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The Potted Plant: An Eco-Horror, Revenge Tale
They say that love is blind…
…but so is revenge.
The girl he’d planned to marry shattered his heart into a thousand pieces.
His best friend stabbed him in the back.
He was heartbroken, angry, and ashamed. Then he met Fiona. Could she help put his life back together, or would her witchy ways lead him further down a dark and wrathful path?
And what of the plant? It had grown from a cursed seed that he’d nurtured with his own blood. Vengeance has teeth, and sometimes it comes in the form of a flesh-eating ecological horror.
Emotions run high in this terrifying and psychological tale for the ages that’ll leave you sleeping with the lights on.
…but so is revenge.
The girl he’d planned to marry shattered his heart into a thousand pieces.
His best friend stabbed him in the back.
He was heartbroken, angry, and ashamed. Then he met Fiona. Could she help put his life back together, or would her witchy ways lead him further down a dark and wrathful path?
And what of the plant? It had grown from a cursed seed that he’d nurtured with his own blood. Vengeance has teeth, and sometimes it comes in the form of a flesh-eating ecological horror.
Emotions run high in this terrifying and psychological tale for the ages that’ll leave you sleeping with the lights on.
134 pages, Paperback
Published October 22, 2021
12 people are currently reading
371 people want to read
About the author
Thomas Gloom
9 books58 followersI'm an author who aims to deliver stories with horror and heart.
Check out my website and join the newsletter for a free novella to give you a taste of my writing.
I also host two podcasts:
-Into The Gloom
-Morbid History
Check out my website and join the newsletter for a free novella to give you a taste of my writing.
I also host two podcasts:
-Into The Gloom
-Morbid History
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
July 13, 2025
Mr. Gloom...been a while. Too long. And I loved this! I'm a big fan of Little Shop of Horrors, and this took that original concept and ran with it. And I'm not saying that to indicate that this was a reimagining or had much to do with that premise. It was quite a bit its own unique story, but the plant and a tiny few tidbits linked the two stories together. And this wasn't the expected gorefest either, but rather had a really tactful amount of blood. Even the ending, I was all geared up to see heads roll, and they probably did, but the way Gloom alluded to everything happening was better than just being totally literal about it all. While the plant was a great side character, our lead (Not sure he had a name?) was the centerpiece. Jaded after catching his best friend and girlfriend banging like drums, and stumbling into the sweet embrace of a witch. So revenge is a huge theme here, and it was done very well. He struggled with how to handle everything, as would any of us, and ultimately made up his mind, but not after a great internal struggle. Because of all the great content here, I really just wanted to have a bit of a longer experience here, so that certain aspects of the story could have had more time to flourish. But overall, it was a good time. Thomas Gloom, once again, proves that his writing skills are top notch, just as he did with Voodoo Child.
January 20, 2022
Take Little Shop of Horrors but make Seymour an unforgiving asshole that you really don't want to root for (hehe root). In fact, just make the main character this absolutely hell-bent on revenge guy that's been wronged, and you've got yourself Thomas Gloom's latest novella.
Reading like something that feels apart of Tales from The Crypt, we're given the ugly side of being wronged. Where the main character doesn't just forgive and grow as a person, but instead festers in their sad sack ways, lets it grow (much like a plant, let's say) and lets it take them over completely, we're put in a ride that's imaginative, and twisted.
The story is pretty straight forward. Our protagonist is wronged by two important people, a juju magic sex queen gives him a chance and ability for revenge, and we follow that. No spoilers, but you can imagine how such a thing would go, and Gloom writes it with all the pent up emotions one would feel when refusing to let it go.
I do think that I let myself down in expecting a twist. I had reached the end, wanting and expecting to see it go wrong for the M.C because let's face it, he's a pretty horrible man in his own right. However, as I read this in one sitting, getting my face closer to the book as I got more invested, ready to see it bite him in the ass, it ended. I was blue balled. While I'm pretty impressed with him leaving it at such peak moment, I really REEALLLY wanted more, the after.
As a whole it's quality Gloom as is everything he does. If you've liked his other works, this is a nice follow, and a quick read to occupy the time while you wait for his other work to come out.
Reading like something that feels apart of Tales from The Crypt, we're given the ugly side of being wronged. Where the main character doesn't just forgive and grow as a person, but instead festers in their sad sack ways, lets it grow (much like a plant, let's say) and lets it take them over completely, we're put in a ride that's imaginative, and twisted.
The story is pretty straight forward. Our protagonist is wronged by two important people, a juju magic sex queen gives him a chance and ability for revenge, and we follow that. No spoilers, but you can imagine how such a thing would go, and Gloom writes it with all the pent up emotions one would feel when refusing to let it go.
I do think that I let myself down in expecting a twist. I had reached the end, wanting and expecting to see it go wrong for the M.C because let's face it, he's a pretty horrible man in his own right. However, as I read this in one sitting, getting my face closer to the book as I got more invested, ready to see it bite him in the ass, it ended. I was blue balled. While I'm pretty impressed with him leaving it at such peak moment, I really REEALLLY wanted more, the after.
As a whole it's quality Gloom as is everything he does. If you've liked his other works, this is a nice follow, and a quick read to occupy the time while you wait for his other work to come out.
October 26, 2021
"Holding a grudge against someone to try and hurt them is like drinking poison and expecting someone else to die."
