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Patron Saint of Pendejas
Meet Isabel and Manny, childhood friends and compadres. After Isa’s messy divorce she moves back to Corpus Christi to her mom’s house with her preteen son. Manny proves to be the closet thing she has to a co-parent. Embarrassed about her failed marriage she avoids him her first year home but a new gym membership, a Quinceañera and an upcoming Car Show bring them together in a way they’d never imagine.
Patron Saint of Pendejas is the first book in the Chismosa Chronicles. A novella romcom series in the Nixverse depicting Chicano culture and stories.
Patron Saint of Pendejas is the first book in the Chismosa Chronicles. A novella romcom series in the Nixverse depicting Chicano culture and stories.
140 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 29, 2025
119 people are currently reading
512 people want to read
About the author
Nix Murguia
5 books178 followersNix Murguia is a dark contemporary romance author. She resides in Boise, Idaho with her husband and three sons. As a young Chicana growing up in the 90s her grandfather introduced her to various movies that would help her connect with her culture and embrace her identity.
It was in the 1987 movie La Bamba that Nix realized the bad boy was much more attractive. The Bobs, the Miklos, and Chuchos. Her love for the anti-hero, morally grey alpha male bled into the books she read.
She uses her love for story telling and writing to create diverse characters that Latina women can relate to and love. Morally grey men that say “Mija.” And “Te quiero.” And the strong women who would be their only weakness.
It was in the 1987 movie La Bamba that Nix realized the bad boy was much more attractive. The Bobs, the Miklos, and Chuchos. Her love for the anti-hero, morally grey alpha male bled into the books she read.
She uses her love for story telling and writing to create diverse characters that Latina women can relate to and love. Morally grey men that say “Mija.” And “Te quiero.” And the strong women who would be their only weakness.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 167 reviews
June 30, 2025
A childhood friends to lovers romance that embodies Chicano culture and tons of drama
Book Stats:
📖: 140 pages
Genre: RomCom
Publisher: Indie
Format: Ebook
Series: 1/? Of the Chismosa Chronicals
Themes:
💫: Rebuilding after divorce
💫: Second Chances
Representation:
🌮 : Family trauma
🌮 : Chicano culture
Tropes:
💗: Childhood friends to lovers
💗: Single Mom
💗: Low Rider Enthusiasts
🥵: Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Potential Triggers: **check authors page/socials for full list.
Short Synopsis:
Isabel is a single mother struggling to put her life back together after her high school sweetheart turned husband cheated on her. Moving back home to get some stability for her son, she runs across her old best friend from childhood. Will he be able to convince her they belong together or will they miss yet another opportunity for happiness?
General Thoughts:
This novel had me reeling from page one to page 140. There is a roller coaster of emotions and fantastic Chicano representation throughout this entire novella.
As a Mexican woman who lives in the south valley of Albuquerque, NM the book captured the chola/cholo culture so perfectly. I could hear the inflection in the voice. The style of hair and clothing. I could see it in the actions and thoughts. So well done. I could practically see the low riders cruising Route 66 on Sunday evenings. It's a faith, art and form of expression that is unmatched. The pride and tradition of Chicano culture runs deep within.
The romance between Isabel and Manny was so relatable and endearing. I was deeply invested from the beginning and loved where it all ended up.
I loved the conversational Spanish throughout the book. The accurate representation of families in quinceanera's. Everything about this book was just so spot on.
I can't wait to read more from this author both within this series and in general.
Disclaimer: I read this book as a ebook I purchased myself. All opinions are my own. This is my honest and voluntary review.
Book Stats:
📖: 140 pages
Genre: RomCom
Publisher: Indie
Format: Ebook
Series: 1/? Of the Chismosa Chronicals
Themes:
💫: Rebuilding after divorce
💫: Second Chances
Representation:
🌮 : Family trauma
🌮 : Chicano culture
Tropes:
💗: Childhood friends to lovers
💗: Single Mom
💗: Low Rider Enthusiasts
🥵: Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Potential Triggers: **check authors page/socials for full list.
Short Synopsis:
Isabel is a single mother struggling to put her life back together after her high school sweetheart turned husband cheated on her. Moving back home to get some stability for her son, she runs across her old best friend from childhood. Will he be able to convince her they belong together or will they miss yet another opportunity for happiness?
General Thoughts:
This novel had me reeling from page one to page 140. There is a roller coaster of emotions and fantastic Chicano representation throughout this entire novella.
As a Mexican woman who lives in the south valley of Albuquerque, NM the book captured the chola/cholo culture so perfectly. I could hear the inflection in the voice. The style of hair and clothing. I could see it in the actions and thoughts. So well done. I could practically see the low riders cruising Route 66 on Sunday evenings. It's a faith, art and form of expression that is unmatched. The pride and tradition of Chicano culture runs deep within.
