ŷ������

Team #15
Captain: Steph Ann

Members:
Steph Ann
Sarah
StephB

Just a Hop, Skip & Click Away
Happy Reading!

Shelf Announcements ~ Check for the latest shelf announcement & review the requirements for each shelf
Captain's Log ~ Share team shelf stats prior to requesting a stamp
Stamp Me! ~ Request a stamp for your bingo card
Discussions ~ Throughout the game, head here to chat with other players & shelf chant til your heart's content
Bingo Rules ~ Rules of the game
Free Space Rules ~ Where to look when pickin' your free space book
Bingo FAQ ~ Don't hesitate! If you have a question, let us know.

Hiya, Team Caps! Thanks for volunteering to guide your team through a round of BookShelf Bingo!

Your job, should you choose to accept it, will require a few things:
1 ~ Be our go-to person should we have any questions about your team
2 ~ Organize your teammate's weekly reads for each shelf/category so that the BSB Ninjas can quickly and easily verify and approve your stamp request(s)
2a ~ Create a master list in a post (preferably on the first page of your team's thread) and update it weekly or as often as necessary
2b ~ Post your team's stats on the Captain's Log prior to requesting a stamp
3 ~ Encourage and motivate your team (you may also ask to borrow Judithe's whip whenever necessary)
4 ~ Post regularly to ensure your team is communicating and on track each week
4a ~ Send them a PM and friendly poke if they haven't posted at least once a week, noted their book choice, and/or appear to have dropped out of webspace
5 ~ Send us a PM (Steph, Sandra or Judithe) should you need us for any reason throughout the game

Link to print a copy of your bingo card:

...

Hi ladies! Glad you were both able to join us. Looking forward to this round. I’m thinking a team name with S’s might be fitting 😊

Master List

Free Space

Sarah: The Inheritance Games by Jennifer Lynn Barnes, 5/12/23, 5 stars, Review
Steph: Death's Rival by Faith Hunter, 4/29/23, 5 stars, Review
Steph Ann: The King's Captive by K.M. Shea, 4/28/23, 4 stars, Review


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Shelf 1 - Detective

Sarah: Battle Ground by Jim Butcher, 5/1/23, 5 stars, Review
Steph: Charms and Death and Explosions (oh my!) by Honor Raconteur, 5/2/23, 3 1/2 stars, Review
Steph Ann: Play Dead by Anne Frasier, 5/1/23, 3 stars, Review


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Shelf 2 - May Day

Sarah: Barbarian Lover by Ruby Dixon, 5/7/23, 4 stars, Review
Steph: Bewicched by Seana Kelly, 5/6/23, 4 stars, Review
Steph Ann: When Sorrows Come by Seanan McGuire, 5/9/23, 4 stars, Review


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Shelf 3 - Cozy Mystery

Sarah: Finlay Donovan Is Killing It by Elle Cosimano, 5/18/23, 4 stars, Review
Steph Guardians of the Pack by Heather G. Harris, 5/15/23, 4 stars, Review
Steph Ann: Hidden by Rebecca Zanetti, 5/17/23, 3.5 stars, Review


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Shelf 4 - Fae

Sarah: Ruthless Fae by Caroline Peckham, 5/24/23, 4 stars, Review
Steph: Crown of Shadows by K.M. Shea, 5/20/23, 4 stars, Review
Steph Ann: Dark Fae by Caroline Peckham, 5/21/23, 3.5 stars, Review


___________________________________________
Shelf 5 - Beware of Bears

Sarah: The Hawthorne Legacy by Jennifer Lynn Barnes, 5/27/23, 5 stars, Review
Steph Grim and Bear It by Juliette Cross, 5/27/23, 4 stars, Review
Steph Ann: The Serpent and the Wings of Night by Carissa Broadbent, 5/31/23, 4 stars, Review


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Shelf 6- Magical Realism

Sarah: Ninth House by Leigh Bardugo, 6/3/23, 5 stars, Review
Steph: Other Birds by Sarah Addison Allen, 6/3/23, 3.5 stars, Review
Steph Ann: The Change by Kirsten Miller, 6/3/23, 4 stars, Review

A little about me: I'm from Illinois. I'm a single mom to three boys, ages 8, 7, 6, and they definitely keep me on my toes, lol. I don't have a lot of spare time, but when I do have some extra time, my go-to relaxation activities are either reading or gaming. Favorite authors include Ilona Andrews and Seanan McGuire/Mira Grant, and if we're talking Contemporary Romance, Pippa Grant and Lucy Score.

I do have a lot of time on my hands at work currently, so I could be captain if no one else wants to be, although I'll be a little late with posting shelves, as it looks like the shelf call will be right when I get off work, so I'll be busy picking up the kids, getting dinner ready, etc.

