The Independent's IndyBest has chosen Hooked, the new novel by Asako Yuzuki, as its March book club selection. This follow-up to her global bestseller Butter blends psychological thriller elements with social commentary on the female experience in Japan. Readers are invited to join the club ahead of the book's release on 12 March.
Asako Yuzuki's Hooked explores themes of obsession, food, and friendship through the lives of two contrasting women in Japan. The story centers on Eriko, an ambitious yet lonely high-flying executive at a trading company who still lives with her parents and has no friends. Her interest in the blog of Shoko, a self-described anti-trad wife who shares details of her untidy home and preference for convenience store meals over cooking for her husband, evolves into a deep obsession.
Eriko tracks Shoko to one of the restaurants featured in her posts, leading to an initial friendship that gradually darkens. As their relationship progresses, the power dynamic shifts, and Eriko's behavior grows increasingly erratic. Yuzuki, known for her viral hit Butter, delivers a narrative that combines suspense with insights into societal pressures on women.
Published on 12 March, Hooked is available for £7 from Amazon.co.uk. The IndyBest team plans to share their verdict on 12 April, encouraging readers to participate in the book club discussion. This selection highlights Yuzuki's rising international profile following the success of her previous work.