The romance between Isabel and Manny was so relatable and endearing. I was deeply invested from the beginning and loved where it all ended up.
I loved the conversational Spanish throughout the book. The accurate representation of families in quinceanera's. Everything about this book was just so spot on.
I can't wait to read more from this author both within this series and in general.
Disclaimer: I read this book as a ebook I purchased myself. All opinions are my own. This is my honest and voluntary review.
July 21, 2025
I need a Manny in my life 😭
June 23, 2025
Every Nix Murguia book I read just gets better and better! Her writing is so beautifully poignant. She knows how’s to move a story with emotion and strategically placed wit. I laughed and awwed and audibly said, “oh, DAAAAAMN🥵” so many times.
Honestly, this book was perfect! I wouldn’t change a thing!
Thank you, Nix, for letting me be an arc reader! I’m forever a fan!
P.S. killer playlist
Honestly, this book was perfect! I wouldn’t change a thing!
Thank you, Nix, for letting me be an arc reader! I’m forever a fan!
P.S. killer playlist
July 3, 2025
I LOVED this novella!! Childhood friends to lovers and Single mom. I wish I could give it more stars. Manny and Isa are so perfect for each other!! Loved the 90s vibes and how nostalgic this was. Isa is the funniest FMC despite how hard her life has been for the last year. I loved both of their families and how everyone was a chismosa!! I’ve recommended this book to so many people already! If you’re reading this stop and go read this book!!
July 17, 2025
second chance romance
This novella was everything. It’s so sweet and nostalgic. Such a great story. I adored both MCs and their story was unconventionally perfect. If you’re a millennial, or have to deal with a millennial 😩😅, love chicano culture and a good ol’ fashioned love story with some touches of spice?! Then this is for you.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️.5
This novella was everything. It’s so sweet and nostalgic. Such a great story. I adored both MCs and their story was unconventionally perfect. If you’re a millennial, or have to deal with a millennial 😩😅, love chicano culture and a good ol’ fashioned love story with some touches of spice?! Then this is for you.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️.5
Read
March 25, 2025Patron Saint of Pendejas release date has been pushed back to June 29th. For information on ARC sign-ups, please visit my website.
July 18, 2025
This was a funny and relatable novella. I didn't grow up Chicana but I grew up Mexican and a lot of the elements represent me too. The carne asada with the familia on the weekends, the padrinos and madrinas, altars for Saints, the cholo-chola style, quinceañeras, hardworking families, chismes, funny pet names, and well represented stereotypes.
I loved the representation this book gave to our culture. A lot of the values Mexicans carry are conveyed to their children. The use of Spanish words and Mexican phrases was also present. I live for the tension and banter between Isa and Manny. It was great how reconnected. Their romance arrived later in life but like we say "todo llega a su debido tiempo" (all in due time).
Isa is such a strong character, trying to find herself as a woman after her divorce. Manny was so good for Isa and Junior. He was there for them through their struggles. We had a little drama there for a bit but I was satisfied with how things ended with them. They both found their footing. If I haven't given you enough chisme, I suggest you run to KU and read it mija!
Thank you to the author for sending me an advanced copy of her book. This is my honest opinion.
I loved the representation this book gave to our culture. A lot of the values Mexicans carry are conveyed to their children. The use of Spanish words and Mexican phrases was also present. I live for the tension and banter between Isa and Manny. It was great how reconnected. Their romance arrived later in life but like we say "todo llega a su debido tiempo" (all in due time).
Isa is such a strong character, trying to find herself as a woman after her divorce. Manny was so good for Isa and Junior. He was there for them through their struggles. We had a little drama there for a bit but I was satisfied with how things ended with them. They both found their footing. If I haven't given you enough chisme, I suggest you run to KU and read it mija!
Thank you to the author for sending me an advanced copy of her book. This is my honest opinion.
June 19, 2025
reading this felt like home. it brought me so much comfort reading about characters who talked like me. who grew up like me. the representation in this brought me so much joy.
isa & manny are that couple you are rooting for straight from the start. i loved watching their friendship grow to more. and the way manny was with junior healed parts of me. its a quick read but i truly felt like nothing was missing. you get a bit of everything: grief, love, humor, etc everything! 10/10 recommend!!!
🖤 second chance
💗 single mom
🖤 childhood friends
💗 chicano rep
🖤 ex husbands best friend
🖤🇲🇽
isa & manny are that couple you are rooting for straight from the start. i loved watching their friendship grow to more. and the way manny was with junior healed parts of me. its a quick read but i truly felt like nothing was missing. you get a bit of everything: grief, love, humor, etc everything! 10/10 recommend!!!
🖤 second chance
💗 single mom
🖤 childhood friends
💗 chicano rep
🖤 ex husbands best friend
🖤🇲🇽
July 16, 2025
This novella was cute, chaotic, and hilarious in the best way😂. We’ve got friends to lovers ( Manny 😏), Chicano rep, a single mom juggling her son, moving back in with her own mom (pray for her), and helping plan a quinceañera.