I'm sure a lot of people will have the same expectations going into this story that I did, and those expectations are: Little Shop of Horrors. And to be fair, this story does share a lot in common with the aforementioned tale in that they both contain a flesh hungry venus fly trap that grows to large proportions and requires human blood. However, there are enough differences that make this story worth reading. For starters, this is a revenge story about a young man who goes to see a witch who gives him the plant that sets him on his path for revenge. In this aspect, I was reminded of the Netflix series Brand New Cherry Flavor, which I recently finished, and loved. Of course, these tales never end well.
I was impressed with the way Gloom handled the theme of the story. He does a great job exploring revenge and anger through the lens of the main character. Narratively, this was an interesting experience, as the story starts off with a jump to the climax, and the author essentially provides us a roadmap of what the events of the story are going to be. However, instead of feeling bored, knowing what those events are, I found that a feeling of dread hangs over the story as the tension builds up to the final choice that has been set before the protagonist.
Personally, I have mixed feelings about the ending, but I won't spoil anything by talking about that. It's one of those endings where some people are going to love it and others aren't. My recommendation: open the book and enjoy the ride.
I'm sure a lot of people will have the same expectations going into this story that I did, and those expectations are: Little Shop of Horrors. And to be fair, this story does share a lot in common with the aforementioned tale in that they both contain a flesh hungry venus fly trap that grows to large proportions and requires human blood. However, there are enough differences that make this story worth reading. For starters, this is a revenge story about a young man who goes to see a witch who gives him the plant that sets him on his path for revenge. In this aspect, I was reminded of the Netflix series Brand New Cherry Flavor, which I recently finished, and loved. Of course, these tales never end well.
I was impressed with the way Gloom handled the theme of the story. He does a great job exploring revenge and anger through the lens of the main character. Narratively, this was an interesting experience, as the story starts off with a jump to the climax, and the author essentially provides us a roadmap of what the events of the story are going to be. However, instead of feeling bored, knowing what those events are, I found that a feeling of dread hangs over the story as the tension builds up to the final choice that has been set before the protagonist.
Personally, I have mixed feelings about the ending, but I won't spoil anything by talking about that. It's one of those endings where some people are going to love it and others aren't. My recommendation: open the book and enjoy the ride.
November 23, 2021
I listened to this novella on Audible, narrated by Thomas Gloom himself. I went in expecting something in the vein of Little Shop of Horrors (I mean, how could I not?!) What I was treated to is a story of revenge that is far darker than it is whimsical. Way less, "feed me Seymour" and far more Betty White in Lake Placid. (If you know, you know) The story itself is well crafted with vivid imagery and relatable emotions.
As for Doctor Gloom's narration, spot on as always. He brought each character to life, including Not Audrey II. I feel like he is just beginning to hit his strike in book narration.
Highly recommend this one for a quick, dark read. If you have issues with steamy scenes, maybe just skim through those parts.
As for Doctor Gloom's narration, spot on as always. He brought each character to life, including Not Audrey II. I feel like he is just beginning to hit his strike in book narration.
Highly recommend this one for a quick, dark read. If you have issues with steamy scenes, maybe just skim through those parts.
October 24, 2021
“For days , strange payback fantasies had been dancing through my head, like witches around a midnight fire” 🔥
Who doesn’t love a good revenge horror, and let me tell you… This is a goooood revenge horror!
I don’t want to say to much because I think this is a book best read without a lot of info upfront, This is my first time reading Thomas Gloom but won’t be my last, his writing style feels so reliable.
This novella is a quick read with lots of heart, even some broken heart.
It’s also got a witch to die for… or from, I wasn’t expecting that element but it really made the story for me.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 stars Highly Recommended.
Who doesn’t love a good revenge horror, and let me tell you… This is a goooood revenge horror!
I don’t want to say to much because I think this is a book best read without a lot of info upfront, This is my first time reading Thomas Gloom but won’t be my last, his writing style feels so reliable.
This novella is a quick read with lots of heart, even some broken heart.
It’s also got a witch to die for… or from, I wasn’t expecting that element but it really made the story for me.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 stars Highly Recommended.
August 8, 2022
Revenge is best-served cold? Maybe so, but in this book, it's served in a pot of a carnivorous plant. The narrator has been betrayed by the two closest people in his life, and he can't stop thinking about making them pay. Then he meets a woman, who offers him that very chance. But it's not as easy as he expected.
This is a fun, quick read that isn't afraid to dig into the narrator's worst thoughts and behaviour. For me, he's not immediately easy to warm to which makes my affinity for him by the end kind of a surprise. I didn't expect to take his side! I actually thought the witch character is more intriguing, and I would love to read more of what she's up to. I also think the writing choice of foreshadowing scenes removes some of the suspense. But this is a fun revenge horror novella with a sharp end!
book blog | twitter | instagram
This is a fun, quick read that isn't afraid to dig into the narrator's worst thoughts and behaviour. For me, he's not immediately easy to warm to which makes my affinity for him by the end kind of a surprise. I didn't expect to take his side! I actually thought the witch character is more intriguing, and I would love to read more of what she's up to. I also think the writing choice of foreshadowing scenes removes some of the suspense. But this is a fun revenge horror novella with a sharp end!
book blog | twitter | instagram
January 1, 2023
I was sent this by the author and I'm happy to say I really enjoyed it. It was short and quick to read, but a good story!
October 23, 2021
After getting his heart broken by a cheating girlfriend, the narrator of this story gets entangled with a witch who promises an unconventional but surefire way to get what his darkest heart desires: revenge.
This novella grabs you from the first page, pulling you down into the despair and latent anger the narrator feels over being betrayed by two people he thought he could trust. The struggle between moving on or allowing himself to succumb to his hunger for revenge is very well portrayed. In the end, the narrator makes the best choice possible. I can't say much more without spoiling it, but the ending is unexpected and completely satisfying for this reader.
