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Rain Chaser #1
Thunder Road
Being Chosen was supposed to be a gift.
That’s what Tallulah Corentine’s parents told her when they handed her over to the Rain Chasers on her seventh birthday. It was an honor to be born with a destiny, to be hand selected by the gods before taking her first breath. She should be overjoyed.
Twenty years later, Tallulah is still waiting for the gift. She might have the power of the storm at her fingertips, but she’s spent her whole adult life living under a cloud.
A cross-country trip to find the wayward son of Seth, god of the storm, turns into a fight for her life when she dupes Death out of a valuable treasure. With only a wily con man, a dangerously handsome bad-luck priest, and a lot of lightning to help her, can she deliver the package and keep herself out of an early grave?
Or will Seth be looking for a new Rain Chaser before it’s all over?
That’s what Tallulah Corentine’s parents told her when they handed her over to the Rain Chasers on her seventh birthday. It was an honor to be born with a destiny, to be hand selected by the gods before taking her first breath. She should be overjoyed.
Twenty years later, Tallulah is still waiting for the gift. She might have the power of the storm at her fingertips, but she’s spent her whole adult life living under a cloud.
A cross-country trip to find the wayward son of Seth, god of the storm, turns into a fight for her life when she dupes Death out of a valuable treasure. With only a wily con man, a dangerously handsome bad-luck priest, and a lot of lightning to help her, can she deliver the package and keep herself out of an early grave?
Or will Seth be looking for a new Rain Chaser before it’s all over?
261 pages, ebook
First published July 26, 2016
22 people are currently reading
800 people want to read
About the author
Sierra Dean
53 books623 followersSierra Dean is a reformed historian. She was born and raised in the Canadian prairies and is allowed annual exit visas in order to continue her quest of steadily conquering the world one city at a time. Making the best of the cold Canadian winters, Sierra indulges in her less global interests: drinking too much tea and writing urban fantasy.
Ever since she was a young girl she has loved the idea of the supernatural coexisting with the mundane. As an adult, however, the idea evolved from the notion of fairies in flower beds, to imagining that the rugged-looking guy at the garage might secretly be a werewolf. She has used her overactive imagination to create her own version of the world, where vampire, werewolves, fairies, gods and monsters all walk among us, and she’ll continue to travel as much as possible until she finds it for real.
She’s also a book lover (of course!), obsessive collector of OPI nailpolish and the owner of way too many pairs of shoes.
Ever since she was a young girl she has loved the idea of the supernatural coexisting with the mundane. As an adult, however, the idea evolved from the notion of fairies in flower beds, to imagining that the rugged-looking guy at the garage might secretly be a werewolf. She has used her overactive imagination to create her own version of the world, where vampire, werewolves, fairies, gods and monsters all walk among us, and she’ll continue to travel as much as possible until she finds it for real.
She’s also a book lover (of course!), obsessive collector of OPI nailpolish and the owner of way too many pairs of shoes.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
February 7, 2017
Reviewed by: Rabid Reads.
Sierra Dean is one of the authors that I turn to whenever I’m in the mood for snark with a healthy serving of violence. I wasn’t keen on the premise—Greek mythology, specifically the god ofthunder storms—because it’s been done A LOT, but sometimes a fresh take on a classic can work wonders. THUNDER ROAD didn’t break the mold however, it did provide hours of entertainment which is good book 101.
Oddly enough, I was happy to discover that clerics are celibate. Can I get a hell yeah for no impending insta-love or romantic triangle!?! Oh wait, I may have spoken too soon. Tallulah’s not exactly pure, and she’s developed quite the chip on her shoulder since being “chosen”. The sexual tension between her and Cade was unmistakable, and they do exchange a few heated kisses. Are vows thicker than hormones? We shall see…
The lore didn’t stray too far outside of the box; all the usual suspects were accounted for including Hecate, Hades, Apollo, and Cerberus with some crossover into other legends such as Irish (the Morrigan), Roman (Manea), and Hindu (Ardra) to make things interesting. I liked the modern twists like how there’s an app that tracks tithes, and the clerics respond to prayers when they’re not busy running an errand for their God.
I thought that the author’s descriptions of what it felt like to be in the presence of the various deities were very authentic. It really brought the story to life as did the scene Dean painted when Corentine and the “package” wound up in the Underworld. I can’t say that I loved every second that I spent reading this novel, but the next installment is due out shortly, and I plan to have a front row seat.
THUNDER ROAD has been crossed off my TBR pile!
