When Heaven Thunders: West Virginia: Born of Rebellion's Storm TWO

by Kendy Pearson

A RIVETING CIVIL WAR NOVEL INSPIRED BY TRUE EVENTS
A captivating read!—Lynnette Bonner, USA Today Bestselling author

Brimming with heart, When Heaven Thunders is an emotionally charged journey for characters and readers alike.—Jocelyn Green, Christy Award-winning author

Award-winning-author Kendy Pearson “brings to life the Kanawha Valley’s explosive Civil War history."—Laura Frantz, Christy Award-winning author


WHEN THE DEVIL WEARS BLUE AND GRAY, DOING THE RIGHT THING CAN BE A THORNY MATTER.His family is missing. Bushwhackers are sleeping in his bed. This war just got a heap more personal for Union Sergeant Fin Dabney.

Fighting guerillas in your own neck of the woods comes at a high price. Neighbors, kin, and even Fin’s best friend are on the wrong end of a rifle. But not all battles are fought amid smoke and blood. When Fin faces a murderer from his past, flesh and spirit collide, but only one can prevail.

Melinda Jane has waited a lifetime for Fin to declare his intentions. But now she has moved on to other interests—with disastrous results. Her choices have cost her Fin’s love and possibly her life.

Why was it he could draw down on the enemy and look death in the eye, but he could not bring himself to deal plainly with Melinda Jane? He never told her how he feels. Now he may never get the chance.

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



WHEN THE MOUNTAINS WEPT WHEN HEAVEN THUNDERS IN TEMPEST WINDS (spring 2025)
Kendy Pearson’s devotion to history and faith shines through every chapter of this novel. While addressing struggles unique to the American Civil War, this redemptive story translates well to the inner battles we all face within ourselves. Exploring soul-level choices—between faith and fear, self-preservation and sacrifice, forgiveness and resentment—are themes both timely and timeless. A must-read for fans of well-researched, immersive Christian historical fiction. —Jocelyn Green, Christy Award-winning author of A River Between Us

Pearson pulls back the curtain on war-torn America in this moving story of love and sacrifice. Loyalties are tested, hidden motives unearthed, and danger lurks for more than just the enlisted soldiers in When Heaven Thunders . This story will have you rooting for Fin and Melinda Jane, and on the edge of your seat to see if good will triumph over evil. —Erica Vetsch, author of the Of Cloaks & Daggers Regency Mystery series.

This Civil War romance ( When Heaven Thunders ) beautifully weaves historical detail with deep emotional resonance. The characters are richly drawn, and the narrative unfolds at a deliberate pace, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in the era and the heart-touching journey of the protagonists. A captivating read!—Lynnette Bonner, USA Today Bestselling author of the Wyldhaven, The Shepherd's Heart, and Oregon Promise series

Kendy Pearson is a gifted author who can bring the past to life with her character development and descriptive scenes.

Genres: Christian Fiction, Historical Fiction

389 pages, Paperback

Published October 2, 2024

About the author

Kendy Pearson is a worship leader, Bluegrass fiddler, and Civil War reenactment enthusiast. As a veteran high school teacher, she loves to discover a pocket of American history missing from the schoolbooks and turn that pocket inside out. Her novels lead fictitious characters through historical events and settings, engaging with period personalities. And she always includes a romantic thread to warm the heart. Every story is a journey through tragedy, secrets, regrets, and God's undeniable grace.

She is the recipient of multiple lit awards and enjoys public speaking and teaching writing workshops. When away from the computer, she relishes ice cream, snowy days, fireplaces, and maple trees. Kendy is the mother of four grown children and lives with her sweet hubby and two amusing miniature dachshunds. Visit her at https://kendypearson.com

Reviews

[Carrie Schmidt · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

I fell in love with the Dabney family and their friend Melinda Jane (who is as close as a sister) in book 1 of this compelling series, and I felt as though they had somehow become part of my own family by the time I closed that novel. So, needless to say, I was eager to catch up with them in When Heaven Thunders. Especially with some things still in limbo – like the fact that the family is still separated, with part of them in Charleston and part of them in Wheeling and then of course eldest brother Fin fighting for the Union army. And, will Fin – who does NOT view Melinda Jane as a sister – finally gather up the gumption to tell Melinda Jane how he feels about her? I NEEDED TO KNOW that they were all still safe and that there would be a happily ever after, somehow, in the middle of this ugly war.