Gloom is very adept at writing the grotesque and gruesome, a tradition he continues in this novella.
This novella grabs you from the first page, pulling you down into the despair and latent anger the narrator feels over being betrayed by two people he thought he could trust. The struggle between moving on or allowing himself to succumb to his hunger for revenge is very well portrayed. In the end, the narrator makes the best choice possible. I can't say much more without spoiling it, but the ending is unexpected and completely satisfying for this reader.
Gloom is very adept at writing the grotesque and gruesome, a tradition he continues in this novella.
May 9, 2022
Thomas Gloom writes horror with heart, but that doesn't mean it's always nice. Take The Potted Plant. It's a nasty story about a painful breakup, watered with blood and a little dark magic that makes a tale of heartbroken revenge bloom into a Creepshow-style nightmare that I adored. Gloom's not afraid to take us to the dark places a broken heart leads. He doesn't shy away from the cruel thoughts that creep into the lonely void left behind by tainted love and brings us on an emotionally honest, gruesome journey with a very satisfying ending. Reminiscent of classic EC Comics, The Potted Plant has a much nastier bite than the colorful premise would have you think, lulling you in a Vault of Horror way into the darkest chambers of the human heart.
April 19, 2024
I had a blast with this swift, nasty tale of revenge. It was horrific and horny in almost equal measure, with some great gore and impressive character development for such a short page count. Terrific build, real dilemmas laid out, before an incredibly satisfying finale that very much wrapped it up perfectly.
This is why I don’t like gardening or plants!
This is why I don’t like gardening or plants!
October 4, 2021
Thomas Gloom has graced us with yet another novella.
And it is, unsurprisingly, a great one.
I won’t say this was my favourite of the stories that come from his beautiful, spooky mind, because there’s always “Voodoo Child”, but it’s a close call.
“Harboring hatred is easier than extending forgiveness. We can't help it. Deep within our very souls, we find ourselves gravitating toward holding grudges. We let anger get a hold of us without even trying to break its grip. It sinks its talons deep into our hearts until they turn black, rotting from the inside. It hurts, but we make believe that it's helping us to feel better.”
This time Mr. Gloom shows us how one man's life turns out after being betrayed by some of those he trusted the most.
In a few pages, we're thrown into a tale of revenge, nightmares, psychosis, and plants.
Yes, you read it right. Plants.
This novella is a glimpse into what eco-horror could be and it will make sure to give you goosebumps the next time a plant brushes your skin.
From there, all bets are off. We follow the narrator in a series of decisions and conundrums that we've all had to deal with at some point in our lives, at least in terms of playing out those scenarios in our heads.
“For days, strange payback fantasies had been dancing through my head, like witches around a midnight fire. Deep within my soul, I knew Veronica was over me. Our love had simply waxed cold. She'd moved on long before. I was just too dense to see the signs.”
This little book will be a quick read for various reasons.
The first is that it’s simply a compelling story that will make you want to know what happens next and you won’t be able to put it down until you have some answers.
The second is that the pacing of the writing just makes you keep on reading, and fast, even when the story takes a more expository tone, such as when it explains the process of declawing cats or what trombiculid mites are.
“It had only been a day since I'd first noticed the plant's sharp, ivory fangs, but they had plagued my every waking thought to the point where I felt like I'd been living with the disturbing truth for weeks.”
I said that this wasn’t my favourite Thomas Gloom novel, but it was the one that hit closest to home in a way. And for that I can only be thankful. It was a way of dealing with ghosts buried deep inside my unconscious mind and that sometimes just find ways to come out.
I must also say Thomas has a way of reading my mind, and he used that power to create one of the characters in this book (if you read the book and you know me, you will understand why I say this). Then he just went and turned my dream into a nightmare. I couldn’t be prouder of him for that.
I absolutely recommend this novella! You'll be taken on a fantastic journey and you'll love all the twists and turns on that road.
But one advice, remember to leave a light on!
And it is, unsurprisingly, a great one.
I won’t say this was my favourite of the stories that come from his beautiful, spooky mind, because there’s always “Voodoo Child”, but it’s a close call.
“Harboring hatred is easier than extending forgiveness. We can't help it. Deep within our very souls, we find ourselves gravitating toward holding grudges. We let anger get a hold of us without even trying to break its grip. It sinks its talons deep into our hearts until they turn black, rotting from the inside. It hurts, but we make believe that it's helping us to feel better.”
This time Mr. Gloom shows us how one man's life turns out after being betrayed by some of those he trusted the most.
In a few pages, we're thrown into a tale of revenge, nightmares, psychosis, and plants.
Yes, you read it right. Plants.
This novella is a glimpse into what eco-horror could be and it will make sure to give you goosebumps the next time a plant brushes your skin.
From there, all bets are off. We follow the narrator in a series of decisions and conundrums that we've all had to deal with at some point in our lives, at least in terms of playing out those scenarios in our heads.
“For days, strange payback fantasies had been dancing through my head, like witches around a midnight fire. Deep within my soul, I knew Veronica was over me. Our love had simply waxed cold. She'd moved on long before. I was just too dense to see the signs.”
This little book will be a quick read for various reasons.
The first is that it’s simply a compelling story that will make you want to know what happens next and you won’t be able to put it down until you have some answers.
The second is that the pacing of the writing just makes you keep on reading, and fast, even when the story takes a more expository tone, such as when it explains the process of declawing cats or what trombiculid mites are.
