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Battalion of the Dead #3
Glorious Poison
The daring and dramatic conclusion to Kat Dunn's epic C18th French Revolution trilogy 'with lashings of lust, love, sacrifice, betrayal and horror'.
Robespierre is dead. The Reign of Terror is over.
As Royalist strength grows, the Duc de L'Aubespine plots a coup that will consign the revolution to history. With Olympe in his clutches, he believes nothing can stop him. But he's reckoned without the intrepid Battalion of the Dead!
Reunited in Paris, Ada is poised for action - but if she plays her hand too soon, everything she's sacrificed to gain his trust will be lost. Meanwhile, an unlikely alliance with an old enemy might be Camille's only option to save Olympe and stop the duc in his tracks.
The glittering and macabre bals des victimes and the eerie catacombs make the perfect backdrop for the final episode of the Battalion's tale.
Robespierre is dead. The Reign of Terror is over.
As Royalist strength grows, the Duc de L'Aubespine plots a coup that will consign the revolution to history. With Olympe in his clutches, he believes nothing can stop him. But he's reckoned without the intrepid Battalion of the Dead!
Reunited in Paris, Ada is poised for action - but if she plays her hand too soon, everything she's sacrificed to gain his trust will be lost. Meanwhile, an unlikely alliance with an old enemy might be Camille's only option to save Olympe and stop the duc in his tracks.
The glittering and macabre bals des victimes and the eerie catacombs make the perfect backdrop for the final episode of the Battalion's tale.
432 pages, Hardcover
First published June 9, 2022
6 people are currently reading
936 people want to read
About the author
Kat Dunn
8 books938 followersKat Dunn is the author of HUNGERSTONE (2025), BITTERTHORN, and the Battalion of the Dead trilogy:
DANGEROUS REMEDY, MONSTROUS DESIGN and GLORIOUS POISON.
She grew up in London and has lived in Japan, Australia and France.
She has a BA in Japanese from SOAS and an MA in English from Warwick. She’s written about mental health for Mind and The Guardian, and worked as a translator for Japanese television.
DANGEROUS REMEDY, MONSTROUS DESIGN and GLORIOUS POISON.
She grew up in London and has lived in Japan, Australia and France.
She has a BA in Japanese from SOAS and an MA in English from Warwick. She’s written about mental health for Mind and The Guardian, and worked as a translator for Japanese television.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
June 11, 2022
On my blog.
Actual rating 3.5
Rep: biracial (Black, white) lesbian mc, Black mc, bi mc, gay mc
CWs: torture, animal death
Galley provided by publisher
Glorious Poison is a solid series ending, fast-paced and keeping you on the edge of your seat the entire time. You’re kept wondering just how the story will end—especially when things are at their most hopeless—but Kat Dunn pulls off an epic ending.
The story opens up a few weeks following the end of Monstrous Design and, since that is quite an ending, I won’t tell you a thing about what happened in order to avoid spoilers. Glorious Poison continues at the same pace as its predecessors, not taking a moment’s pause before it leaps into the story.
And this works for it, to be honest. I wouldn’t want to read a third book in a series that’s slow, especially not one that follows on from the ending that this one did. It needed to be pacey and action-filled and it definitely fit that remit.
As with the previous books too, these are characters who you’re rooting for all the way. It’s also great to see how they’ve developed from the first book and how Dunn’s writing has developed with them. I think that’s always the best part of a debut series, for me, seeing an author’s writing develop as it does in real time.
But, and this is really only a small but, I think the reason I went for a 3.5 rating when my previous ratings had been 4.5 and 5 is just because I’ve changed as a reader. There have been so many other books I’ve read since book 2, and I definitely think my tastes have changed a fair bit (for one, I’ve been reading less YA fantasy and more adult contemporary…), so I think that this is simply an unfortunate casualty of that.
However, that said, I did still enjoy this book! I thought it was a good ending to the series, and this is still a series I’d recommend highly. Really, the only issue was me.
Actual rating 3.5
Rep: biracial (Black, white) lesbian mc, Black mc, bi mc, gay mc
CWs: torture, animal death
Galley provided by publisher
Glorious Poison is a solid series ending, fast-paced and keeping you on the edge of your seat the entire time. You’re kept wondering just how the story will end—especially when things are at their most hopeless—but Kat Dunn pulls off an epic ending.
The story opens up a few weeks following the end of Monstrous Design and, since that is quite an ending, I won’t tell you a thing about what happened in order to avoid spoilers. Glorious Poison continues at the same pace as its predecessors, not taking a moment’s pause before it leaps into the story.
And this works for it, to be honest. I wouldn’t want to read a third book in a series that’s slow, especially not one that follows on from the ending that this one did. It needed to be pacey and action-filled and it definitely fit that remit.
As with the previous books too, these are characters who you’re rooting for all the way. It’s also great to see how they’ve developed from the first book and how Dunn’s writing has developed with them. I think that’s always the best part of a debut series, for me, seeing an author’s writing develop as it does in real time.
But, and this is really only a small but, I think the reason I went for a 3.5 rating when my previous ratings had been 4.5 and 5 is just because I’ve changed as a reader. There have been so many other books I’ve read since book 2, and I definitely think my tastes have changed a fair bit (for one, I’ve been reading less YA fantasy and more adult contemporary…), so I think that this is simply an unfortunate casualty of that.
However, that said, I did still enjoy this book! I thought it was a good ending to the series, and this is still a series I’d recommend highly. Really, the only issue was me.
May 28, 2022
What a spectacular conclusion to one of the most delightful historical YA series. The Batallion did not have it easy to begin with, but the stakes are higher than ever before in this final installment, and our beloved heroes are far from where they started. It was an absolute treasure to see the journeys each of our protagonists embarked on in this novel, and I found myself so touched by each of them - perhaps these rascals broke into my heart as easy as they would any prison. Action packed, yet with a lot of character depth, this was the kind of book that had you on the edge of your seat and eager to read on.