When the Mountains Wept was a riveting read but also very emotional for me with heartbreaking losses, much of it caused by people with hate in their hearts, and some gruesome (though not gratuitous) medical scenes (if you’ve read Jocelyn Green’s Widow of Gettysburg you have an idea of the kind of wounds James had to tend, too). When Heaven Thunders gave my heart and my ‘gets-woozy-at-gruesome-injuries’ stomach a bit of a reprieve, though it still tugged on my emotions in different ways. With this second book, Pearson focuses less on the medical side of the war and more on the psychological aspects of this ‘brother against brother’ fight, as well as the impact of relocating from a rural farming community to a city where mixed loyalties are trickier to navigate. One scene in particular will probably live in my memory any time I think of the Civil War from now on – where best friends who are now soldiers on opposite sides of this conflict pause briefly to check on each other’s families before they start their battle in earnest. What a surreal experience moments like that must have been, and I believe similar stories like that actually happened, given the author’s impeccable research into the history behind this series.

“My hands are stained with men’s blood. Some of them good men. Men with families and dreams. Men who worshiped the same God as you and me.”

Even as I pondered scenes like this, as well as some of the heart-aching situations in which Melinda Jane finds herself in Charleston, I also found great delight in the friendship between Fin and his fellow soldier Noah. Their conversations often left me grinning and even had me chuckling out loud on occasion, especially as I could ‘hear’ their accents in my mind while reading their teasing and banter. Fin is such a good guy, a man of integrity with a heart toward God, His Word and His ways. Getting to know him in a more ‘up close’ and personal way in this book was truly a pleasure. Same goes for Melinda Jane, from her pure-of-heart character to her vibrant spirit, care for the poor, and inner strength. And, without giving away any specific spoilers, let’s just say that I even found myself swooning over these two several times as the story moved toward an ending that will have you breathing a contented sigh… at least until you remember that this war isn’t over yet.

Bottom Line: When Heaven Thunders by Kendy Pearson is a swoony historical romance, yes, but it’s even more so a heartfelt and compelling look at the unique complexities of a war fought between neighbors, friends, and even family in some cases. Yet while Fin & Melinda Jane’s individual and collective situations may not be specific battles we ourselves have fought, the basic human and spiritual questions they encounter are ones we can all relate to in our hearts, our minds, and even our souls. Pearson’s attention to detail; her ability to immerse readers in a sense of time, place, and history; her skill at capturing the human condition and nuances of faith through layered, winsome characters; and her engaging writing voice all make this series – and When Heaven Thunders – a must read! Looking forward to Zander’s story next!

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower

[Becky Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

“He was wrong,” Fin rasped…“My pap.” He lifted his eyes. “He said this isn’t our war to fight. It is. My family. My home. My war.”

I’ve always loved historical fiction. I have found Civil War times are somehow so interesting to read about. Yet, Kendy Pearson forces you to do more than read *about* the Civil War in her we’ll-researched and beautifully expressed book, When Heaven Thunders ( book 2 of West Virginia: Born of Rebellion’s Storm). No, Pearson forces you to *live* the horrifying times of the war. So many scenarios are tied together to make one tight narrative. We see that young Fin Dabney has joined up with the Federals. He leaves behind several siblings and his secret love, Melinda Jane. She has lived with the family since she was young- yet Fin wishes Melinda Jane viewed him as more than a brother. We watch the difficulties the Dabney family faces in an area that holds both Reb and Union sympathies, but where letting one’s true colors show can mean shunning, jail, or death.