I was cracking up the entire time and was also hit with flashbacks of my own family’s dynamic. The nicknames alone had me wheezing. If you’ve ever had to dodge chismes, survive a family party, or explain to your mom that “yes, you’re eating,” this one will hit way too close to home… in the best way.💕
I was cracking up the entire time and was also hit with flashbacks of my own family’s dynamic. The nicknames alone had me wheezing. If you’ve ever had to dodge chismes, survive a family party, or explain to your mom that “yes, you’re eating,” this one will hit way too close to home… in the best way.💕
June 17, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️
🩷Second chance
🍉single mom
🩷childhood friends
🍉Chicano rep
🩷ex husbands best friend
I loved this book so much!! Every girl needs to find their manny!! This book is a great representation of the Mexican American experience, the Chicano experience. These characters were so relatable. The dynamic Isabel had with her family really reminded me of my own. The characters go through grief, second chances, starting new and finding the right path for themselves and the right person.
🌶️
🩷Second chance
🍉single mom
🩷childhood friends
🍉Chicano rep
🩷ex husbands best friend
I loved this book so much!! Every girl needs to find their manny!! This book is a great representation of the Mexican American experience, the Chicano experience. These characters were so relatable. The dynamic Isabel had with her family really reminded me of my own. The characters go through grief, second chances, starting new and finding the right path for themselves and the right person.
July 7, 2025
What I Enjoyed the Most:
🌮 The author
🌮 The title
🌮 The book cover
🌮The Lovers
🌮 The chapter titles
🌮 The storyline
🌮 The smut
🌮The authenticity
🌮 The culture
& my favorite,
🌮 The hilarity
All so freaking fun!
This made me feel like I was on Cloud 9
☁️🥰
🌮 The author
🌮 The title
🌮 The book cover
🌮The Lovers
🌮 The chapter titles
🌮 The storyline
🌮 The smut
🌮The authenticity
🌮 The culture
& my favorite,
🌮 The hilarity
All so freaking fun!
This made me feel like I was on Cloud 9
☁️🥰
October 24, 2025
This book is an absolute delight — in a way, it feels like home.
Isa and Manny were childhood friends who grew up together. But life takes a turn when Isa ends up pregnant by Manny’s best friend.
She moves away, gets married, and has a son. But it’s far from a happy ending, especially after catching her husband cheating.
Now she’s back, living with her mom, and even though she finished her degree, money’s tight, and the solution is selling her late father’s car. But to do that, she has to talk to Manny and she’s been avoiding him.
I read this book in one sitting! It felt like I could hear the characters speaking. The mix of English and Spanish, the expressions, the food, the culture… it all made the story feel so cosy and wholesome.
I might be a little biased because I love Latin culture — but if you enjoy a touch of spice and a whole lot of heart, this book is for you.
This review and more here:
Instagram | Tiktok | Youtube
Isa and Manny were childhood friends who grew up together. But life takes a turn when Isa ends up pregnant by Manny’s best friend.
She moves away, gets married, and has a son. But it’s far from a happy ending, especially after catching her husband cheating.
Now she’s back, living with her mom, and even though she finished her degree, money’s tight, and the solution is selling her late father’s car. But to do that, she has to talk to Manny and she’s been avoiding him.
I read this book in one sitting! It felt like I could hear the characters speaking. The mix of English and Spanish, the expressions, the food, the culture… it all made the story feel so cosy and wholesome.
I might be a little biased because I love Latin culture — but if you enjoy a touch of spice and a whole lot of heart, this book is for you.
This review and more here:
Instagram | Tiktok | Youtube
July 11, 2025
Nix, this novella was amazing. Being able to beta and ARC read it is something I’ll always be grateful for. Every Chicana needs this book on their shelves.
Thank you for releasing this story at a time when nuestra raza needed a reminder of joy, pride, and of course love. It came at the perfect moment for me, and it reminded me to always be proud of where I come from.
Lowrider culture played a huge part in my childhood and still does today. Seeing it represented so beautifully and authentically made me feel seen. It’s rare in books and it meant so much to me.
The dedication alone should be reason enough to read or add it to your tbr.
Viva mi raza. 🇲🇽
Thank you for releasing this story at a time when nuestra raza needed a reminder of joy, pride, and of course love. It came at the perfect moment for me, and it reminded me to always be proud of where I come from.
Lowrider culture played a huge part in my childhood and still does today. Seeing it represented so beautifully and authentically made me feel seen. It’s rare in books and it meant so much to me.
The dedication alone should be reason enough to read or add it to your tbr.
Viva mi raza. 🇲🇽
July 11, 2025
Isa, the FMC, is such a strong and caring mother. She’s always there for her family and the community she lives in, helping others out whenever she can. She’s the glue that holds everything and everyone together.
