What a relief to read about a future that isn't the usual grim dystopia! This is cozy science-fiction where humanoid aliens from every planet in the solar system have immigrated to an already over crowded London. Of course they open restaurants. Two young reporters from a local 'zine who write reviews soon find themselves covering stories from bigotry and racial violence to deep-seated governmental corruption. A mix of humor, mild cynicism, and pointed social commentary keep this very long book very readable. ( )