In Tempest Winds

West Virginia: Born of Rebellion's Storm #3

by Kendy Pearson

A RIVETING CIVIL WAR NOVEL INSPIRED BY TRUE EVENTS
Western Virginia's Kanawha Valley is a hotbed of of mixed loyalties. Award-winning-author Kendy Pearson “brings to life the Kanawha Valley’s explosive Civil War history."—Laura Frantz, Christy Award-winning author

"I had no idea what I was in for. I could not put this book down. It (When the Mountains Wept) was so riveting! It was beautiful. It was heart wrenching. It’s so perfect.”— Redeeming Lit Podcast

A captivating read! (When Heaven Thunders)—Lynnette Bonner, USA Today Bestselling author

Not all heroes are born of battle—some are born of sacrifice.
War has a way of changing a man, taking more than he has to give. After three long years, Zander Dabney joins in the fight, but army life is not what he expected, and it seems impossible to escape his hero-brother’s shadow. When Zander finally gets the chance to test his mettle, the horrors of battle shatter his faith and leave him questioning everything—even what he thought he knew about his brother.

Lola Wade has her hands full with the mercantile, a precocious little brother, and a cunning thief. Despite her chaotic life, Zander has captured her heart. But he needs more than her love to confront his inner demons and fractured faith.

In a whirlwind of deception, the enemy attacks the town and garrison, leaving death and destruction in its wake and forcing Lola to make a heart-wrenching decision. But this was no ordinary attack, and the evidence Zander has falls on deaf ears.

Betrayal plunges Zander into a nightmare of injustice and a perilous ordeal of sacrifice and endurance few can survive. He needs a miracle. A lot of them.

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 tells a captivating tale of family, war, love, and hope. Kendy Pearson skillfully brings the turbulent days of the US Civil War to life with historical accuracy, poignant description, and a cast of characters whose lives are tossed by the tempest winds many of us can relate to. With everything that matters at stake for Zander and Lola, readers will not want to put the book down until they’ve read the very last page.—Michelle Shocklee, award-winning author of Appalachian Song and All We Thought We Knew

Beautiful story of faith lost and found again, of trauma and redemption, of family pulling together in impossible times. I will be reading more of Kendy Pearson’s work! —Shannon McNear, author of Daughters of the Lost Colony

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

Kendy Pearson is a gifted author who can bring the past to life with her character development and descriptive scenes. It is refreshing to read a Christian based storyline that has the courage to step out of the caricature expectations of faith-based writing and be real about war, human nature, romance, and Christian living. —Ken Pratt - Author of the Best-Selling Matt Bannister Series.

This Civil War romance (When Heaven Thunders) beautifully weaves historical detail with deep emotional resonance.

Genres: Christian Fiction, Civil War, Historical Fiction

296 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 7, 2025

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

[Rebecca Trump · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Carrie Schmidt · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

“When other helpers fail and comforts flee,
Help of the helpless, O abide with me.”

I’ve been following (and falling in love with) the Dabney family since When the Mountains Wept, and as such I have been eagerly awaiting Zander’s story. Maybe that’s weird to say that I’m eager to read a novel that covers such an agonizing period of history, and I certainly sit with the authentically-presented atrocities in the somber reflection they deserve. But I’m also so invested in this family that I always anticipate more time with them, and the author does a wonderful job of balancing the horrors of war with these vibrant characters who remain full of life and love, humor and hope.. and even joy. Zander has had a special place in my heart since book one, and he retains everything I loved about him – especially his kindness & compassion – despite how his experiences on the battlefield do change him. I really enjoyed the ways Pearson incorporates this inherent kindness into how Zander responds to the situations in which he finds himself In Tempest Winds, too.

“…down here, I may not understand. But I’ll be doggoned if I’m gonna let go of… of that unseen hand that does hold the answers.”

And on a deeper level, because Pearson doesn’t shy away from either the ugliness of the history or the heroism of ordinary people, each book in this series has had an impact on my heart. I expected Zander’s story to do the same, but I didn’t predict being as personally moved by his faith journey as I was. The last few years of my own life have tested my never-before-wavered belief in the goodness of God, so I deeply related to Zander’s struggles to trust that God was even still there anymore… and I’m pretty sure I’m not the only one who can. Life takes its toll, and sometimes our hallelujahs are hard-fought. Pearson’s placement of other characters in Zander’s path to point him back to the ‘Help of the helpless’ is one of my favorite (and in some cases most emotional) parts of his story.

Bottom Line: With In Tempest Winds, author Kendy Pearson once again thoughtfully explores a little-seen perspective on the impact of the War Between the States, specifically focused on the families, the soldiers, and the communities of the Kanawha Valley. Her talent for crafting true-to-life, layered, and engaging characters like the Dabneys makes the faraway and long ago events of this story become suddenly personal with relatable lessons, and I love that we stay immersed with all of the family members in each book despite them being scattered around Western Virginia. I also adored the addition of Lola and her endearing little brother Felix in Zander’s life, and ohhhhh those yummy kisses between Lola and Zander left me swooning! But the characters, the history, and the romance aren’t the only or even the most important reasons I recommend you read In Tempest Winds – I can’t leave out the tenderly-told spiritual truths that touched a still-healing place in my own heart. I’m not ready to say goodbye to the Dabneys just yet, and I’m so glad don’t have to! Looking forward to book 4!

