The cult Japanese bestseller about a female gourmet cook and serial killer and the journalist intent on cracking her case, inspired by a true story.
"Butter" is a 2017 Japanese novel by Asako Yuzuki, translated into English in 2024. The story follows Rika Machida, a journalist who becomes captivated by Manako Kajii, a woman convicted of murdering men by seducing them with her culinary skills. Inspired by the real-life "Konkatsu Killer" case, the novel delves into themes of misogyny, obsession, and societal expectations.
In the book, Rika seeks an interview with Manako, who is incarcerated and has refused all previous interview requests. Rika's approach is unique: she writes asking for Manako's recipe for beef stew, the last meal prepared for her victims. This request leads to a correspondence that forms the crux of the narrative, exploring the complex relationship between the two women.
"Butter" has garnered significant acclaim, winning the Waterstones Book of the Year in 2024. The novel is praised for its exploration of deep themes through a compelling narrative, blending elements of true crime with a critique of societal norms.
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Categories: Fiction Thriller / Mystery Crime