“It had only been a day since I'd first noticed the plant's sharp, ivory fangs, but they had plagued my every waking thought to the point where I felt like I'd been living with the disturbing truth for weeks.”
I said that this wasn’t my favourite Thomas Gloom novel, but it was the one that hit closest to home in a way. And for that I can only be thankful. It was a way of dealing with ghosts buried deep inside my unconscious mind and that sometimes just find ways to come out.
I must also say Thomas has a way of reading my mind, and he used that power to create one of the characters in this book (if you read the book and you know me, you will understand why I say this). Then he just went and turned my dream into a nightmare. I couldn’t be prouder of him for that.
I absolutely recommend this novella! You'll be taken on a fantastic journey and you'll love all the twists and turns on that road.
But one advice, remember to leave a light on!
June 2, 2022
A little shop of Thomas Gloom’s horror
Well well well, I guess the taste of revenge isn’t sweet but coppery, like that of blood…
This was my third happening with Gloom’s dooms stories (Voodoo Child & Disciples of Nergal preceded this one) and I feel like I’ve got a real taste for the man’s musings! Scaring people is definitely his hobby and profession!
When a man’s girlfriend cheats on him with his best friend, he’s wracked by feelings of hatred and wants revenge. Then he meets the enigmatic but oh so beautiful Fiona on the bus and before he knows it, he has a one night stand with her. Afterwards she gives him a seed, thé seed of his revenge! Turns out some plants grow with sharp edges and ecological terror suddenly gets a whole new definition…
Tasty little tale about revenge and consequence! I applaud thee, Thomas for seeing beyond the veil and bringing us such delights.
A little Shop of Horrors, but through the eyes of a Gloomy writer!
Well well well, I guess the taste of revenge isn’t sweet but coppery, like that of blood…
This was my third happening with Gloom’s dooms stories (Voodoo Child & Disciples of Nergal preceded this one) and I feel like I’ve got a real taste for the man’s musings! Scaring people is definitely his hobby and profession!
When a man’s girlfriend cheats on him with his best friend, he’s wracked by feelings of hatred and wants revenge. Then he meets the enigmatic but oh so beautiful Fiona on the bus and before he knows it, he has a one night stand with her. Afterwards she gives him a seed, thé seed of his revenge! Turns out some plants grow with sharp edges and ecological terror suddenly gets a whole new definition…
Tasty little tale about revenge and consequence! I applaud thee, Thomas for seeing beyond the veil and bringing us such delights.
A little Shop of Horrors, but through the eyes of a Gloomy writer!
December 31, 2023
3.5 🌟
Humanity is hopeless, and I believe we’d rather lie to ourselves than admit how close we are to death on a daily basis.
This book literally made my jaw drop. I was absolutely shocked at the final reveal and while I had a slight inkling, I kept telling myself nah that’s not true. Plot twist it was 🤪
Super quick read, great creepiness factors with the theme as well as multiple descriptions throughout the book.
Humanity is hopeless, and I believe we’d rather lie to ourselves than admit how close we are to death on a daily basis.
This book literally made my jaw drop. I was absolutely shocked at the final reveal and while I had a slight inkling, I kept telling myself nah that’s not true. Plot twist it was 🤪
Super quick read, great creepiness factors with the theme as well as multiple descriptions throughout the book.
December 30, 2022
Was a good story and there were parts I really enjoyed but for me the MC and other characters were unlikeable so I couldn't connect as much as I hoped. 3.5/5
June 2, 2024
This is a reimagining of Little Shop of Horrors, but everyone’s an asshole and you kinda root for the plant 🤷🏼♀️
Still an interesting little horror novella.
Still an interesting little horror novella.
November 8, 2022
Revenge is a dish best served bloody, but is it worth the time, effort, and despair? This story dives into that question as the main character explores the hate in his heart and the damage it brings to mostly himself. As the seed of darkness grows, the character has to face the guilt and drive to reap what he’s sown.
The author gives us a quick yet thorough understanding of the main character. The first person narration was a great choice in allowing us to experience all the pain and doubts first hand. It was a definite plus to be able to hear the author himself in the audible narration as he conveyed the emotions written beyond the page!
The author gives us a quick yet thorough understanding of the main character. The first person narration was a great choice in allowing us to experience all the pain and doubts first hand. It was a definite plus to be able to hear the author himself in the audible narration as he conveyed the emotions written beyond the page!
February 26, 2022
Creepy little horror novella about revenge. I found it virtually impossible to root for the main character (like...get over it, man) but was definitely interested in how this all played out. Maybe she stepped out because you're a whiny sack. Good horror points here for the psycho plant and the witch...she's scary, for sure. And I loved the ending. Definitely recommend, as long as you know you might hate the main character.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 26, 2022
The Potted Plant is my third and favorite read of the year from @thomasgloom.
I find myself liking novellas more and more because when done correctly, it lets authors flex a bit and gives them license to pull all sorts of WTF moments that don't necessarily work on longer pieces.
Gloom nails this completely here. The Potted Plant is about pain, revenge, and the opportunity for personal growth after a personal tragedy.
The protagonist (who we never learn the name of and I love that) falls under the influence of a witch after having his heart broken. Out for revenge, she offers a solution.
What follows is a blend of real life and the bizarre. The way Gloom ends the story is chef's kiss fuck yeah and would have been perfect for the Twilight Zone.
It's hard to put my finger on, but this feels like the signal for some evolution beyond his other two works (which I really liked). It almost feels like he's having more fun? I don't know, but I loved this tale and can't wait to see what he does next 🤘
I find myself liking novellas more and more because when done correctly, it lets authors flex a bit and gives them license to pull all sorts of WTF moments that don't necessarily work on longer pieces.