I'm so glad I'm able to join you both in this game! It's my favorite, and one of the things that keeps me coming back to ŷ������.

I love the idea of a group name with S. And I feel like any time I get the chance to play I end up on a team with a 5 in it lol.

I am in SoCal. I am a Librarian/Branch Manager at a small neighborhood branch. I have been off and on with my reading and am hoping to really get back into it now that I've gotten into the groove of my position. I don't have any kids, but I do have two chihuahua's who require most of my attention per their preference. They like to think they're big dogs most of the time. I don't have a large amount of time for reading, so I tend to get a lot of it done through audiobook, but I want to change that.

As far as Captain, I've been Captain before, and I would be late on shelf announcements. They would happen about 3 PM my time and I get off work at 6 PM on Thursdays. I wouldn't mind splitting Captain duties or being Co-Captains.

Hi ladies! Wow, Steph Ann, I'm guessing your boys keep ya young! My hubby and I are both retired (early after his 23 yrs in the USMC), don't have any kids, but have two kitties (pretty healthy 16 year olds - knock on wood!) who have always been pretty needy. Our boy is a whopping 25 pounds and acts more like a small dog than a big cat. 😆

I'm not really up for being captain, but will certainly have us covered on shelf announcements since I'll be posting them to SOS. 😉 So, if either of you are willing to handle the captain-y duties, I'll share those here on Thursday evenings.

I've not had a lot of luck coming up with a team name with S's. The first thing that came to mind was "One of these is not like the other" b/c of us two Stephs, but that's awfully long.

Did y'all have some team name ideas? I'm easy and happy to go with whatever y'all choose to name us. Here's all I thought of so far:

For three players
Rule of Threes
Three's Company

For team #
Fifteen minutes of fame

Just cuz
Shelf Indulgers
Page Turners
Feeling Shelf-ish
Series Obsessed

Oh and for my FS read, I'm gonna use my one re-read for the game and go with (on SOS bookshelf & BEST OF: UF list):

My mind always goes blank when it comes to trying to think of team names, lol. Of the ones Steph suggested, I really like Shelf Indulgers and Feeling Shelf-ish, although I'm good with whatever everybody else wants.

Things are honestly pretty dead for me at work right now, so I'm totally fine with being Captain, as I have a lot of free time on my hands during the day, lol. That being said, Sarah, if you really want to do it, that's totally fine too. :)

For my FS, I'm going with one off the SOS Bookshelf,

Thanks to whichever of you lovely ladies chooses to be our captain 😊

I keep telling Sandra I’ll return to Shea’s series. Need to do that, maybe during BSB 🤔😊

Game on ��
Shelf #1 ~27 April: Detective
DIRECT LINK(s) ~ a character who is a detective or police officer; series or title contains “Detective�� -or- Paranormal Detective/Detectives

I’m gonna read

I'm loving both and Henri in

Lucky, lucky people getting to read my favorites! Bwahhhhhhh

I'm going to read from the Paranormal Detectives list.

I like Shelf Indulgers also!

I have noticed that I probably won't be as quick to post as I thought I would in the beginning so I don't think I'd be very good at being Captain. Steph Ann, would you be okay doing it?

For Paranormal Detectives I'm going to read Battle Ground by Jim Butcher from the list.

For Free Space I'll be reading The Inheritance Games by Jennifer Lynn Barnes, it's on the SOS Bookshelf.

Shelf Indulgers added.

And Steph Ann added you to Steph's list for Captains :)

Steph Ann wrote: "I'm going to read from the Paranormal Detectives list."

I just finished reading this one....hope you enjoy...a good read....

I'm totally fine being captain! I'm busy this morning working my second job, but I'll get a master list going later today!! :)

Dang, y'all, GR didn't send me any emails about your posts. Either way, sorry to have not checked in sooner. If ya don't see me, don't worry, I'm not bailing on ya 😉

I've finished my FS read and am a bit into my #1 shelf book. I'll have my FS review up before too long. Hope y'all are liking your reads!

Like the name and appreciate you taking over as cap, Steph Ann.

Death's Rival by Faith Hunter
Series: Jane Yellowrock #5
Shelf #: Free Space (on BEST OF: UF list and bookshelf; my one re-read for this round)
Read: 29 Apr
Rating: ★★★★��

My Reviews:
Because this is re-read (first read ~11 years ago) and I thoroughly reviewed the book's happenings in my initial review, I'll take this time to say, DAMN, I love this series and I'm so sad it's over. One of the best aspects of this series is the growth of Jane's character. Faith introduces some of the most intriguing side characters throughout. I'm very hopeful she'll create a new spin-off/same-world series; there was mention of a possibility, so YAY!

Quick recap: The consequences of Jane's actions in Raven Cursed come to a head in this installment. Her limits are tested, she takes on some new employees (the Younger Brothers - LOVE!) and her relationships with Rick and Bruiser go through some changes.

