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Bloom
Not yet published
Expected 3 Mar 26
From the
New York Times
bestselling author of If I See You Again Tomorrow comes a delightful and heartwarming novel about family, love, grief, and one precocious houseplant, that reminds us of the beauty of living a life in full Bloom.
Morris Warner is withering away. After the sudden death of his husband, Fred, he has shut himself off from the world. No more going to movies with friends, or swims in Lake Michigan, instead preferring the quiet loneliness of his history books and Jeopardy episodes with only the cat to hear his answers.
Morris’s stepdaughter, Sloan, feels like she has nowhere to grow. She’s about to get married to the man of her dreams, if only her mother will let her actually plan her own wedding and trust her to build her own life after her father’s death.
Jade is drying out. Literally. As a plant in Morris’s home, she and her plant housemates have been slowly wasting away, leaf by falling leaf, since Fred’s death and Morris’s lack of care. She needs to come up with a plan to make her new owner come back to life, no matter what it takes.
New York Times bestselling author Robbie Couch’s Bloom is a wondrous novel where family, love, kindness, and yes, Mother Nature, triumph.
Morris Warner is withering away. After the sudden death of his husband, Fred, he has shut himself off from the world. No more going to movies with friends, or swims in Lake Michigan, instead preferring the quiet loneliness of his history books and Jeopardy episodes with only the cat to hear his answers.
Morris’s stepdaughter, Sloan, feels like she has nowhere to grow. She’s about to get married to the man of her dreams, if only her mother will let her actually plan her own wedding and trust her to build her own life after her father’s death.
Jade is drying out. Literally. As a plant in Morris’s home, she and her plant housemates have been slowly wasting away, leaf by falling leaf, since Fred’s death and Morris’s lack of care. She needs to come up with a plan to make her new owner come back to life, no matter what it takes.
New York Times bestselling author Robbie Couch’s Bloom is a wondrous novel where family, love, kindness, and yes, Mother Nature, triumph.
240 pages, Hardcover
Expected publication March 3, 2026
13 people are currently reading
9242 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
November 30, 2025
READ THIS ONE!
Think A Man Called Ove with a sprinkle of The Guncle.
It’s a long stretch to go from YA stories to writing about a seventy-something widower, his stepdaughter, and a dying plant—but oh boy, Robbie Couch pulled it off. Honestly, I think this might be his best one yet.
I don’t even know where to start. Sloan, the vape-smoking, soon-to-be bride? Morris, a retired teacher who now only talks to his cat since the love of his life, Fred, passed away? Jade, the poor plant slowly dying because she doesn’t get watered anymore? Or the beautiful flawed family at the heart of it all?
This story about relationships and learning to live again is a gem. I loved Sloan. I loved Jade. But Morris, this sweet, sweet man, completely stole my heart.
Robbie Couch, with this one, you’re right up there with Fredrik Backman. And I need more of these kinds of stories, like, yesterday.
Thank you, Gallery Books and NetGalley, for this fantastic ARC!
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Think A Man Called Ove with a sprinkle of The Guncle.
It’s a long stretch to go from YA stories to writing about a seventy-something widower, his stepdaughter, and a dying plant—but oh boy, Robbie Couch pulled it off. Honestly, I think this might be his best one yet.
I don’t even know where to start. Sloan, the vape-smoking, soon-to-be bride? Morris, a retired teacher who now only talks to his cat since the love of his life, Fred, passed away? Jade, the poor plant slowly dying because she doesn’t get watered anymore? Or the beautiful flawed family at the heart of it all?
This story about relationships and learning to live again is a gem. I loved Sloan. I loved Jade. But Morris, this sweet, sweet man, completely stole my heart.
Robbie Couch, with this one, you’re right up there with Fredrik Backman. And I need more of these kinds of stories, like, yesterday.
Thank you, Gallery Books and NetGalley, for this fantastic ARC!
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February 11, 2026 🌸🌷🌻☀️Oh my heavens, this sounds so beautiful🌸🌷🌻☀️ !!!!!!!!
Currently reading
February 10, 2026next arc🪴 and apparently this is very similar to remarkably bright creatures 🥹
September 17, 2025
Actual rating — 4.5 stars, rounded up.
Just … wow.
Robbie Couch‘s first foray into adult fiction is an absolute triumph.
For context — I have read all of Robbie’s work. He is an all-time favorite writer of mine, and an auto-buy author for me. I’m only used to his YA style of writing. The jump from being a YA storyteller to producing a more adult-oriented project seems like it could be a tricky leap, right? Well, he nailed that transition.
The writing is noticeably different. For the first time, Robbie tries his hand at third-person POV, and it worked so well because it gave a lot of room for the writing to breathe and focus on other elements rather than being confined to the “I” format. The prose is more vivid and mature, and it evoked a great deal of emotion.
Interestingly enough, we actually do get some first-person writing — but only from the perspective of Jade, a succulent. A plant narrating part of the story was such a fresh idea that I’ve never come across in a book, and I really enjoyed how innovative that felt.
Bloom is a story about regrowth, self-discovery, grief, and what it means to move from the darkness into the light.
I loved the parallel of the condition of the plants mimicking the emotional state of the characters — it was a great metaphor and plot device that reminded us that without our own sunlight, nourishment, and care, we would also lose our leaves and fall apart.
An incredibly satisfying ending, strong character development (with a focus on relationships), and an engaging plot that elevated the reading experience.
The book is short, but it packs a punch. One that I won’t forget.
A big thank you to NetGalley for a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Bloom is out in March 2026!
Just … wow.
Robbie Couch‘s first foray into adult fiction is an absolute triumph.
