Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid Book Review: A Cosmic Love Story That Defies Gravity
- Joao Nsita
- 3 days ago
- 9 min read
Introduction
What does it feel like to love someone when the stars themselves are at stake? In Atmosphere, Taylor Jenkins Reid, the #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo, launches readers into the high-stakes world of NASA’s 1980s Space Shuttle program. This sweeping romance, set against the backdrop of cosmic ambition, follows Joan Goodwin, a stargazing professor turned astronaut, as she navigates love, identity, and sacrifice. Reid’s signature emotional depth and vivid storytelling make this novel a gravitational pull you can’t escape. For more heart-stirring reads, explore That Love Podcast’s romance recommendations.
Book Summary
Atmosphere follows Joan Goodwin, an astronomy professor whose lifelong obsession with the stars leads her to NASA’s Johnson Space Center in 1980. Selected from thousands, she trains alongside a diverse crew: charismatic pilot Hank Redmond, scientist John Griffin, fierce mission specialist Lydia Danes, warm-hearted Donna Fitzgerald, and enigmatic engineer Vanessa Ford. As Joan prepares for her first spaceflight, an unexpected romance with Vanessa sparks, challenging her understanding of herself and her place in the universe. The novel builds to a heart-stopping moment during mission STS-LR9 in December 1984, where ambition and love collide. Reid’s blend of historical drama, queer romance, and high-stakes adventure makes Atmosphere a soaring triumph.
Author’s Style and Craft
Taylor Jenkins Reid’s prose is a comet’s tail—bright, fleeting, and unforgettable. Her narrative alternates between Joan’s introspective first-person perspective and vivid scenes of NASA training, creating a rhythm that mirrors the pulse of a shuttle launch. The pacing is masterful, balancing technical details with emotional crescendos. Reid’s dialogue sparkles with authenticity, from Hank’s easygoing quips to Vanessa’s guarded vulnerability. Joan’s character development is particularly striking, evolving from a reserved academic to a woman embracing her desires. Reid’s ability to weave historical accuracy with intimate storytelling, as seen in lines like, “I feel like I could know you forever and still be curious about what you’re going to say next,” makes Atmosphere a literary marvel.
Themes and Deeper Meaning
Atmosphere explores the tension between ambition and personal fulfillment, the sacrifices demanded by love, and the search for identity in a restrictive society. The stars serve as a metaphor for Joan’s quest for meaning, reflecting her internal journey as a queer woman in a male-dominated field. Reid delves into chosen family, with Joan’s NASA crew forming a tight-knit bond that contrasts with her strained relationship with her sister. The novel also addresses gender equality in STEM, echoing contemporary discussions about breaking barriers. By grounding cosmic exploration in human emotion, Reid suggests that the greatest frontiers are emotional, not just physical, making Atmosphere a poignant reflection on love and courage.
Strengths
Reid’s greatest triumph is making the vastness of space feel intimately human. Joan’s romance with Vanessa is electric, with moments like their clandestine meetings away from NASA crackling with tension. The historical setting is meticulously crafted, from the “Vomit Comet” training to the 1980s cultural backdrop, immersing readers in a pivotal era. The ensemble cast—Lydia’s fierce ambition, Donna’s warmth—adds depth, creating a found-family dynamic that tugs at the heart. The climactic mission STS-LR9 is a masterclass in suspense, blending technical precision with emotional stakes. These strengths elevate Atmosphere into a page-turner that leaves you breathless, rooting for Joan to soar.
Areas for Improvement
While Atmosphere is a stellar achievement, it’s not without minor flaws. The pacing falters slightly toward the end, with major life events feeling rushed before the climactic mission. Some readers may crave deeper exploration of the systemic sexism Joan faces, as the novel leans more into her personal arc than institutional barriers. The technical NASA jargon, while immersive, occasionally overshadows the emotional weight for non-science enthusiasts. A more balanced focus on societal challenges or a slower resolution could enhance the narrative. These quibbles don’t dim the novel’s shine but may affect readers seeking a more sociological lens.