Some things noted on my re-read:
1. I remember being sad about the changes in Jane and Rick's relationship initially; now, not so much.
2. I was just as devastated by Leo's (and his "gang's") actions this time as the first time I read it.
3. I love reliving the growth (progresses and setbacks) of Jane and Bruiser's relationship.
4. The Younger brothers! They continue to impress. Jane couldn't have asked for a better team.
5. Re-reading this series will never get old!

Steph wrote: "
Death's Rival by Faith Hunter
Series: Jane Yellowrock #5
Shelf #: Free Space (on BEST OF: UF list and bookshelf; my one re-read fo..."

I agree that it's so great reliving the growth of Jane and Bruiser's relationship when doing rereads of this series. It makes it worth having to go through all the Rick stuff (who I never liked much, lol).

Free Space



The King's Captive by K.M. Shea - found on SOS bookshelf
Date Read 4/28/23
Rating: 4 stars

Review

Well, this was just fun. I decided to pick this up while I was still in the middle of my Detective pick (which I am not clicking with), and I read it in a day. For a first book in a series, I think Shea does a great job of introducing readers to the world without a lot of boring explanations. I was able to pick everything up fairly easily and just lose myself in the world. I really loved all the characters, most especially Aristide and French Fry, who always brought humor whenever one of them showed up. I've already started the second book, although I need to set it aside briefly so I can finish my Detective read. So needless to say, I'm definitely looking forward to continuing the series.

So glad you enjoyed it Steph Ann.

Totally understand the not connecting with your detective book, as I'm having the same problem with mine. Lots of boring explanations.

Steph wrote: "
Death's Rival by Faith Hunter
Series: Jane Yellowrock #5
Shelf #: Free Space (on BEST OF: UF list and bookshelf; my one re-read fo..."


I've been meaning to go back and re-read the series so I can catch up! But then again, I've been saying that about a lot of series LOL! But I'm so glad you're still enjoying it even as a re-read.

Book: Battle Ground by Jim Butcher
Series: The Dresden Files #17
Shelf: Detective
Read: 5.1.23
Rating: ★★★★��
Review:

Holy 5 stars! This book packed quite the punch. I was very resistant to reading this one (i've had it since it released), because Peace Talks was disappointing. This book totally redeems The Dresden Files for me! Essentially, the book is one long Battle, but there is so much more coming together. I have missed Butcher's ability to leave small hints and clues to what could happen or nods to what has happened. I really have no idea where he plans to take this series, but I'm completely back on board. I mean my emotions were all over the place. Since this is so far in to a series, I won't give details. But I really really recommend this series for anyone interested in Urban Fantasy, even without the mystery element. I know I'll be waiting forever for the next book, but hopefully not too long.

I liked Rick well enough on my first read through, but he quickly lost this shine. I like him better in his role in her Soulwood series.

Glad you liked Shea's book. I need to return to her magical world soon.

Sarah, you should join us for our SOS Series Re/Read of JY. 😁 We're reading one book a month this year.

Glad you enjoyed your book, too. My hubby likes Dresden, I never really got into it, but did watch the failed TV show.

Shelf 1 - Detective



Play Dead by Anne Frasier
Date Read: 5/1/23
Rating: 3 stars

Review

I'm honestly not quite sure what to say about this one. I thought the premise of the story sounded intriguing but ended up not really connecting with the story until maybe the 70 percent mark. I can't even specify what it was specifically that I wasn't liking in the majority of the book, which is making this review really hard to write. I just felt kind of "meh" about the whole thing. I bumped my rating up to 3 stars from 2 because I did finally connect with it enough to enjoy the last 30 percent or so of the book, and it did keep me guessing until the end. I haven't decided yet if I'm going to continue the series. I've put it on my TBR just in case, as I usually like to try and give a pass to the 1st book in a series because they aren't always the best representation of what the series ends up becoming.

Steph Ann wrote: "Shelf 1 - Detective



Play Dead by Anne Frasier
Date Read: 5/1/23
Rating: 3 stars

Review

I'm honestly not quite sure what to say ab..."

It's always disappointing when you think you've found a good one and it doesn't live up to your expectations.

Steph wrote: "I liked Rick well enough on my first read through, but he quickly lost this shine. I like him better in his role in her Soulwood series.

Glad you liked Shea's book. I need to return to her magical..."

Maybe I will! I couldn't find an audiobook that was really calling to me, so I might as well go with JY since I have I think 8 or 9 and they've just been in my Audible library. I get too caught up in checking out audiobooks from libraries that I forget I have ones I haven't listened to yet. I started the first one this morning, it'll be my third go around with it.

Sarah wrote: "Steph Ann wrote: "Shelf 1 - Detective



Play Dead by Anne Frasier
Date Read: 5/1/23
Rating: 3 stars

Review

I'm honestly not quite s..."