For context — I have read all of Robbie’s work. He is an all-time favorite writer of mine, and an auto-buy author for me. I’m only used to his YA style of writing. The jump from being a YA storyteller to producing a more adult-oriented project seems like it could be a tricky leap, right? Well, he nailed that transition.
The writing is noticeably different. For the first time, Robbie tries his hand at third-person POV, and it worked so well because it gave a lot of room for the writing to breathe and focus on other elements rather than being confined to the “I” format. The prose is more vivid and mature, and it evoked a great deal of emotion.
Interestingly enough, we actually do get some first-person writing — but only from the perspective of Jade, a succulent. A plant narrating part of the story was such a fresh idea that I’ve never come across in a book, and I really enjoyed how innovative that felt.
Bloom is a story about regrowth, self-discovery, grief, and what it means to move from the darkness into the light.
I loved the parallel of the condition of the plants mimicking the emotional state of the characters — it was a great metaphor and plot device that reminded us that without our own sunlight, nourishment, and care, we would also lose our leaves and fall apart.
An incredibly satisfying ending, strong character development (with a focus on relationships), and an engaging plot that elevated the reading experience.
The book is short, but it packs a punch. One that I won’t forget.
A big thank you to NetGalley for a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Bloom is out in March 2026!
February 5, 2026
Bloom is a heartfelt literary fiction novel with an elderly queer protagonist at its center, exploring themes of grief, life after loss, family tension, and the possibility of acceptance and forgiveness. This book marks Robbie Couch’s first venture into adult fiction, and it has an A Man Called Ove meets The Guncle vibe. If you’re familiar with Couch’s previous work, you’ll notice a shift to a third-person point of view for much of this book—and it works perfectly here. There are also short chapters narrated in the first-person POV of a talking jade plant, which adds intrigue and charm!
The story follows Morris Warner, a man unraveling after the sudden death of his husband, Fred; his stepdaughter Sloane; and Jade, a talking houseplant. Once lively and extroverted, Morris now lives a reclusive, solitary life, still processing grief and neglecting the home—and the plants—Fred left behind. Sloane is also struggling with planning her wedding while burdened by loss and family expectations that leave her feeling stuck and unseen. Meanwhile, Jade desperately tries to help her human companion “come back to life,” while also trying to save herself and the other plants she converses with by getting the humans to water them and care for them. The novel shifts between these POVs, giving readers a close, often whimsical look at how the lives of all three characters intersect and how each helps the others heal.
This is a character-driven story, and readers will quickly grow to love the main characters and their evolution. It’s refreshing to have an elderly queer protagonist, and Morris’s journey from withdrawal to vulnerability to openness is beautifully portrayed—and will tug at readers’ heartstrings. Meanwhile, Sloane, who has uncertainties about her upcoming wedding and a growing conflict with her mother, reclaims agency over her life and learns to trust her own instincts in ways that feel completely relatable and inspiring. Their relationship, complicated by grief and shared memories of Fred, grows through a series of meaningful experiences—from shopping trips to a gay bar outing to a cinema night out—and becomes the emotional heart of the story. But what makes this book truly unique is the sentient plant, Jade—a delightful narrator whose physical wilting and revival mirror the emotional states of the humans around her. Add in a feline threat and other sentient plants, each with their own personalities and backstories, and the story becomes a whimsical, heartfelt tale that will keep readers turning the pages!
This is a short book at 240 pages (or about 5 ½ hours on audio), and the pacing is gentle but steady. The opening chapters take a bit of time to introduce Morris, Sloane, and the plants’ backstories, but once Morris and Sloane start spending time together, the story gains momentum. Don’t expect major plot twists or confrontational scenes—instead, there are meaningful moments, quiet connections, and realistic situations that challenge the characters. The ending feels true to life, with things still unresolved, but it leaves readers with a sense of renewal and hope, not just for the people, but for the plants too. And it gives off a powerful metaphor for how, even after profound loss, life can bloom again in unexpected ways.
Overall, Bloom is a highly original and compelling exploration of grief, family, and the idea that growth can happen even in the later stages of life—and it marks a very successful transition into adult fiction for Robbie Couch. This book is perfect for readers who love memorable characters, emotional stories about healing and connection, and novels that stay with you long after the final page!
The story follows Morris Warner, a man unraveling after the sudden death of his husband, Fred; his stepdaughter Sloane; and Jade, a talking houseplant. Once lively and extroverted, Morris now lives a reclusive, solitary life, still processing grief and neglecting the home—and the plants—Fred left behind. Sloane is also struggling with planning her wedding while burdened by loss and family expectations that leave her feeling stuck and unseen. Meanwhile, Jade desperately tries to help her human companion “come back to life,” while also trying to save herself and the other plants she converses with by getting the humans to water them and care for them. The novel shifts between these POVs, giving readers a close, often whimsical look at how the lives of all three characters intersect and how each helps the others heal.
This is a character-driven story, and readers will quickly grow to love the main characters and their evolution. It’s refreshing to have an elderly queer protagonist, and Morris’s journey from withdrawal to vulnerability to openness is beautifully portrayed—and will tug at readers’ heartstrings. Meanwhile, Sloane, who has uncertainties about her upcoming wedding and a growing conflict with her mother, reclaims agency over her life and learns to trust her own instincts in ways that feel completely relatable and inspiring. Their relationship, complicated by grief and shared memories of Fred, grows through a series of meaningful experiences—from shopping trips to a gay bar outing to a cinema night out—and becomes the emotional heart of the story. But what makes this book truly unique is the sentient plant, Jade—a delightful narrator whose physical wilting and revival mirror the emotional states of the humans around her. Add in a feline threat and other sentient plants, each with their own personalities and backstories, and the story becomes a whimsical, heartfelt tale that will keep readers turning the pages!
