The Merlin Conspiracy

I bought this book because it's Diana Wynne Jones.
I have tried to read it now for several years. Yes, YEARS. I find the beginning extremely boring. I have read the first chapters like 5 times, and always, always give up somewhere on page 40.
The ending is better. I actually liked it. I want to know more about Roddie and Nick.
But my tip to you is to skip the first chapters. Start reading straight from 3rd chapter.