A review by pzdrnk
Butter by Asako Yuzuki

3.75

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and was deeply impressed by the author's creativity. It’s a tricky one to review because it’s so unique, offering a fresh perspective on Japanese culture, femininity, friendship, relationships, and family. The story is rich with elements to appreciate, and while I personally found the ending a bit underwhelming, that’s more a matter of taste than a flaw.

One of the standout aspects of the book is its practical approach to cooking. Whether you're an experienced cook or a complete beginner, there's plenty of inspiration to be found within its pages.

Several key elements made this book truly special for me. First, the characters, especially Rika were incredibly well-drawn, each distinct yet realistic. The book offered an eye-opening look into Japanese culture, particularly the role of femininity. The portrayal of men in the story wasn't always flattering, with one notable exception, but it provided valuable insight. The plot itself was so cleverly woven together. The intersection of cooking, career development, friendship, and the enigmatic mind of an alleged serial killer made for an intriguing and innovative narrative.

Overall, this book is an engaging and thought-provoking read that I would highly recommend.