This is a short book at 240 pages (or about 5 ½ hours on audio), and the pacing is gentle but steady. The opening chapters take a bit of time to introduce Morris, Sloane, and the plants’ backstories, but once Morris and Sloane start spending time together, the story gains momentum. Don’t expect major plot twists or confrontational scenes—instead, there are meaningful moments, quiet connections, and realistic situations that challenge the characters. The ending feels true to life, with things still unresolved, but it leaves readers with a sense of renewal and hope, not just for the people, but for the plants too. And it gives off a powerful metaphor for how, even after profound loss, life can bloom again in unexpected ways.
Overall, Bloom is a highly original and compelling exploration of grief, family, and the idea that growth can happen even in the later stages of life—and it marks a very successful transition into adult fiction for Robbie Couch. This book is perfect for readers who love memorable characters, emotional stories about healing and connection, and novels that stay with you long after the final page!
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
A believable story narrated by a plant!
In the acknowledgments at the end of Bloom author Robbie Couch says he wondered who would want to read “a book about a houseplant that finds a way to help its grieving human bloom again”. My reaction was, who could resist it?
As you might expect from this summary and from the fact that the plant Jade is the narrator, this book gave me a lot of smiles, even when Jade and others are facing serious problems. For example, Jade alerts readers not to be fooled by the fact that he is only two years old and stresses his maturity, in contrast to two-year-old Sapiens (humans), whom he describes as ornery menaces who demand respect while defecating relentlessly.
Jade is worried that he will die because of the lack of care from his Sapien, but Jade’s Sapien Morris is suffering serious grief from the loss of his husband Fred and is neglecting a lot. Meanwhile, Fred’s daughter Sloan is eagerly looking forward to marrying her fiancé Todd but is struggling with interference in the wedding planning from her aunt Angela and her mother Beth, who is still grieving the death of her former husband and had never recovered from the fact that Fred left her for a MAN. A big issue is who will walk Sloan down the aisle at the wedding, a mundane but real problem.
The characters in the book, including Jade, are all believable and sympathetic. If you are a bit concerned, as I was, about the categorizing of the book as LGBT and thought it might dominate the book, be reassured that Morris’ sexual preferences are not the driving force in most of his life, just as it is only one aspect of the lives of LGBT people I know.
Ordinary people with ordinary problems, but they are described in prose that is far from the ordinary. My kindle has a lot of comments like “I love the writing”.
Apparently this is Couch’s first book for adults; I hope he will write another one soon!
I received an advance review copy of this book from Edelweiss and Simon & Schuster.
In the acknowledgments at the end of Bloom author Robbie Couch says he wondered who would want to read “a book about a houseplant that finds a way to help its grieving human bloom again”. My reaction was, who could resist it?
As you might expect from this summary and from the fact that the plant Jade is the narrator, this book gave me a lot of smiles, even when Jade and others are facing serious problems. For example, Jade alerts readers not to be fooled by the fact that he is only two years old and stresses his maturity, in contrast to two-year-old Sapiens (humans), whom he describes as ornery menaces who demand respect while defecating relentlessly.
Jade is worried that he will die because of the lack of care from his Sapien, but Jade’s Sapien Morris is suffering serious grief from the loss of his husband Fred and is neglecting a lot. Meanwhile, Fred’s daughter Sloan is eagerly looking forward to marrying her fiancé Todd but is struggling with interference in the wedding planning from her aunt Angela and her mother Beth, who is still grieving the death of her former husband and had never recovered from the fact that Fred left her for a MAN. A big issue is who will walk Sloan down the aisle at the wedding, a mundane but real problem.
The characters in the book, including Jade, are all believable and sympathetic. If you are a bit concerned, as I was, about the categorizing of the book as LGBT and thought it might dominate the book, be reassured that Morris’ sexual preferences are not the driving force in most of his life, just as it is only one aspect of the lives of LGBT people I know.
Ordinary people with ordinary problems, but they are described in prose that is far from the ordinary. My kindle has a lot of comments like “I love the writing”.
Apparently this is Couch’s first book for adults; I hope he will write another one soon!
I received an advance review copy of this book from Edelweiss and Simon & Schuster.
September 20, 2025
Absolutely loved this! This novel is a beautifully written exploration of grief, healing, and the messiness that comes with affairs, divorce, and death. I appreciate the unique take on the relationships in this story, There are some unlikeable characters who also grew on me.
I personally didn't love the POV from the plants, but can very much appreciate the way their own plant-health mimicked the mental state of Morris. If you are a fan of Remarkedly Bright Creatures I think you would love this part of the novel.
10/10 would recommend!
I personally didn't love the POV from the plants, but can very much appreciate the way their own plant-health mimicked the mental state of Morris. If you are a fan of Remarkedly Bright Creatures I think you would love this part of the novel.
10/10 would recommend!
September 25, 2025
cry count: llll
December 2, 2025
4 Stars.
It really shouldn’t work to tell part of a story through the eyes (erm…leaves?) of a plant. It’s a risk that could so easily go terribly wrong. But, in this delightful little novel, Robbie Couch has managed to pull it off. It’s due almost entirely to his lovable and relatable characters. Morris (the aging widower), Sloan (the distant stepdaughter), and Jade (the forgotten house plant) are full of heart and very quickly pull you into the story. You can’t help but root for all three of them (no apology for the pun). It’s a quick read, but that doesn’t mean it’s light on emotional connection or deeper ideas.
All three characters are unable to thrive. Morris is hiding himself away from the world, unsure how to go on without his husband. Sloan is constricted by her complicated family and the pressure of her upcoming wedding. And poor Jade is deprived of light and water. Through a series of connected events, each one will attempt to adapt to their new reality, find a way to grow, and fully embrace life.
