Description:
Editorial Reviews
Review
"[Asako] Yuzuki takes a thrilling look into female relationships, revealing the complex nature of modern-day social conventions pertaining to a woman’s appearance and her place in the home, and enriching the proceedings with mouthwatering descriptions of food. Like the meals Yuzuki describes, this leaves the reader satiated." — Publishers Weekly
“The novel cleverly intertwines paeans to the pleasures of eating with indictments of Japan’s standards for women.”
— New Yorker
“The lure of Butter is the lure of butter: rich, salty and unctuous. . . . Butter is both an exploration of the life of an unusual femme fatale and a subtle polemic against the impossible beauty standards to which women are held.”
— Washington Post
"Asako Yuzuki has turned [Butter] into not just a fascinating psychological puzzle but also a damning indictment of Japanese misogyny and fatphobia." — New York Times
"An unputdownable, breathtakingly original novel about true crime, loneliness, and female appetite in all its tricky, transgressive glory. I will be spoon-feeding Butter to every woman I know." — Erin Kelly, author of The Skeleton Key
"A delectable meditation on appetite, fatphobia and misogyny in modern Japan – Butter is a salty morsel with one hell of a bite." — Alice Slater, author of Death of a Bookseller
"An intriguing and unusual novel with a fresh perspective [that] defies categorization: part psychological exploration of misogyny and fatphobia, part social commentary on contemporary Japan and the roles and expectations of the women who live there." — Library Journal Advance Reviews
"Ambitious and unsettling … a thought-provoking and surprisingly feelgood take on friendship, transgressive pleasures, and society’s impossibly contradictory expectations of women." — Guardian
"Exuberant, indulgent romp of a novel … Butter is a full-fat, Michelin-starred treat that moves seamlessly between an Angry Young Woman narrative and an engrossing detective drama and back again. Yuzuki has crafted an almost Dickensian cast of fleshy characters, with just as many surprise connections … Let this book bring you under its spell." — The Times (UK)
"It'll make your mouth water." — Irish Independent
About the Author
Asako Yuzuki was born in Tokyo in 1981. Her English-language debut, Butter, an international bestseller, was named Waterstones Book of the Year 2024 and took home the British Book Awards 2025 Debut Fiction Award. For Hooked, she received the Yamamoto Shūgorō Award.
Reviews:
5.0 out of 5 stars For the love of food and independent women
Great read. Funny, quirky characters. Loved the story about personal development and growth. Yuzuki has created a diverse group of independent women with spunk. I loved it.
4.0 out of 5 stars Good cultural insights
Good insight into Japanese culture. The story itself gets a little slow and repetitive and take a couple odd plot turns but a great read ahead of visiting Japan.
3.0 out of 5 stars interesting because of culture, less so as the story unfolds
I enjoyed the Japanese culture in this book, and the story started out interestingly. For me, the story took on a judgemental, lecture tone that didn't resonate for me.
5.0 out of 5 stars Thrilling and immersive
The book started off a tad awkward (might have been the translator easing in) in the first couple of pages, but it picked up extremely quickly and was an amazing ride. More books need to tackle continued misogyny, fatphobia, and the limitations of expected gender roles in Japanese culture. I'm loaning it to my friend at the moment, we're both chefs and it's so fun to read about the descriptions of foods and ingredients with such sumptuous attention to detail.
4.0 out of 5 stars Great Read
The book was slow to start but I'm so glad I kept reading. Turned out to be a great story with well-written characters. I learned a lot about Japanese food and culture.
3.0 out of 5 stars Just ok
This book was just ok. The best parts are the food descriptions. The rest of the book, for me was aggravating at times.
2.0 out of 5 stars Beef Bourguignon Slice of Life
The food descriptions were delightful, and the Japanese culture was inspiring to explore; however, (SPOILER) there was no murder as the title implies. This book was missing a high-speed chase or some sort of high-stakes incident to make it interesting. The storytelling just fizzles out chapter after chapter, and the ending makes me never want to read/listen to a book again.
5.0 out of 5 stars A delicious thought provoking novel.
This book was very thought provoking. It touched on the subtle nuances of different kinds of relationships that women have and their place in the modern world. It was tied together with food and a psychopath lol. I would recommend this read.
Good Quality
Thanks for the book
Indulge in Culinary Intrigue!!!
