This book has an intriguing premise, but though the writing is fair, the protagonists are dull, and the book itself is basically chapter after endless chapter of conversation. The dénouement doesn’t save it, merely serves to point out how good this idea could have been in another’s hands. It’s also the softest sci-fi imaginable, and probably better suited to those who don’t generally read sci-fi. ★★☆☆☆