Butter: A Novel of Food and Murder

More like 3.75, I loved the writing but this book should have been about 100 pages shorter.
Riko is trying to score the biggest interview of her career with convicted killer Manako Kajii- a food blogger who is in jail for murdering her older, rich boyfriends. Riko is trying to be successful in a world in which women cannot get the highest office AND have a family. Women must conform to most of society's standards, and they must be thin. Manako opens Riko's eyes to another way of being, but one that landed Manako in prison.
I loved Yuzuki's writing. I loved the small details she picked up on and I loved learning about contemporary life in Tokyo. I didn't mind the descriptions of food and specific dishes.
What I didn't love is the sheer length of this book. We didn't need Reiko's side quest when she goes all Nancy Drew. I super didn't care about Riko's friends with benefits situation with Makoto. The novel even seems to run out of steam explaining the appeal trial.
There was mad sexual attraction between Riko and Reiko that was never addressed.
I loved the ending and the ideas behind the ending.
Just don't do into this with an expectation of Hannibal Lecter and Will Graham story. I am a little guilty of that.