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower

[Jeanne Alfveby Crea · Rating 5 out of 5]

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!

[Vicki F · Rating 5 out of 5]

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

[Becky Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Only a fool decides the sun just up and disappears just because he doesn’t see it. And only a fool chooses to ignore a hand that has the answers.”


Yet, Zander Dabney may be that fool. Surely the God he thought he knew wouldn’t have allowed the unspeakable acts of war Dabney experiences.

In Tempest Winds- What an appropriate title for this third and final book of West Virginia: Born of Rebellion’s Storm by Kendy Pearson! I just finished reading this amazing Civil War novel and my emotions have run the gamut, from witnessing excitement, family love, suspicion, despair, faith, bravery, acceptance, sorrow, and romance. Each emotion comes and goes like the swell of ocean waves, some returning like the tides. Thankfully, ultimately, hope and faith rise to the surface, but -fair warning- the ending makes me wonder if a new series is on the horizon.

Reading the other two books in order before this one is an absolute must. By reading this series in order, I felt I got the most from this story that is rich in history and truth nuggets. Zander Dabney is the main focus of In Tempest Winds. A lover of horses more than people, sensitive Zander has mustered up with the Union army. Yet, he frequently is compared to his older brother Fin, who had made a name for himself as a brave and intrepid scout. Resentment ensues. Zander’s army life becomes one of racing his beloved horse and saving money for his future as he waits for action. When it finally comes, Zander is appalled by war’s atrocities. Pearson doesn’t shy from showing the horrible reality of the war. “Had God been here, Zander would’ve prayed for a merciful deliverance. But the God he had called Lord was nowhere on this field of blood.” Zander’s brother and a few faithful friends try to direct Zander back to God, but Zander has his own plans.

Just when Zander finally meets the girl of his dreams and believes their love serious, his sudden sullen moods and aloofness towards God cause disaster. Will Zander ever be able to return to the peace he possessed before the War?

I loved the many family relationships within the Dabney family that we are privy to. Coming from a large family, I could identify with the need to stand out. It is fun to see the characters that we came to know in previous books. It is interesting to see how family members are weathering the storm of the war, and how they pull together.

I loved how the person Zander holds the most resentment towards, is the one who works the hardest to see him return home. And the emphasis on prayer is so encouraging, even in the face of feeling helpless. “She may feel helpless, but she refused to be hopeless.” This can be us, if we, too, cling to our faith in impossible times.

Most fun character probs goes to Lola’s ten-year-old brother, Felix. He’s excited to learn, gregarious, has a wide-eyed-wonder about him, is full of life, curious, and still innocent in so many ways.

My fave secondary adult character is D.R. Leach. His faith is contagious and unending. He wants everyone to share it, especially Zander. “down here, I may not understand. But I’ll be doggoned if I’m gonna let go of . . . of that unseen hand that does hold the answers.” That’s the kind of faith I want to imitate!

I read as fast as I could, because there is so much action and suspense! If you like Civil War era novels, this series is one that will be memorable!

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

Notable Quotables:

“He remembered Fin telling him once that a man had cause real often to take his thoughts captive. Until now, he figured his brother was talking about women, but what if he meant to take them captive about other things? Like unpleasant sort of things.”

“There’s nothing more important to God than taking care of His children.”-Leach

[Susan Faloon · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Erin · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Tempest Winds is the third book in a series of historical fiction novels that you are going to love. It’s set around the Civil War. I’m a huge fan of historical fiction, and the Civil War is one of my favorite time periods. I’ve been reenacting the Civil War since I was seven years old, so it holds a special spot in my heart.

This is a series that you do need to read in order. It follows the same family, and you will be a bit lost if you don’t read all of them in order, as I do feel they build on each other. And I am always a proponent of reading books in series order. Who would want to read only one book when you could read three instead!?

Get ready to adventure with the Dabney family!

Zander is our main character in this book. We did meet him in book one, and he’s been in the background of the first two books. This book is his time to shine!

Zander goes off to war. It’s definitely not what he was expecting. War is awful. War is unspeakable. Did the war change him or just his views?

This author just makes a wonderful book. It sucks you in and you cannot get loose. The characters become deep and true friends, and you’re invested in their lives. I cannot way enough good things about the books. They cover a hard time in our history and don’t shy away from the hard and the horror, but also do a great job showing how humanity can overcome and rise above.

I received from Celebrate Lit. 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.

[Patti Pierce · Rating 4 out of 5]

In Tempest Winds by Kendy Pearson is the third book in the West Virginia: Born of Rebellion’s Storm series. This Christian Historical work of fiction lives up to my expectations from the previous books in this series. Upon joining the war, Zander Dabney finds being a soldier fails to meet his expectations. The horrors of battle destroys his faith and leads him to question everything he knew.

