Minnie's Fiction Addiction

👀 First impressions:
I was immediately intrigued by the premise of Atmosphere, which promised an epic story set during the heyday of the 1980s space shuttle program. Having recently read Orbital, I was eager to continue the space theme with Taylor Jenkins Reid’s unique perspective. Her talent for rich, emotionally resonant historical fiction made me excited to see how she would explore love, ambition, and sacrifice against the backdrop of the shuttle era.

✅ What I Liked:
Reid masterfully sets Atmosphere against the backdrop of the 1980s space shuttle program, weaving real historical detail with deeply personal stories. The camaraderie among the astronaut candidates—especially Joan’s complex friendship with the driven and enigmatic Vanessa Ford, felt authentic and layered. Reid’s vivid descriptions of training at Johnson Space Center, from grueling simulations to weightless flights, make you feel like you’re right there with the crew. The scenes aboard the shuttle on mission STS-LR9 are tense, poignant, and devastating, showcasing Reid’s talent for combining intimate human drama with sweeping historical moments.

❎ What I didn’t Like:
While I admired the ambition and themes, the pacing lagged in the middle third, with some subplots feeling slightly repetitive. A few characters, though interesting, didn’t get quite enough resolution for my taste. However, this is a minor gripe in an otherwise engrossing novel.

📚 Why You Should Read This Book:
If you enjoy character-driven fiction that probes the choices we make and the secrets we keep, wrapped in a beautifully rendered setting, Atmosphere is for you. Reid fans will appreciate her continued evolution as a writer, while newcomers will find plenty to savor.

💭 Final Thoughts:
Atmosphere might not hit the dizzying highs of Daisy Jones & The Six, but it’s a mature, thoughtful work that lingers long after the final page. Taylor Jenkins Reid once again proves she’s one of the best at mapping the complexities of the human heart.

🛍️ Where to buy
To buy your own copy click HERE

Final Rating ★★★★ – A moving, atmospheric journey that proves once again why Reid is one of today’s best storytellers.