We’re trying something new! And a little unhinged.
Over the course of the year, Sarah and I would suggest silly categories based on trends we’ve seen this year, gripes in the comments, or just general nonsense that came into our brains. Thus the unhinged bingo card was born.
The 2025 Unhinged Romance Bingo begins today and will conclude on March 20, 2026.
Please save the image to use on your own or click on it for a larger version! If you’d like to share on social media, please use the hashtag #SBTBingo so we can see how your card is coming along! Participants who complete at least one bingo are eligible to win a box of books, though there won’t be any stickers for this one.
Here are some explainers for categories that feel less than obvious:
- Start Mid-Series: For when a series is mostly standalones and you can dip in anywhere. This is not meant for continuing a series you’re already in the middle of.
- Swiss Army Knife Character: Coined in the comments by Mikey! This refers to a character who seems to have so many different jobs and identities. They’re a small business owner but also a vampire but also moonlights as an taxi driver.
- Sprayed Edges: You don’t have to own this version, but any book that has gotten the sprayed edge treatment at some point.
- Social Media Made You Buy It: I’m counting the site (or any other blogs, bookish news, etc.) for this one, as I know many of you avoid social media platforms.
- Romance Meta-ness: A well-known real life author is named or alluded to in the text. I’m including Jane Austen here.
- Am I the Asshole: Any setup or plot moment that could serve well as an “Am I the Asshole” post on reddit.
- A Book in a Book: Any book (even non-romance) where there is a book being written or occurring in tandem with the plot.
These squares are meant to be subjective and up to some interpretation. Sarah and I aren’t going to be sticklers and verify each of your selections. The middle space is a free space, meaning any book will qualify there. Also, please use one book per space. No double dipping!
To submit your card, please fill out this form. Maximum of five entries per person!
Standard disclaimers apply: Void where prohibited. Must be over 18 and ready to read some excellent books. Open to international residents where permitted by applicable law.
The entry form will close the evening of March 20 at 10pm eastern.
If you need further clarification on any of the categories or want to crowdsource reading recommendations, feel free to ask or brainstorm in the comments section!