Manny, the MMC, is a total sweetheart. He’s head over heels in love with Isa, but his love for his family, Isa, and Junior makes my heart warm. Taking Isa for some chipotle tacos and bogo margaritas was so real. But what happened after had me screaming with happiness like finally! My girl Isa put on her big chingona pants and made the first move.
Manny taking care of Junior like his own made me cry a little because Juan Carlos would never do that. Manny’s mother trying to set both Manny and Isa up had me laughing. Telling Manny how good Isa has been looking and bringing up the crush he had on her ever since they were small just had me giggling.
This novella reminded me of how much the community was always together, despite whatever we all went through.
Also, having La Virgencita on La Pepto Bisbol (Lowrider) made me happy cry because she’s so MOTHERING. The ending had me barking and crying at the same time.
Overall, this book has a special place in my heart. The characters, family, friendships, chisme and the Latino community.
Thank you for this opportunity to read this amazing novella. But most importantly, thank you for representing and reminding me about being a proud Latina in these tough times.
Make sure you grab a copy and add it to your GoodReads. If you’d like to read it, I highly recommend it!
Manny, the MMC, is a total sweetheart. He’s head over heels in love with Isa, but his love for his family, Isa, and Junior makes my heart warm. Taking Isa for some chipotle tacos and bogo margaritas was so real. But what happened after had me screaming with happiness like finally! My girl Isa put on her big chingona pants and made the first move.
Manny taking care of Junior like his own made me cry a little because Juan Carlos would never do that. Manny’s mother trying to set both Manny and Isa up had me laughing. Telling Manny how good Isa has been looking and bringing up the crush he had on her ever since they were small just had me giggling.
This novella reminded me of how much the community was always together, despite whatever we all went through.
Also, having La Virgencita on La Pepto Bisbol (Lowrider) made me happy cry because she’s so MOTHERING. The ending had me barking and crying at the same time.
Overall, this book has a special place in my heart. The characters, family, friendships, chisme and the Latino community.
Thank you for this opportunity to read this amazing novella. But most importantly, thank you for representing and reminding me about being a proud Latina in these tough times.
Make sure you grab a copy and add it to your GoodReads. If you’d like to read it, I highly recommend it!
August 7, 2025
Friends-to-lovers? YES
Divorced single mom finding her spark again? YES
Sass, and serious heart? YES AND YES
Isabel and Manny’s story is short, sweet, and so relatable. If you’ve ever loved, lost, or just needed a good laugh and a second chance, you’ll feel this one.
Spicy. Funny.
💋 Add it to your TBR ASAP.
Divorced single mom finding her spark again? YES
Sass, and serious heart? YES AND YES
Isabel and Manny’s story is short, sweet, and so relatable. If you’ve ever loved, lost, or just needed a good laugh and a second chance, you’ll feel this one.
Spicy. Funny.
💋 Add it to your TBR ASAP.
September 16, 2025
This is a first Haunt Girl Nix book for me and the one word to describe this book is... Nostalgic!
A story about Isabella having to return home after her divorce; starting fresh and finding out who she really is. Later finding out that Manny her childhood friend and son's padrino has alway been in love with her.
A must read if you want to know how they navigate to their HEA...
Very Relatable:
- I'm from South Texas...
- Precious Moments... No joke it was the theme at my wedding. I still have a ton of figurines boxed up.
- Walter Mercado blasting through my grandmother house...
- Carne Asadas on the weekends - turning into our modern Sunday Fundays.
- Selena Effect - Our kids they can sing it like a pro, but cannot carry a conversation to save their life.
- And Isa's mom... I had the same issue with mine, giving away money she didn't have...
- Famous last words "cuando tengas hijos te vas recordar de mi"
- And we can't forget about the altar of Saints... 😜 In which we all still have.
A story about Isabella having to return home after her divorce; starting fresh and finding out who she really is. Later finding out that Manny her childhood friend and son's padrino has alway been in love with her.
A must read if you want to know how they navigate to their HEA...
Very Relatable:
- I'm from South Texas...
- Precious Moments... No joke it was the theme at my wedding. I still have a ton of figurines boxed up.
- Walter Mercado blasting through my grandmother house...
- Carne Asadas on the weekends - turning into our modern Sunday Fundays.
- Selena Effect - Our kids they can sing it like a pro, but cannot carry a conversation to save their life.
- And Isa's mom... I had the same issue with mine, giving away money she didn't have...
- Famous last words "cuando tengas hijos te vas recordar de mi"
- And we can't forget about the altar of Saints... 😜 In which we all still have.