We see Fin and his army friend, Noah, as they participate in scouting out land and bushwhackers. We see examples of family pitted against family, friend against friend. Pearson makes this divide both very real and very painful.

We get a healthy dose of history lessons on the birth of the state of West Virginia. Plus the Civil War battles that hotly contested who would control this area of the country. Pearson doesn’t shy away from some of the atrocities that were committed by greedy, cruel humans towards their brothers and sisters in the name of war. Will Fin see the war as an excuse to vengefully purge the earth of those who so spitefully misuse power, or will he follow his superior’s opinion of him: “You have a keen sense of justice, but you don’t count yourself the judge.”

Will Fin and Melinda Jane ever both be able to admit their love for each other before it’s too late- one way or another?

I loved how Melinda gives so unselfishly of herself to everyone around her. She gives until it hurt, then gives some more. Only her understanding of who she and others truly are, could cause her to care so much for others. many less fortunate than herself. “Did they not share the same Father? Doesn’t that same Father hurt for us and love us the same?” I had to ask myself, in this situation, would I have gotten this involved, knowing it could be so dangerous to my own person?

A fave secondary character is probs Col. Joe. He is so spot-on with his faith and refusal to become mercenary as a soldier or vengeful. He encourages the troops to belief. He fights to win- yet he is fighting a best friend and close relatives.

Do read the prologue and author’s notes for the best understanding of this insightful novel. Definitely read these three novels in order!

I received a copy of the book from JustRead Tours. I also bought my own copy. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.

Notable Quotables:

“He gave me a second chance. A chance to live the life He wants me to live—one tethered to His grace instead of my own bitterness.” -Doc James

“The cannon blasts had increased, pecking a hole in her peace like a woodpecker on a tree trunk. “

“Izzy taught me we’re all born into bondage. It matters not a whit what color a man’s skin is or the color of his horse or house—we’re all in shackles and only Master Jesus holds the key.”- Melinda Jane

“We are in a war, yes, but it needn’t strip a man of his humanity or God’s favor.”- Col. Joe

“God is bigger than all our problems rolled into one big riled mess. He’ll make a way…”

“There’s wicked men on both sides, brother. We got ’em, you got ’em.”

“Seems this entire war has brought with it a waterfall of misery.”- Fin

“But regret was a lone hawk, forever circling above.”

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Heaven Thunders by Kendy Pearson is an excellent novel and must-read for anyone who loves historical fiction set during the Civil War Era. While it can be read as a stand-alone book, it is the second in the West Virginia: Born of Rebellion’s Storm series.

When Heaven Thunders continues the tale of the Dabney family begun in When Mountains Wept, though this book focuses primarily on Union Sergeant Fin Dabney and his family’s good-friend-and-almost-sister, Melinda Jane. The two, who have known each other from childhood, both wonder if anything will ever come of their love for the other.

One of the things that I so loved about this novel is how liberally peppered with Scripture it is! Fin, Melinda Jane, and many other characters have stored up the Word of God in their hearts, and it makes such a difference in their lives and the lives of those around them during a time of deep upheaval and violence. And what an amazing reminder it is to readers to similarly treasure God’s Words in our own hearts!

If I were to sum up the primary question that When Heaven Thunders explores, I would do so in the following way: How do we know God’s plan for our life? Both Fin and Melinda Jane seek to discover the answer to this question—and both purpose to look to the Lord and do His will as they wait for His answer. May we readers similarly learn to trust in the Lord wholeheartedly, saying, “Give me the strength to leave it in your hands, Lord.”

The following are a few of my favorite quotes:

“Oh, you won’t feel useless once you start helpin’ those that need helpin’.”

“You hush now. We’ll give this to our Father in heaven and let Him carry this burden. You don’t do a thing, ‘cept trust God, you hear? God is bigger than all our problems rolled into one big riled mess. He’ll make a way…”

“No sense spending much time wondering. God’s ways are most certainly not ours. From this end, it seems that just as soon as you think things are going along one way, they change on you.”