Featuring a captivating blend of culinary intrigue and psychological depth, 'Butter' by Asako Yuzuki is a must-read. Inspired by true events, this gripping tale explores the enigmatic world of a female gourmet cook and convicted serial killer. Yuzuki's storytelling prowess shines as she delves into themes of misogyny, obsession, and the transformative power of food. With endorsements from critics and authors alike, 'Butter' is a compelling and unsettling journey that will leave readers hungry for more
Worth reading
Really good read
Odd, uncomfortable and bleak story which got me hooked
This book seems to have been everywhere. It has been heavily marketed and has won much praise, including Waterstones Book of the Year. I've also noticed it is currently high up in the bestsellers lists - quite an achievement for a translated novel. I'd read several Japanese novels since visiting the country a couple of years ago when I found myself fascinated by the culture and society.We then chose this as our book club book so I was delighted to try it.The paperback version that I read uses thick paper. It has 452 pages split into 16 chapters. I like the folded sides of the lovely cover as it gives a luxury feel. The front and back covers are worthy of mention as they make the book stand out amongst others.This was first published in Japan in 2017 then translated to English and published here in 2024.We are immediately put into a Japanese society with a contrast between two women - one working and the other at home. This could be anywhere in the world but there is a precise way to describe their circumstances which is decidedly set in the Far East.Food is also of huge importance from the start with a shared meal being described in great detail, also conversations returning again and again to the food.The writing style is complex and every word must be read so there is no skim reading this book.I read a lot of crime but I've never read anything like this where the journalist seems to be infatuated with the criminal.The descriptions of the food continue to be simply mouth watering, Of course, some of it is unfamiliar but quickly you realise that doesn't matter. I'm happy to research dishes but it is better just to sit back and enjoy the sensations.There is a fine line between sensual and sexual which this novel explores with food being used to build the bridge. Eating is often described as a sensual experience and here it is often sexual as well. I admire that the translator has not compromised the premise and allowed the Japanese feel to remain.I had to work hard to read the book as the names of people and places are unfamiliar so difficult to remember but the effort is worthwhile.We spend a lot of time with Rika so it is strange when the narrative shifts but good to see the world from an alternative perspective.Mostly the senses are employed for pleasure so it's a surprise when we experience some more uncomfortable sights and smells.Odd, uncomfortable and bleak seem to be the best words for this book but it hooked me completely. I wanted to keep reading to find out what would happen to all three women at the centre of the story. I couldn't help wanting to get to the end though and I'm not convinced I completely enjoyed the book.The themes around feminism and society are very dark and I kept pondering which of the women was living the bleakest life - probably not the one in prison. The relationships between the three are really important as they change throughout the book.
Lovely read
Book is great! regarding Bolo, it arrived fast and in great condition :)
Visit the Ecco Store
Butter: A Novel of Food and Murder
AED11494
Quantity:
Order today to get by 7-14 business days
Delivery fee of AED 20. Free for orders above AED 200.
Imported From: United States
At BOLO, we work hard to ensure the products you receive are new, genuine, and sourced from reputable suppliers.
BOLO is not an authorized or official retailer for most brands, nor are we affiliated with manufacturers unless specifically stated on a product page. Instead, we source verified sellers, authorized distributors or directly from the manufacturer.
Each product undergoes thorough inspection and verification at our consolidation and fulfilment centers to ensure it meets our strict authenticity and quality standards before being shipped and delivered to you.
If you ever have concerns regarding the authenticity of a product purchased from us, please contact Bolo Support. We will review your inquiry promptly and, if necessary, provide documentation verifying authenticity or offer a suitable resolution.
Your trust is our top priority, and we are committed to maintaining transparency and integrity in every transaction.
All product information, images, descriptions, and reviews originate from the manufacturer or from trusted sellers overseas. BOLO is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or an authorized retailer for most brands listed on our website unless stated otherwise.
While we strive to display accurate information, variations in packaging, labeling, instructions, or formulation may occasionally occur due to regional differences or supplier updates. For detailed or manufacturer-specific information, please contact the brand directly or reach out to BOLO Support for assistance.
Unless otherwise stated, all prices displayed on the product page include applicable taxes and import duties.
BOLO operates in accordance with the laws and regulations of United Arab Emirates. Any items found to be restricted or prohibited for sale within the UAE will be cancelled prior to shipment. We take proactive measures to ensure that only products permitted for sale in United Arab Emirates are listed on our website.
All items are shipped by air, and any products classified as “Dangerous Goods (DG)” under IATA regulations will be removed from the order and cancelled.
All orders are processed manually, and we make every effort to process them promptly once confirmed. Products cancelled due to the above reasons will be permanently removed from listings across the website.