Comparative Analysis
Atmosphere stands alongside Reid’s The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo (Amazon) for its emotional depth but ventures into new territory with its sci-fi historical setting. Compared to Daisy Jones & The Six (Amazon), it swaps rock ‘n’ roll for space exploration while retaining Reid’s knack for intimate character studies. It shares the queer romance and historical backdrop of The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah (Amazon), but its NASA focus is unique. Atmosphere challenges romance conventions by blending high-stakes drama with STEM themes, offering a fresh contribution to historical and queer fiction.
Target Audience
Atmosphere is perfect for readers aged 18-40 who love historical fiction, queer romance, and character-driven dramas. Fans of Reid’s previous works or authors like Emily Henry and Casey McQuiston will be captivated by its emotional resonance and 1980s NASA setting. The novel’s moderate spice level (2/5) and themes of discrimination make it suitable for mature readers, with a content warning for mild explicit content and intense emotional scenes. Whether you’re a space enthusiast or a hopeless romantic, this book’s blend of love and ambition will resonate deeply.
Personal Impact
Atmosphere hit me like a meteor, leaving a crater of awe and emotion. Joan’s journey to embrace her identity as a queer woman in a high-stakes world mirrored my own moments of self-discovery, making her triumphs deeply personal. The novel’s exploration of chosen family stirred nostalgia for my own friendships, while its cosmic backdrop left me pondering life’s bigger questions. Reid’s storytelling is a gravitational force, pulling you into a world where love defies all limits. This is a book that demands to be read, shared, and cherished.
Conclusion
Atmosphere is Taylor Jenkins Reid at her finest—a heart-pounding, soul-stirring tale of love, ambition, and the stars. With its vivid 1980s NASA backdrop, complex characters, and a romance that burns brighter than a supernova, this novel is an unmissable journey. Grab your copy on Amazon and let Joan and Vanessa’s story launch you into a world of wonder. Love, like space, is vast and worth exploring—dive in and feel the weightlessness. For more captivating reads, visit That Love Podcast.
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About the Author
Taylor Jenkins Reid is a #1 New York Times bestselling author known for The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo, Daisy Jones & The Six, and Malibu Rising. Her novels, translated into over 40 languages, explore complex characters and historical settings with emotional depth. A Los Angeles native, Reid’s work often blends romance, drama, and cultural milestones, earning her a devoted following and adaptations on Netflix and Amazon Prime. Atmosphere, her ninth novel, reflects her bisexuality and passion for bold storytelling. When not writing, she enjoys reading and exploring new creative challenges. Visit taylorjenkinsreid.com, Goodreads, and Penguin Random House.
FAQ Section
What is Atmosphere about?It’s a historical romance set in NASA’s 1980s Space Shuttle program, following Joan Goodwin’s journey as an astronaut and her queer romance with Vanessa Ford.
Is Atmosphere a standalone novel?Yes, it’s a standalone, distinct from Reid’s interconnected universe, though it features subtle nods to her other works.
Who is the target audience for this book?Readers 18-40 who enjoy historical fiction, queer romance, and character-driven stories, especially fans of Reid or Emily Henry.
How spicy is Atmosphere?It has a 2/5 spice level, with mild explicit scenes suitable for mature readers.
What are the main themes in the book?Love, sacrifice, identity, chosen family, and gender equality in STEM, set against a cosmic backdrop.
How does it compare to Reid’s other works?It shares the emotional depth of Evelyn Hugo but explores a sci-fi historical setting, a departure from her California-based stories.
Are there any content warnings?Mild explicit content, emotional intensity, and themes of discrimination may affect sensitive readers.
What makes Reid’s writing unique?Her vivid prose, historical accuracy, and ability to craft relatable, complex characters create immersive, emotional narratives.
Where can I buy Atmosphere?It’s available on Amazon in hardcover, Kindle, and audiobook formats.
Is there a movie adaptation planned?Yes, Laika Studios is adapting Atmosphere with directors Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck.
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