Old Man's Bloom

by Jon Kiln

Ezra Kowalski never wanted houseguests, much less a mood-sensing plant that changes color when people get emotional. But now that Nora’s garden plot is home to a rare specimen of stellaria, Ezra’s quiet homestead has become a magnet for scientists, reporters, and tourists with feelings—and worse, opinions.

Ezra can handle the odd visitor. Barely. But when a shiny corporate rep shows up with plans to turn his property into a full-blown attraction, Ezra starts to wonder if it’s time to post a “Go Away” sign… in thirty-six languages.

All he wanted was cucumbers. Now he’s got a full house, a famous plant, and a droid offering unsolicited garden tours.

Retirement was simpler—before the world decided to stop by.

214 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 23, 2025

About the author

Heroic fantasy author.

Reviews

[Nona B Theriot · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this 3 book series- very moving as it shows an old man’s journey from a recluse tending his garden on another world to a man who gives generously of himself and is loved and respected by the people he lets in. It all begins with a spacecraft that crashes into his cucumber patch! Funny and with a great mix of sci-fi and excitement.

[Jim Stout · Rating 5 out of 5]

Refreshingly different.

I hesitated starting this book series. Silly me ! I found it interesting and the chararacters fascinating. I recommend this series wholehartedly. I for through 4 or 5 books a week. If I still maintained an actual bookshelf this wood be on it.
🤗

[Nancy S Dimas · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent break from monsters and villians

Read all three , the first one kinda hooked me and as cucumbers do grew to a real joy , not fast paced just a good wholesome read about humans in the wild.

[John Cole · Rating 5 out of 5]

A good ending to a fun tale. Sprocket made a bit of a comeback which was enjoyable. Characters I’d come to enjoy and care about continue well into the future. The negatives were defused satisfactory.

[Melinda Rollins · Rating 5 out of 5]

no villains

I’ve finished all three books. It’s rare to find a storyline that has minimal action, no villains, and little conflict that can still hold someone’s interest. This is one of them.

[Arlene H. · Rating 5 out of 5]

sad to be finished with this series

I Love the authors, writing style! The sense of belonging and love and companionship is the strongest I’ve felt while reading a book. I recommend this book to all who enjoy complex and loving relationships along with some botany and sci-fi.

[James E. Darrough · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Stellar Tale

This book and the entire series ended up being a Wells loved pages turned for yours truly. I never thought I would get so engrossed in a book about plants and botany. Thanks, Jon.

[John R. Acton · Rating 5 out of 5]

a delightful read

I really enjoy this series a lite read that leaves me with a warm feeling . I hope there is another one coming

[deborah trout · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nice

This is a great and satisfying conclusion to this story. It is a worthwhile addition to any science fiction fan 's library.

[Clint Estep · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yes please

A warm an endearing story, filled with genuine and realistic characters. I enjoyed all of the books in this series.

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Old Man's Bloom, book 3

This was a really good series. There were some minor discrepancies from one book to another. But they never detracted from the story. Good, clean books.

[Les · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very nice, thoughtful story. The author expertly balances science fiction with human emotion.