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Similar items from “Cultural Heritage”
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https://www.bolo.ae/products/U0063236419
Visit the Ecco Store
Butter: A Novel of Food and Murder
AED11494
Quantity:
Order today to get by 7-14 business days
Delivery fee of AED 20. Free for orders above AED 200.
Imported From: United States
At BOLO, we work hard to ensure the products you receive are new, genuine, and sourced from reputable suppliers.
BOLO is not an authorized or official retailer for most brands, nor are we affiliated with manufacturers unless specifically stated on a product page. Instead, we source verified sellers, authorized distributors or directly from the manufacturer.
Each product undergoes thorough inspection and verification at our consolidation and fulfilment centers to ensure it meets our strict authenticity and quality standards before being shipped and delivered to you.
If you ever have concerns regarding the authenticity of a product purchased from us, please contact Bolo Support. We will review your inquiry promptly and, if necessary, provide documentation verifying authenticity or offer a suitable resolution.
Your trust is our top priority, and we are committed to maintaining transparency and integrity in every transaction.
All product information, images, descriptions, and reviews originate from the manufacturer or from trusted sellers overseas. BOLO is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or an authorized retailer for most brands listed on our website unless stated otherwise.
While we strive to display accurate information, variations in packaging, labeling, instructions, or formulation may occasionally occur due to regional differences or supplier updates. For detailed or manufacturer-specific information, please contact the brand directly or reach out to BOLO Support for assistance.
Unless otherwise stated, all prices displayed on the product page include applicable taxes and import duties.
BOLO operates in accordance with the laws and regulations of United Arab Emirates. Any items found to be restricted or prohibited for sale within the UAE will be cancelled prior to shipment. We take proactive measures to ensure that only products permitted for sale in United Arab Emirates are listed on our website.
All items are shipped by air, and any products classified as “Dangerous Goods (DG)” under IATA regulations will be removed from the order and cancelled.
All orders are processed manually, and we make every effort to process them promptly once confirmed. Products cancelled due to the above reasons will be permanently removed from listings across the website.
Description:
Editorial Reviews
Review
"[Asako] Yuzuki takes a thrilling look into female relationships, revealing the complex nature of modern-day social conventions pertaining to a woman’s appearance and her place in the home, and enriching the proceedings with mouthwatering descriptions of food. Like the meals Yuzuki describes, this leaves the reader satiated." — Publishers Weekly
“The novel cleverly intertwines paeans to the pleasures of eating with indictments of Japan’s standards for women.”
— New Yorker
“The lure of Butter is the lure of butter: rich, salty and unctuous. . . . Butter is both an exploration of the life of an unusual femme fatale and a subtle polemic against the impossible beauty standards to which women are held.”
— Washington Post
"Asako Yuzuki has turned [Butter] into not just a fascinating psychological puzzle but also a damning indictment of Japanese misogyny and fatphobia." — New York Times
"An unputdownable, breathtakingly original novel about true crime, loneliness, and female appetite in all its tricky, transgressive glory. I will be spoon-feeding Butter to every woman I know." — Erin Kelly, author of The Skeleton Key
"A delectable meditation on appetite, fatphobia and misogyny in modern Japan – Butter is a salty morsel with one hell of a bite." — Alice Slater, author of Death of a Bookseller
"An intriguing and unusual novel with a fresh perspective [that] defies categorization: part psychological exploration of misogyny and fatphobia, part social commentary on contemporary Japan and the roles and expectations of the women who live there." — Library Journal Advance Reviews
"Ambitious and unsettling … a thought-provoking and surprisingly feelgood take on friendship, transgressive pleasures, and society’s impossibly contradictory expectations of women." — Guardian
"Exuberant, indulgent romp of a novel … Butter is a full-fat, Michelin-starred treat that moves seamlessly between an Angry Young Woman narrative and an engrossing detective drama and back again. Yuzuki has crafted an almost Dickensian cast of fleshy characters, with just as many surprise connections … Let this book bring you under its spell." — The Times (UK)
"It'll make your mouth water." — Irish Independent
About the Author
Asako Yuzuki was born in Tokyo in 1981. Her English-language debut, Butter, an international bestseller, was named Waterstones Book of the Year 2024 and took home the British Book Awards 2025 Debut Fiction Award. For Hooked, she received the Yamamoto Shūgorō Award.
Reviews:
5.0 out of 5 stars For the love of food and independent women
Great read. Funny, quirky characters. Loved the story about personal development and growth. Yuzuki has created a diverse group of independent women with spunk. I loved it.
4.0 out of 5 stars Good cultural insights
Good insight into Japanese culture. The story itself gets a little slow and repetitive and take a couple odd plot turns but a great read ahead of visiting Japan.