“Joy—the only thing in this harsh world that lifts a spirit to the throne of God.”

Lastly, as a former history teacher, Kendy Pearson has done an exemplary job researching and writing a historically accurate novel that gives readers a peek into a rarely discussed part of the Civil War. When Heaven Thunders not only tells a captivating tale, but it also leaves readers with a broader understanding of little known events during the War Between the States.

FTC Disclaimer: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from the author. All views expressed are solely my honest opinion.

[J.E. Grace · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fin, fighting for the Union during the Civil War, struggles to balance his duty and religious beliefs. He prays and relies on his faith to carry him through, but it isn't always easy. I was immersed in the story from the beginning.

I loved Fin and Melinda Jane's budding romance despite the ongoing war. Melinda Jane is forced to flee, leave everything she knows, and focus only on her immediate family and friends. Her faith is strong, but even that is stretched. The main characters are well-developed and have lots of layers.

The author's descriptions of the war and the life surrounding it made me feel like I was there watching the action. There is lots of heartache, touching moments, and tense situations that will tug at your heartstrings. The ending wraps everything up nicely, and the historical aspects of the story give it lots of depth and interest.

I receive an ARC from the author; a positive review is not required. All opinions are my own.

[Wendy Andrus]

I am a huge history buff. Among my favorite books to read are those set during the Civil War era; when the story is based on actual events, even better!

When Heaven Thunders is book two of the West Virginia: Born of Rebellion’s Storm, but seems to work as a stand alone. (I haven’t read the first book, myself). I found it well researched, and well written.

Fin and Melinda Jane are relatable, with a sweet relationship. Their faith grows stronger throughout the story, as they learn to trust God with everything.

In some ways it is hard to imagine such a war-torn country; in others, with current events occurring, maybe not so hard. Battles are depicted with detail, which make it easy to imagine. Since I have attended several Civil War reenactments, the scenes are even more clearly imagined.

If you enjoy history, especially during the Civil War era, with a touch of romance and a dose of faith, you will certainly want to grab your own copy.

I received a complimentary copy for review purposes. These opinions are my own.

[Arlene · Rating 5 out of 5]

This Christian romance set in the Civil War is so well written and interesting that I read it in two days. I normally don’t read romances, but that combined with insight into the Civil War made it a book well worth reading.

[Amanda H · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed returning to this series and seeing where the war takes the Dabney family. I also really like that Fin and Melinda Jane have know each other for a long time, and she is like a part of the family already when Fin tries to decide how to be honest about his feelings having grown into something more than thinking of her as a sister. I have a soft spot for stories with that sort of romance.
I've read a lot of books set during the Civil War, but this series is quickly becoming a favorite, since the author covers some different aspects of the time period. I look forward to reading the next book in the series!
I received this book from Just Read. This is my honest review.

[J. Else · Rating 3 out of 5]

Union Sergeant Fin Dabney’s fight becomes personal when he returns home to find his family’s barn burned to the ground and “Bushwhackers” occupying their house. Even more difficult is raising his weapon against men he once called friends. His faith is shaken, especially after witnessing atrocities committed by soldiers on his own side against innocent families. While Fin has made peace with the constant presence of death, he regrets never telling Melinda Jane how he truly feels. Meanwhile, Melinda Jane has long since given up hope that Fin will return her affections. When another man begins to show interest, she starts to wonder if her feelings for Fin were just a childhood fantasy she’s held onto for too long.

Kendy Pearson’s meticulous historical research, use of period-accurate vernacular, and vivid, gritty setting details add depth and authenticity to the story. The novel thoughtfully raises questions about the value of human life and the tragedy of wars that divide families. However, I was unsure why statements like “…whooped like an Indian” or “…ride a horse like a wild Indian” were necessary inclusions. Given that no similar comparisons were made using other groups, these statements uncomfortably stood out all the more. I don’t doubt they were said in that time, but do they need to be said in the book?

