I love “Pink Candy Kiss”. The slow burn romance, and longing should drive me nuts, but it’s so sweet. Ami Uozumi’s delicate line work and writing are so beautiful, I always have a pleasant time while I’m reading a new volume. The plot has moved along just a little as Ema sets up her apartment. I’d say the central conflict is Takara dealing with the pain of loving Ema, and trying to set boundaries for herself so she doesn’t ruin their friendship. I was very intrigued by the cliff hanger of this volume, Ema’s mother shows up and doesn’t seem very welcome. There seemed to be hints that perhaps Ema’s homelife was unstable when she was in middle school? I’m curious how her mother will act towards her and what will be revealed about Ema’s past! My hope is that this confrontation will give the series the nudge of momentum it’s lacking. I don’t mind the slow pace, but I can understand other readers being frustrated by it. I can’t wait for volume 4!

Thank you NetGalley and Viz Media for the digital ARC of “Pink Candy Kiss” vol. 3 by Ami Uozumi in exchange for an honest review.

Volume 3 of Pink Candy Kiss was starting to feel a little repetitive to me, but right at the end was a new plot point that hooked me in for next time. I'm still very much rooting for Taka and Ema and curious how the addition of a new character will open up the dynamics of everyone, including Ema's husband, Hario. While the story and characters are sweet, I'm hoping subsequent volumes are when we can dive a little deeper.