3.0 out of 5 stars interesting because of culture, less so as the story unfolds
I enjoyed the Japanese culture in this book, and the story started out interestingly. For me, the story took on a judgemental, lecture tone that didn't resonate for me.
5.0 out of 5 stars Thrilling and immersive
The book started off a tad awkward (might have been the translator easing in) in the first couple of pages, but it picked up extremely quickly and was an amazing ride. More books need to tackle continued misogyny, fatphobia, and the limitations of expected gender roles in Japanese culture. I'm loaning it to my friend at the moment, we're both chefs and it's so fun to read about the descriptions of foods and ingredients with such sumptuous attention to detail.
4.0 out of 5 stars Great Read
The book was slow to start but I'm so glad I kept reading. Turned out to be a great story with well-written characters. I learned a lot about Japanese food and culture.
3.0 out of 5 stars Just ok
This book was just ok. The best parts are the food descriptions. The rest of the book, for me was aggravating at times.
2.0 out of 5 stars Beef Bourguignon Slice of Life
The food descriptions were delightful, and the Japanese culture was inspiring to explore; however, (SPOILER) there was no murder as the title implies. This book was missing a high-speed chase or some sort of high-stakes incident to make it interesting. The storytelling just fizzles out chapter after chapter, and the ending makes me never want to read/listen to a book again.
5.0 out of 5 stars A delicious thought provoking novel.
This book was very thought provoking. It touched on the subtle nuances of different kinds of relationships that women have and their place in the modern world. It was tied together with food and a psychopath lol. I would recommend this read.
Good Quality
Thanks for the book
Indulge in Culinary Intrigue!!!
Featuring a captivating blend of culinary intrigue and psychological depth, 'Butter' by Asako Yuzuki is a must-read. Inspired by true events, this gripping tale explores the enigmatic world of a female gourmet cook and convicted serial killer. Yuzuki's storytelling prowess shines as she delves into themes of misogyny, obsession, and the transformative power of food. With endorsements from critics and authors alike, 'Butter' is a compelling and unsettling journey that will leave readers hungry for more
Worth reading
Really good read
Odd, uncomfortable and bleak story which got me hooked
This book seems to have been everywhere. It has been heavily marketed and has won much praise, including Waterstones Book of the Year. I've also noticed it is currently high up in the bestsellers lists - quite an achievement for a translated novel. I'd read several Japanese novels since visiting the country a couple of years ago when I found myself fascinated by the culture and society.We then chose this as our book club book so I was delighted to try it.The paperback version that I read uses thick paper. It has 452 pages split into 16 chapters. I like the folded sides of the lovely cover as it gives a luxury feel. The front and back covers are worthy of mention as they make the book stand out amongst others.This was first published in Japan in 2017 then translated to English and published here in 2024.We are immediately put into a Japanese society with a contrast between two women - one working and the other at home. This could be anywhere in the world but there is a precise way to describe their circumstances which is decidedly set in the Far East.Food is also of huge importance from the start with a shared meal being described in great detail, also conversations returning again and again to the food.The writing style is complex and every word must be read so there is no skim reading this book.I read a lot of crime but I've never read anything like this where the journalist seems to be infatuated with the criminal.The descriptions of the food continue to be simply mouth watering, Of course, some of it is unfamiliar but quickly you realise that doesn't matter. I'm happy to research dishes but it is better just to sit back and enjoy the sensations.There is a fine line between sensual and sexual which this novel explores with food being used to build the bridge. Eating is often described as a sensual experience and here it is often sexual as well. I admire that the translator has not compromised the premise and allowed the Japanese feel to remain.I had to work hard to read the book as the names of people and places are unfamiliar so difficult to remember but the effort is worthwhile.We spend a lot of time with Rika so it is strange when the narrative shifts but good to see the world from an alternative perspective.Mostly the senses are employed for pleasure so it's a surprise when we experience some more uncomfortable sights and smells.Odd, uncomfortable and bleak seem to be the best words for this book but it hooked me completely. I wanted to keep reading to find out what would happen to all three women at the centre of the story. I couldn't help wanting to get to the end though and I'm not convinced I completely enjoyed the book.The themes around feminism and society are very dark and I kept pondering which of the women was living the bleakest life - probably not the one in prison. The relationships between the three are really important as they change throughout the book.
Lovely read
Book is great! regarding Bolo, it arrived fast and in great condition :)
Similar suggestions by Bolo
More from this brand
Similar items from “Cultural Heritage”
Share with
Or share with link
https://www.bolo.ae/products/U0063236419