Sierra Dean is one of the authors that I turn to whenever I’m in the mood for snark with a healthy serving of violence. I wasn’t keen on the premise—Greek mythology, specifically the god of
Oddly enough, I was happy to discover that clerics are celibate. Can I get a hell yeah for no impending insta-love or romantic triangle!?! Oh wait, I may have spoken too soon. Tallulah’s not exactly pure, and she’s developed quite the chip on her shoulder since being “chosen”. The sexual tension between her and Cade was unmistakable, and they do exchange a few heated kisses. Are vows thicker than hormones? We shall see…
The lore didn’t stray too far outside of the box; all the usual suspects were accounted for including Hecate, Hades, Apollo, and Cerberus with some crossover into other legends such as Irish (the Morrigan), Roman (Manea), and Hindu (Ardra) to make things interesting. I liked the modern twists like how there’s an app that tracks tithes, and the clerics respond to prayers when they’re not busy running an errand for their God.
I thought that the author’s descriptions of what it felt like to be in the presence of the various deities were very authentic. It really brought the story to life as did the scene Dean painted when Corentine and the “package” wound up in the Underworld. I can’t say that I loved every second that I spent reading this novel, but the next installment is due out shortly, and I plan to have a front row seat.
THUNDER ROAD has been crossed off my TBR pile!
December 24, 2016
Originally posted at Smexybooks-http://smexybooks.com/2016/07/review-...
Favorite Quote: “I was the Godzilla to their Tokyo.”
Tallulah Corentine has been waiting years for the fabulous life she was promised by her parents when they gave her to the Gods at age seven. Born as one of the “chosen ones,” Tallulah has powers and some benefits as a cleric to Seth, the Storm God, but knows she is nothing more than an indentured servant. Getting on the wrong side of a death goddess while doing a favor for Seth has Tallulah protecting a very special package with the help of the priest of bad luck. Using her wits, a lot of ingenuity, and some help from some powerful frenemies, Tallulah will have to strike while the lightening is hot if she wants to survive the night.
Thunder Road is the first in Sierra Dean’s newest urban fantasy series-Rain Chasers. Based on mythology and legends, Dean takes some amusing liberties as she drags various gods and goddesses into the 21st century with modern day conveniences to ensure these ancient deities retain their powers through prayer and worship. The internet and vending machines have replaced the outdated methods used to ask for favors and blessings. Clerics and/or priests to the deities are used to help to answer those prayers. Usually, human children born with marks that show them to be chosen to serve a particular god or goddess, their parents turn them over to the temple at a young age buying into the hype that their children will receive untold blessings and riches. The reality is much different and we soon learn that being a chosen one isn’t all it’s cracked up to be.
“Tallulah Corentine, earthbound bitch to the god of the storm.”
Once again, Dean writes a delightfully dark and humorous urban fantasy that pairs charismatic characters with an adventurous road trip style storyline. Engaging narrative and a solid conversational flow opens up a modern world steeped in supernatural wonder but relatively uncomplicated to perfectly showcase her newest heroine-Tallulah Corentine. Tallulah Corentine is a Rain Chaser. A cleric for the storm god Seth, Tallulah’s job is to do Seth’s bidding. No matter how odd, dangerous, or ridiculous the assignment. Intelligent, sarcastic, gutsy, and complex, Tallulah is a cheer-worthy urban fantasy heroine. Her love of American muscle cars, 80s hair metal bands, and copious amounts of Chinese food makes her a woman after my heart. Tallulah has been with Seth for twenty-seven years and the shine has definitely worn off. Given to him as a child, she resents him, his lack of humanity, and her lack of choice. Used as a human lightning rod, her powers are a result of her ability to access and channel Seth’s powers, she fears her the continued scarring and her eventual death.
“We were tools to them, things they relied on but did not love. Gods didn’t know how to love.”
Multiple plotlines keep the energy levels high and the story flowing smoothly as Tallulah finds out that her last mission for Seth has put her on the death goddess’s hit list. She has only one chance to make it out alive and that depends on her locating a certain individual before Manea does. Dean builds a dynamic secondary cast to support the main storyline and to plot future storylines. Subtle layering shows us that the main conflict is only the beginning of what the future has in store for Tallulah.