Through their struggles, Pearson tackles weighty questions about the nature and cost of war, highlighting the quiet resilience of those who endure its consequences—this is illustrated through Melinda Jane and the Dabney family’s efforts in Charleston. Fin’s experiences on the front lines offer a powerful portrayal of the challenge of maintaining faith amidst overwhelming violence. As with Book 1, When the Mountains Wept, the characters are compelling and emotionally resonant, making it easy to become immersed in their journeys. I recommend this series.

Review to be posted via the Historical Novel Society at https://historicalnovelsociety.org/re...

[Erin · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Heaven Thunders is a wonderful historical fiction novel about the Civil War. It’s a great take on the brother vs brother dynamic. As someone who lives in the midwest states, and a border state, plus a state that was big in guerilla warfare(it’s Missouri if you didn’t know), this book was wonderful. I have grown up with tales of fighting and people being shot in their fields while plowing. It’s real. It’s true. And it’s even more than what fiction is.

Fun note. The author’s last name is Pearson. My maiden name is Pierson. Growing up there was a boy next door with the last name of Pearson, his first name was Erik. Image Erin and Eric with the same but different last names and only months apart from each other. Yes, everyone thought we were siblings or even twins. Crazy!

Okay, back to the story.
One, this is part of a series. You should definitely read the whole series and read it in order. Don’t just start with this book. I mean, you could but you’d miss out on a lot of things that would help it make more sense.

Fin and Melinda Jane are the main characters. For years Fin has grown up with Melinda Jane like a sister to him. It’s like she’s part of the family. But his feelings have changed and he definitely does not view her as a sister anymore. But can he tell her? And how? Does she feel the same?

And of course, the war is raging on around them so it’s not like it’s just a sweet romance either. Well, it is a sweet romance but there is more than just romance.

This book takes a deeper look at the brother-against-brother part of the war. It truly was a hard time in our history and no matter which side you were on you were going to be on the losing side when it came to death and destruction because no one was immune to that.

You’re going to love the romance. And I have a feeling you’ll love watching the characters deepen in their knowledge of God and His love throughout the novel as well.

I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from JustRead Publicity Tours. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.

[Christi · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Listen for the thunder, boys. That thunder tells you God has heard your heart’s cry. It tells you He has already put His answer into action. Honor God in the battle and seek His help. You will hear His thunder!”

When Heaven Thunders is a well-written and poignant account of one of the toughest wars in our nation’s history that was inspired by true events. Since this is a Civil War story, there is clearly quite a bit of battle depicted, though the details are kept pretty surface-level. There are scenes that did drag a bit, but for the most part, the flow was nice, and I was tethered to the characters from the start.

I hate seeing what the war did, but I do think this was an enlightening account, even if it is historical fiction. I cannot imagine the fear that was felt by those that were not active participants in the war and how much it divided families and neighbors.

The final battle was pretty intense, but it led to a wonderful ending. Reading about the Civil War is always one of the tougher things for me to do, but Kenny Pearson did an excellent job of writing with both knowledge and heart, and I’m grateful I had the opportunity to read it.

*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher through JustRead Tours. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own.

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

When you open this story, you step back in time to the heart of Virginia during the Civil War. Though I have read of the horrors of family members and long-time friends facing each other in war, this romantic tale brings it poignantly to life for the reader.

As in most passionate conflicts, both the Union and Confederate soldiers resorted to increasingly cruel guerilla tactics. Young Fin and Noah were caught in the middle. They began under historical Colonel Moore of the Ohio Infantry unit, training men to track and capture destructive Confederate “bushwhackers.”

From there, they joined Colonel Joseph Andrew Jackson Lightburn, an actual farmer from West Virginia and Baptist minister, who became a well-known Union general. Lightburn valued Fin. “You have a keen sense of justice, but you don’t count yourself the judge. Takes a strong man to live that way.”

