustado más de este libro sería un epílogo. Lo daría todo por un epílogo.

[Raquel]

And in this book, we’ll learn that Mick Riva was responsible for the Challenger explosion.

[♥︎ Heather ⚔(Semi-Hiatus)]

I was just thinking to myself the other day... damn it seems like it's been forever since TJR has dropped a new book.

And here we have it peeps! I can't even wait bc this gorgeous author ALWAYS SERVES! 💘

Anticipated Release- 06/03/2025

[emilybookedup · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMGGGGGG TJR is just a treasure 🥹🤍🚀📖

this kinda wasn’t what i expected at ALL but of course i’m in awe. the last 20 pages had me so teary eyed!!!! her strong female main characters remain unmatched.

honestly i think my rating is maybe more of a 4.5 vs 5 simply because in my opinion, this doesn’t come close to DAISY JONES & THE SIX or CARRIE SOTO IS BACK which are two of my favorite Taylor Jenkins Reid books but that said, it’s a great novel!

full review to come as i gather my thoughts and emotions. for now, here’s what to expect:

- dual timelines (past and present)
- strong female characters obvi, esp our girl Joan
- family themes and plots
- themes on finding and discovering yourself
- LOTS of astronaut/NASA talk… think: how much tennis talk there was in CARRIE SOTO IS BACK but maybe even more in NASA/space talk
- HEAVY on the character development! but i think that’s true to TJR anyways
- emo emo emo!!!!
- what life was like for women in the 80s… especially in a male dominated field😭
- for me, this was a combo of MALIBU RISING and THE SEVEN HUSBANDS OF EVELYN HUGO and CARRIE SOTO

just know—TJR never disappoints!

thank you so much to Random House for the early copy!! out in June and will be worth the wait!

[ashlyn]

WORDS CANNOT DESCRIBE HOW EXCITED I AM FOR THIS BOOK

[Roxy]

Wake me up when it's June 🙂‍↕️😔

[ˋ✧*⁀➷ ʙᴇᴛᴛʏ (Levi Ackerman's wife)]

MOTHER IS ABOUT TO MOTHER AGAIN!!!!!

An epic new novel set against the backdrop of the 1980s NASA space shuttle program and the extraordinary lengths we go to live and love beyond our limits. (A love story between two astronauts!?)

An astronaut in mission control. The lone voice speaking to a crew on the space shuttle, who find themselves in sudden peril. Who, on that shuttle, is she the most afraid won't come home? How does she do her job when everything she has come to love about the world is up there and in danger?

it's the way taylor always writes something extraordinary and out of the box. and that's why we love her!!

[len ❀]

i know absolutely nothing about astrophysics and space and engineering and all that science stuff that i was never good at in school (and still am not) but i am wholly ready for this

[Melissa | bookswithbuzzi · Rating 5 out of 5]

now that is a great book.

[fatherofdragons113 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my God that was one of the most incredibly written books I've ever read. I knew this was going to hit me hard because I am obsessed with space and NASA. Throw in a queer romance story and I'm FINISHED. I am sobbing. Taylor Jenkins Reid has to be one of the most emotionally intelligent human beings alive. I am so grateful I got an ARC of this book. I'm going to be promoting the fuck out of this book.

[Paige (semi-hiatus)]

I applied for it, fingers crossed ya’ll 😭🤞

———

I KNEW she was up to no good teasing something on IG!! It honestly wouldn’t matter what the book is about, I’d buy it — but the space shuttle program?! GIVE ME 🤩

[manju ♡]

june 2025’s gonna be a hell of a month

[Michelle’s Library · Rating 5 out of 5]

Probably my favorite after Evelyn Hugo. Picture me on my couch reading the last 9% sobbing.

[deniz · Rating 4 out of 5]

4,5 stars
rtc
.
.
.
.
.
ho is you evelyn hugo?the crossovers are killing me they are so intense.had to take a moment
.
.
.
%20 in and i didn’t know this was sapphic?!!
i’m SO ready

[theliterateleprechaun · Rating 2 out of 5]

All great until 40% in and then...WHAT?!....I re-read the synopsis again...nope, no warning that this was a sapphic novel.

Ugh.

At 51% (hotel), I called it a DNF.

This was not what I was expecting. 😕

I was gifted this copy by Penguin Random House Canada and was under no obligation to provide a review.

[Kailey (kmc_reads) · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5ish stars?

TJR can do no wrong. The more I think on this one though, the more I’m not sure how I feel. I think I expected some epic space novel a la Daisy or Carrie… but this is much more a quiet character study IMO- not that I didn’t enjoy the FMC, but if you slapped another author’s name on this, would I rate it as highly?

