I picked up this novel on a whim when I saw it in my library. I have never read a Margaret Atwood novel before so I thought I'd give it a try. 
 The first 125 pages were a struggle for me. And it is only a 308 p. book. I found the beginning to be very dull and there was too much emphasis on sex for my taste. I kept on waiting for the 'dystopian' elements to kick in. The premise of this society where people get to spend time in a regular house, while there is a lot of poverty going on, but having to alternate this with spending time in a prison, seems really unique and interesting. Almost like a social experiment. But for me, this premise lacked in execution. The point in the story when the creepiness of this type of society is exposed comes far too late (around p. 125, as I said) and could have been elaborated much further. I also did not enjoy the main characters, Stan & Charmaine, at all. They lacked personality. 
 When I was already so bored with this novel halfway through, it was hard to keep focus. I caught myself skimming parts to prevent DNF'ing this book. Not paying attention did make the second half of the book more confusing. But I'm just glad I finished it. Bumped up the rating from 1 to 2 stars because I was able to finish it and because the second half of the book was slightly better.