Gloom nails this completely here. The Potted Plant is about pain, revenge, and the opportunity for personal growth after a personal tragedy.
The protagonist (who we never learn the name of and I love that) falls under the influence of a witch after having his heart broken. Out for revenge, she offers a solution.
What follows is a blend of real life and the bizarre. The way Gloom ends the story is chef's kiss fuck yeah and would have been perfect for the Twilight Zone.
It's hard to put my finger on, but this feels like the signal for some evolution beyond his other two works (which I really liked). It almost feels like he's having more fun? I don't know, but I loved this tale and can't wait to see what he does next 🤘
July 26, 2022
This novella is a nice quick read and my introduction to the #indiehorror writing of Thomas Gloom.
He knows how to get you interested in a story and the outcome. The story starts almost at the end where our narrator has a decision to make.
He tells us how it all began in this revenge fantasy horror tale with a flesh eating plant.
Cheated on by his girlfriend and best friend, Veronica and Walter, our narrator is lonely, depressed and full of repressed anger.
A chance encounter with the beautiful Fiona leads to a wonderful night, the gift of a seed and a plan of revenge.
The seed will grow into a flesh eating plant, a more horrific version of a Venus Flytrap.
I can remember being fascinated by the Venus Flytrap as a child. A plant that caught and ate flies! This seemed as exciting as dinosaurs to my young imagination.
Gloom draws on this fascination in creating this horrifying version of the plant that will need feeding with more than just flies 😱
Inevitably, Fiona is not exactly as she appears to be and our MC begins to have doubts about going through with the plan.
I'm not going to give any more of the plot away. If you like horror stories you'll enjoy this quick tale.
It's fun to guess at what decision the narrator will make in the end and then to think if we would have done the same.
I'm giving this novella 🌺🌺🌺🌺4 out of 5 flesh eating flowers.
He knows how to get you interested in a story and the outcome. The story starts almost at the end where our narrator has a decision to make.
He tells us how it all began in this revenge fantasy horror tale with a flesh eating plant.
Cheated on by his girlfriend and best friend, Veronica and Walter, our narrator is lonely, depressed and full of repressed anger.
A chance encounter with the beautiful Fiona leads to a wonderful night, the gift of a seed and a plan of revenge.
The seed will grow into a flesh eating plant, a more horrific version of a Venus Flytrap.
I can remember being fascinated by the Venus Flytrap as a child. A plant that caught and ate flies! This seemed as exciting as dinosaurs to my young imagination.
Gloom draws on this fascination in creating this horrifying version of the plant that will need feeding with more than just flies 😱
Inevitably, Fiona is not exactly as she appears to be and our MC begins to have doubts about going through with the plan.
I'm not going to give any more of the plot away. If you like horror stories you'll enjoy this quick tale.
It's fun to guess at what decision the narrator will make in the end and then to think if we would have done the same.
I'm giving this novella 🌺🌺🌺🌺4 out of 5 flesh eating flowers.
July 11, 2022
4.25 rounded down
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🪴Spoiler Free Novella Review🪴
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Little Shop of Horrors meets Creepshow in Thomas Gloom’s revenge tale, The Potted Plant. This was such a fun little read! The writing was engaging and well-paced; easily enjoyed in one sitting. A bit more backstory and character development for the narrator and his girlfriend would’ve pushed it closer to five stars for me, but for being under 70 pages, I was happy with what was delivered-an eco-horror story with heart, humor, and a perfectly satisfying ending.
•
🪴Spoiler Free Novella Review🪴
•
Little Shop of Horrors meets Creepshow in Thomas Gloom’s revenge tale, The Potted Plant. This was such a fun little read! The writing was engaging and well-paced; easily enjoyed in one sitting. A bit more backstory and character development for the narrator and his girlfriend would’ve pushed it closer to five stars for me, but for being under 70 pages, I was happy with what was delivered-an eco-horror story with heart, humor, and a perfectly satisfying ending.
November 7, 2023
“They say that love is blind, but so is revenge.”
The girl of his dreams broke his heart and his best friend ruined any chance of their friendship continuing on in the future. He was hurt, heartbroken, and oh so angry.
He then met Fiona the witch, who promised she could bring him happiness again. All he had to do was care for a plant with her specific instructions and then deliver it to his ex-girlfriend as his revenge.
•
“Harboring hatred is easier than extending forgiveness. We can’t help it. Deep within our very souls, we find ourselves gravitating toward holding grudges. We let anger get a hold of us without even trying to break its grip. It sinks its talons deep into our hearts until they turn black, rotting from the inside. It hurts, but we make believe that it’s helping us to feel better. That it’s quenching some ancient desire for revenge, or whatever we might fool ourselves into calling justice.”
“But that was all just fantastic I wouldn’t actually go through with any of it. It was all just part of the healing process. Think the poisonous thoughts to get rid of them, you know?”
“None of the people in the park had any clue that they were in such close proximity to a man who was actively plotting out murder. As I had that thought about myself, I wondered how many other sins were hidden behind so many happy veneers. We all put on a good show when we go out and face the public, but rarely are we honest about the truth lurking just below the surface. …Humanity is hopeless, and I believe we’d rather lie to ourselves than admit how close we are to death on a daily basis.”
“I wasn’t lying when I said that life was too short to waste time wishing you could hurt someone. I meant every word of it. And that’s why I chose to stop spending my time wishing, and start doing.”
•
This was a wild read. It’s a super quick novella, at just under a hundred pages, and pulls you in so that it’s so hard to put down.