The final 15% or so was OUTSTANDING, and if I could be found crying and getting emotional whiplash on a plane because of it, then there is little else to be said.
if you saw me weeping on a plane reading the ending, no you didn't
The final 15% or so was OUTSTANDING, and if I could be found crying and getting emotional whiplash on a plane because of it, then there is little else to be said.
if you saw me weeping on a plane reading the ending, no you didn't
June 8, 2022
Glorious Poison is the third and final book in Kat Dunn’s brilliant Battalion of the Dead series. Picking up after the events of Monstrous Design, we follows Camille and her battalion as they attempt to rescue Olympe from the hands of the Duc and stop him from destroying the revolution.
For the last two years the installments of this series have been among my favourite books of the year, so Glorious Poison was one of my most anticipated releases of 2022. I absolutely did not want this series to end and ended up rereading books one and two over a weekend in preparation. Dunn has done an incredible job of bringing all the characters and story arcs together. The ending was everything I was hoping for and while I’m sad it’s over, I cannot wait to see what Kat Dunn writes next.
I won’t say much about the plot because it is the third book in the series, but safe to say there is plenty of action and moments that will have you on the edge of your seat. I love seeing the tricky situations the battalion finds themselves in and the clever ways they get out. I love the historical setting in this series and Dunn’s vivid and beautiful writing really brights the sights and sounds of 18th Century France to life.
While I absolutely love all the action and heists in this series, what has captivated me most throughout the three books are the brilliant characters. They have all gone on such a journey over the three books and I am so sad to say goodbye to them. Dunn brings the story to a satisfying conclusion and I think the battalion will forever be some of my favourite characters of all time. I am not particularly a romance person but I love the relationship between Ada and Camille. They’re both such fascinating characters dealing with secrets from their past and I really enjoyed the way Dunn developed their relationship over the course of the series.
Glorious Poison is a magnificent conclusion to an epic YA fantasy series. If you’re caught up with the series you absolutely need to pick up Glorious Poison. If you haven’t yet had the chance to pick up Dangerous Remedy, now is the perfect time to binge the entire trilogy.
For the last two years the installments of this series have been among my favourite books of the year, so Glorious Poison was one of my most anticipated releases of 2022. I absolutely did not want this series to end and ended up rereading books one and two over a weekend in preparation. Dunn has done an incredible job of bringing all the characters and story arcs together. The ending was everything I was hoping for and while I’m sad it’s over, I cannot wait to see what Kat Dunn writes next.
I won’t say much about the plot because it is the third book in the series, but safe to say there is plenty of action and moments that will have you on the edge of your seat. I love seeing the tricky situations the battalion finds themselves in and the clever ways they get out. I love the historical setting in this series and Dunn’s vivid and beautiful writing really brights the sights and sounds of 18th Century France to life.
While I absolutely love all the action and heists in this series, what has captivated me most throughout the three books are the brilliant characters. They have all gone on such a journey over the three books and I am so sad to say goodbye to them. Dunn brings the story to a satisfying conclusion and I think the battalion will forever be some of my favourite characters of all time. I am not particularly a romance person but I love the relationship between Ada and Camille. They’re both such fascinating characters dealing with secrets from their past and I really enjoyed the way Dunn developed their relationship over the course of the series.
Glorious Poison is a magnificent conclusion to an epic YA fantasy series. If you’re caught up with the series you absolutely need to pick up Glorious Poison. If you haven’t yet had the chance to pick up Dangerous Remedy, now is the perfect time to binge the entire trilogy.
May 26, 2022
Glorious Poison is the final entry in the Battalion of the Dead series, which is about a ragtag found family who rescue people during The Terror in Paris, find an extraordinary young girl to protect whilst doing so, and are now racing to stop a wicked Duc's sinister plot.
This final book wraps the series up in excellent style and may have just piqued the other two to become my favourite in the trilogy.
My favourite aspect of this series has always been the strength of the characters - both main and secondary - and they continue to shine here.
And though they are separated for a lot of the book, I particularly loved the scenes we did get between Ada and Camille.
The other strength of this series has always been its setting, and, once more, Dunn brings Revolutionary Paris to life.
I thoroughly recommend reading the first two entries in this series if you haven't already, and if you have, this is a finale that shall not disappoint!
I received a free copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This final book wraps the series up in excellent style and may have just piqued the other two to become my favourite in the trilogy.
My favourite aspect of this series has always been the strength of the characters - both main and secondary - and they continue to shine here.
And though they are separated for a lot of the book, I particularly loved the scenes we did get between Ada and Camille.
The other strength of this series has always been its setting, and, once more, Dunn brings Revolutionary Paris to life.
I thoroughly recommend reading the first two entries in this series if you haven't already, and if you have, this is a finale that shall not disappoint!
I received a free copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 12, 2022
Glorious Poison is the concluding novel to the Battalion of the Dead trilogy and is an explosive, emotional ride from beginning to end. I've really enjoyed this trilogy, set in revolutionary France and following a rag tag crew of young outcasts trying their best to ensure safety for themselves and defeat power hungry political figures. This finale is just as good as it's two predecessors and I don't think you will be disappointed.
I always find it hard to review sequels in a non-spoilery way but we pick up right after the end of monstrous design with the battalion fractured and seemingly defeated. Camille, James and Al are back in Paris, Olympe and Guil are captured by the Duc and Ada is working for the duc whilst secretly plotting against him. The stakes are higher than ever and the battalion must pull out all their cunning, wiles and their best schemes to defeat their enemies for good.
I thought all the characters had satisfying arcs throughout the story, reckoning with their demons both past and present. The standout character for me in this book was Al, I've always had a soft spot for him but I feel like other characters overshadowed him previously however in this book he got a chance to shine and I loved his journey of self acceptance and taking what he wanted for himself.
I liked how everything in this book wrapped up, the climax is told at a great pace - not too rushed or too drawn out. The pacing and plot keeps you engaged throughout the whole book, this is the kind of book you can easily read in one sitting as you just want to know what happens next. Additionally I thought the book ended on a perfect bittersweet note which fit the overall tone of the story well. This instalment especially can be quite dark throughout but I think ultimately ends on a note of hope which I always love.
