Reviews

I really enjoy reading Japanese fiction (translated of course) and I was intrigued when I read the blurb for Butter. Particularly that is it was inspired by ‘The Konkatsu Killer’ who I confess I had not heard off until reading the book. The first thing I have to say is do not get deceived by the title and front cover. This is not a quick and easy read but rather like a good meal is something to be savoured. The novel is thought provoking and offers a deep insight into Japanese culture and the culinary arts.

The heart of the novel focuses on the relationship between women and ultimately female liberation. While Kaji is of course murderess Yuzuki goes a great way to explain or offer an exploration of what made her the way she is. Rika by contrast we see on her journey of ‘coming out of her shell’ as her friendship grows with Kaji. The characters, while not all likeable are incredibly well put together and realistic.

The writing is interesting and kept me captivated. In a way this was almost like a cook book with the detail and inspired meals. It is most definitely a unique read and one that some cultural aspects might be lost on a Western reader if they are not familiar with Japanese culture but I do not believe this creates too much of a barrier since you can enjoy the story as is. I have already ordered a physical copy and will definitely be re-reading in the future. It’s a beauty story about female friendship (arguably manipulation) and overcoming misogyny.

garramalz's review against another edition

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emotional mysterious medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.5

aventurinewand's review against another edition

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hopeful reflective medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.0

Content Warnings

jadechii's review against another edition

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dark reflective slow-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? It's complicated
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

niharsatsangi's review against another edition

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dark mysterious reflective slow-paced

3.75

lynne_booksquares's review against another edition

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adventurous dark funny informative lighthearted mysterious reflective slow-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? No
Loveable characters? No
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.5

nakedsushi's review against another edition

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emotional funny inspiring mysterious reflective medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

This book was not what I expected from looking at the cover. I thought it would be more of a thriller based around food, but it's less that and more of an exploration of female friendships and a commentary on sexism in Japan. I loved this book so much that I found myself putting off reading it so that I didn't finish it so quickly.

The only thing that was unbelievable in this book was that Japanese people found turkey appetizing. As a Chinese person who enjoys duck, why eat turkey when duck is so much tastier?

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