This is a story of integrity, faithfulness and purity—all challenged by devious, wicked men. “We are in a war, yes, but it needn’t strip a man of his humanity or God’s favor.”

You’ll love Fin and the gal he’s pining after secretly. And if you relish our country’s history, you’ll want to read Ms. Pearson’s novel.

[Connie Hill · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Heaven Thunders is book two in the West Virginia: Born of the Rebellion's Storm series that is written by Kendy Pearson. I have read the first book. The one thing that I love about this author is her ability to transport readers back in time. I feel that the author captured West Virginia during the Civil War time period beautifully. This is also based off true events and I felt the book was researched fully.

Union Sergeant Fin Dabney finds himself on the different side then a lot of friends and family. That has made things hard for him. His childhood friend, Melinda Jane has always had feelings for him, but because of the war, she has moved on to other love interests. I love how the author has worked in the medical and psychological affects of the war. Since I have read book one, you can see the characters grow throughout this story,.

The author has woven in lots of great scripture reminders. The characters in the story hide God's Word into their hearts, and bring it out when they need to. The book is well written, storyline is engaging, I have really been enjoying this series.

Thank you to the author, publisher and JustRead Publicity Tours for allowing me to read a copy of this book - all thoughts are my own.

[Deana Dick · Rating 4 out of 5]

A romp into the Western World awaits readers with action, the Civil War and faith. I liked how the author captured the time period with accuracy and emotions. Fin is a wonderful character that at times is sad about the division the war has caused. Family member fighting against each other, friends on opposite sides and loss at every turn.

Melinda Jane is a sweet young woman who has carried a torch for Fin. She is a giving person who illustrates grace. I love how she never gives up on finding happiness. It’s funny how Fin has always thought of Melinda Jane as a sister until recently.

While the characters are good I really liked how the author gives historical facts and shows how this war divided so many. What would it be like to find out a brother was on the opposite side? Could you fight against them? There is plenty of action but I loved how faith was a big part in the story as well.

Get ready for a great story that explores a war that changed history. There is also a good illustration of seeking God and allowing Him to show you His plan for your life.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.

[Patti Pierce · Rating 4 out of 5]

When Heaven Thunders by Kendy Pearson is the second book in the West Virginia: Born of Rebellion’s Storm series. This Christian Historical work of fiction illustrates how our decisions and choices have consequences – both positive or negative. This series and this book demonstrate how faith in God helps guide you through hard places in life.

I appreciate the apparent time and research the author has put into this book. I also appreciate how the author developed the characters and the storylines from the first book into this second book in this series. As someone who appreciates history, I definitely enjoyed this book and look forward to reading the next book in this series.

While you could possibly read this book on its own, I definitely recommend reading the books in order so you follow how the storyline develops.

So if you want a work of Christian historical fiction, check out When Heaven Thunders by Kendy Pearson along with the other books in the West Virginia: Born of Rebellion’s Storm series.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.

[Kendra Neal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Christian Historical Fiction . When Heaven Thunders by Kendy Pearson is Book 2 in the West Virginia: Born of Rebellion's Storm series. I recently had the opportunity to read this book and was excited to read it!

WOW, this book captivated me from the very first chapter. Fin Dabney and Melinda Jane are the main characters in this book. The setting is the Cival War and Fin is a Union Sergeant in the war. Fin is struggling to tell Melinda his true feelings for her and then is in the midst of war. Melinda has has strong feelings for Fin for a long while and is afraid of losing Fin to the war. I really enjoy how their relationship flourishes in this book, even with fears. The both have a strong faith and that is what carries them through the fears that are strong right now. The author, Kendy Pearson, really brings the War time stories to life through her research and writing styles. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Historical Fiction books based in War Time. GREAT BOOK!