I liked how we got a few touching emotional moments throughout; it added a lot of humanity to the story and I love the relationships between all the characters. I enjoy the romances but I think the highlight for me is all the friendships and the moment when everyone is together in a cafe just reminiscing was so emotional T_T
The only thing that slightly annoyed me about this (and it probably won't bother you much unless you have a medical background lol) was the use of electricity as (essentially) defibrillation and it not really being used correctly or the results it produces accurate. However it didn't really bother me that much as I'm well aware this series is semi-fantastical and not meant to be super accurate lol.
Overall if you enjoy historical based YA fantasy I would really recommend this series, it somehow feels nostalgic for a lot of YA I used to enjoy when I was a teenager, has a great cast of characters (with lots of queer characters which I always love) and a fast paced plot full of scheming, politics and action.
I always find it hard to review sequels in a non-spoilery way but we pick up right after the end of monstrous design with the battalion fractured and seemingly defeated. Camille, James and Al are back in Paris, Olympe and Guil are captured by the Duc and Ada is working for the duc whilst secretly plotting against him. The stakes are higher than ever and the battalion must pull out all their cunning, wiles and their best schemes to defeat their enemies for good.
I thought all the characters had satisfying arcs throughout the story, reckoning with their demons both past and present. The standout character for me in this book was Al, I've always had a soft spot for him but I feel like other characters overshadowed him previously however in this book he got a chance to shine and I loved his journey of self acceptance and taking what he wanted for himself.
I liked how everything in this book wrapped up, the climax is told at a great pace - not too rushed or too drawn out. The pacing and plot keeps you engaged throughout the whole book, this is the kind of book you can easily read in one sitting as you just want to know what happens next. Additionally I thought the book ended on a perfect bittersweet note which fit the overall tone of the story well. This instalment especially can be quite dark throughout but I think ultimately ends on a note of hope which I always love.
I liked how we got a few touching emotional moments throughout; it added a lot of humanity to the story and I love the relationships between all the characters. I enjoy the romances but I think the highlight for me is all the friendships and the moment when everyone is together in a cafe just reminiscing was so emotional T_T
The only thing that slightly annoyed me about this (and it probably won't bother you much unless you have a medical background lol) was the use of electricity as (essentially) defibrillation and it not really being used correctly or the results it produces accurate. However it didn't really bother me that much as I'm well aware this series is semi-fantastical and not meant to be super accurate lol.
Overall if you enjoy historical based YA fantasy I would really recommend this series, it somehow feels nostalgic for a lot of YA I used to enjoy when I was a teenager, has a great cast of characters (with lots of queer characters which I always love) and a fast paced plot full of scheming, politics and action.
June 15, 2022
**I was provided with an ARC through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review**
CW: violence, gun violence, blood, murder, death, confinement, electrocution, animal cruelty, fire, long term illness
Just as fast paced and with the stakes just as high as its predecessors, Glorious Poison follows the Battalion Des Mortes on one final rescue and final faceoff with the Duc de L'Aubespine.
I wasn’t able to do a reread of the rest of the trilogy before picking this last instalment up however, the little “story so far” section at the beginning had me covered. Also Dunn’s writing effortlessly draws you back into the world and the character’s lives, and again beautifully balances all the twists in the narrative with more touching character focused scenes.
I will say that this final book felt like the weakest of the 3 as at times the story was dragging however, it all led up to an electrifying and emotional end.
Each of the characters individual arcs was wonderfully concluded, though it was Al’s development that stood out to me the most. I’m going to miss his one liners which always had me smiling as well as the rest of these kids and their banter, their camaraderie and their chaos.
If you enjoy alternate history with a dash of sci-fi fantasy, wholesome found family, lots of great queer rep and you haven’t yet read this series, it is there for you to binge it all now!
Final Rating – 3.5/5 Stars
CW: violence, gun violence, blood, murder, death, confinement, electrocution, animal cruelty, fire, long term illness
Just as fast paced and with the stakes just as high as its predecessors, Glorious Poison follows the Battalion Des Mortes on one final rescue and final faceoff with the Duc de L'Aubespine.
I wasn’t able to do a reread of the rest of the trilogy before picking this last instalment up however, the little “story so far” section at the beginning had me covered. Also Dunn’s writing effortlessly draws you back into the world and the character’s lives, and again beautifully balances all the twists in the narrative with more touching character focused scenes.
I will say that this final book felt like the weakest of the 3 as at times the story was dragging however, it all led up to an electrifying and emotional end.
Each of the characters individual arcs was wonderfully concluded, though it was Al’s development that stood out to me the most. I’m going to miss his one liners which always had me smiling as well as the rest of these kids and their banter, their camaraderie and their chaos.
If you enjoy alternate history with a dash of sci-fi fantasy, wholesome found family, lots of great queer rep and you haven’t yet read this series, it is there for you to binge it all now!
Final Rating – 3.5/5 Stars
April 13, 2022
I read the first two in this series last year and feel so grateful to have been provided with an early review copy via NetGalley.
Finishing a beloved series is always hard, for the author and reader alike. I was happy to be back with The Bataillon des Morts for the third, and final, book in the Battalion of the Dead series and it was very bittersweet to say goodbye to them after that last page. I won't say too much about the story as it picks up again right from the events of the second book and I don't want to spoil anything, but I really enjoyed how things played out. This book is also found family at its finest. This isn't out until June so you have time to read the other two before it does!
Finishing a beloved series is always hard, for the author and reader alike. I was happy to be back with The Bataillon des Morts for the third, and final, book in the Battalion of the Dead series and it was very bittersweet to say goodbye to them after that last page. I won't say too much about the story as it picks up again right from the events of the second book and I don't want to spoil anything, but I really enjoyed how things played out. This book is also found family at its finest. This isn't out until June so you have time to read the other two before it does!
June 26, 2022
This was definitely a satisfying ending for the series, but I somehow wasn’t as invested as I was in the other books. Maybe it was because I read the previous books a while ago. Anyway, I still love these characters and I can’t wait to see what else the author will write!
September 20, 2022
4.25/5
February 3, 2023
Very lovely finish to the series: https://blogendorff.com/2023/02/03/bo...
