Inborn Magic: Hidden Coven Series, Book 1 is an urban fantasy for young and new adults written by Kim McDougall. Bobbi had always suspected that she had some sort of powers, but, being orphaned, she had no way of knowing if this was something that was a family legacy and no one to ask. She had finally purchased Miss Abernathy's Grimoire to try to discover a bit about those abilities. After poring through the old, handwritten volume, she decided to try her luck at a basic spell -- she would turn her will into fire. While she was reluctant to go sky-clad, or nude, for the ritual, she did dress down to a pair of panties and a t-shirt, and she followed the grimoire's instructions, setting out an gemstone, buttercups and a votive candle. She created a protective circle with salt, sat within it, and began relaxing her mind and body. Briefly, the thought of her ex-boyfriend choking during their argument passed through her mind; it had been the turning point in her decision to understand her latent powers, but she was able to deflect her attention away from that dark memory and return her concentration to her current task. As she chanted the required words, something did happen -- the candle lit! Bobbi felt an incredible rush of power that made her laugh with sheer pleasure; she felt as if she were power itself as the magic poured through her every atom, but then it turned on her. The votive shattered into biting shards that tore her skin, and the pain seemed determined to rend her soul into pieces. Her magic was going to kill her.

In Kim McDougall's paranormal urban fantasy for young and new adults, Inborn Magic: Hidden Coven Series, Book 1, Bobbi's venture into the world of magic and witchcraft propels her into the company of witches who live in a communal village, and her life would never be quite the same again. I marveled along with her as she woke up in her rescuers' home and explored what at first seemed like a medieval village, and I soon found myself as fascinated by this alternative covert lifestyle as she was. McDougall's story is original, compelling and intricately crafted. Her characters are fascinating to follow, especially Bobbi, whose first instincts on finding herself in the coven are to heal Stubby the donkey with skills learned from growing up with rescue animals, and the brother and sister, Quinn and Abilene, who find her when she was nearly extinguished by her "simple spell" and bring her home for healing. As I read this novella, I was so impressed with the breadth and depth of the world McDougall creates in this compelling urban fantasy. There's also a marvelous, sweet romance hinted at between Bobbi and the darkly handsome Quinn that adds a lovely bit of tension to the story. Magic indeed lurks in this tale of witches and covens, and it's well worth settling in with a cup of tea and exploring the world this author has put together. Inborn Magic: Hidden Coven Series, Book 1 is most highly recommended.

Inborn Magic: Hidden Coven Series, Book 1, Kim McDougall’s fantasy novella, opens with Bobbi Cole experimenting with magic, whilst doing her best to forget the fate of her ex-boyfriend when a spell went wrong. Her latest attempt at meddling in the Dark Arts causes her to collapse, helpless, in her garden. Two strangers, Abiline and Quinn Mason, rescue her. Bobbi has conjured up magic so powerful that her life is in danger and Abiline is insistent that they take her home to Mom; Bobbi is paralyzed and only the High Priestess of The Hidden Coven can help her. The Coven is threatened by demonic forces intent on stealing their magic and Quinn, head of security, doesn’t trust strangers. Can Bobbi overcome her own lack of confidence, and Quinn’s doubts, and do it before the witches face their ultimate enemy?

Kim McDougall delved deep into her imagination when she wrote Inborn Magic: Hidden Coven Series, Book 1, and created a stunning fantasy land that in no way mimics anything I have read about before. With strong characters, lots of action, and a troubled romance, her characterization is excellent, and she has utilized a relatively large cast, all very different, yet all vitally alive. Readers cannot fail to empathize with Bobbi and Quinn as they battle with their own feelings and loyalties. Bobbi is uncertain of her magical powers and afraid she isn’t wanted, whilst Quinn is conscious of his official duty to The Hidden Coven. I found myself desperate to know if this unlikely romance would come to fruition. Inborn Magic is complete, but it ends in a way that will hook readers into book two.

Inborn Magic: Hidden Coven Series, Book 1 by Kim McDougall is a spellbinding read that follows a girl named Bobbi. When Bobbi tries to use magic for the first time, the spell fails and leaves her spell-locked, a situation where she is unable to move. Two people come to her rescue; a girl named Abilene and a boy named Quinn. They take her to their mother, Jane, who heals her. Bobbi tries to run away from them, but can't. She decides to stay a week so she can learn how to use her magic. She learns of the hidden coven, and their fight against an evil being. She also learns of the core, and how it keeps anyone from entering the hidden coven. But then disaster strikes and there is no one left to feed the core. What will Bobbi do?

I loved Inborn Magic by Kim McDougall. I was hooked by the first page and couldn't put the book down. The book was well-written and descriptive with lots of action scenes that will keep the reader on the edge of their seat. The characters were all very likeable, as they were all very brave and selfless. The book had a few funny parts and is thrilling, with a lot of suspense. I liked how there was romance in the plot, and yet the romance didn't take away from the main theme. Inborn Magic is really enjoyable. I would recommend this book to fans of fantasy and magic.

Bobbi wants to explore her connection to magic, but ends up nearly killing herself in Inborn Magic: Book 1 of the Hidden Coven Series by Kim McDougall. Fortunately, the power Bobbi unleashes draws the attention of some local witches who take her home to the Hidden Coven where the High Priestess can unlock the magic Bobbi has bound within herself and save her life. As a stranger, Bobbi is in a tough position in the hidden village. Quinn, the chief of security who is also the handsome son of the High Priestess, wants Bobbi out of town because she is an unknown. Jane, the High Priestess, wants Bobbi to stay for the same reason – only so that Bobbi can be tested and trained to join their ranks. Since it is obvious to Jane that Bobbi has exceptional potential, the important issue is keeping her away from Koro, an earth-bound demon intent on killing witches and ruining the world. Bobbi has a big decision to make – return to her relatively simple, happy life or stay with the coven and learn about the magic she possesses. And will that decision be up to Bobbi or made for her by forces beyond her control?

With an excellent story-telling style, Kim McDougall has crafted a wonderful mystery based on the delicate nature and pitfalls of the use of magical powers. The characters come alive as they work both with and against each other in the need to do what is best for the community. The action is quick-paced and the hint of romance adds some flair. Inborn Magic is a delightful read and a great start to the Hidden Coven Series. Great story that moves well, keeps the reader's interest and leads well to the rest of the series.