January 20, 2026
4.5/5 stars
As an avid sad book reader, this is exactly what I needed. It’s very rare for a book to have me all giddy while reading, but I was eating this story up! This is a book about childhood friends with a second chance romance, the complexities of co-parenting and family dynamics, and Chicano representation. I didn’t want this story to end and would love to read another book to see how Isa and Manny are doing a few years later. Plus, I think we all deserve a Manny in our lives 🥹
As an avid sad book reader, this is exactly what I needed. It’s very rare for a book to have me all giddy while reading, but I was eating this story up! This is a book about childhood friends with a second chance romance, the complexities of co-parenting and family dynamics, and Chicano representation. I didn’t want this story to end and would love to read another book to see how Isa and Manny are doing a few years later. Plus, I think we all deserve a Manny in our lives 🥹
August 7, 2025
I enjoy reading books that I can relate to culturally. This book had me laughing and made me feel the butterflies. It happens to be that my hubby’s name is también Juan Carlos y una vez I was upset with him and came across reading a line from the book that said “Fuck Juan Carlos” lol. I couldn’t have read it at a more perfect time.
Fue mi primer book from her and would recommend it to all my amigas. Can’t wait to read more.
Fue mi primer book from her and would recommend it to all my amigas. Can’t wait to read more.
November 3, 2025
everything i woulda wanted from a 2025 independently published romcom novella tbh, bonus for the exceptional cover art!
June 19, 2025
I loved it! First off the writing was 👌. It kept me engaged and wanting to read more. I liked how the characters were relatable as well. I can’t wait to check out more from the Author. I definitely recommend!
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 7, 2025
I love the book cover to this book!
It was super short, it was cute. It gave me on the block vibes!
It was super short, it was cute. It gave me on the block vibes!
August 24, 2025
Broooo, this book! It’s an amazing story, the culture, the pride, and the beauty of our language. Loved!
July 15, 2025
I loved this one! I particularly loved the chicano representation, it was perfectly executed and just felt so natural and real. Here are some tropes within this story:
🩷 second chance romance
🩷 single mom
🩷 chicano rep
🩷 childhood friends
This novella follows Isabella and her preteen son, Junior, as they are forced to move back home to Corpus Christi following Isabella’s divorce from her son’s father. While back home, she attempts to avoid (unsuccessfully) her childhood friend Manny, who happens to have had a huge crush on her since they were kids.
This story was so sweet and funny! It had many relatable moments and sayings/phrases. As a mexican-american myself I felt so seen. If you’re in the mood for a novela but don’t want to sit through thousands of episodes, then consider picking this story up, I definitely recommend.
Also, this story made me want to cruise down Whittier Blvd in a low rider with my oldies playing in the background. IFYKYK.
🩷 second chance romance
🩷 single mom
🩷 chicano rep
🩷 childhood friends
This novella follows Isabella and her preteen son, Junior, as they are forced to move back home to Corpus Christi following Isabella’s divorce from her son’s father. While back home, she attempts to avoid (unsuccessfully) her childhood friend Manny, who happens to have had a huge crush on her since they were kids.
This story was so sweet and funny! It had many relatable moments and sayings/phrases. As a mexican-american myself I felt so seen. If you’re in the mood for a novela but don’t want to sit through thousands of episodes, then consider picking this story up, I definitely recommend.
Also, this story made me want to cruise down Whittier Blvd in a low rider with my oldies playing in the background. IFYKYK.
October 12, 2025
Cute. Felt very high schoolish romance rather than adults.
July 12, 2025
TROPES
~Childhood friends
~Second chance Romance
~Single Mom
~Chicano representation
~ Rom Com.
~loss of a parent dry
ARC Review
PATRON SAINT OF PENDEJAS
5 🌟 READ
Thank you NIX MURGUIA for the opportunity to send me your ARC review Patron Saint Of Pendejas. Girl, I ate up this book in one day.
Meet our two main characters Manny and Isabel. After a nasty divorce Isabel forced to move back to Corpus Christi with her mother and her pre-teen son Junior. Isabel still has fear of failure lurking in the back of her mind. Isa trying hard not to make mistakes, and not let it define who she is as a person.
As her mother's bills begin to pile up. Isa must find a way to help her cover for her mothers debt. Her mother suggests she gets in touch with her Childhood friend Manny to help repair her Father's car. Manny has always had strong feelings for Isabel but never had the guts to pour his feels for her.
A gym Gym membership, a car show, and Quinceanera brings them close together ❤️. I love Second chance romances this book was such a fast novela. I found the perfect Chicano Culture I was looking for!! I couldn't stop laughing how she brought out Rudy Velencia story 🤣 along with thr expression from the Takauache Tribe meaning "Si Quema cuh."
For the spice I give it 5 stars! thank you NIX for giving me the opportunity to be your ARC reader 🙏.
~Childhood friends
~Second chance Romance
~Single Mom
~Chicano representation
~ Rom Com.
~loss of a parent dry
ARC Review
PATRON SAINT OF PENDEJAS
5 🌟 READ
Thank you NIX MURGUIA for the opportunity to send me your ARC review Patron Saint Of Pendejas. Girl, I ate up this book in one day.