June 17, 2024
2.5/5
November 13, 2024
Audiobook and another good listen, well narrated; the last in this trilogy. Not my usual thing but it was good to follow it through. Recommended if historical fantasy type stuff is your thing.
September 21, 2022
It's really hard for me to articulate any specific thoughts I have on this book because nothing stands out to me as being outrageously bad, it just wasn't for me. If the premise of this book sounds like a success for you, and you typically enjoy YA historical fantasy, then I do recommend this series wholeheartedly. If you weren't a huge fan of the first book, I'd maybe stay away from the other two in this series - they are very consistent in plot, character, setting, and tone.
I wish I liked this series, but all I feel upon finishing this is relief. For being an 8-hour audiobook, this sure went by slow. I am happy to check another trilogy off my read list, but I am definitely going to be more cognizant about the YA I am picking up nowadays to avoid putting myself through another experience like this. Though the ending of this book was truly a highlight, I will say XD
I wish I liked this series, but all I feel upon finishing this is relief. For being an 8-hour audiobook, this sure went by slow. I am happy to check another trilogy off my read list, but I am definitely going to be more cognizant about the YA I am picking up nowadays to avoid putting myself through another experience like this. Though the ending of this book was truly a highlight, I will say XD
January 28, 2024
This trilogy started so well but this and book two weren’t for me. It felt that everything I had loved about book one had been forgotten. It did have a satisfying ending and it felt like the right way to finish the story for the characters, but overall it wasn’t what I had hoped for this series. I do think because I read the first book while in Paris and it was set in Paris, that really heightened my reading experience. A solid series but not one I’ll read again or call a favourite
April 27, 2025
Two books to many , sadly lost interest and found the books just didn't capture my Interest enough. the world building was poor and missed so many opertunities and the story line spread threw three books just wasn't needed .
May 22, 2022
Thank you Head of Zeus and NetGalley for the arc of Glorious Poison, the concluding novel of the Battalion of the Dead trilogy by Kat Dunn in exchange for my honest and unbiased review.
Glorious Poison picks up immediately where Monstrous Design left our glorious ragtag crew, The batallón des morts and doesn’t flinch from immediately continuing the explosive, emotional ride from beginning to end.
Reviewing a sequel is always a tricky path to walk, with trying to provide a comprehensive review balancing against trying not to reveal too much from the previous two books in the trilogy, so please accept my apologies for any spoilers.
At the end of Monstrous Design, the crew were desolate, fractured and appeared defeated, having been betrayed by Ada, now working for the Duc who has recaptured Olympe. In the face of such defeat, the batallón must pull together more than ever if they have any hope of defeating the Duc.
The pace of this book continues like the previous two to be perfectly pitched, rising gradually to meet the crescendo at the finale, with all the characters playing their part, individually facing their own personal demons and as a batallón in their fight to save France from the Duc’s machinations.
I this is very much a YA historical fantasy, that meets a number of tropes and provides an excellent mixed cast of characters and relationships, straight and queer. The tone is definitely darker as the trilogy progresses, but without the perfect ending, there isn’t a traditional happy ever after, but it works.
Throughout the book, Dunn crafts moments that are truly emotional and poignant, that definitely tug at the heartstrings, and she applies a delicate but brilliant touch to the romantic relationships that is just perfect. Plus, the gang themselves, they are a true found family and there were certain points even I had a tear in my eye.
This is definitely a historical YA fantasy that I totally recommend, as it moves into a slightly darker tone that brings greater weight to the story, the characters are brilliant and the story arc is well delivered, paced and totally engaging. Think politics, scheming, a band of misfits and a goal to do what is right, even if things sometimes go awry!
Glorious Poison picks up immediately where Monstrous Design left our glorious ragtag crew, The batallón des morts and doesn’t flinch from immediately continuing the explosive, emotional ride from beginning to end.
Reviewing a sequel is always a tricky path to walk, with trying to provide a comprehensive review balancing against trying not to reveal too much from the previous two books in the trilogy, so please accept my apologies for any spoilers.
At the end of Monstrous Design, the crew were desolate, fractured and appeared defeated, having been betrayed by Ada, now working for the Duc who has recaptured Olympe. In the face of such defeat, the batallón must pull together more than ever if they have any hope of defeating the Duc.
The pace of this book continues like the previous two to be perfectly pitched, rising gradually to meet the crescendo at the finale, with all the characters playing their part, individually facing their own personal demons and as a batallón in their fight to save France from the Duc’s machinations.
I this is very much a YA historical fantasy, that meets a number of tropes and provides an excellent mixed cast of characters and relationships, straight and queer. The tone is definitely darker as the trilogy progresses, but without the perfect ending, there isn’t a traditional happy ever after, but it works.
Throughout the book, Dunn crafts moments that are truly emotional and poignant, that definitely tug at the heartstrings, and she applies a delicate but brilliant touch to the romantic relationships that is just perfect. Plus, the gang themselves, they are a true found family and there were certain points even I had a tear in my eye.
This is definitely a historical YA fantasy that I totally recommend, as it moves into a slightly darker tone that brings greater weight to the story, the characters are brilliant and the story arc is well delivered, paced and totally engaging. Think politics, scheming, a band of misfits and a goal to do what is right, even if things sometimes go awry!
May 27, 2022
I received a review copy of the book from the publishers as part of the blog tour in exchange for an honest review. It has not affected my opinions.
The finale to the Battalion of the Dead is here! GLORIOUS POISON is full of conflicted loyalties, plans crashing and burning ("Battalion of Bad Plans" to the last!), and a duc in dire need of stopping before he seizes power.
I loved the fact it was set against the power vacuum and uncertainty of the fall of Robespierre. Aside from being a bit of the Revolution not as common in fiction, it creates such uncertainty about the future - and gives plenty of reason to stop the duc all while putting him at the height of his goals. It's so clear what he wants, and how he's going to get it (and, frankly, how easy it will be to succeed for a man like him.)