For readers that aren’t able to grasp the sentient plant idea, this might not be a great experience. There can be a bit of dissonance in the chapters from Jade’s perspective if you begin to think too logically or dissect details. It won’t be for everyone. But, for those of us that are down to let our imaginations wander and to be swept away by adorable characters doing their best to survive in a complex and emotional world, this is a heartwarming story that leaves you feeling like you’ve been wrapped up in a cozy hug.
*Thank you to NetGalley and Gallery Books for an ARC.
It really shouldn’t work to tell part of a story through the eyes (erm…leaves?) of a plant. It’s a risk that could so easily go terribly wrong. But, in this delightful little novel, Robbie Couch has managed to pull it off. It’s due almost entirely to his lovable and relatable characters. Morris (the aging widower), Sloan (the distant stepdaughter), and Jade (the forgotten house plant) are full of heart and very quickly pull you into the story. You can’t help but root for all three of them (no apology for the pun). It’s a quick read, but that doesn’t mean it’s light on emotional connection or deeper ideas.
All three characters are unable to thrive. Morris is hiding himself away from the world, unsure how to go on without his husband. Sloan is constricted by her complicated family and the pressure of her upcoming wedding. And poor Jade is deprived of light and water. Through a series of connected events, each one will attempt to adapt to their new reality, find a way to grow, and fully embrace life.
For readers that aren’t able to grasp the sentient plant idea, this might not be a great experience. There can be a bit of dissonance in the chapters from Jade’s perspective if you begin to think too logically or dissect details. It won’t be for everyone. But, for those of us that are down to let our imaginations wander and to be swept away by adorable characters doing their best to survive in a complex and emotional world, this is a heartwarming story that leaves you feeling like you’ve been wrapped up in a cozy hug.
*Thank you to NetGalley and Gallery Books for an ARC.
November 10, 2025
5 stars
Since I've really liked and even loved every book I've read by Robbie Couch, I expected to enjoy this. But all of the previous books have been YA. Not everyone can cross over as smoothly as we all hope. This? It's spectacular.
This speedy but deeply impactful novel features three perspectives: Jade, Morris, and Sloan. Jade is a houseplant. I am one of those folks who lives in a jungle (there are more than 200 plants inside of my house, not to mention what's happening in every outdoor nook and cranny). I cannot get enough of the basic premise that a houseplant is a narrator and vital character here. Obsessessed. The sapien characters are also pretty great. Morris is Sloan's stepdad. He and her father had an affair immediately before she became a student in a whole year of Morris's high school history course (a decade ago). But like all of those situations, it's complicated. Also, this one took a different turn when the affair turned into a long and serious relationship. After all, in the present day, Morris has outlived his husband: Sloane's dad. Sloane is about to get married, and she has this sudden desire early in the book to reach out to Morris. This is surprising since she's had no contact with him and she - along with the rest of her family - harbors FEELINGS about Morris's role in breaking up her nuclear family. So how will Jade, Morris, and Sloan connect? That's for you to read and for me to get misty over just thinking about.
I anticipate great books from Robbie Couch, but this is on another level. The characters - plants included - are layered and memorable. The relationships teach so much. There's a lot of loss and sadness here, but there is also overwhelming hope. Like all books by this author, there is also meaningful representation.
This is an innovative and touching read that I will be recommending widely. I was a huge fan of this author's on the way in (and special props to my pal Andrew, who sent me a signed book of Couch's not long ago - a prized possession to be sure - I'll cherish it even more now). Now, I've moved from "I really love Couch's books" to "Couch wrote one of my favorite books of this year."
I recommend this book and proper care of your houseplants and hearts.
*Special thanks to NetGalley and Gallery Books for this arc, which is exceptional. I received it in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
Since I've really liked and even loved every book I've read by Robbie Couch, I expected to enjoy this. But all of the previous books have been YA. Not everyone can cross over as smoothly as we all hope. This? It's spectacular.
This speedy but deeply impactful novel features three perspectives: Jade, Morris, and Sloan. Jade is a houseplant. I am one of those folks who lives in a jungle (there are more than 200 plants inside of my house, not to mention what's happening in every outdoor nook and cranny). I cannot get enough of the basic premise that a houseplant is a narrator and vital character here. Obsessessed. The sapien characters are also pretty great. Morris is Sloan's stepdad. He and her father had an affair immediately before she became a student in a whole year of Morris's high school history course (a decade ago). But like all of those situations, it's complicated. Also, this one took a different turn when the affair turned into a long and serious relationship. After all, in the present day, Morris has outlived his husband: Sloane's dad. Sloane is about to get married, and she has this sudden desire early in the book to reach out to Morris. This is surprising since she's had no contact with him and she - along with the rest of her family - harbors FEELINGS about Morris's role in breaking up her nuclear family. So how will Jade, Morris, and Sloan connect? That's for you to read and for me to get misty over just thinking about.
I anticipate great books from Robbie Couch, but this is on another level. The characters - plants included - are layered and memorable. The relationships teach so much. There's a lot of loss and sadness here, but there is also overwhelming hope. Like all books by this author, there is also meaningful representation.
This is an innovative and touching read that I will be recommending widely. I was a huge fan of this author's on the way in (and special props to my pal Andrew, who sent me a signed book of Couch's not long ago - a prized possession to be sure - I'll cherish it even more now). Now, I've moved from "I really love Couch's books" to "Couch wrote one of my favorite books of this year."
I recommend this book and proper care of your houseplants and hearts.
*Special thanks to NetGalley and Gallery Books for this arc, which is exceptional. I received it in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
July 23, 2025
If I have ever recommended books to you, I've definitely mentioned Robbie Couch's name- so you can imagine how excited I was to open an envelope and see Robbie's adult debut, Bloom.