[Vicki F · Rating 4 out of 5]

When Heaven Thunders by Kendy Pearson is book two in the West Virginia Born of Rebellion Series (book one is When the Mountains Wept). Although James and Gus (Augusta) from book one are only mentioned a couple times, I enjoyed reading more about her brother Fin (Phineas) Dabney and his experiences as the Civil War wages on. Fin realizes the uncertainty of life and vows to tell Melinda Jane how he truly feels about her when he returns from the war. Meanwhile on the home front, Melinda Jane and Fin's siblings leave the farm to stay with Gus and James in Charleston (West Virginia).

The Civil War pitted family against family, friend against friend, and neighbor against neighbor. The struggle not to choose a side and the struggle to choose which side when forced created division. Pearson does an excellent job of depicting the inner turmoil of the characters.

Released Oct. 1, 2024. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Psusan · Rating 5 out of 5]

The West Virginia: Born of Rebellion's Storm, Book 2 is even more of a compelling and captivating story than the first, which I would not have thought possible. Yet When Heaven Thunders by Kendy Pearson certainly was just that. Fin’s experiences brought the story to life for bringing into the horrors of war. It was as if I could feel the ground shaking, the bullets whizzing by and the heartbreak of fallen comrades. Along with this was the sorrow and hesitation of facing a friend on the opposite side in the mist of battle. Then there was the compassion of some while also seeing the needless brutality of others. Along side of all of this was the faithfulness of God no matter the circumstances.

It sounds as if all I read was about war and fighting but that is not true. The relationship building among the characters wis outstanding too. This is a swiftly moving carefully plotted story. When Heaven Thunders is wonderful storytelling that has historical facts intertwined. I loved it, now I highly recommend it.

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

We have always known there are the states of Virginia and West Virginia, but I didn’t realize that the division occurred during the Civil War era. I appreciated the historical details and diligence to giving fresh eyes to the characters that could have fought in the war. We see Fin having to make difficult calls as he must secure the lands near his home for the Union, while some of his neighbors were fighting for the Confederacy.

I enjoyed seeing the romance between Fin and Melinda Jane. The couple had a hard time not assuming the feelings and thoughts of the other person, but they eventually worked it out. I felt that their romance brought hope to the story.

This is the second book in the series, and there are some unanswered questions that I feel will be addressed in hte next story. You can read it as a standalone, but you will want to read the next book to see how things turn out.

I received a complimentary copy of the book through Celebrate Lit. All opinions are my own with no obligation to write a positive review.

[D.M. Griffin · Rating 4 out of 5]

In Kendy Pearson's When Heaven Thunders, the vivid, accented dialogue transports readers to the chaotic sounds and emotional turmoil of the Civil War era. As the narrative unfolds, the carefully threaded themes of each chapter reveal war's devastating effects on morality and social structures, against which the characters' battles play out.

The main heroine, Melinda Jane, aches with unspoken love for the man away at war, the silence of his unknowing a constant ache in her soul. The Southern upbringing weighed heavily on Fin as he awkwardly navigated his Yankee duties, the contrast grating against him. The chapters crackle with unspoken desires and conflicting approaches as they each strive to shape a better world, their actions echoing their inner turmoil.

The narrative's slow pace lets the reader savor the intricacies of the plot, yet maintains a captivating rhythm. Fans of Civil War stories and historical fiction in general are sure to like this one.

I received a complimentary copy from the author but was not required to leave a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

" When Heaven Thunders" by Kendy Pearson is a book about the division between West Virginia and Virginia that occurred during the Civil War. It is also a clean love story. The story is written so well that the reader can actually feel the emotions of the characters. This is fiction but based on true history. The love story is slow in developing because neither character wants to tell the other their true feelings. This is the second book of the series and can be enjoyed without reading the first one but as always, I recommend reading them both and you will want to read the third one to get answers to questions that are left unanswered. This book has lots of Biblical scriptures as part of the story line. If a reader likes Historical Fiction that is clean and also inspiring, then I recommend "When Heaven Thunders" by Kendy Pearson.