By contrast, the Battalion are a fractured mess. Ada's a sleeper agent, but not everyone knows that. Camille is seriously ill, but not everyone knows that. The secrets and lack of info create feelings of betrayal that are tearing them apart. It's a very fun sandbox of fracturing relationships for the story to take part in. (Not to mention the heart-worrying drama that all creates!)
Al and Guil get to narrate part of this book! Al has probably been my favourite character throughout (he makes me laugh a lot) so it was so so nice to get to hear him and his thoughts, rather than just filtered through others. Plus we get to see more of him and Leon after his running away last book!
I don't know if, like the previous two books, this one is a nod to a piece of classic literature. My knowledge of 19th century books is just not good enough to spot if this is a homage to something less well known than The Man in the Iron Mask (DANGEROUS REMEDY) and Frankenstein (MONSTROUS DESIGN.)
The ending gives the characters a deserved (and visually cool!) ending to their story, facing down the duc and his schemes. Kat Dunn also sucker-punches you in the meantime too. Get the tissues ready.
The finale to the Battalion of the Dead is here! GLORIOUS POISON is full of conflicted loyalties, plans crashing and burning ("Battalion of Bad Plans" to the last!), and a duc in dire need of stopping before he seizes power.
I loved the fact it was set against the power vacuum and uncertainty of the fall of Robespierre. Aside from being a bit of the Revolution not as common in fiction, it creates such uncertainty about the future - and gives plenty of reason to stop the duc all while putting him at the height of his goals. It's so clear what he wants, and how he's going to get it (and, frankly, how easy it will be to succeed for a man like him.)
By contrast, the Battalion are a fractured mess. Ada's a sleeper agent, but not everyone knows that. Camille is seriously ill, but not everyone knows that. The secrets and lack of info create feelings of betrayal that are tearing them apart. It's a very fun sandbox of fracturing relationships for the story to take part in. (Not to mention the heart-worrying drama that all creates!)
Al and Guil get to narrate part of this book! Al has probably been my favourite character throughout (he makes me laugh a lot) so it was so so nice to get to hear him and his thoughts, rather than just filtered through others. Plus we get to see more of him and Leon after his running away last book!
I don't know if, like the previous two books, this one is a nod to a piece of classic literature. My knowledge of 19th century books is just not good enough to spot if this is a homage to something less well known than The Man in the Iron Mask (DANGEROUS REMEDY) and Frankenstein (MONSTROUS DESIGN.)
The ending gives the characters a deserved (and visually cool!) ending to their story, facing down the duc and his schemes. Kat Dunn also sucker-punches you in the meantime too. Get the tissues ready.
September 1, 2022
What a bleak book! Glorious Poison feels suffused with all of the pain, loss and despair of the last few years. The third book in Kat Dunn's post-revolutionary France trilogy, and the Battalion des Mortes really seems to be struggling. Ada is deep undercover, trying to convince the Duc that she's on his side by carrying out ever darker experiments with him. Camille is dying. Al is living the good life of a nobleman once more, hiding his despair behind drink and more drink. Guill is a prisoner with Olympe and James is trying to figure out just who he is after the events of book two. Meanwhile, the Duc is getting ready to put his most lethal experiment into practice.
It's thrilling, from start to finish. An adventure that leaves you wondering if our heroes will actually make it to the finishing line, with all of the loss and hardship they'd had to face. The world around them has changed immeasurably too, with the fall of the revolutionaries and yet more political instability in Paris. That shifting, uncertain political landscape, with death in the form of justice, or justice in the form of death, promised by whichever side is in charge has been one of the most fascinating elements of this trilogy and the further twists and turns really add to this portrayal.
The friendships and romances between the main characters is another big draw, and there are many different forms of love on display here, from the complex relationship Clementine has with her daughter, Olympe, to the queer romances of Al and Leon, and Camille and Ada, both being tested to breaking point in different ways.
It's a time of fascinating political history, but also of great scientific breakthroughs, and that's also portrayed really well, with an effective mix of science reality and science fiction. The horror of how the Duc intends to manipulate and use Olympe's powers is all the more horrifiying for the real life grounding of it.
Queer romance and adventure in post-revolutionary Paris, with a breathtaking, thrilling plot, and a very bleak, despair filled tone. A superb finish to the trilogy.
It's thrilling, from start to finish. An adventure that leaves you wondering if our heroes will actually make it to the finishing line, with all of the loss and hardship they'd had to face. The world around them has changed immeasurably too, with the fall of the revolutionaries and yet more political instability in Paris. That shifting, uncertain political landscape, with death in the form of justice, or justice in the form of death, promised by whichever side is in charge has been one of the most fascinating elements of this trilogy and the further twists and turns really add to this portrayal.
The friendships and romances between the main characters is another big draw, and there are many different forms of love on display here, from the complex relationship Clementine has with her daughter, Olympe, to the queer romances of Al and Leon, and Camille and Ada, both being tested to breaking point in different ways.
It's a time of fascinating political history, but also of great scientific breakthroughs, and that's also portrayed really well, with an effective mix of science reality and science fiction. The horror of how the Duc intends to manipulate and use Olympe's powers is all the more horrifiying for the real life grounding of it.
Queer romance and adventure in post-revolutionary Paris, with a breathtaking, thrilling plot, and a very bleak, despair filled tone. A superb finish to the trilogy.
February 25, 2023
Glorious Poison is the third and final book in the Battalion of the Dead trilogy so there may be vague spoilers for the previous books, Dangerous Remedy and Monstrous Design, in this review.
Boy was Glorious Poison a bit of a tough read in comparison to the previous books. There are still schemes and political machinations and friendship but everything looks so bleak for the heroes that it can be a painful and sad read at times. As well as the overarching plot of trying to stop the Duc which seems like an impossible task, so many of the characters are going through life changing events and are having new traumas added to the ones they already had.
Friendships and loyalties are tested as characters are each going through some form of emotional turmoil and are often trying to hide their true feelings and motivations from the others. This trilogy has always been about the choices people can make, both good and bad, and then the consequences from those choices and that’s never been so prominent as it is in Glorious Poison. The choice to live, the choice to love, the choice to fight, the choice to trust – it all slowly builds as uncertain alliances are made in order to achieve their goal of saving Olympe and stopping the Duc.