I loved the characterization of the various characters Dean introduced. Humor and mayhem go hand in hand as we meet the people in Tallulah’s orbit. Prescott, the right hand of the death goddess Manea herself, is a former childhood friend and flame but seems to be harboring a grudge against Tallulah. Cade, the luckless one, is a cleric to Ardra, the goddess of bad luck. Considered a friend but there is some romantic interest. He carries a very heavy burden and I hope Dean delves deeper into his background in the future. Seth’s temple manager and daughter, Sido, is Tallulah’s go to gal. She is firmly #TeamSeth but there is an affectionate bond between her and Tallulah that may prove to be interesting in the future. Various deities-Hecate, Hades, and Badb-make appearances, each providing Tallulah with a clue towards what’s coming. But anytime you make deals with immortals, there is always a price to pay.
“Are you offering to help me?” I asked.
“Haven’t I helped you already?”
“Telling someone they’re about to be hit by a bus does nothing to move them out of the path of the bus,” I pointed out.
“At least I am not driving the bus,” she countered with a graceful shrug.
Dean pens another winner with her latest fantasy, staying true to her writing style with a strong heroine and an underdog theme. Thunder Road definitely entertained and I am looking forward to seeing what Dean has in store for Tallulah in the next installment.
Favorite Quote: “I was the Godzilla to their Tokyo.”
Tallulah Corentine has been waiting years for the fabulous life she was promised by her parents when they gave her to the Gods at age seven. Born as one of the “chosen ones,” Tallulah has powers and some benefits as a cleric to Seth, the Storm God, but knows she is nothing more than an indentured servant. Getting on the wrong side of a death goddess while doing a favor for Seth has Tallulah protecting a very special package with the help of the priest of bad luck. Using her wits, a lot of ingenuity, and some help from some powerful frenemies, Tallulah will have to strike while the lightening is hot if she wants to survive the night.
Thunder Road is the first in Sierra Dean’s newest urban fantasy series-Rain Chasers. Based on mythology and legends, Dean takes some amusing liberties as she drags various gods and goddesses into the 21st century with modern day conveniences to ensure these ancient deities retain their powers through prayer and worship. The internet and vending machines have replaced the outdated methods used to ask for favors and blessings. Clerics and/or priests to the deities are used to help to answer those prayers. Usually, human children born with marks that show them to be chosen to serve a particular god or goddess, their parents turn them over to the temple at a young age buying into the hype that their children will receive untold blessings and riches. The reality is much different and we soon learn that being a chosen one isn’t all it’s cracked up to be.
“Tallulah Corentine, earthbound bitch to the god of the storm.”
Once again, Dean writes a delightfully dark and humorous urban fantasy that pairs charismatic characters with an adventurous road trip style storyline. Engaging narrative and a solid conversational flow opens up a modern world steeped in supernatural wonder but relatively uncomplicated to perfectly showcase her newest heroine-Tallulah Corentine. Tallulah Corentine is a Rain Chaser. A cleric for the storm god Seth, Tallulah’s job is to do Seth’s bidding. No matter how odd, dangerous, or ridiculous the assignment. Intelligent, sarcastic, gutsy, and complex, Tallulah is a cheer-worthy urban fantasy heroine. Her love of American muscle cars, 80s hair metal bands, and copious amounts of Chinese food makes her a woman after my heart. Tallulah has been with Seth for twenty-seven years and the shine has definitely worn off. Given to him as a child, she resents him, his lack of humanity, and her lack of choice. Used as a human lightning rod, her powers are a result of her ability to access and channel Seth’s powers, she fears her the continued scarring and her eventual death.
“We were tools to them, things they relied on but did not love. Gods didn’t know how to love.”
Multiple plotlines keep the energy levels high and the story flowing smoothly as Tallulah finds out that her last mission for Seth has put her on the death goddess’s hit list. She has only one chance to make it out alive and that depends on her locating a certain individual before Manea does. Dean builds a dynamic secondary cast to support the main storyline and to plot future storylines. Subtle layering shows us that the main conflict is only the beginning of what the future has in store for Tallulah.
I loved the characterization of the various characters Dean introduced. Humor and mayhem go hand in hand as we meet the people in Tallulah’s orbit. Prescott, the right hand of the death goddess Manea herself, is a former childhood friend and flame but seems to be harboring a grudge against Tallulah. Cade, the luckless one, is a cleric to Ardra, the goddess of bad luck. Considered a friend but there is some romantic interest. He carries a very heavy burden and I hope Dean delves deeper into his background in the future. Seth’s temple manager and daughter, Sido, is Tallulah’s go to gal. She is firmly #TeamSeth but there is an affectionate bond between her and Tallulah that may prove to be interesting in the future. Various deities-Hecate, Hades, and Badb-make appearances, each providing Tallulah with a clue towards what’s coming. But anytime you make deals with immortals, there is always a price to pay.
“Are you offering to help me?” I asked.
“Haven’t I helped you already?”