Meanwhile, Lola Wade’s hands stay full with running a mercantile, dealing with rising costs and prices, taking care of her younger brother along with a crafty thief. When their paths collide, the two find themselves attracted to each other. However, as their attraction grows, dangers face their community.

Plus, Lola refuses to be with Zander until he gets right with God. Faith, family, action, and more fill the pages of this book. I loved getting to know characters from earlier stories even better. The character development, writing style, and plot twists keep you reading. I must say, when I finished reading this book, I found myself wanting more.

So if you are looking for a work of Christian Historical Fiction, check out In Tempest Winds 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.

[Psusan · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Kendra Neal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Christian Historical Fiction is a favorite genre of mine . In Tempest Winds by Kendy Pearson is Book 3 in the West Virginia: Born of Rebellion's Storm series. I have been reading this series in order, although I do believe each book works as a Standalone book.

WOW, this series has been intriguing and interesting and this book is didn't disappoint. The 2 main characters are Zander Dabney and Lola Wade. Zander has joined the Cival War and the Battle Grounds and what he experiences, really has him questioning life and even his faith. Lola Wade helps run the local Mercantile and has taken a liking to Zander. She has a chaotic life and understands that Zander might not feel the same for her. I really enjoyed the many twists and turns in this book. The romance that blossoms between Zander and Lola. I also LOVE how Zander begins to trust God's plan has always been in place and begins trusting God. 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. WONDERFUL BOOK!

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the first two books from the West Virginia: Born to Rebellion's Storm series, When the Mountains Wept and When Heaven Thunders. I could not wait to get my hands on the third installment, In Tempest Winds and jumped at chance when I had the opportunity. Even though it is part of a series, I believe it can easily be read as a stand alone. I loved reading Zander and Lola's story. It was full of adventure, love, loss, history, and faith. I greatly enjoyed it.



Five stars is what I am giving In Tempest Winds. I highly recommend it for fans of clean historical fiction, particularly those that are based on true events. I would love to read more books from Kendy Pearson in the future.



I received a digital copy of Kendy Pearson's In Tempest Winds from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.

[Deana Dick · Rating 4 out of 5]

Don’t let the details of the war shy you away from reading this book. The author illustrates how difficult it is to fight as danger and death surround you. Zander has never seen war up close until he faces a battle that breaks him. Seeing his friends die before his eyes changes him. I did like how he was so close to his horse. That horse could do circles around others. I’m glad Zander had Rampart that gave him a way to escape from the memories of a war he will never forget. Zander also has to listen to the many whispers of being compared to his older brother.

Great story rich in history and action. I like the faith element that flows seamlessly throughout the story. Not miss the lessons illustrated in this book such as always listening to God.

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

[Wendy Andrus]

In Tempest Winds is book 3 in the "West Virginia: Born of Rebellion's Storm" series, set during the American Civil War. It is descriptive and fresh, which makes you feel as if you're there. Since I have attended Civil War reenactments, it's easy for me to picture the battle scenes. It's also easy to see how those soldiers would suffer from what we term PTSD today.

One of my favorite genres is historic fiction, especially when it's based on true events. One of my favorite eras is the Civil War, This story captured me from the first page, and held me to the end. I didn't want to stop reading until I reached the end.

If you enjoy historical fiction, with a touch of romance and a dose of faith, I recommend this for your TBR list.

I received a complimentary copy. These opinions are my own.

[Debbie · Rating 3 out of 5]

"In Tempest Winds" by Kendy Pearson is the third book of the series. I have enjoyed each book but of the three this one is my least favorite. But don't let that stop you from reading the book, they are all great. I love the relationship that Zander has with his horse. I really enjoy the faith element that is part of the storyline. I really can understand Zander's feelings when he is compared to his older brother. Each book focus on a different Dabney brother and how the war affected that brother. Each book is also a clean love story. I recommend reading all three books in the order they were written.

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

[Loretta Runyon · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Holly Bleggi · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have liked how each of the books in this series follow a different Dabney family member and how they each contributed to the war and what they each faced. I liked how in this story Zander struggles with following in his brother’s footsteps and what people expect of him. I liked seeing his struggle but also his growth. I also liked seeing him trust in the Lord more. I also liked his romance with Lola. I liked how the story concluded.

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.

[Judi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this story so much. I really loved the characters, it was wonderful to keep track of what was happening with the Dabney family as well through all three books of the series. All three books of this series were excellent stories. All of the stories were edge of your seat suspenseful and very real. I look forward to reading more books by this author. These stories were Christian and clean.

[Lyla Swafford · Rating 5 out of 5]

There were many scenes in the book that were so vivid, it was as though I was watching it unfold right in front of me. The characters that were involved in the main conflict were all fighting their own personal battles. I appreciate knowing about this part of our history, even though it is a fictional story, it was the reality of the day and this fictional story brings it to life.

[Booknerdia · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Tempest Winds takes the reader on an enthralling journey through history in this stirring saga about struggle, faith, and love during the Civil War. If you haven't read the first two books in the series, don't let that stop you from picking this one up because it works as a standalone. Pearson is a masterful storyteller, and this book is one you can really sink your teeth into.