Throughout the trilogy the setting has always been vivid and now in Glorious Poison we’re back in Paris and with a sudden change of leadership the city, and the country, is on a knifes edge. The differences between the upper and lower classes are stark once again as those who were under threat by the Revolution, are now able to be more free with their luxuries.
Though it is often a story where the characters feel hopeless, Glorious Poison is a testament to the strength of friendship and found family, and when one character might not believe in themselves, they’ll find others will. Overall Glorious Poison is a smart and satisfying end to this trilogy.
Boy was Glorious Poison a bit of a tough read in comparison to the previous books. There are still schemes and political machinations and friendship but everything looks so bleak for the heroes that it can be a painful and sad read at times. As well as the overarching plot of trying to stop the Duc which seems like an impossible task, so many of the characters are going through life changing events and are having new traumas added to the ones they already had.
Friendships and loyalties are tested as characters are each going through some form of emotional turmoil and are often trying to hide their true feelings and motivations from the others. This trilogy has always been about the choices people can make, both good and bad, and then the consequences from those choices and that’s never been so prominent as it is in Glorious Poison. The choice to live, the choice to love, the choice to fight, the choice to trust – it all slowly builds as uncertain alliances are made in order to achieve their goal of saving Olympe and stopping the Duc.
Throughout the trilogy the setting has always been vivid and now in Glorious Poison we’re back in Paris and with a sudden change of leadership the city, and the country, is on a knifes edge. The differences between the upper and lower classes are stark once again as those who were under threat by the Revolution, are now able to be more free with their luxuries.
Though it is often a story where the characters feel hopeless, Glorious Poison is a testament to the strength of friendship and found family, and when one character might not believe in themselves, they’ll find others will. Overall Glorious Poison is a smart and satisfying end to this trilogy.
May 17, 2022
Glorious Poison is the final installment in the Battalion of the Dead trilogy and it is a masterful end to a fantastic series - this might just be my favourite in the entire series.
This one picks up right where we left off, after Ada seemingly betrayed the Battalion and joined forces with the Duc. We find ourselves back in Paris for this final installment, which is fitting as it's where their story began.
I'll try to keep this non-spoilery - we know the Duc wishes to use Olympe for his own gain, to take control of France and this is what he attempts to complete in this final book. Ada is working with him as a spy, trying to find a way to stop his plans, while the rest of the Battalion is trying to thwart his plans in their own way, while attempting to stay off his radar too.
We see all our favourite characters again in this final book - Ada, Camille, Al, Guil, Olympe, and James - and we see some other familiar faces from the previous books return. What really worked well was the individual POVs we had for all the main characters, seeing everything from their perspective - Cam, Ada, Al, Guil, James, we got much more insight into their minds through the changing POVs and it really helped the story progress.
The book was gripping from beginning to end - we know going in that this is high-stakes, and the pace of the novel reflects that. The tension is rising through each chapter and each POV, leading to quite an explosive finale in the final few pages. This is wrapped up nicely in the final few chapters too, with a postscript chapter that is bittersweet and perfectly ends the series.
Overall, this has to be my favourite book in the series thanks to the POVs we get, the excitement of the storyline, and the way it is finished. The perfect end to a fantastic trilogy.
This one picks up right where we left off, after Ada seemingly betrayed the Battalion and joined forces with the Duc. We find ourselves back in Paris for this final installment, which is fitting as it's where their story began.
I'll try to keep this non-spoilery - we know the Duc wishes to use Olympe for his own gain, to take control of France and this is what he attempts to complete in this final book. Ada is working with him as a spy, trying to find a way to stop his plans, while the rest of the Battalion is trying to thwart his plans in their own way, while attempting to stay off his radar too.
We see all our favourite characters again in this final book - Ada, Camille, Al, Guil, Olympe, and James - and we see some other familiar faces from the previous books return. What really worked well was the individual POVs we had for all the main characters, seeing everything from their perspective - Cam, Ada, Al, Guil, James, we got much more insight into their minds through the changing POVs and it really helped the story progress.
The book was gripping from beginning to end - we know going in that this is high-stakes, and the pace of the novel reflects that. The tension is rising through each chapter and each POV, leading to quite an explosive finale in the final few pages. This is wrapped up nicely in the final few chapters too, with a postscript chapter that is bittersweet and perfectly ends the series.
Overall, this has to be my favourite book in the series thanks to the POVs we get, the excitement of the storyline, and the way it is finished. The perfect end to a fantastic trilogy.
April 9, 2025
I know I've had a lot of books over the years where the sequel is better than the first one, but this might be the first where the last book of the trilogy is absolutely the best. This book brings the Battalion of the Dead back together in Paris, starts off with half of them in serious trouble and the other half with no idea how to get them out, and only escalates from there. Much of the book is this amazing series of plans upon plans, successes and failures sending everything into a new kind of mess, and so many twists that I was constantly wondering if any part of this story was going to play out the way I thought it would.
And as it turns out, very little did. This book is a masterclass in how to coordinate and weave together so many different things and have them all work out in a brilliant fashion. I don't want to give any spoilers, but I sped through the last hundred or so pages of this book because I genuinely didn't know if anything in it was going to plan or not, or how any of it was going to turn out, but I simply had to keep going so I could find out. All I can say about the ending is that it was brilliantly done, and worked as an excellent culmination of everything that's happened over the course of the series.
I had to import these books, and this last one took a very long time to get here, so much that I thought it had gotten lost along the way. I'm very glad it didn't, as I would have hated to miss out on any part of this series. Highly recommended.
And as it turns out, very little did. This book is a masterclass in how to coordinate and weave together so many different things and have them all work out in a brilliant fashion. I don't want to give any spoilers, but I sped through the last hundred or so pages of this book because I genuinely didn't know if anything in it was going to plan or not, or how any of it was going to turn out, but I simply had to keep going so I could find out. All I can say about the ending is that it was brilliantly done, and worked as an excellent culmination of everything that's happened over the course of the series.