A story told, in part, from the point of view of his deceased husband's houseplants withering away in Morris' living room, Bloom is everything I've know Couch's writing to be: tender, funny, and raw.
This is such a heartfelt look at a family grieving and trying to navigate loss and messy dynamics after a loss while putting themselves back together as life moves on. And then there's Morris. Sweet, withdrawn, Morris looking for small ways to start living and enjoying life again with a little help from his step-daughter and the plants in his home.
Bloom is truly such a lovely, heartfelt debut from Couch that you won't regret picking up!
A story told, in part, from the point of view of his deceased husband's houseplants withering away in Morris' living room, Bloom is everything I've know Couch's writing to be: tender, funny, and raw.
This is such a heartfelt look at a family grieving and trying to navigate loss and messy dynamics after a loss while putting themselves back together as life moves on. And then there's Morris. Sweet, withdrawn, Morris looking for small ways to start living and enjoying life again with a little help from his step-daughter and the plants in his home.
Bloom is truly such a lovely, heartfelt debut from Couch that you won't regret picking up!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
Much like the house plants he is neglecting, Morris Warner is withering away after the loss of his husband. He’s no longer doing the things he enjoys, and can’t bring himself to water the plants that remind him of his late husband, including his prized jade plant. His stepdaughter, Sloan, also feels like she’s stuck, even though she’s about to get married. Sloan gets a radical idea to ask Morris to walk her down the aisle, much to the chagrin of her mother who resents him.
This is a novel about family and grief, with a touch of magical realism (from the perspective of the houseplants!); and it truly was such a beautiful story. The characters are all flawed in their own ways, mostly dealing with the grief of what was lost (a husband, a father, fidelity); and while the central themes revolve around a character that has passed away, it’s deeply moving to see how each of the characters can grow both separate and together. I really appreciated that the main character was the forgotten and inappropriately villainized stepfather, who was otherwise completely cut off from family support. Queerness is both central and completely irrelevant to the grief, adding layers and complexity to Morris and the stepfather/stepdaughter relationship. Throw in the perspective of the favorite house plants that were neglected during depression, and you’ve got a perfect allegory for life. I’d recommend this to anyone!
Reviewed as part of #ARC from #NetGalley. Many thanks to Gallery Books for the #gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
Read this book if you:
🏡 like reading about dysfunctional families and healing from grief
🌀 love a touch of magical realism/anthropomorphizing, similar to Remarkably Bright Creatures
🪴 follow The Plant Daddies or listen to the Plant Daddy Podcast, or just love a cute jade plant
Much like the house plants he is neglecting, Morris Warner is withering away after the loss of his husband. He’s no longer doing the things he enjoys, and can’t bring himself to water the plants that remind him of his late husband, including his prized jade plant. His stepdaughter, Sloan, also feels like she’s stuck, even though she’s about to get married. Sloan gets a radical idea to ask Morris to walk her down the aisle, much to the chagrin of her mother who resents him.
This is a novel about family and grief, with a touch of magical realism (from the perspective of the houseplants!); and it truly was such a beautiful story. The characters are all flawed in their own ways, mostly dealing with the grief of what was lost (a husband, a father, fidelity); and while the central themes revolve around a character that has passed away, it’s deeply moving to see how each of the characters can grow both separate and together. I really appreciated that the main character was the forgotten and inappropriately villainized stepfather, who was otherwise completely cut off from family support. Queerness is both central and completely irrelevant to the grief, adding layers and complexity to Morris and the stepfather/stepdaughter relationship. Throw in the perspective of the favorite house plants that were neglected during depression, and you’ve got a perfect allegory for life. I’d recommend this to anyone!
Reviewed as part of #ARC from #NetGalley. Many thanks to Gallery Books for the #gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
Read this book if you:
🏡 like reading about dysfunctional families and healing from grief
🌀 love a touch of magical realism/anthropomorphizing, similar to Remarkably Bright Creatures
🪴 follow The Plant Daddies or listen to the Plant Daddy Podcast, or just love a cute jade plant
January 26, 2026
3.5⭐️
Listen - this was a perfect snow day book. I read it in 3 hours and now I’m gonna move on to something else.
This was short sweet and to the point. The book description explains the premise well enough. It’s a tale of reconnecting with family after loss and dealing with secrets and grief.
There was nothing particularly profound about this and I’ve read this plot line before, only thing different was the plant “Jade” had feelings and had actually literal chapters dedicated to her. I guess that was interesting. It is interesting that the plants are actually sentient and have their own world and emotions. If the book had been ‘The Secret Life of Pets,’ but with plants, I would’ve eaten that up.
Publication Date: March 3, 2026
‘I’m going to die today. I’m not always certain about things as I am about this, but if there’s one thing that I’ve always been able to trust, it’s whatever my roots are trying to tell me.’
‘The ease from the marijuana begins to slow Sloan’s racing thoughts. And as she lifts the pen to take another hit, the deepest truth floats to the surface: Sloan just wants her mother back.
The mom she had before the affair.’
‘After all, the only thing more embarrassing than lying to your late husband’s daughter about meeting friends at the drive-in is getting caught in the act.’
‘She’ll tell Todd the truth about Morris soon; she just needs to figure out what the truth is first herself.’
‘It’s Oakley, the tree out front, whose branches zigzag the sky in every direction. He, too, is dying. But unlike the three of us, his death has been slow and natural one.v as evidenced by the cracking bark on his ancient trunk. Trees are the wisest of all earth’s flora and rarely engage with mere houseplants like us, so we immediately turn our attention outside.’
Listen - this was a perfect snow day book. I read it in 3 hours and now I’m gonna move on to something else.
This was short sweet and to the point. The book description explains the premise well enough. It’s a tale of reconnecting with family after loss and dealing with secrets and grief.
