So I just finished this pint sized manga and wow the end felt sprung. SO much potential here and I enjoyed myself, so don't let the jerky pacing deter you. I won't include any spoilers in my review. I recommend you find an english scanslation online to enjoy as Candy Life is not available in print.

Candy Life is a one volume collection (6 chapters) of a twenty-something who wants a sweet life. She is not clear on what exactly that means. Nice things? Hot romance? Financial security? Personal freedom? The manga explores this inside a mere 6 chapters, which limits its fluidity and depth.

The beginning starts out strong, albeit with cliches, when depicting Makoto's dissatisfaction with her less than desirable life. If you can look past the cringey cliches and just hop right on board with the premise that this chick was hurt by life and is longing for more, you'll be gold.

She then goes on to "be saved" and get involved in a too good to be true romance, which as expected comes along with a storm of grappling with love and personal identity. Makoto explores what it means to be in love and she decides for herself that what ideals add sweetness to her life.

I genuinely was excited for and enjoyed chapters 2 and 3, even 4 was good. However by chapter 5 and the final chapter I felt like I was reading a birthday card cut off short because of lack of space. Ogawa makes a beeline ending. I would have preferred more ambiguity with secondary characters futures for more depth with our two main character's relationship growth. Makoto and her boo were enough reason to read this manga. Would love an expanded storyline around them.

Overall this is worth a read, but realize this leaves as much to be desired as it excites and entertains the reader. Overall 6.