Yes! And I've read others by her and enjoyed them, so I'm not sure what didn't click with this one.

Sarah wrote: "It's always disappointing when you think you've found a good one and it doesn't live up to your expectations."

That's the worst! 😝

Sarah wrote: "I started the first one this morning, it'll be my third go around with it."

Aw man, hope third time's the charm 🤞🏼 For me, it got better with each book, though you're not alone with not being able to stick with it. Every book can't be for every one, for sure.

My 'detective' book review upcoming.

Charms and Death and Explosions (oh my!) by Honor Raconteur
Series: The Case Files of Henri Davenforth #2
Shelf #1: Detective (character is a detective or police officer)
Read: 2 May
Rating: ★★★��

My Review:

"Angry women often change the world."

Both Case Files of Henri Davenforth have been an entertaining read. This one fell a little short for me in one aspect only - the case was only ultimately solved (view spoiler)[because one of the culprits turned himself in out of guilt (hide spoiler)]. The team worked so bloody hard to care for those in the aftermath and hunt down the culprits, I wanted them to solve it via that hard work. Additionally, I'd thought the anniversary would've had more of a part in the story - was it just Much To Do About Nothing? There was a lot of talk about it approaching, then ... (view spoiler)[ I don't want Jamie to suffer. I hope she really is fine and won't have to bust heads, but she's likely not and this'll likely play out in a larger fashion in future installments, I'd bet. (hide spoiler)]

Aside from that one mystery-solved disappointment, this series continues to be a fun, quirky read. It's odd, though. I find myself surprised whenever a were pops up or there's a reference to the sci-fi "I'm an alien" reality that Jamie faces daily. I get so into the story set in this old-fashioned time period and completely forget that she's not on Earth. I don't know how or why, there are plenty of other references throughout that shouldn't let me forgot it. *shrug*

I am so in love with Clint! I have two cats and what I wouldn't give for them to be able to speak to me. I love that Henri thought of Clint for Jamie. He offers what any support animal does - unconditional love and support during hard times.

I like the growth of Henri's circle, Jamie's protégé Penny, and the always entertaining RM Sherard. Queen Regina is cool, too. The notes Jamie and Henri (and sometimes Sherard) leave to each other in their reports are so cute. I'm enjoying watching this relationship grow and change. Jamie's quite lucky to have such a valued, trusted and supportive group of people in her life.

We're officially ready to request our first stamp! Yay!!

Shelf 1 - Detective

Sarah: Battle Ground by Jim Butcher, 5/1/23, 5 stars, Review
Steph: Charms and Death and Explosions (oh my!) by Honor Raconteur, 5/2/23, 3 1/2 stars, Review
Steph Ann: Play Dead by Anne Frasier, 5/1/23, 3 stars, Review

CONGRATULATIONS, Shelf Indulgers!
We now have an updated BINGO card with a stamp on 'detective'. 

[Our updated BINGO card can be viewed on page 1]

Yay!! :D

In case I forget to mention later, I'll be offline this weekend. I'll be at my niece's wedding.

Steph wrote: "In case I forget to mention later, I'll be offline this weekend. I'll be at my niece's wedding."

Thanks for letting us know!! :)

Congratulations Shelvers!

Thanks, Sandra :)


Okay, ladies, our 2nd shelf is up ...
May Day ~ book released in May of any year; character, title or series name contains "May"; author first or last name begins with M or D

I'm thrilled because I'm itching to start , which came out this week. 😊

🤓

I'm going to go with , which technically would work for either Author last name beginning with M or a character named May. :)

Shelf 2 - May Day

Sarah: Barbarian Lover by Ruby Dixon, 5/7/23, 4 stars, Review
Steph: Bewicched by Seana Kelly, 5/6/23, 4 stars, Review
Steph Ann: When Sorrows Come by Seanan McGuire, 5/9/23, 4 stars, Review

I need to return to that series at some point. I started it (😳 13 years ago) but never returned and can't remember why.

Steph wrote: "I need to return to that series at some point. I started it (😳 13 years ago) but never returned and can't remember why."

I've been slowly making my way through a reread of the series, as it had been a long time since I had picked it up. I'm finally at new-to-me books in the series so I'm excited to read this one!

That's always fun! Hope you enjoy it :)

I am not sure why this was so difficult for me to pick lol. Maybe too many options? This year I'm really trying to work through series I've started so I can complete them.

I'll be going with Learn My Lesson by Katee Robert. Main character name is Meg.

Sorry Sarah that book doesn't work.

book released in May of any year; character, title or series name contains "May"; author first or last name begins with M or D

Character name is Meg not May.

Oh no! My bad, I totally thought it just needed to start with M.

Okay back to the drawing board lol I’ll find another book.