It took me days after finishing this to even start to process my thoughts on it. I was having a hard time realizing I actually had read what I did and that it wasn’t just a crazy fever dream.
It’s a perfect little thriller, though I found myself laughing and disgusted more than actually scared. I genuinely had to set this book down so many times so that I could laugh.
I went into this knowing nothing about it and with little expectations, which I’d recommend to everyone that wants to read it. My expectations never would have gone in the direction this book ended up taking. I wasn’t even able to guess what was going to happen on the next page. I found myself rereading pages quite often because I was so impressed with each direction it went in!
I loved the aspect of never learning the MMC’s name. It adds a level of mystery to the story that was perfect!
I’ve also always loved Venus fly traps but I can honestly say after reading this I’m glad they can’t grow like the one in this story did!!!
The only downfall I had with this book was the way the MMC tried to justify his actions with his internal dialogue. He was constantly pitying himself and never thinking he was in the wrong. Everyone around him was a terrible person but, even as he was planning a murder, he was doing no wrong. It also got very repetitive by the end.
The ending really threw me off. It was really nothing like what I expected it to be. I do wish it would have continued a little farther to know the final outcome but, the aspect of him finally finding his happiness again was rewarding enough that I was still very pleased when I finished it.
•
TW:
• mention of SH from a side character
• trauma to an animal
The girl of his dreams broke his heart and his best friend ruined any chance of their friendship continuing on in the future. He was hurt, heartbroken, and oh so angry.
He then met Fiona the witch, who promised she could bring him happiness again. All he had to do was care for a plant with her specific instructions and then deliver it to his ex-girlfriend as his revenge.
•
“Harboring hatred is easier than extending forgiveness. We can’t help it. Deep within our very souls, we find ourselves gravitating toward holding grudges. We let anger get a hold of us without even trying to break its grip. It sinks its talons deep into our hearts until they turn black, rotting from the inside. It hurts, but we make believe that it’s helping us to feel better. That it’s quenching some ancient desire for revenge, or whatever we might fool ourselves into calling justice.”
“But that was all just fantastic I wouldn’t actually go through with any of it. It was all just part of the healing process. Think the poisonous thoughts to get rid of them, you know?”
“None of the people in the park had any clue that they were in such close proximity to a man who was actively plotting out murder. As I had that thought about myself, I wondered how many other sins were hidden behind so many happy veneers. We all put on a good show when we go out and face the public, but rarely are we honest about the truth lurking just below the surface. …Humanity is hopeless, and I believe we’d rather lie to ourselves than admit how close we are to death on a daily basis.”
“I wasn’t lying when I said that life was too short to waste time wishing you could hurt someone. I meant every word of it. And that’s why I chose to stop spending my time wishing, and start doing.”
•
This was a wild read. It’s a super quick novella, at just under a hundred pages, and pulls you in so that it’s so hard to put down.
It took me days after finishing this to even start to process my thoughts on it. I was having a hard time realizing I actually had read what I did and that it wasn’t just a crazy fever dream.
It’s a perfect little thriller, though I found myself laughing and disgusted more than actually scared. I genuinely had to set this book down so many times so that I could laugh.
I went into this knowing nothing about it and with little expectations, which I’d recommend to everyone that wants to read it. My expectations never would have gone in the direction this book ended up taking. I wasn’t even able to guess what was going to happen on the next page. I found myself rereading pages quite often because I was so impressed with each direction it went in!
I loved the aspect of never learning the MMC’s name. It adds a level of mystery to the story that was perfect!
I’ve also always loved Venus fly traps but I can honestly say after reading this I’m glad they can’t grow like the one in this story did!!!
The only downfall I had with this book was the way the MMC tried to justify his actions with his internal dialogue. He was constantly pitying himself and never thinking he was in the wrong. Everyone around him was a terrible person but, even as he was planning a murder, he was doing no wrong. It also got very repetitive by the end.
The ending really threw me off. It was really nothing like what I expected it to be. I do wish it would have continued a little farther to know the final outcome but, the aspect of him finally finding his happiness again was rewarding enough that I was still very pleased when I finished it.
•
TW:
• mention of SH from a side character
• trauma to an animal
May 4, 2023
'The potted plant' by Thomas Gloom is horror literature. It is a macabre tale of revenge, rage and plants, which I enjoyed immensely. Because of its connections to some poems and its fear symbolism, it is a must read for any book lover as far as I am concerned.
The protagonist's developmental process is aptly described. The protagonist is cheated by his great love and gets the opportunity to take revenge. The story is told from the protagonist's perspective and hence his feelings are clear to the reader. The development he goes through is scary.
Besides, 'The Potted Plant' can be interpreted as poetic horror. It shows how repressed anger leads to the cultivation of rage with horrific results. On page 79, one of the characters says:
‘An unforgiving heart can eat a man up,[…] It’ll turn you black from the inside like cancer. Holding a grudge against someone to try and hurt them is like drinking poison and expecting someone else to die.’
With that, there is a thematic similarity to William Wordsworth's poem 'Poison tree'. Only for me, Gloom is pictorially stronger here, which gives an interesting dynamic to the connection between the two works.
The plant is a personification of rage that grows and leads to death. Gloom has managed to shape this in a terrifying and almost lyrical way. The image he paints of the plant is eerie and dark. In this, I saw a parallel with the main character's state of mind.
The story also refers to 'Whom the bell tolls' by John Donne. Regarding the denouement of the story, there is a certain irony in this reference, which made me chuckle for a moment. For that, the writer deserves credit, as it luridly adds depth to the ending.