Edit (March 15): the more I think, the more I stand by my rating. There were glimpses of space exploration and pulse-pounding/emotional scenes, but I’d say at its core, it’s a sapphic love story. So many lovable characters, and lots of found family, but I think I wanted a little more thrill. It’s hard to put my finger on exactly why this wasn’t 5 stars, but for me, the bar for TJR is just extremely (unfairly?) high.

[Karin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don’t want to talk this book up TOO much, but I might just be adding it to my all time favorite books list! I can’t wait for it to come out in June! I LOVED it!!💗

[The Bookish Elf · Rating 5 out of 5]

Taylor Jenkins Reid has built her reputation crafting intimate character studies against the backdrop of fascinating historical moments, from the golden age of Hollywood in The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo to the 1970s rock scene in Daisy Jones & The Six. With Atmosphere, she ventures into new territory - both literally and metaphorically - by setting her latest novel within NASA's Space Shuttle program of the 1980s. The result is an ambitious and emotionally resonant story that explores love, sacrifice, and human connection against the vastness of space.

The Heart of the Story

At its core, Atmosphere follows Joan Goodwin, an astronomy professor whose lifelong fascination with the stars leads her to apply for NASA's Space Shuttle program as they begin accepting women candidates. Through Joan's eyes, we experience the rigorous training, the forging of unlikely friendships, and most significantly, an unexpected romance with fellow astronaut candidate Vanessa Ford that challenges everything Joan thought she knew about herself and her place in the universe.

The novel's strength lies in Reid's careful attention to both the technical aspects of the space program and the deeply human stories that unfold within it. She masterfully weaves together the professional ambitions of her characters with their personal struggles, creating a rich tapestry of relationships that feels authentic and earned.

Technical Excellence Meets Emotional Depth

Reid's research shines through in her detailed descriptions of astronaut training, Mission Control operations, and the mechanics of spaceflight. However, she never lets the technical elements overshadow the human story at the center. The author maintains a delicate balance between scientific accuracy and emotional resonance, making complex concepts accessible while keeping the focus on her characters' internal journeys.

What Works Brilliantly

- The immersive portrayal of NASA culture in the 1980s
- The gradual development of Joan and Vanessa's relationship
- Strong supporting characters, particularly Frances and Lydia
- Authentic representation of the challenges faced by women in STEM
- Masterful building of tension leading to the climactic space mission

Areas for Improvement

- Some secondary plot threads feel underdeveloped
- The pacing occasionally slows in the middle sections
- Certain technical aspects might be overwhelming for some readers
- A few character decisions in the final act strain credibility

Breaking New Ground

What sets Atmosphere apart from Reid's previous works is its ambitious scope. While her earlier novels excelled at capturing specific moments in time, this book reaches for something larger - both in its setting and themes. The space program serves as both literal backdrop and metaphor, allowing Reid to explore questions about human limitation, sacrifice, and the nature of love itself.

Character Development and Relationships

The heart of the novel lies in its characters. Joan's journey from reserved academic to passionate astronaut is compelling, but it's her relationship with her niece Frances that provides some of the book's most touching moments. The dynamic between Joan and Vanessa evolves naturally, with Reid carefully laying the groundwork for their connection long before it becomes romantic.

The supporting cast is equally well-drawn. Lydia Danes emerges as a particularly complex character, while Donna and Hank's relationship provides an interesting counterpoint to Joan and Vanessa's more complicated situation.

Style and Structure

Reid employs her trademark blend of intimate character moments and larger historical context, but adds new elements to her repertoire. The technical language of spaceflight is seamlessly integrated into the narrative, and the author's descriptions of space itself are often breathtaking. The structure, alternating between the main timeline and the crucial mission in 1984, builds tension effectively while allowing for deeper character development.

Themes and Deeper Meaning

Atmosphere explores several interconnected themes:

- The tension between professional ambition and personal fulfillment
- The nature of sacrifice and what we're willing to risk for love
- The role of chosen family versus biological family
- The search for identity and acceptance in a restrictive society
- The human need to explore and push boundaries

Historical Context and Relevance

Reid's portrayal of NASA in the 1980s feels authentic and well-researched. The book doesn't shy away from addressing the discrimination and challenges faced by women in the space program, while also celebrating their achievements. The author's attention to historical detail helps ground the story in reality while making it relevant to contemporary discussions about gender equality in STEM fields.

Impact and Lasting Impressions

The novel's greatest achievement is how it makes the vast expanse of space feel intimately connected to human experience. Reid suggests that the greatest frontiers we face aren't just physical but emotional - the distances we're willing to cross for love, the boundaries we're prepared to push for what matters most.