There was nothing particularly profound about this and I’ve read this plot line before, only thing different was the plant “Jade” had feelings and had actually literal chapters dedicated to her. I guess that was interesting. It is interesting that the plants are actually sentient and have their own world and emotions. If the book had been ‘The Secret Life of Pets,’ but with plants, I would’ve eaten that up.
Publication Date: March 3, 2026
‘I’m going to die today. I’m not always certain about things as I am about this, but if there’s one thing that I’ve always been able to trust, it’s whatever my roots are trying to tell me.’
‘The ease from the marijuana begins to slow Sloan’s racing thoughts. And as she lifts the pen to take another hit, the deepest truth floats to the surface: Sloan just wants her mother back.
The mom she had before the affair.’
‘After all, the only thing more embarrassing than lying to your late husband’s daughter about meeting friends at the drive-in is getting caught in the act.’
‘She’ll tell Todd the truth about Morris soon; she just needs to figure out what the truth is first herself.’
‘It’s Oakley, the tree out front, whose branches zigzag the sky in every direction. He, too, is dying. But unlike the three of us, his death has been slow and natural one.v as evidenced by the cracking bark on his ancient trunk. Trees are the wisest of all earth’s flora and rarely engage with mere houseplants like us, so we immediately turn our attention outside.’
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4.5 ⭐️
BLOOM by Robbie Couch
I was really impressed with this novel. While short, it is packed with some melancholy and sweetness that’s not too saccharine. I would describe it as All the Lonely People crossed with Remarkably Bright Creatures. Morris lost his husband (Sloan’s father) to an illness six months prior, and he’s trying to move on. Sloan is engaged to Todd, and they are trying to plan their wedding while Sloan’s mother and aunt try to hijack the event with their own desires. When Sloan doesn’t like either of the options of the man to walk her down the aisle in place of her father (her brother or her uncle), she impulsively knocks on Morris’s door. Once there she finds Jade, a plant she gave her father that is almost dead since Morris has neglected it, and she moves it to a better spot.
I thought Sloan and her family were very realistic, and even her mom made some character strides during the novel that I wasn’t expecting. This was a fairly unique plot, even when you take out the plant, and I have to give props for that. I did enjoy the plant’s thoughts, but what didn’t land for me was the constant foils for it not being watered. That part got a little repetitive and slapstick-y. All in all, that’s a very small part of the book. Most of the book was Morris, his stepdaughter Sloan, and the family interaction. All of those parts were pitch perfect.
I found this to be a very compelling read and will keep my eye out for other Robbie Couch reads.
Thank you to NetGalley and Gallery Books for an Advance Reader Copy. My review is completely my own.
It publishes March 3, 2026.
BLOOM by Robbie Couch
I was really impressed with this novel. While short, it is packed with some melancholy and sweetness that’s not too saccharine. I would describe it as All the Lonely People crossed with Remarkably Bright Creatures. Morris lost his husband (Sloan’s father) to an illness six months prior, and he’s trying to move on. Sloan is engaged to Todd, and they are trying to plan their wedding while Sloan’s mother and aunt try to hijack the event with their own desires. When Sloan doesn’t like either of the options of the man to walk her down the aisle in place of her father (her brother or her uncle), she impulsively knocks on Morris’s door. Once there she finds Jade, a plant she gave her father that is almost dead since Morris has neglected it, and she moves it to a better spot.
I thought Sloan and her family were very realistic, and even her mom made some character strides during the novel that I wasn’t expecting. This was a fairly unique plot, even when you take out the plant, and I have to give props for that. I did enjoy the plant’s thoughts, but what didn’t land for me was the constant foils for it not being watered. That part got a little repetitive and slapstick-y. All in all, that’s a very small part of the book. Most of the book was Morris, his stepdaughter Sloan, and the family interaction. All of those parts were pitch perfect.
I found this to be a very compelling read and will keep my eye out for other Robbie Couch reads.
Thank you to NetGalley and Gallery Books for an Advance Reader Copy. My review is completely my own.
It publishes March 3, 2026.
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
Thanks to my friends at Gallery Books for sending me an advance copy of this book.
Bloom is the first book of this year that made me cry. This book is a quiet, tender novel that unfolds gently, asking us to sit with grief rather than rush past it. Couch explores loss, emotional neglect, and the multiple and complicated ways people learn to take care of one another — and themselves — with a softness that feels intentional.
This is a story about relationships: the ones that fracture under the weight of grief and losing someone dear and the ones that slowly, awkwardly begin to mend and move forward. The characters feel deeply human, yet flawed in small, recognizable ways, and their growth is subtle rather than dramatic. There’s a comforting realism in how healing is portrayed here, how it’s a messy, uneven, and rarely linear process.
One of the novel’s more unusual narrative choices adds a layer of symbolism that won’t work for everyone, but for me, it underscored the book’s themes beautifully. It reinforces the idea that neglect doesn’t always look loud or cruel; sometimes it’s quiet, unintentional, and rooted in exhaustion or sorrow.
I did find myself wishing certain moments were explored just a little more deeply, particularly toward the end, but that didn’t take away from the warmth the story ultimately delivers.
Bloom is thoughtful, heartfelt, and best suited for readers who appreciate character-driven stories about grief, growth, and learning how to nurture what matters before it withers.
Bloom is the first book of this year that made me cry. This book is a quiet, tender novel that unfolds gently, asking us to sit with grief rather than rush past it. Couch explores loss, emotional neglect, and the multiple and complicated ways people learn to take care of one another — and themselves — with a softness that feels intentional.