And so 'The Potted Plant' by Thomas Gloom is more than ecological horror. It is also a successful account of how repressed rage leads to death and destruction. Through this theme, there is a relationship with William Wordsworth's 'Poison tree' and the ironic reference to 'whom the bell tolls' is great.
The protagonist's developmental process is aptly described. The protagonist is cheated by his great love and gets the opportunity to take revenge. The story is told from the protagonist's perspective and hence his feelings are clear to the reader. The development he goes through is scary.
Besides, 'The Potted Plant' can be interpreted as poetic horror. It shows how repressed anger leads to the cultivation of rage with horrific results. On page 79, one of the characters says:
‘An unforgiving heart can eat a man up,[…] It’ll turn you black from the inside like cancer. Holding a grudge against someone to try and hurt them is like drinking poison and expecting someone else to die.’
With that, there is a thematic similarity to William Wordsworth's poem 'Poison tree'. Only for me, Gloom is pictorially stronger here, which gives an interesting dynamic to the connection between the two works.
The plant is a personification of rage that grows and leads to death. Gloom has managed to shape this in a terrifying and almost lyrical way. The image he paints of the plant is eerie and dark. In this, I saw a parallel with the main character's state of mind.
The story also refers to 'Whom the bell tolls' by John Donne. Regarding the denouement of the story, there is a certain irony in this reference, which made me chuckle for a moment. For that, the writer deserves credit, as it luridly adds depth to the ending.
And so 'The Potted Plant' by Thomas Gloom is more than ecological horror. It is also a successful account of how repressed rage leads to death and destruction. Through this theme, there is a relationship with William Wordsworth's 'Poison tree' and the ironic reference to 'whom the bell tolls' is great.
April 21, 2022
This is a short novella – it’s bite-sized – and pure revenge adrenalin-fueled fun. The writing is smooth – Thomas writes clearly, it’s totally readable, his voice almost hypnotic. I swear I don’t remember turning the pages, but I must have, at some point, it was the end of the book and I wondered how I got there, a half-finished cup of cold coffee next to my chair, a nearly empty pack of Oreo’s next to me, biscuit crumbs on my t-shirt and both cats had fallen asleep next to their food bowls. I am scared of waking them, they are probably ravenous.
Look – this is a blast, you want to believe the impossible, you have all the vibes of “Little shop of horrors” minus Steve Martin. You are happy the main character gets laid and then you aren’t so happy the main character got laid, in fact, that must have been when I stopped eating.
I made NO NOTES – unheard of, no typos, no pov breaks, I had nothing. So, kudos on the editing. I read a review where a reader DNF’d at a scene where an animal was injured, and I have to say, I thought it was great. I’m here for the cat violence, Thomas, bring it on. I know we all love our pets, even if I forget to feed mine because I’m engrossed in a book, and I am a non-violent pacifist, but honestly, it had to happen, and it was tastefully done. Now that I look, Mona, our female black cat that whines all the time (hence her name) might have actually fallen asleep (paws for effect😁) with her head in the water bowl. My bad. I had to get a dad joke in here somewhere.
Yeah – this was fun. It’s a quick burst of Mr. Gloom here – you’re paying to have his voice in your life. It isn’t deep, it isn’t pretending to be anything other than what it is – a blast of revenge horror with witchy "day of the triffids" vibes. Good work, Thomas.
This gets 4 out of 5 ⭐ ‘s.
Extra credits for the comic-style cover.
Look – this is a blast, you want to believe the impossible, you have all the vibes of “Little shop of horrors” minus Steve Martin. You are happy the main character gets laid and then you aren’t so happy the main character got laid, in fact, that must have been when I stopped eating.
I made NO NOTES – unheard of, no typos, no pov breaks, I had nothing. So, kudos on the editing. I read a review where a reader DNF’d at a scene where an animal was injured, and I have to say, I thought it was great. I’m here for the cat violence, Thomas, bring it on. I know we all love our pets, even if I forget to feed mine because I’m engrossed in a book, and I am a non-violent pacifist, but honestly, it had to happen, and it was tastefully done. Now that I look, Mona, our female black cat that whines all the time (hence her name) might have actually fallen asleep (paws for effect😁) with her head in the water bowl. My bad. I had to get a dad joke in here somewhere.
Yeah – this was fun. It’s a quick burst of Mr. Gloom here – you’re paying to have his voice in your life. It isn’t deep, it isn’t pretending to be anything other than what it is – a blast of revenge horror with witchy "day of the triffids" vibes. Good work, Thomas.
This gets 4 out of 5 ⭐ ‘s.
Extra credits for the comic-style cover.
November 5, 2021
Ohhh I like a good revenge story! - Which is funny, because I am one of the last people to ever try and get revenge.
First and foremost that cover!.. PHEW, she's inviting, isn't she?
I need to get myself a physical copy of this one for sure.
I purchased the audiobook for a couple reasons: 1 - it meant I was able to get to it a lot sooner with my crazy reviewing list and 2 - the author himself narrates it, Mr. Thomas Gloom! and I really enjoy when an author narrates their own work. They really bring the story to life, make it jump off the pages, exactly the way they wanted it to be read and Mr. Gloom did not disappoint. He has a big career narrating books in the future, I can see it!
The Potted Plant was very good! I enjoyed the concept and the characters were great but what blows my mind the most is how Thomas was able to pack so much into one novella. The evil, the dark, the sweet sweet revenge and all of the excitement in one tiny novella binding. I mean that clearly says a lot on the talents of Thomas's story telling.
I look forward to picking up the other piece of his I have, Voodoo Child.
Be sure to check out Thomas's work.
