In Tempest Winds is a beautifully written and deeply engaging story that captures the heart of West Virginia during a time of great upheaval. Kendy Pearson weaves historical detail, vivid landscapes, and powerful emotion into every chapter, making this a standout Civil War-era novel.

The characters are compelling, the pacing is just right, and the themes of resilience, honor, and hope shine through in every scene. It’s the kind of book that pulls you in and doesn’t let go.

Highly recommended for fans of historical fiction, strong heroines, and heartfelt storytelling.

Kendy Pearson continues her birth of West Virginia series with Zander Dabney's story. Zander, the quiet and sensitive brother has waited for three years before feeling he must enter the war. He joins the Calvary with his faithful and talented horse, Rampart. It is not at all what he expected. Harder still is the fact that he has big boots to follow in. His brother Fin is well known, and other soldiers have thrust the younger brother in his shadow. Taunting him about what Fin has accomplished and asking what he has to offer.
The battle at Cloyd's Mountain leaves Zander in a devastated state. His faith in God has been crushed after what he has seen and endured. He is so bitter toward God, lost in anger and grief.
Lola Wade works hard for the family mercantile that her father owns. Young brother Felix accompanies her and helps where he can. They travel to a post to set up wares for the local soldiers to purchase what they need. One soldier in particular ends up capturing her heart. Zander. Then, her world changes drastically in the midst of war.
I received an advanced copy of this book from the author and publisher through NetGalley and this is my own unsolicited opinion. It is an excellent book and story of lost faith and a hard journey back to God.
Once again, the author continues the Dabney family story in a heart touching way. I love this family of characters she has created and the people they draw into their lives. I got right into the story and actually forgot to record the date I started and finished the book so added an approximate set of dates after the fact. The series has really touched on the heartbreak and loss of the U.S. Civil War. It delves into how the average citizens, businesses and families were deeply affected and even altered. What a story this is with the stress of the battles and town invasions, loss and despair. This is a series to read more than once, it's that good, that intense. It's an excellent series and book for anyone who enjoys a look into the lives of those in a fictional account of actual historic events with real people included in segments of the story. This book will work for a stand-alone, but I highly recommend reading the series of three.
I'd give it more than a five-star rating here if I could.

The third book in the West Virginia: Born of Rebellion's Storm Series looks closely at times when we struggle to trust God. Most of us would have been like Zander after fighting in the battles and seeing the horrors of war that he has gone through. In Tempest Winds by Kendy Pearson is an honest study of how hard a soldier’s life is during the US Civil War. Yet God is faithful, family are praying, a friend is still reminding Zander to fully turn to God and his heart is yearning to do so. I recommend the series be read in order to see Zander, the boy who grows to be a strong, kind and compassionate man. And who could ever forget Rampart, his faithful horse. What a powerful story.

Just when I thought I knew where this story was going a major heartrending twist took place. Much like how life events can change your world in a heartbeat. An exemplary third book in this first-rate historical fiction series. Top-notch research and extraordinary fictional characters bring this time in US history to vivid life. These characters are unforgettable. I highly recommend this Christian historical series to all who enjoy incredible stories.

In Tempest Winds by Kendy Pearson is the third book in the series (see below) and details the ending of the Civil War and the assassination of President Lincoln. I'm not sure if it is the last in the series as there was an ending that I did not expect.

In Tempest Winds is the story of Zander (yes, the books need to be read in order). I shed many tears for the trials that Zander endured while serving in the war. I shed tears at the conclusion of When the Mountains Wept but shed more in this book. Zander was the more relatable character in this series. If there is a book four, I want to know the conclusion of Zander's story.

Releases May 7th. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

The Award-winning series, West Born of Rebellion's

① WHEN THE MOUNTAINS WEPT
② WHEN HEAVEN THUNDERS
③ IN TEMPEST WINDS

In Tempest Winds by Kendy Pearson is the third book in her series, West Virginia: Born of Rebellion’s Storm. Let me just say, each book was equally engaging, pulling at my heart with tragedy to making me laugh out loud. The characters are endearing, enticing the reader to join them around their dinner table. The best part was that God was at the center of this loving family. Just as life should be.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. The opinions expressed are completely my own.

Another gripping story in this series. Such a reminder of family becoming extended and inclusive of others and what a difference that can make to the community.

This was a great book! It was very well written and super enjoyable to read. The story was fast paced and the plot was great.

I'm sad the series has now ended. The author again doesn't disappoint.
In the final book of the series, we follow the Civil War through the eyes of Zander Dabney. The author again gives us such detail that we feel as if we are on the battlefield with Zander. Tender hearted Zander who must grow up quick and think fast.
From war to love he meets with so many emotions he has never experienced before. He wavers in his trust in God but in the end, it's God that gets him through.
I could write so much more, but I don't want to give up any details that could spoil how different situations. There are a few twist and turns.

I loved it! Excellent historical fiction, I am impressed with the scope of the author's research and her beautiful storytelling. This riveting story is inspired by true events.

Zander Dabney, a tender soul, who up to this point has only been participating in army drills, soon comes face to face with the evils of war in a horrific battle. " A sob caught in his throat and tears stung the backs of his eyes. There was no name for what he felt just now. He was numb. Just numb. Words that should have been directed to his Maker crumbled to dust and scattered to the wind." His Sergeant said "I have a son a few years younger than you. I'd give my life to protect him from what you went through yesterday."

Such a difficult time in history. This beautiful story captures that devastating time, with honesty, and hope. From the horror and difficulties of war, how to cope with faith in the face of evil and betrayal, a sweet romance with the shopkeepers daughter Lola, funny little brothers, the love of family, and Rampart his trusty horse. I couldn't put it down.

Thank you to the author for allowing me to read an early copy. All opinions are my own. I highly recommend this series for historical fiction lovers. So happy to hear there will be another series where the stories of this family continue!