The Light Year

Stardust Beach #6

by Stephanie Taylor

Everyone thinks Barbie Roman has it all.

But this time, being perfect might cost her everything.



With her picture-perfect looks, polished manners, and political pedigree, Barbie Roman was raised to play the role of the ideal daughter, wife, and mother. From an exclusive enclave in Connecticut to the sun-soaked shores of Stardust Beach, she’s spent her life smiling, supporting, and staying silent. But now, the stakes are too high—and Barbie’s time as the quiet good girl is running out.



Her husband Todd is one of NASA’s rising stars, and with three young sons at home, Barbie should be focused on family and friendship. Instead, she finds herself caught between two the ambitious men in her family who want to use the space program for their own political gain, and the tight-knit circle of astronaut wives who have come to feel like sisters.



Barbie knows her father and brother could destroy everything if they push too hard—and this time, she refuses to be the pawn in someone else’s game. But standing up to the people who raised her means risking the golden life she’s always known. And speaking out could cost her more than just comfort—it could cost her everything she’s built.



A story of legacy, loyalty, and the strength it takes to break free, Stardust Book Six is a heartfelt, empowering journey of one woman discovering her voice in a world that never asked for her opinion. For fans of Annabel Monaghan, Amy Harmon, and The Kennedy Debutante.

Genres: Historical Fiction

214 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 21, 2025

About the author

Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name.

Miscellaneous/Multiple Authors

Reviews

[Lyndsey Allender · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love getting caught up in these characters’ past and present lives from book to book in this series.

[Virginia Shea · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book followed Barbie Roman as she navigated family pressure, political ambition, and the complicated world surrounding NASA and the astronaut wives of Stardust Beach. As she struggled to find her own voice while protecting the life she had built, the story explored loyalty, identity, and standing up for oneself. The multiple storylines made the focus feel a bit scattered at times, but the book remained enjoyable!

[Karen Lowe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Barbie’s Battles

Although Barbie takes center stage in this book, the other wives are also actively engaged as they support their astronaut husbands and care for their children. Their friendships deepen as they learn more about each other. Barbie is turning 30 and becoming more active in the community. You can’t help but root for her!

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this series. Having been in my late teens when the space program was going strong makes this a most interesting read. I cannot wait for the next installment to this series. I have loved all of your books and this one is no exception. Thank you for a great reading experience.

[Kerry Mott · Rating 3 out of 5]

While I’m still enjoying this series, it would be better if each book was only about one lady at a time. The storyline of Jo and Bill is ok but Bill is a jerk and I was glad to see Todd call him out on it this time.

[Kathleen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Characters seem so real

Stephanie Taylor continues to entertain readers as she delves deeper into the lives of her characters. They seem so real.

[Kari Bleth · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m just loving the series!

[Michelle Parham · Rating 4 out of 5]

4/5 stars - Love Barbie & loved that this one really showed she has depth. I enjoyed the direction this book went and look forward to Carrie’s story in the next.

[Karen Fischer · Rating 4 out of 5]

very good! keeps the saga going

One of the better reads in the Stardust Beach series. Puts a different spin on the stories and good character development. Interesting developments.

[Kathy Aguilar · Rating 3 out of 5]

I’m sorry I did not enjoy reading this one in the series as well as the rest. Too much emphasis on Barbie’s past so to me it was a tedious read! I’m debating whether to read the next book or not.