If you’ve read Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid for our TopMob Book Club in July, which was sponsored by Dr. Oetker Ristorante, you might have found yourself feeling both stunned and emotionally affected by the book’s conclusion.
The atmosphere unfolds an enthralling tale of romance between astronauts Joan and Vanessa, who strive for significant advancements within NASA during the 1980s.
Throughout the novel, the tragic fate of the STS-LR9 mission in December 1984 is subtly hinted at, as the journey unfolds and puts at risk the lives of the characters we grow attached to along the way.
If the conclusion of “Atmosphere” left you slightly puzzled, we’ve made things easier for you by providing this comprehensive guide.
What happens at the ending of Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid?
From the outset of the novel, readers got a sneak peek into what the climax in “Atmosphere” would entail, as we were made privy to the crew members aboard the malfunctioning STS-LR9 spacecraft, whose predicament was worsening due to a cabin pressure failure.
Right from the beginning, we met some essential characters: Vanessa, Hank, Lydia, Griff, and not forgetting our protagonist, Joan. Simultaneously, we began to gather snippets of their personal stories, uncovering that Hank was married to astronaut aspirant Donna, a fact we also learned had led to his passing.
The story subsequently hopped between time periods, moving from scenes of the astronauts during their training to their fateful inaugural voyage some years later.
As we approached STS-LR9, Joan and Vanessa had been a couple for some time, developing a solid connection that wasn’t without its challenges. Just before the mission, a shocking revelation about one of Vanessa’s superiors at NASA being involved in a same-sex relationship within their group caused Joan to contemplate ending their relationship painfully.
He didn’t reveal who he was talking about, but he shared the information with Joan, hoping she would convey it to those concerned, as it was unlikely that such an event could occur within a government setting during the 80s, given the sensitivity and potential scandal of a same-sex relationship.
Before departing for isolation prior to her mission, they decided that they would remain a team and solve any issues that arose when Vanessa returned home.
Moving forward, we propel ourselves towards the mission, with the rescue of Vanessa becoming an intense race against time. Joan assumes command at Mission Control, determined to bring our team back safely. With Hank and Griff deceased, Lydia critically ill, it’s only stable Vanessa who can attempt to make the spaceship safe enough for a return journey home.
While attempting to secure the hatches for landing, she notices that some hinges are bent out of shape, preventing the doors from staying shut. Joan implores Vanessa to exert maximum effort, delaying the descent if necessary. However, with Lydia’s condition deteriorating rapidly, Vanessa understands she doesn’t have much time left before they must descend, at least attempting to save Lydia.
In Mission Control, everyone understands clearly: if Vanessa attempts to land the spacecraft without adequately securing it first, it won’t make it back safely. Joan urges Vanessa to improve their chances of survival, but Vanessa is resolute – she plans to attempt a landing and aid Lydia, even if it means they both meet their end.
With teary eyes, Joan and Vanessa bid farewell to one another, maintaining secrecy about their relationship. Yet, it’s evident that a few members of the Mission Control group have discovered their bond, urging Joan to express herself more openly towards Vanessa.
As I watch in disbelief, the connection with Vanessa fades away just as she plummets towards our planet. My heart is heavy, overwhelmed by the thought of facing my days without the one I cherished. How do I break this news to Frances? What lies ahead now seems uncertain and daunting.
Despite all hope seeming lost (and tears falling from this reader’s eyes), Joan receives news of some sound emanating from the ship. Incredibly, it turns out that Vanessa is still alive.
If you’re craving something special in the middle of the week? Joanna Page enjoyed a break with Dr. Oetker Ristorante Quattro Formaggi pizza, boasting a tantalizing mix of four cheeses and a thin, crispy crust. This delightful dish went wonderfully with Atmosphere’s captivating romantic tale.
To stay updated on the latest news, author interactions, Q&As, book reviews, and more from our book club, please visit The FreshRead Book Club, proudly sponsored by Dr. Oetker’s Ristorante.
You can purchase Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid, our book of the month, at the TopMob Shop.
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2025-07-22 18:17