“Telling someone they’re about to be hit by a bus does nothing to move them out of the path of the bus,” I pointed out.
“At least I am not driving the bus,” she countered with a graceful shrug.
Dean pens another winner with her latest fantasy, staying true to her writing style with a strong heroine and an underdog theme. Thunder Road definitely entertained and I am looking forward to seeing what Dean has in store for Tallulah in the next installment.
September 10, 2016
An absolutely fresh, if not solid, world building. Unfortunately that lack of stability and its shallowness gave me a migraine as I kept asking myself "oh, but why?".
If you play with mythology the moment you depart from a well known trope I expect an explanation, here the heroine and her ward play Orpheus. But when the rules are broken nothing happens.
Moreover I can't really imagine a world where the gods or their clerics waste time on people's prayers. There would be no world anymore, and between two warring request which one would be the winner??
I was no overly fond of the heroine's keenness to play bets with her life which is basically all you do when you bet the gods. It seems she wasn't more than a puppet, which is obvious when gods are added to the mix, but the problem for me was she seemed a puppet without a brain. Still, it's not a bad book at all. It simply had something bothering for me.
If you play with mythology the moment you depart from a well known trope I expect an explanation, here the heroine and her ward play Orpheus. But when the rules are broken nothing happens.
Moreover I can't really imagine a world where the gods or their clerics waste time on people's prayers. There would be no world anymore, and between two warring request which one would be the winner??
I was no overly fond of the heroine's keenness to play bets with her life which is basically all you do when you bet the gods. It seems she wasn't more than a puppet, which is obvious when gods are added to the mix, but the problem for me was she seemed a puppet without a brain. Still, it's not a bad book at all. It simply had something bothering for me.
April 2, 2019
Fans of snarky heroines and Greek Mythology will delight in Sierra Dean's Thunder Road. I can't wait to see what kind of hijinks Tallulah get herself into next.
July 25, 2016
***ARC Provided by the Author***
4.5 Stars
Full disclosure, I am not usually a fan of urban fantasy. What I am is a fan of Sierra Dean. I lover her writing style, the way she adds little tidbits of realism into her characters, the way she brings them to life. It really doesn't matter if they are baseball players or Rain Chasers dealing with slightly snippy and impatient gods named Seth.
The entire story was fun, it was well-written and it is the kind of book that you read because it is a fun ride...whether you usually read the genre or not. I recommend this to people who don't think they will "like" a fantasy story...because you know what? You will like this one. I am at a loss as to what, exactly, to review about this one as I am not sure what a "fantasy" reader looks for...so I am going to review this based on what I look for in a book. I want characters I relate to (check) a story line that engages me (check) a plot that doesn't drag (check) and excellent writing (check). Really, what more can you possibly want?
Dean puts poor Tallulah through the ringer...although there are some cars to blow up, and well, she likes that.
***This and other reviews also featured on “I’m A Sweet and Sassy Book Whore” http://www.imasweetandsassybookwhore.com***
4.5 Stars
Full disclosure, I am not usually a fan of urban fantasy. What I am is a fan of Sierra Dean. I lover her writing style, the way she adds little tidbits of realism into her characters, the way she brings them to life. It really doesn't matter if they are baseball players or Rain Chasers dealing with slightly snippy and impatient gods named Seth.
The entire story was fun, it was well-written and it is the kind of book that you read because it is a fun ride...whether you usually read the genre or not. I recommend this to people who don't think they will "like" a fantasy story...because you know what? You will like this one. I am at a loss as to what, exactly, to review about this one as I am not sure what a "fantasy" reader looks for...so I am going to review this based on what I look for in a book. I want characters I relate to (check) a story line that engages me (check) a plot that doesn't drag (check) and excellent writing (check). Really, what more can you possibly want?
Dean puts poor Tallulah through the ringer...although there are some cars to blow up, and well, she likes that.
***This and other reviews also featured on “I’m A Sweet and Sassy Book Whore” http://www.imasweetandsassybookwhore.com***
July 24, 2023
Re-read July 2023
Re-read August 2019
Re-read March 2017
I liked it the first time I read it, but somehow I liked it even better on the second read. Who would have thought that? :)
Sierra Dean has chosen to build a crazy different UF world. Like I said, it's crazy, but it works, and I liked it a lot.
I was definitely entertained!
Favorite quote:
Re-read August 2019
Re-read March 2017
I liked it the first time I read it, but somehow I liked it even better on the second read. Who would have thought that? :)
Sierra Dean has chosen to build a crazy different UF world. Like I said, it's crazy, but it works, and I liked it a lot.