Meet our two main characters Manny and Isabel. After a nasty divorce Isabel forced to move back to Corpus Christi with her mother and her pre-teen son Junior. Isabel still has fear of failure lurking in the back of her mind. Isa trying hard not to make mistakes, and not let it define who she is as a person.
As her mother's bills begin to pile up. Isa must find a way to help her cover for her mothers debt. Her mother suggests she gets in touch with her Childhood friend Manny to help repair her Father's car. Manny has always had strong feelings for Isabel but never had the guts to pour his feels for her.
A gym Gym membership, a car show, and Quinceanera brings them close together ❤️. I love Second chance romances this book was such a fast novela. I found the perfect Chicano Culture I was looking for!! I couldn't stop laughing how she brought out Rudy Velencia story 🤣 along with thr expression from the Takauache Tribe meaning "Si Quema cuh."
For the spice I give it 5 stars! thank you NIX for giving me the opportunity to be your ARC reader 🙏.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 2, 2025
4. 5 Stars!!!!
This book was recommended by the Booktoker Questionable Reads. She said it was a very cute romcom that she didn't know she needed in her life.
I'm here to say she was NOT lying because the joy, butterflies, and over all happy feels I got from this story was the highlight of my week.
This is a childhood best friends, second chance, single mom love story.
Isa moves back home after catching her husband cheating on her and honestly, she felt relieved to have a reason to leave. Now she's living with her mom and fresh out the pen brother where she has no privacy and is trying to help her mom out of the medical debt from her father's passing.
Manny has been in love with Isa since he was a kid. Sadly, he fumbled his chance during her Quince and lost her to the new boy in town who also adopted him as a friend and asked him to be the god father of their baby together.
Now that Isa is back with her pre-teen son, Manny has stepped in to be the best god father and sadly father substitute that Junior needs and now that he has confidence and a new sexy body, he wants to shoot his shot at Isa.
Again, the butterflies, the adorableness of these two. We get both POVs and it's soo fun seeing them both process their feelings, make moves at the encouragement of their family, and still be in denial when things start to heat up. It's cute that they think they can hide anything in a close-knit community where the church is basically a group chat.
For me the best part was Isa discovering herself sexually because while YES, she had been married, it was clear that she and Juan Carlos kept things very vanilla and he sheltered her from all the good things.
This book isn't spicy but it's satisfying and lighthearted. It will leave you with a smile and if you are single, it may leave you with a bit of hope and a desire to give the nice guy a shot.
This book was recommended by the Booktoker Questionable Reads. She said it was a very cute romcom that she didn't know she needed in her life.
I'm here to say she was NOT lying because the joy, butterflies, and over all happy feels I got from this story was the highlight of my week.
This is a childhood best friends, second chance, single mom love story.
Isa moves back home after catching her husband cheating on her and honestly, she felt relieved to have a reason to leave. Now she's living with her mom and fresh out the pen brother where she has no privacy and is trying to help her mom out of the medical debt from her father's passing.
Manny has been in love with Isa since he was a kid. Sadly, he fumbled his chance during her Quince and lost her to the new boy in town who also adopted him as a friend and asked him to be the god father of their baby together.
Now that Isa is back with her pre-teen son, Manny has stepped in to be the best god father and sadly father substitute that Junior needs and now that he has confidence and a new sexy body, he wants to shoot his shot at Isa.
Again, the butterflies, the adorableness of these two. We get both POVs and it's soo fun seeing them both process their feelings, make moves at the encouragement of their family, and still be in denial when things start to heat up. It's cute that they think they can hide anything in a close-knit community where the church is basically a group chat.
For me the best part was Isa discovering herself sexually because while YES, she had been married, it was clear that she and Juan Carlos kept things very vanilla and he sheltered her from all the good things.
This book isn't spicy but it's satisfying and lighthearted. It will leave you with a smile and if you are single, it may leave you with a bit of hope and a desire to give the nice guy a shot.
July 20, 2025
4.5/5 ⭐️
🌶️
Isabela’a life was turned upside down when she caught her husband Juan Carlos in bed with their landlord. She uprooted her whole life along with her son Junior and moved back to her childhood home with her mom in Corpus Christi. In the year that follows she’s finally finished her RN degree and is starting a new job, she’s also managed to avoid her childhood best friend Manny for a year, but given her moms financial situation Isabela has to leave her pride behind and ask Manny for help.
I absolutely loved this novella. It was refreshing to read and have the Mexican Chicano culture represented in a positive way while also staying pretty true to the chola/o culture with low riders, music, and food.
Isabela was a chola retirada who got her life together and moved up the medical ladder went from CNA to RN while facing divorce and raising a son. Her character development while it may seem almost unnoticeable it was a good. Her character was angry and embarrassed of how her life imploded but little by little she opened up especially with Manny.