This is a story about relationships: the ones that fracture under the weight of grief and losing someone dear and the ones that slowly, awkwardly begin to mend and move forward. The characters feel deeply human, yet flawed in small, recognizable ways, and their growth is subtle rather than dramatic. There’s a comforting realism in how healing is portrayed here, how it’s a messy, uneven, and rarely linear process.
One of the novel’s more unusual narrative choices adds a layer of symbolism that won’t work for everyone, but for me, it underscored the book’s themes beautifully. It reinforces the idea that neglect doesn’t always look loud or cruel; sometimes it’s quiet, unintentional, and rooted in exhaustion or sorrow.
I did find myself wishing certain moments were explored just a little more deeply, particularly toward the end, but that didn’t take away from the warmth the story ultimately delivers.
Bloom is thoughtful, heartfelt, and best suited for readers who appreciate character-driven stories about grief, growth, and learning how to nurture what matters before it withers.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I absolutely adored Bloom. This was such a gentle, comforting, hopeful read—the kind of book that wraps around you like a soft blanket and quietly reminds you that healing is possible, even after the deepest loss.
Robbie Couch tells this story with so much heart. Morris’s grief felt real and tender, Sloan’s struggle to find her own footing was deeply relatable, and I completely fell in love with the unexpected perspective of Jade—the houseplant who gets her own voice in the story. Hearing the world through the eyes (or leaves!) of the plants added such a whimsical, touching layer. What could have felt like a quirky gimmick instead became one of the most meaningful parts of the novel, highlighting how even the smallest, quietest forms of life are affected by love and neglect.
The writing was easy and inviting, with emotional depth that never felt heavy-handed. I loved how the novel explored family, love, and the messy process of learning to live again after everything changes. It’s not just about surviving grief—it’s about choosing connection, choosing joy, and, just like the plants in Morris’s home, finding the courage to grow toward the light again.
This book left me with a full heart and a quiet sense of hope. If you enjoy stories with healing tones, found family, and a touch of everyday magic, I can’t recommend Bloom enough.
Robbie Couch tells this story with so much heart. Morris’s grief felt real and tender, Sloan’s struggle to find her own footing was deeply relatable, and I completely fell in love with the unexpected perspective of Jade—the houseplant who gets her own voice in the story. Hearing the world through the eyes (or leaves!) of the plants added such a whimsical, touching layer. What could have felt like a quirky gimmick instead became one of the most meaningful parts of the novel, highlighting how even the smallest, quietest forms of life are affected by love and neglect.
The writing was easy and inviting, with emotional depth that never felt heavy-handed. I loved how the novel explored family, love, and the messy process of learning to live again after everything changes. It’s not just about surviving grief—it’s about choosing connection, choosing joy, and, just like the plants in Morris’s home, finding the courage to grow toward the light again.
This book left me with a full heart and a quiet sense of hope. If you enjoy stories with healing tones, found family, and a touch of everyday magic, I can’t recommend Bloom enough.
Read
September 13, 2025Morris Warner está apagándose poco a poco tras la muerte repentina de su esposo, Fred. Sus días se han reducido a la soledad de sus libros de historia y a responder en voz baja las preguntas de Jeopardy!, con solo su gato como compañía. Mientras tanto, Sloan, su hijastra, se enfrenta al dolor de haber perdido a su padre y al caos de organizar una boda en la que siente que no tiene voz. Entre la presión de su familia y el vacío que dejó Fred, Sloan busca recuperar un vínculo que la conecte con él.
En medio de este duelo compartido aparece Jade, una planta que Fred cuidaba con tanto cariño y que ahora agoniza en la oscuridad de un rincón. Desde su particular perspectiva, Jade también narra la historia: la de unas raíces que luchan por no secarse, y la de un hogar que necesita volver a florecer. Con ternura, humor y toques de magia, Bloom entrelaza las voces de un hombre roto, una hija perdida y una planta obstinada que se resiste a morir, recordándonos que hasta en la tristeza más profunda siempre hay espacio para la esperanza y la vida.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
En medio de este duelo compartido aparece Jade, una planta que Fred cuidaba con tanto cariño y que ahora agoniza en la oscuridad de un rincón. Desde su particular perspectiva, Jade también narra la historia: la de unas raíces que luchan por no secarse, y la de un hogar que necesita volver a florecer. Con ternura, humor y toques de magia, Bloom entrelaza las voces de un hombre roto, una hija perdida y una planta obstinada que se resiste a morir, recordándonos que hasta en la tristeza más profunda siempre hay espacio para la esperanza y la vida.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I love the concept of this book, and Robbie Couch's writing style is very readable. I enjoyed his voice in his previous book that I read, and I enjoyed it here as well. I read most of this in two days because it was so easy to just keep going. I also found the various relationship dynamics (Morris and Sloan, the plants, Sloan's family, Morris and Elisa) compelling. Overall, I enjoyed the progression of this book.
However, I thought the end wrapped up pretty much everything a little too quickly. There were several scenes that were referenced that did not actually happen on page, which I would have really liked to see, and one particular event that felt like it came out of nowhere (which may have been intentional, but with the other off-page scenes did contribute to making the ending feel unsatisfied). I liked this book, and I still intend to read more Robbie Couch, but I think his YA is stronger.
However, I thought the end wrapped up pretty much everything a little too quickly. There were several scenes that were referenced that did not actually happen on page, which I would have really liked to see, and one particular event that felt like it came out of nowhere (which may have been intentional, but with the other off-page scenes did contribute to making the ending feel unsatisfied). I liked this book, and I still intend to read more Robbie Couch, but I think his YA is stronger.
December 6, 2025
A great read. Loved following the relationship of Warner and Sloan from virtually nonexistent to healing. Particularly Warner, whose visit to Hairy Harry’s is a joyous adventure. The Alumni Lunch also got me particularly weepy.
