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A quiet yet searing exploration of womanhood, food, and self-acceptance set against the backdrop of a true crime case that’s almost incidental. Butter is more character study than thriller—anchored by Rika Machida’s slow, introspective transformation through her strange, treacherous relationship with murder suspect Manako Kajii.
Yuzuki’s prose (via Polly Barton’s translation) simmers, especially when describing food, but can feel heavy and stretched in parts. Themes of fatphobia, loneliness, and misogyny are stark and repetitive, though intentionally so. The emotional payoff—Rika’s found family and evolution—felt deeply satisfying, even if the journey there demanded patience.
Don’t expect edge-of-your-seat crime drama, but if you appreciate literary fiction with feminist bite and a side of beef stew, this is worth the read. Just maybe keep some butter on hand.
Thank you to Exclusive Books for the opportunity to read this book.
Reading this book was like going on a road trip of self discovery with an old friend. The honesty and vulnerability in Patti's story with it's easy, relaxed style of story telling made me want to keep turning the pages. The workbook is an absolute priceless gem and as I worked through it I found myself on my own road trip of purpose and connection, without leaving the comfort of my own home. A perfect read for all who seek that connection and purpose, this book promises that and delivers it in spades.
Just loved this book, fresh, quirky, funny and beautifully written. Sven Axelrood is my new favourite author.