Thank you all for reading
-Dark
First and foremost that cover!.. PHEW, she's inviting, isn't she?
I need to get myself a physical copy of this one for sure.
I purchased the audiobook for a couple reasons: 1 - it meant I was able to get to it a lot sooner with my crazy reviewing list and 2 - the author himself narrates it, Mr. Thomas Gloom! and I really enjoy when an author narrates their own work. They really bring the story to life, make it jump off the pages, exactly the way they wanted it to be read and Mr. Gloom did not disappoint. He has a big career narrating books in the future, I can see it!
The Potted Plant was very good! I enjoyed the concept and the characters were great but what blows my mind the most is how Thomas was able to pack so much into one novella. The evil, the dark, the sweet sweet revenge and all of the excitement in one tiny novella binding. I mean that clearly says a lot on the talents of Thomas's story telling.
I look forward to picking up the other piece of his I have, Voodoo Child.
Be sure to check out Thomas's work.
Thank you all for reading
-Dark
December 28, 2021
Overall I really enjoyed and had fun with it. The plant itself was awesome, so was the witch that gives it to our main character - who wants revenge on his cheating girlfriend (that he caught red handed with his best friend). There were some cool, creepy and original scares, and a great overall idea for a story. I just kind of hungry for a little more and think it could have been fleshed out into a novel. There is a bit of repetition, and a little too much telling instead of showing. I thought maybe a few flashback scenes would have helped let us know the characters a little better. I'm no writer myself but gotta keep it honest cause those few things stuck out a tad. But this was still a dope read and I absolutely love the cover art! I can't wait to read his two novels though soon too, The Window and Voodoo Child. Thomas is a true horror aficionado and I see a ton of potential. I'll be reading all of his works and look forward to witnessing his ascension to greatness. Be sure to check out his books and his bad ass podcast "Into The Gloom" - available everywhere
February 11, 2022
“Harboring hatred is easier than extending forgiveness.”
I always love a good revenge story, & this book lived up to everything I needed from it & more.
When a man comes across a witch, she gives him the option to seek revenge. Much like any broken hearted young man he takes this chance and runs with it. I love the quick pace of this book, no extra side details, & leaves us with an open ending to this story to let our imaginations run wild.
Thomas Gloom has yet again graced us with a killer (get it) story. This books for me is a 5 star read hands down! I absolutely loved every second of this story. I do dig the Little Shop of Horror vibes. But a rated R version. I highly recommend picking up this book. I did read this story but I have listen to Gloom narrate & I can only imagine that it’s amazing for this book so check it out!!!
Also an extra point because I love this cover!
September 18, 2023
A surprisingly cheerful revenge story from an author named Gloom. This was actually lots of fun. Every so often I check out random kindle freebies, usually with almost no expectations. This one drew me in with the cover and entertained throughout.
For a self-published effort, it’s a totally professional job, properly edited and formatted and all. It’s also, as mentioned, genuinely entertaining The protagonist’s voice manages to engage you as you follow him on his journey of getting dumped and plotting his revenge.
I’ve seen it advertised as eco-horror, which it categorially isn’t, although there is a permanently featured plant in the story. And it’s hungry. A quick, fun read and a nice introduction to a new author.
For a self-published effort, it’s a totally professional job, properly edited and formatted and all. It’s also, as mentioned, genuinely entertaining The protagonist’s voice manages to engage you as you follow him on his journey of getting dumped and plotting his revenge.
I’ve seen it advertised as eco-horror, which it categorially isn’t, although there is a permanently featured plant in the story. And it’s hungry. A quick, fun read and a nice introduction to a new author.
September 26, 2023
136 pages
4 stars
This is a fun little book. (Well, that’s an odd thing to say.) It reminds me not only of The Little Shop of Horrors, but also of Hunter Shea’s writing. Odd perhaps that I find fun in horror, but despite the fact that there really are meat-eating plants, I really don't think I’ll ever run into one like the one in this novella.
I could go on about vengeance and the destruction it causes to one’s personality, but we’re having fun instead. That the man in the story is eaten away by the need to get even with an ex-girlfriend shows his broken personality, but we’re reading to have fun. A break from the world if you will.
I really liked this book. I will be looking into more of Mr. Gloom’s books.
4 stars
This is a fun little book. (Well, that’s an odd thing to say.) It reminds me not only of The Little Shop of Horrors, but also of Hunter Shea’s writing. Odd perhaps that I find fun in horror, but despite the fact that there really are meat-eating plants, I really don't think I’ll ever run into one like the one in this novella.
I could go on about vengeance and the destruction it causes to one’s personality, but we’re having fun instead. That the man in the story is eaten away by the need to get even with an ex-girlfriend shows his broken personality, but we’re reading to have fun. A break from the world if you will.
I really liked this book. I will be looking into more of Mr. Gloom’s books.
August 5, 2022
When you look at the cover of the Potted Plant, it may conjure certian things to mind. I promise you though, this book is not what the cover suggests. It is a wickedly entertaining revenge story with a fun twist that makes it feel in line with horror favorites like Tales From The Crypt.
Thomas's writing on this book is both engaging and very easy to read. Together this makes for a book that sucks you in for the ride it presents and keeps you locked in to see where it is going next.
Be sure and pick this one up, because while there may not be a little shop, The Potted Plant is certainly packed with horrors.
Thomas's writing on this book is both engaging and very easy to read. Together this makes for a book that sucks you in for the ride it presents and keeps you locked in to see where it is going next.
Be sure and pick this one up, because while there may not be a little shop, The Potted Plant is certainly packed with horrors.
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