Couch has such a knack for drawing out the inner lives of characters, in a way that keeps the action moving. One of my favorite writers for works like The Sky Blues and If I See You Again Tomorrow, his sly but compassionate humor for characters is present in this newest read.
At first, Jade’s chapters really threw me for a loop. While I did end appreciating her perspective in the end, her story felt like a distraction from Sloan and Warner to me.
Thanks for the ARC!
Couch has such a knack for drawing out the inner lives of characters, in a way that keeps the action moving. One of my favorite writers for works like The Sky Blues and If I See You Again Tomorrow, his sly but compassionate humor for characters is present in this newest read.
At first, Jade’s chapters really threw me for a loop. While I did end appreciating her perspective in the end, her story felt like a distraction from Sloan and Warner to me.
Thanks for the ARC!
December 23, 2025
Sloan's family baggage is nothing short of complicated-- as she prepares for her wedding, she reconnects with her late father's husband, Morris. The thing that makes it messy? He and Morris were having an affair before he divorced Sloan's mother over a decade ago. Told from both of their perspectives, as well as an observant succulent houseplant named Jade, Bloom is a delightful family dramedy that had me completely invested; I care so much about all of these characters! If you enjoyed Remarkably Bright Creatures or Big Gay Wedding, you will adore Couch's adult debut novel.
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
Won a hard copy in a Goodreads giveaway
DRC from Edelweiss and Gallery Books /Simon & Schuster
Told in multiple POVs, including Jade, a plant. Morris lost his husband, Fred, two years ago. Since then he has been withering away. He no longer sees his friends, he has given away many things in his home, he has shut himself off. Sloan, is engaged and planning a wedding. Fred was her father. He divorsed Sloan's mother and married Morris and caused a huge family rife. Sloan befriends Morris, gets him to come out of his shell, and socialize more. She also wants him to walk her down the aisle. Jade is drying out and dying . Fred was the one who cared for the plants. Morris can't seem to take over.Can these three get what they need? Will Morris learn to live again? Will Morris find a way to save Fred's plants?
Great story about family, kindness, and keeping things alive.
DRC from Edelweiss and Gallery Books /Simon & Schuster
Told in multiple POVs, including Jade, a plant. Morris lost his husband, Fred, two years ago. Since then he has been withering away. He no longer sees his friends, he has given away many things in his home, he has shut himself off. Sloan, is engaged and planning a wedding. Fred was her father. He divorsed Sloan's mother and married Morris and caused a huge family rife. Sloan befriends Morris, gets him to come out of his shell, and socialize more. She also wants him to walk her down the aisle. Jade is drying out and dying . Fred was the one who cared for the plants. Morris can't seem to take over.Can these three get what they need? Will Morris learn to live again? Will Morris find a way to save Fred's plants?
Great story about family, kindness, and keeping things alive.
November 14, 2025
I identified with many of the characters in this book, as I was married to my wife for a long time, had two children, came out late in life and now live with my husband. So I appreciated the perspectives of all the family members, both from the former nuclear family and the new gay one.
I enjoyed reading this story, as described by the stepfather (Morris), the daughter (Sloan) and a houseplant (Jade)! I liked the way the relationship between Sloan and Morris developed; Morris is a sweetie.
Thanks to NetGalley for an ARC.
I enjoyed reading this story, as described by the stepfather (Morris), the daughter (Sloan) and a houseplant (Jade)! I liked the way the relationship between Sloan and Morris developed; Morris is a sweetie.
Thanks to NetGalley for an ARC.
February 11, 2026
Centering on a young woman whose father has recently died, said father’s widower, and a languishing jade plant, Bloom is a sweet read, if emotionally low-stakes.
The characters are interesting, but the complex relationship dynamics simmering under the surface are never fully explored. Situations that could have been hard-hitting, such as the outcome of the widowed Morris’ online dating experience, are instead glossed over, leaving the reader on the outside looking in.
If you’re looking for a quick and cozy read, this is a good pick for readers of queer fiction.
*I received an advanced reader copy and am voluntarily leaving my review*
The characters are interesting, but the complex relationship dynamics simmering under the surface are never fully explored. Situations that could have been hard-hitting, such as the outcome of the widowed Morris’ online dating experience, are instead glossed over, leaving the reader on the outside looking in.
If you’re looking for a quick and cozy read, this is a good pick for readers of queer fiction.
*I received an advanced reader copy and am voluntarily leaving my review*
November 16, 2025
It was a quick sweet family read to be sure. He's got a good vibe overall going on here. The two main characters are both likable tho the flower narrations were arguably the weakest part of the book. My only real complaint is that the ending felt too rushed. It almost seemed like it was missing a few chapters towards the end.
*I received an arc from netgalley in exchange for an honest review
*I received an arc from netgalley in exchange for an honest review
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
Thank you, Gallery Books, Goodreads, and Robbie for the ARC!
Couch’s first adult novel is an absolute delight! Well written and incredibly poignant, I found myself lost in the world of a grieving husband and a curious daughter. While the heart of the novel definitely rests in the relationship between Morris and Sloan, I couldn’t help but be completely swept up in Jade’s chapters, a house plant who seems to be on her last breath.
Couch’s first adult novel is an absolute delight! Well written and incredibly poignant, I found myself lost in the world of a grieving husband and a curious daughter. While the heart of the novel definitely rests in the relationship between Morris and Sloan, I couldn’t help but be completely swept up in Jade’s chapters, a house plant who seems to be on her last breath.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
incredibly lyrical and intensely well-done book about grief, loss, and recovering yourself. would recommend. 5 stars. tysm for the arc.
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
I won this on a Goodreads giveaway and oh man, such a good quick read. I loved Morris and was so happy the wallflower bloomed.
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