I went into Butter by Asako Yuzuki with high hopes – it was Waterstones’ Book of the Year, after all – but I ended up feeling a little…underwhelmed. Don’t get me wrong, there’s lots to admire about this book, but I couldn’t shake the feeling that I’d been expecting something different.
What Worked For Me
- The Writing Style: Yuzuki’s writing is undeniably rich and immersive. The way she explores food, culture, and relationships is beautifully done – there’s this lingering warmth to he descriptions that makes you want to go and cook something immediately.
- The Themes: The commentary on Japanese society, particularly around gender roles, was insightful and layered. I found myself really reflecting on how deeply ingrained societal pressures can be and how the shape women’s lives.
- The Atmosphere: The blend of sordid crime, culinary obsession, and introspective storytelling created a unique mood that stuck with me even after I’d finished.
What Didn’t Quite Land
I think my biggest issue was that I expected more focus on the crime element. The premise – inspired by the true story of a woman accused of murdering wealthy men by feeding them indulgent meals – had me intrigued. But instead of diving deep into the mystery, the book leaned heavily into the cultural commentary and social critique. While that’s not bad, it just wasn’t what I thought I was signing up for.
At times, i felt the pacing dragged, and I kept waiting for a big reveal or twist that never really came. I wouldn’t say I disliked Butter at all – I appreciated its depth and style – but couldn’t shake the feeling that I wanted more. More tension, more focus on the crime, and maybe just a bit more oomph overall.
Would I Recommend It?
If you enjoy slow-burning, thought-provoking stories with strong cultural commentary, you’ll likely get a lot out of Butter. But if you’re craving a crime-heavy plot, maybe adjust your expectations first.
Have you read Butter? I’d love to know what you thought – did it meet your expectations or leave you wanting more too?
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