Cracked brake shoes

I replaced the brakes on a friends 2002 Dodge Dakota 4WD less than 2,000 miles ago.
I replaced front pads and rotors along with the rear brake shoes. I did not turn the drums at that time.
Well my friend took the truck in to have the tires replaced and they inspected the brakes at that time and informed my him that his rear brake shoes were cracked.
I pulled the rear wheels off to inspect and sure enough, there were small hairline cracks on the upper portion of the primary shoe and the cracks appeared to go all the way through the lining but the shoe stayed intact.
I have done many brake jobs over the years and have never seen brake shoes crack that way even when overheated.
The shoes that i used were Autozone Duralast, I called the store to see if they were having any problems with the duralast brand and they said no but would replace under warranty.
Even though they will replace the shoes under warranty, i am going to use a brand name shoe (Raybestos, Bendix, Wagner) because i don't want to replace them a 3rd time if the Duralast fails again.

Question is, has anyone experienced cracking brake shoes using new linings?
I was thinking that they might have been overheated by driving with the e-brake on but my friend says they were not. Even if they were, I would think the linings could take the heat.

Any thoughs?

I would consider replacing the drums this time. It may be possible that the drums are wore to a point that the linnings are not making full contact, thus the shoes may be flexing causing them to stretch and crack. Mic the drums to see the wear. If they are over .050 you will not have proper shoe to drum contact and less effective braking power. Drums are less expensive than an accident.

I would consider replacing the drums this time. It may be possible that the drums are wore to a point that the linnings are not making full contact, thus the shoes may be flexing causing them to stretch and crack. Mic the drums to see the wear. If they are over .050 you will not have proper shoe to drum contact and less effective braking power. Drums are less expensive than an accident.

You make a good point, I did not mic the drums..