I received a complimentary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.

[Jeanne Alfveby Crea · Rating 5 out of 5]

I find this West Virginia: Born of Rebellion's Storm series to be completely captivating, page-turning, thought-provoking, and inspirational! I am SO glad to be immersed in this captivating second story in the series, When Heaven Thunders, with it's wonderful characters and many new ones. What a compelling story from the first line "His family is missing. Bushwackers are sleeping in his bed. This war just got a heap more personal for Union Sergeant Fin Dabney" to the last line. Continuing in the tradition of the first story in the series, this one, set in the civil war is also heart-warming, heart-breaking, and authentic. I could not put it down and cannot wait for more! I highly recommend this excellent civil war historical fiction, When Heaven Thunders (book 2), and When the Mountains Wept (book 1). Waiting (not patiently ha!) for book 3! Author Kendy Pearson with her impeccable research, and beautiful story-telling, crafts an absolute winner with this series!

[Rebecca Trump · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Heaven Thunders by Kendy Pearson is a thrilling fictional story set amongst true events of the Civil War. It’s the second book in her series entitled West Virginia: Born of Rebellion’s Storm. The description of landscape and war tactics are equally compelling, drew me deeper into this riveting tale of patriotism, family love, of course, romance and battling bitterness through treacherous trials. Learning that God’s will and direction are always best are some of my most favorite parts of this book. And to think, book 3 is coming out this year. Yay!!

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

[Holly Bleggi · Rating 4 out of 5]

This has been an interesting series set during the Civil War. I think the author has done a lot of good research into the time period and what was happening in this place. I liked how we saw the struggle that people went through as they fought against those they knew as they each tried to do what they thought was right. I also liked the romance between Melinda Jane and Fin. I liked how it wasn’t smooth for them to end up together but eventually they worked things out.

I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors.  A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.

[Loretta Runyon · Rating 5 out of 5]

We continue to follow the Dabney family through the Civil War Era in this 2nd book of the series.
The author doesn't disappoint. Living around the areas mentioned, I can picture all that is happening in the book as if I'm there. The author writes in a way that we can see and feel what the characters are.

[Judi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this story so much. It was wonderful to read about Fin and Melinda Jane and to get to read about characters from the first book. This story was just as suspenseful as the first book and very hard to put down. I am looking forward to reading the third book in the series. An excellent story.

[Susan Faloon · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Blessed be the Lord my Rock, who trains my hands for war and my fingers for battle."

When Heaven Thunders picks right up from the close of When the Mountains Wept. The Dabney family are staying in Dr. James Hill's home. They are still reeling from the great losses they have experienced. They keep busy and help others wherever they are needed.
Brother Fin is part of an elite team that searches out bushwackers and Confederate troops in the area. It is a struggle knowing that men in opposition have created terrible circumstances where father may be fighting son, neighbor against neighbor even best friends against one another. Fin has a cousin who fights against him. It is enough in itself to be fighting this war and seeing devastation and death without the possibility of having a loved one in sight during an encounter.
I received an e-copy of this book from the author and Pear Blossom Books via NetGalley. This is my unsolicited opinion of the book.
This is so well written, capturing the fear, heartache and terrible division of the country during the U.S. Civil War. Pearson does not gloss over or romanticize the hardships for soldiers and their families. I really appreciate the family she has created and their deep faith.
Fin and Melinda Jane are main characters in this second book of her series; West Virginia: Born of Rebellion's War. I learn from deeply researched addition of true events that are smoothly inserted into the story. Each Dabney family member is changing in part due to the war but also as they mature and face hard times together but sometimes apart. Melinda has loved Fin for a long time and is questioning if God has other plans for her which adds conflict to romance.
Fin's scouting partner, Noah, is an excellent character. They come to trust and depend on one another through dangerous travel.
I love this series and recommend it to those who love to read historical fiction based on actual people and events. I give this book a 5-star rating.