Taylor Jenkins Reid, the author behind the captivating novels *Daisy Jones and the Six* and *The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo*, is taking readers on a thrilling new journey. After a two-year hiatus, she’s back with *Atmosphere*, a high-stakes romance set against the backdrop of the 1980s space race.
Known for her nuanced portrayals of strong women navigating fame and personal lives, Jenkins Reid has shifted gears for this new project. *Atmosphere* delves into a realm she’s never explored before – the world of NASA and its ambitious space exploration programs. The book follows Joan Goodwin, a brilliant female astronomer who works in NASA’s Houston Mission Control Center. Joan is the CapCom, the astronaut on Earth who communicates with astronauts aboard NASA’s shuttles.
When Joan’s love interest (whose identity Jenkins Reid is keeping under wraps) is sent into space, a disaster strikes. The rocket malfunctions, and Joan must face a global crisis while grappling with the potential loss of the person she loves most. The stakes are incredibly high as Joan must use her expertise to guide the crew through this monumental disaster, all while battling the agonizing uncertainty of whether they will return home.
Jenkins Reid’s meticulous research shines through in *Atmosphere*. For months, she immersed herself in Houston, touring the Space Center and getting to know NASA firsthand. She studied extensively, reading books about the lives and motivations of astronauts, the intricacies of the Space Shuttle program, and the gripping stories of NASA’s early years. This dedication to authenticity has resulted in a truly immersive experience for readers.
*Atmosphere* is set in a pivotal period in history, where the world watched in awe and trepidation as humanity ventured beyond Earth’s atmosphere. The year 1981 saw the launch of the first space shuttle, an event covered by every major network, including MTV. Two years later, Sally Ride became the first woman to travel into space. However, the tragedy of the Challenger explosion in 1986 cast a shadow over the space program.
Jenkins Reid masterfully captures the cultural impact of the space race, weaving it into the fabric of her story. The title *Atmosphere* itself holds deep meaning. As Jenkins Reid explains, “The atmosphere is what makes it so that the earth is suitable for human life. So the atmosphere is life. That’s what keeps humans alive here on Earth and thus is the meaning of life.”
*Atmosphere* is set to be released on June 3, 2025. Fans eagerly await the chance to escape to the depths of space and experience this captivating high-stakes romance. Pre-order your copy now and get ready for an unforgettable literary journey.
