The Heart Goes Last

by Margaret Atwood
The Heart Goes Last cover
Good Books rating 3.67
Dystopian/Post-Apocalyptic
Technical:
  • ID: 1922
  • Added: 2025-10-11
  • Updated: 2025-10-11
  • ISBN: 9781408867785
  • Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing
  • Published: 2015-01-01
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3
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Paperback • £10.99

Stan and Charmaine, a married couple struggling to survive in a collapsed society, find a glimmer of hope in the Positron Project. This 'social experiment' promises them a home and jobs in exchange for spending every other month in prison. Initially, their new life seems like a dream come true, but as they become increasingly obsessed with the couple who occupy their home during their prison stints, the pressures of conformity and desire begin to unravel their sanity. The Heart Goes Last is a chilling exploration of freedom, conformity, and the dark side of utopia, showcasing Margaret Atwood's signature blend of wit and dystopian vision. The novel delves into themes of trust, guilt, and the human capacity for self-deception. As Stan and Charmaine's world unravels, they must confront the true cost of their bargain with the Positron Project. With its sharp social commentary and gripping narrative, The Heart Goes Last is a thought-provoking and unsettling read that challenges the reader's perceptions of society and personal freedom.

Reviews
Kara Reviews · Kara Babcock · 2016-06-16
disappointing 2.50

The book shows sparks of Atwood's brilliance but feels tired and unoriginal compared to her other works.

The reviewer acknowledges that the book has moments of brilliance typical of Atwood's writing but finds it lacking in originality and depth. They feel it's a tired take on dystopian fiction, which doesn't live up to the standards set by her earlier works. The story, while engaging, fails to provide the same level of thought-provoking content.

Quick quotes

    The Heart Goes Last has sparks of Atwood's brilliance, but as a work of dystopian fiction, it strikes me as very tired, very tapped out.

    It’s not that the book is bad, it’s just that it feels like Atwood is retreading old ground.

    The characters are flat, the plot is predictable, and the world-building feels rushed.

Utopia State of Mind · 2016-04-04
excellent 4.50

The book is a gripping dystopian narrative that explores the balance between freedom and surveillance.

The reviewer loved this book, finding it reminiscent of Atwood's earlier works like Oryx and Crake. They appreciate the exploration of themes like freedom versus surveillance and the intricate world-building. The story is gripping and thought-provoking, making it a standout in Atwood's repertoire. The reviewer also notes the clever use of technology and societal commentary.

Quick quotes

    I really loved this book. It made me remember how it felt to read Oryx and Crake.

    The Heart Goes Last is a gripping dystopian narrative that explores the balance between freedom and surveillance.

    Atwood’s writing is sharp and insightful, making the story both entertaining and thought-provoking.

The Guardian · Madeline McIntosh · 2015-09-23
intriguing 4.00

The novel is a savage and surreal adventure that delves into self-deception and corporate control. It's a classic Atwood dystopia with a twist.

The reviewer praises the book for its savage and surreal exploration of self-deception and corporate control, calling it a classic Atwood dystopia. They appreciate the novel's unique take on societal issues, making it a compelling read. However, they also note that the adventure elements add a twist that keeps the story engaging.

Quick quotes

    A classic Atwood dystopia morphs into a savage, surreal adventure that examines self-deception and corporate control.

    Atwood’s skill lies in her ability to make the absurd feel eerily plausible.

    The novel is a cautionary tale about the compromises we make for security and stability.

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