I read and enjoyed this author’s earlier book about Carrie Soto but loved this one even more! I underlined a number of passages as I read, something that I don’t always do, because there were some very moving paragraphs (for example when Joan talks about god and the universe).
This is a story about a group of astronauts in the 1980s. Some women are in the group but they are still a rarity. The training of all is well depicted with attention paid to what was at stake for the early classes of females in the field.
Readers also get to know those around these astronauts. Many have families who come into the story.
Three characters in this book kind of melted my heart. They are Joan, Vanessa and Frances. Joan and Vanessa are astronauts while Frances is Joan’s niece.
SPOILER:
Joan and Vanessa are in a relationship. This occurs at a time when it was not considered acceptable. Joan’s awakening to her orientation and sexuality are beautifully evoked.
BACK FROM SPOILER:
Early in the book, readers learn about something that is going on with one of the missions. The suspense of this was so convincingly described that I could hardly bear it. Readers will understand this if they read the book, I think.
All in all, kudos to TJR for a masterful work. Five stars from me.
Joyce's mystery and fiction book reviews with some non-fiction too! 