Manny was honestly my favorite character. He’s hilarious and so sweet. His love for junior was so perfect. Rather than letting junior feel bad that his father stopped showing up to pick ups Manny switched it up gave his godson a room in his home and showed him what it was supposed to be to be loved by a father figure. He helps Isabela understand that Junior is hurt by this act of his father BUT as his godfather it’s his job to make him feel loved.
The pinning Manny does over Isabela is so cute. This man has had the hots for this woman his whole life and he’s finally willing to do something about it.
I loved this novella over all it was a pallet cleanser, funny, great representation of the culture, and just a great fucking time!!
🌶️
Isabela’a life was turned upside down when she caught her husband Juan Carlos in bed with their landlord. She uprooted her whole life along with her son Junior and moved back to her childhood home with her mom in Corpus Christi. In the year that follows she’s finally finished her RN degree and is starting a new job, she’s also managed to avoid her childhood best friend Manny for a year, but given her moms financial situation Isabela has to leave her pride behind and ask Manny for help.
I absolutely loved this novella. It was refreshing to read and have the Mexican Chicano culture represented in a positive way while also staying pretty true to the chola/o culture with low riders, music, and food.
Isabela was a chola retirada who got her life together and moved up the medical ladder went from CNA to RN while facing divorce and raising a son. Her character development while it may seem almost unnoticeable it was a good. Her character was angry and embarrassed of how her life imploded but little by little she opened up especially with Manny.
Manny was honestly my favorite character. He’s hilarious and so sweet. His love for junior was so perfect. Rather than letting junior feel bad that his father stopped showing up to pick ups Manny switched it up gave his godson a room in his home and showed him what it was supposed to be to be loved by a father figure. He helps Isabela understand that Junior is hurt by this act of his father BUT as his godfather it’s his job to make him feel loved.
The pinning Manny does over Isabela is so cute. This man has had the hots for this woman his whole life and he’s finally willing to do something about it.
I loved this novella over all it was a pallet cleanser, funny, great representation of the culture, and just a great fucking time!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 19, 2025
You know a book is good when you get kicked out of your own bedroom because you’re laughing, squealing, and gasping like it’s a full-on telenovela. This book was too funny, too sweet, and way too real, I had zero chill. In my husband’s defense, he had an early morning meeting. Usually, he can sleep through my late night reading chaos.
First off, the Chicano representation is 10 out of 10; wonderful to see.
From the book title to the chapter titles, it is all pure gold. Saying I loved it is an understatement. The characters were relatable AF, and reading this made me feel not only nostalgic but deeply connected to my Hispanic side. From the Spanglish to all the Hispanic and other Latino cultural references like Walter Mercado (I could hear his catchphrase “pero sobre todo, mucho, pero mucho Amooor”) and the antics, you can only get at a Mexican household/neighborhood. This book hits home.
Isabel and Manny’s relationship was a blast to follow. I love their story. The two of them just make sense, because their connection is authentic. TODAS necesitan un Manny in their life: a true friend and better half right there. Their growth from friends (and compadres) to lovers is the sweetest. They missed their chance at young love, but the second time around was solid for these two.
Between the laugh-out-loud moments (“¡Qué barbaridad, Rudy Valencia!” and “menudo-flavored face cream” IYKYK) and the sweet, heartfelt scenes, this short novella hit all the right notes.
I can’t wait to read the next book in the “Chismosas Chronicles”. It is official: I’m hooked!
Thank you so much, Nix Murguia, for the ARC.
All opinions are my own.
First off, the Chicano representation is 10 out of 10; wonderful to see.
From the book title to the chapter titles, it is all pure gold. Saying I loved it is an understatement. The characters were relatable AF, and reading this made me feel not only nostalgic but deeply connected to my Hispanic side. From the Spanglish to all the Hispanic and other Latino cultural references like Walter Mercado (I could hear his catchphrase “pero sobre todo, mucho, pero mucho Amooor”) and the antics, you can only get at a Mexican household/neighborhood. This book hits home.
Isabel and Manny’s relationship was a blast to follow. I love their story. The two of them just make sense, because their connection is authentic. TODAS necesitan un Manny in their life: a true friend and better half right there. Their growth from friends (and compadres) to lovers is the sweetest. They missed their chance at young love, but the second time around was solid for these two.
Between the laugh-out-loud moments (“¡Qué barbaridad, Rudy Valencia!” and “menudo-flavored face cream” IYKYK) and the sweet, heartfelt scenes, this short novella hit all the right notes.
I can’t wait to read the next book in the “Chismosas Chronicles”. It is official: I’m hooked!
Thank you so much, Nix Murguia, for the ARC.
All opinions are my own.
July 28, 2025
A childhood friends to lovers romcom
After a messy split from her high school sweetheart turned son’s father, turned cheating husband, Isabel moves back home with her mom to rebuild her life and get some stability for her preteen son. She joins a gym, attends a quinceañera, and tries her best to provide for her family as well as help dig her mother out of debt all the while avoiding her childhood compadre, Manny, out of embarrassment.