I had to import these books, and this last one took a very long time to get here, so much that I thought it had gotten lost along the way. I'm very glad it didn't, as I would have hated to miss out on any part of this series. Highly recommended.
June 6, 2022
It is the year 1794, Paris.
Robespierre’s terror is over. People can start to build a new life after losing so very much, but perhaps they are too swift to let down their guard for horrors of the most unimaginable await.
For you see, the city itself is poisoned, doomed and the suffering is far from over.
The Duc de l’Aubespine is plotting a coup.
Olympe and Guil find themselves being held captive at the mercy of those who were meant to be on their side as Ada is now in service to the Duc along with Olympe’s very own mother which surely cannot seem fair or right, yet things are not as black and white as they think as it’s always a good idea to keep your enemies close…
The Battalion is outnumbered, fading fast and the hourglass is down to its last grain of sand and even those who have dodged death before cannot outrun it forever.
Set amid the glittering ballrooms of Paris, to the eerie, undesirable and unsettling catacombs, Camille dances on a knife’s edge as she passes between the veil of the living and the dead as she herself is slowly slipping away from the mortal realm destined to be dragged to the underworld whether she is ready or not, but maybe there is a way for her to come to terms with such a bleak future, if only she can pull off one final trick.
It is time for the curtain to finally fall on the Battalion of the Dead trilogy as Camille, Ada, Guil, Al and James reunite for their ultimate mission which reaches its dramatic conclusion.
Just remember, there is no fate.
No destiny.
Everything is a choice, but be warned for all choices have consequences.
An absolutely thrilling and page-turning finalé of the much loved series, with twists and turns aplenty, this is a satisfying, beautiful and memorable farewell to a Gorgeous series.
Robespierre’s terror is over. People can start to build a new life after losing so very much, but perhaps they are too swift to let down their guard for horrors of the most unimaginable await.
For you see, the city itself is poisoned, doomed and the suffering is far from over.
The Duc de l’Aubespine is plotting a coup.
Olympe and Guil find themselves being held captive at the mercy of those who were meant to be on their side as Ada is now in service to the Duc along with Olympe’s very own mother which surely cannot seem fair or right, yet things are not as black and white as they think as it’s always a good idea to keep your enemies close…
The Battalion is outnumbered, fading fast and the hourglass is down to its last grain of sand and even those who have dodged death before cannot outrun it forever.
Set amid the glittering ballrooms of Paris, to the eerie, undesirable and unsettling catacombs, Camille dances on a knife’s edge as she passes between the veil of the living and the dead as she herself is slowly slipping away from the mortal realm destined to be dragged to the underworld whether she is ready or not, but maybe there is a way for her to come to terms with such a bleak future, if only she can pull off one final trick.
It is time for the curtain to finally fall on the Battalion of the Dead trilogy as Camille, Ada, Guil, Al and James reunite for their ultimate mission which reaches its dramatic conclusion.
Just remember, there is no fate.
No destiny.
Everything is a choice, but be warned for all choices have consequences.
An absolutely thrilling and page-turning finalé of the much loved series, with twists and turns aplenty, this is a satisfying, beautiful and memorable farewell to a Gorgeous series.
April 18, 2022
"Being frightened doesn't mean something is impossible" - Glorious poison
I have recently finished advanced reader copy of Glorious poison by Kat Dunn the third book in the Batallion of the dead series thanks to Netgalley and Head of Zeus
This series is Young Adult historical science fiction set near the end of The Reign of terror that followed the French Revolution.
The Battallon des morts AKA The Batallion of the dead are a diverse crew/found family of outcasts, aristocrats and deserters who rescue prisoners from the guillotine but things get strange and even more dangerous than usual when they rescue Olympe a girl kept imprisoned in a mask who has some interesting electricity related powers.
Think The Scarlet Pimpernal crossed with Frankenstein crossed with Six of crows crossed with The Man in the Iron mask.
In this third book, after numerous twists and betrayals, the Revolution looks to be almost over but first the Bataillon des morts has one final deadly fight to win over the big bad villian.
I have recently finished advanced reader copy of Glorious poison by Kat Dunn the third book in the Batallion of the dead series thanks to Netgalley and Head of Zeus
This series is Young Adult historical science fiction set near the end of The Reign of terror that followed the French Revolution.
The Battallon des morts AKA The Batallion of the dead are a diverse crew/found family of outcasts, aristocrats and deserters who rescue prisoners from the guillotine but things get strange and even more dangerous than usual when they rescue Olympe a girl kept imprisoned in a mask who has some interesting electricity related powers.
Think The Scarlet Pimpernal crossed with Frankenstein crossed with Six of crows crossed with The Man in the Iron mask.
In this third book, after numerous twists and betrayals, the Revolution looks to be almost over but first the Bataillon des morts has one final deadly fight to win over the big bad villian.
May 30, 2022
{AD|GIFTED} This was a bittersweet ending to an incredible trilogy. The Battalion des Morts are back for one final adventure and stakes are at an all-time high. With the Duc advancing his monstrous plans, the Battalion scattered once again, and Camille succumbing to her illness, everything seems to be going wrong for the gang. However, as the author is keen to emphasise, there is always hope and sometimes it is as simple as taking one step at a time into the light.
I would highly recommend this trilogy to all historical fiction fans and those who enjoy a well-written found family story. The plot is fast-paced and engaging, leaving the reader frantically turning the pages to find out what happens next. The atmospheric setting of Revolutionary France is richly detailed. But it's the characters and their dynamics that shine through, especially the w|w romance between Camille and Ada, and the friendship bond shared by the group. I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of this trilogy.
I would highly recommend this trilogy to all historical fiction fans and those who enjoy a well-written found family story. The plot is fast-paced and engaging, leaving the reader frantically turning the pages to find out what happens next. The atmospheric setting of Revolutionary France is richly detailed. But it's the characters and their dynamics that shine through, especially the w|w romance between Camille and Ada, and the friendship bond shared by the group. I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of this trilogy.
June 13, 2022
I was provided an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The Battalion of the Dead comes back in this third and last book and you're not ready.
