Asako Yuzuki's novel 'Butter' blends culinary thriller with social commentary in English translation

Originally written in 2017, Asako Yuzuki's novel 'Butter' has been newly published in English translation by Polly Barton through 4th Estate. The book combines elements of a whodunnit thriller with a friendship narrative centered around food. Based partly on the real-life 'Konkatsu Killer' case, the story follows journalist Rika Machida as she corresponds with convicted gourmand Manako Kajii, who was found guilty of scamming and murdering men. Machida uses requests for cooking tips—starting with simple buttered rice and advancing to specific dining instructions—to uncover the truth about Kajii's crimes. The novel explores themes of social misogyny, bodily autonomy, and how food shapes perception, with vivid descriptions of taste and consumption. Media frenzy in the story focuses on Kajii's unapologetic hedonism and rejection of conventional beauty standards. The narrative structure, delivered in episodic chapters, has been noted for its potential adaptation to television. The book retails for £14.99 in softcover.