Manny has always loved Isabel. And because of one moment back in high school, he missed the chance with the girl and they’ve remained friends. After finally reconnecting over funny stories and Tacos love starts to bloom for these 2. Will they get their second chance and will Manny finally get the girl he’s always longed to be with??
This novella was so much fun!! Patron Saint of Pendejas is a childhood friends to lovers novella filled with hilarity, heartfelt moments, and cultural richness. The author did such a fantastic job at capturing true Chicano culture, the foods, the “chisme” and the comfort and chaos of returning home and finding yourself again after heartbreak. Isabel is a relatable FMC with flaws and a fantastic sense of humor and Manny??? Aw Manny.. such a soft-hearted MMC who will make you smile. Their chemistry slowly built throughout the novella and turned into something so beautiful. I loved every moment and can’t wait to read more from the Chismosa Chronicles. This novella was short and satisfying and I definitely recommend! 5 stars!!
After a messy split from her high school sweetheart turned son’s father, turned cheating husband, Isabel moves back home with her mom to rebuild her life and get some stability for her preteen son. She joins a gym, attends a quinceañera, and tries her best to provide for her family as well as help dig her mother out of debt all the while avoiding her childhood compadre, Manny, out of embarrassment.
Manny has always loved Isabel. And because of one moment back in high school, he missed the chance with the girl and they’ve remained friends. After finally reconnecting over funny stories and Tacos love starts to bloom for these 2. Will they get their second chance and will Manny finally get the girl he’s always longed to be with??
This novella was so much fun!! Patron Saint of Pendejas is a childhood friends to lovers novella filled with hilarity, heartfelt moments, and cultural richness. The author did such a fantastic job at capturing true Chicano culture, the foods, the “chisme” and the comfort and chaos of returning home and finding yourself again after heartbreak. Isabel is a relatable FMC with flaws and a fantastic sense of humor and Manny??? Aw Manny.. such a soft-hearted MMC who will make you smile. Their chemistry slowly built throughout the novella and turned into something so beautiful. I loved every moment and can’t wait to read more from the Chismosa Chronicles. This novella was short and satisfying and I definitely recommend! 5 stars!!
June 30, 2025
“I want to show you that with me, all your dreams are coming true.”
I have one word: Damn!!!
Isabella, aka Isa and Manuel aka Manny, are childhood besties and compadres. When Isa divorces and moves back home with her son Junior, she feels embarrassed and as a failure. Manny steps in to help coparent his godson, Junior.
Manny has been in love with Isa since they were kids. Isa's mom is drowning in debt, and Isa has to ask Manny to help repair her dads old car in order to sell it. Spending time together again, feelings and desires surface quickly. If Isa wants her situation with Manny to develop into something more than a friendship, she has to figure out how to let go of her pride and the what ifs.
Isa's ex is selfish and never there for his son. He made me so angry, and my heart just hurt for Junior. I love the way Nix wrote Isa's character. Her feelings and concern were written perfectly, so real as a single mom.
Isa and Junior deserved the world, a man who would be there and love them. Manny is the man for the job! His biggest flaw was trying to protect Junior while loving Isa.
I couldn't get enough of Isa and Manny. Nix, you out did yourself with Patron Saint of Pendejas! I laughed so much, and at times, my heart did ache. This is a solid ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️+++. It is a slow burn, but when the spice finally hits. Nix has a way of writing those spicy scenes with all that sneaking around Isa and Manny did. He definitely made sure to show her how much he needed her🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶.
I have one word: Damn!!!
Isabella, aka Isa and Manuel aka Manny, are childhood besties and compadres. When Isa divorces and moves back home with her son Junior, she feels embarrassed and as a failure. Manny steps in to help coparent his godson, Junior.
Manny has been in love with Isa since they were kids. Isa's mom is drowning in debt, and Isa has to ask Manny to help repair her dads old car in order to sell it. Spending time together again, feelings and desires surface quickly. If Isa wants her situation with Manny to develop into something more than a friendship, she has to figure out how to let go of her pride and the what ifs.
Isa's ex is selfish and never there for his son. He made me so angry, and my heart just hurt for Junior. I love the way Nix wrote Isa's character. Her feelings and concern were written perfectly, so real as a single mom.
Isa and Junior deserved the world, a man who would be there and love them. Manny is the man for the job! His biggest flaw was trying to protect Junior while loving Isa.
I couldn't get enough of Isa and Manny. Nix, you out did yourself with Patron Saint of Pendejas! I laughed so much, and at times, my heart did ache. This is a solid ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️+++. It is a slow burn, but when the spice finally hits. Nix has a way of writing those spicy scenes with all that sneaking around Isa and Manny did. He definitely made sure to show her how much he needed her🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶.
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