Filled with twists and turns, Glorious Poison had me glued to the page from beginning to end. I was truly captivated. I loved seeing the relationships evolved and I was really taken by surprised by a lot of the twists. I just love this little group of characters so much, flaws and all. Actually, I think Al became my true favorite with this book.
And, yeah, everytime I thought something was going to happen, something else did. I was unwell in the best way, until pretty much the last sentence.
I also love the atmosphere of the series so much, and actually learnt some things about this period that I did not know. It's just so interesting to see Paris through that lens...
So basically, great group of characters, great setting, great plot. Why are you still reading this review instead of reading this series?
Oh and I cannot wait to see what Kat Dunn comes up with next!
Now go!
The Battalion of the Dead comes back in this third and last book and you're not ready.
Filled with twists and turns, Glorious Poison had me glued to the page from beginning to end. I was truly captivated. I loved seeing the relationships evolved and I was really taken by surprised by a lot of the twists. I just love this little group of characters so much, flaws and all. Actually, I think Al became my true favorite with this book.
And, yeah, everytime I thought something was going to happen, something else did. I was unwell in the best way, until pretty much the last sentence.
I also love the atmosphere of the series so much, and actually learnt some things about this period that I did not know. It's just so interesting to see Paris through that lens...
So basically, great group of characters, great setting, great plot. Why are you still reading this review instead of reading this series?
Oh and I cannot wait to see what Kat Dunn comes up with next!
Now go!
June 13, 2022
I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
What a finale to this wonderful series. It was everything I hoped for! This little crew really have my heart.
After the bombshell of the ending for book 2, I was dying to jump into this and see it all play through, and honestly it was just what I needed. From seeing the crew have to deal with an almost peaceful time while they’re still fighting in the dark, to the twists and turns of that fight, it was glorious.
I particularly liked echoes of modernity in a way that is plausible centuries before it was possible.
My only niggle is that I actually wasn’t sure about part of the ending. I did enjoy the end, but wondered if a slightly different set of events would have been more powerful. But this way was happier, to be fair!
All in all, a series I thoroughly enjoyed and definitely recommend. 4 stars.
What a finale to this wonderful series. It was everything I hoped for! This little crew really have my heart.
After the bombshell of the ending for book 2, I was dying to jump into this and see it all play through, and honestly it was just what I needed. From seeing the crew have to deal with an almost peaceful time while they’re still fighting in the dark, to the twists and turns of that fight, it was glorious.
I particularly liked echoes of modernity in a way that is plausible centuries before it was possible.
My only niggle is that I actually wasn’t sure about part of the ending. I did enjoy the end, but wondered if a slightly different set of events would have been more powerful. But this way was happier, to be fair!
All in all, a series I thoroughly enjoyed and definitely recommend. 4 stars.
Want to read
August 29, 2022Wonderful conclusion to the series. I cannot believe I wont read about them again, these characters are so lovely. Action, heists, politics of the time period, seriously loved everything about this. Battalion of the dead is the epitome of found family, and we get to see more of them than just our two heroines.
Its hard to review book 3 without mentioning or spoiling previous books, but I'll just point out that Dunn successfully written a book series that loses nothing from book to book, manages to keep you engaged and wanting to know more. Worth the read! Just the development of these character from book 1 to now, wow!
If you love heists, Found families, ragtag bands of rebels, forbidden loves, wlw , revolution, politics, secrets, betrayals, David vs Goliath moments, plans being made and failing, conflicting loyalties, fast-paced, brilliant YA fantasy I wish more people read!
Its hard to review book 3 without mentioning or spoiling previous books, but I'll just point out that Dunn successfully written a book series that loses nothing from book to book, manages to keep you engaged and wanting to know more. Worth the read! Just the development of these character from book 1 to now, wow!
If you love heists, Found families, ragtag bands of rebels, forbidden loves, wlw , revolution, politics, secrets, betrayals, David vs Goliath moments, plans being made and failing, conflicting loyalties, fast-paced, brilliant YA fantasy I wish more people read!
July 17, 2022
this is the best book in the trilogy by far. it was the only one of the three which i wanted to read in one sitting, i couldn’t stop turning the pages.
i was genuinely distraught when james died despite the fact i couldn’t stand him in the first two books.
also ada and camille’s relationship is so beautifully written in this book. the angst coming from the fact that they’re on opposite sides, the fact that camille is dying was just chefs kiss.
and by god i am so thankful this book didn’t fall prey to the bury your gays trope. i was nearly in tears when camille died and then when ada gave the little flashback to the restaurant i had a little hope. and then it was ripped away from me. and then all of a sudden camille is standing there and i’m thinking thank god.
i was genuinely distraught when james died despite the fact i couldn’t stand him in the first two books.
also ada and camille’s relationship is so beautifully written in this book. the angst coming from the fact that they’re on opposite sides, the fact that camille is dying was just chefs kiss.
and by god i am so thankful this book didn’t fall prey to the bury your gays trope. i was nearly in tears when camille died and then when ada gave the little flashback to the restaurant i had a little hope. and then it was ripped away from me. and then all of a sudden camille is standing there and i’m thinking thank god.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 20, 2022
This was a really enjoyable read that I finished really wuickly. It was well written with a compelling storyline and well developed and engaging characters. I have read some books set within this time perios that mention the French Revolution and this one felt different, It was well researched and was full of vivid descriptions and rich imagery that made me fell like I was there - and also very glad I wasn't. I will definitely be getting thewhole set in physical copies as I would love to read over and over and anootate etc.
A really good read.
A really good read.
November 4, 2021
Ahhhhh I can't believe the trilogy is finished! I waited a long time to get my hands on this ridiculously good final book and I was. not. ready!!!
If you love spending time with Camille, Ada, Al, Gil & Olympe as much as I do, this book won't disappoint. It's the perfect ending for my favourite trash kids and I'm so happy and content but also sad because I won't get to spend another book with them :((((
If you love spending time with Camille, Ada, Al, Gil & Olympe as much as I do, this book won't disappoint. It's the perfect ending for my favourite trash kids and I'm so happy and content but also sad because I won't get to spend another book with them :((((
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