Destruction (The December People) by Sharon Bayliss is a fascinating tale, weaving magic with drama, almost soap opera worthy in nature.

I thought I knew what I was getting into when I started reading this book, but I’m glad I was wrong. Bayliss creates a magic system unique to her universe that is so fascinating that I am disappointed that she didn’t go into more detail. I really wanted to know more about the dark wizards and all the different ways they could use their magic.

Bayliss doesn't go into much detail about how magic works on a technical level. She uses a more intuitive system, making her characters feel their way around this newfound magic rather than read about it in a magic book or practice making magic circles. I would've preferred more of an explanation personally but Bayliss gives enough good description that I am content with it.

The themes of this book are great, with the balance of good and evil, that dark wizards aren't necessarily bad people, and that good people can make bad decisions and that it doesn't mean that they are a bad person.

That being said, there are some things that I take issue with in this book. The story itself doesn't get exciting until chapters ten and twelve when all hell breaks loose. The trauma the kids go through, including several hospital trips, neglect and abuse, are not mentioned much in the story and when it does come up it is only as a side note and not really dealt with. Also, there is this fantastic build-up for a big final confrontation but it falls short to me. I felt as though it could have been more exciting and could’ve tied up the loose ends of the plot much better.

Destruction is an intriguing look at a magical family trying to balance their mundane problems with their magical ones. This story has drama in spades as well as a unique personal voice and is a good read for fans of urban fantasy. I look forward to reading the next book in The December People series.

Reviewed by Jazmin Gousse

Publication date: 4/14/2014
Pages: 250

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