Final Verdict

Atmosphere represents both a departure and an evolution for Taylor Jenkins Reid. While it occasionally struggles with pacing and some plot elements could be more fully developed, the novel succeeds in its ambitious goals. It's a testament to Reid's growing capabilities as a writer that she can tackle such complex technical material while maintaining the emotional depth her readers expect.

[Maren’s Reads]

I am such a fan of TJR's quad of historical fiction books and I know this one will be right up there with them.

[Meagan✨]

Ooooo say less, let me put my pre-order in 🥹🚀

[Roman Clodia · Rating 2 out of 5]

This has such a gripping premise: the first female astronauts on NASA's space shuttle programme. But somehow the characters never came fully to life and there was lots of draggy domestic stuff as well as a rather cheesy and predictable love affair.

It's strange because the 1984 sections set on a damaged space shuttle had me biting my nails as the tension ramps up and even the intentionally emotive conversations here had me totally gripped.

But apart from that there are some interesting scenes in the NASA training but way too much homely domestic stuff. This also feels particularly American in the overtly Christian and hero ideas that underpin the story. Add to that the love vs. career ultimatum for Joan and Vanessa, the lecturing about sexism in NASA and the abrupt ending that left the women's careers in the air (ha!) and this just didn't gel with me. I love TJR but this one was sadly forgettable.

Thanks to the publisher for an ARC via NetGalley

[Amy K · Rating 5 out of 5]

An astronaut love story by Taylor Jenkins Reid was not on my bingo card for 2025, but let’s give it a whirl, shall we?


Update 12/21/24 upon finishing the book:

I have never, ever been this fucked up by a book. I cried so hard and so long for the last 10%, I almost feel angry at having been taken through the wringer like this.

That being said, this is a love story that will stay with me for a long time, and I would heartily recommend to existing TJR fans - buts HSPs, proceed with caution.

[aleksandra]

yeah I feel like I’m gonna LOVE it

[Dayle (the literary llama) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maybe 4.75 Stars if I’m getting picky… but dude, that story had me in all the emotions without excessive dramatics. Quietly and powerfully built. It was beautiful.

“She can see the past, but it is now tinged with the excruciating inevitability of the present moment.”

That quote (taken from an advance copy) hit me hard. Because it IS the book. The past in flashbacks reveals the struggles and hope. The work, friendships, personal growth, family, privacy and pain. Living small and yearning for loud. The love. So much love. And it’s all looked at through the lens of present circumstances. It is beautiful but also aching. My entire body felt this read.

I want to say more, comment on every nuance of emotion and varieties of love explored and the space race and NASA backdrop and the politics of women and queer identities in the ‘70s/‘80s and views on God and Science and how they intersect and and and…, but I’ll leave it here. There is so much within but the pages flew by. And it’s all emotional. And I loved it. And and and… it’s a must read.

* I received a free early copy from the publisher

[gabi⋆˙⟡♡✨]

I will read anything and everything this woman puts out into the world because she's THAT GOOD. I'm so excited to read this and find some easter eggs in the TJR's universe 🫶🏽🔭🚀

[Gail · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ahhhhh, I feel very conflicted about this novel!

On the one hand, I love everything Taylor Jenkins Reid writes, as her stories are always capital “C” compelling. In this regard, Atmosphere proves no different, as Taylor proves once again she is the queen of researching characters and plot lines—in this case, the behind-the-scenes world of the launch of NASA’s 1980s space shuttle program.

On the other hand … I’d thought going into this much anticipated read that its major impetus was going to be the ill-fated mission touted on its back cover. Instead, it proves far more to be the inner demons main character Joan Goodwin battles in coming to terms with who she is and the political and cultural ramifications of who she loves.

Even if this book didn’t prove to be my favorite TJR title (that honor goes to Evelyn Hugo), I can admit Atmosphere is still a pretty darn satisfying read (particularly its final 30 pages), and I’ve already got twenty bucks on it being optioned for the major studio movie it deserves to become.

[jen · Rating 5 out of 5]

ok excuse me i need to go lay on my roof and stare at the stars and cry for a few hours. wow.

[Sabiha Younus]

TJR just posted the blurb on IG two hours ago and it hasn’t even been updated here but I’m still going to scream into the void.

Head in fucking HANDS. Nobody talk to me. How could u do this to me Taylor. I think she literally *heard* me praising Evelyn Hugo to a bunch of longtime Evelyn critics with my whole chest last night. And the cover is simply gorgeous I’m fr speechless.

Anyway. We all agree this is going to be gay, right? Right??? It has to be.

Either way this physicist is so elated to add this brand new addition to her carefully curated Women Physicists and Astronomers in Fiction list on GR. 😭♥️