I was definitely entertained!
Favorite quote:
"My fingers were so coated with icing sugar it looked like I’d gone on a cocaine bender with Pablo Escobar."
February 28, 2019
Mon avis en Français
My English review
I was very curious to discover this Sierra Dean series. I love everything about mythology, so how could I resist this one?
Tallulah Corentine was raised to become the priestess of a God. She was marked for that and yet it is not an easy life, far from it. She must listen and do whatever is asked of her. But here it is, as she has recovered an object from another God, she finds herself in an uncomfortable situation. Death, itself, wants to make her and her God pay for the theft of her precious. She therefore found herself in a race against time to save her life, but also that of Seth’s son whom she did not know about. Fortunately for her, she will be accompanied by another priest, very handsome, to help her.
I had a good time with this novel and I thought the ideas were pretty cool! We will gradually discover the world in which Tallulah lives and evolves, and things are far from easy. She will meet several Gods for our greatest pleasure and how to resist her fennec? Impossible, even if he is annoying!
I must, however, express a little downside… Indeed, I found that the world was not really well explained, and I found that it a little unfortunate even though it may be later on. Other points also disturbed me a little. Especially when our heroine finds herself in hell, when she has to escape and, for that, she has to test Orpheus and walk a path without turning around, whatever happens. But she turns around, and there are no consequences. I must admit, I didn’t understand.
In any case, I’m quite curious to read on.
My English review
I was very curious to discover this Sierra Dean series. I love everything about mythology, so how could I resist this one?
Tallulah Corentine was raised to become the priestess of a God. She was marked for that and yet it is not an easy life, far from it. She must listen and do whatever is asked of her. But here it is, as she has recovered an object from another God, she finds herself in an uncomfortable situation. Death, itself, wants to make her and her God pay for the theft of her precious. She therefore found herself in a race against time to save her life, but also that of Seth’s son whom she did not know about. Fortunately for her, she will be accompanied by another priest, very handsome, to help her.
I had a good time with this novel and I thought the ideas were pretty cool! We will gradually discover the world in which Tallulah lives and evolves, and things are far from easy. She will meet several Gods for our greatest pleasure and how to resist her fennec? Impossible, even if he is annoying!
I must, however, express a little downside… Indeed, I found that the world was not really well explained, and I found that it a little unfortunate even though it may be later on. Other points also disturbed me a little. Especially when our heroine finds herself in hell, when she has to escape and, for that, she has to test Orpheus and walk a path without turning around, whatever happens. But she turns around, and there are no consequences. I must admit, I didn’t understand.
In any case, I’m quite curious to read on.
August 22, 2019
really enjoyed this <3
the story is full f twists and turns and sets things up nicely
not a fan of cade
the story is full f twists and turns and sets things up nicely
not a fan of cade
December 8, 2017
I enjoyed the start of the book, but it didn’t really develop and I found the whole 'god thing’ just annoyed me; a world populated by mythical beings having temper tantrums.
I tried this because I had enjoyed the Secret McQueen books, but this isn’t for me.
I tried this because I had enjoyed the Secret McQueen books, but this isn’t for me.
September 30, 2020
It was okay. I didn't like the beginning but it grew on me as it went on. Still, I don't really feel the need to the next one. Maybe I will, maybe I won't. I'll check to see if I have it.
March 13, 2017
3.75- I thought Cade was less interesting than Leo. Overall an entertaining story.
July 8, 2016
This book gave me EVERYTHING I wanted in an urban fantasy and then some. Sassy, snarky heroine whose awesome ability comes with a bit of a downside? CHECK! Enigmatic bad-luck priest who comes with his own set of issues? CHECK! Wacky shenanigans with gods and monsters? CHECK!
If book two was available now, I'd be ALL OVER IT. Seriously. I really, really liked this book and want to see more of Tallulah and the sketchy promises/deals/interactions she gets into. Because that girl owes more than one deity and I can't imagine things will go easily for her down the road.
I'm digging on the old gods vibe. I'm loving how attached to their cars both Tallulah and Cade were. And I get why. I loved how Tallulah could pack away meals. I just... I LIKED THE ENTIRE BOOK, OKAY? It worked for me.
Here's to hoping we get to see Tallulah battling the odds again soon. *whispers* I really liked the book. I totally want more.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
If book two was available now, I'd be ALL OVER IT. Seriously. I really, really liked this book and want to see more of Tallulah and the sketchy promises/deals/interactions she gets into. Because that girl owes more than one deity and I can't imagine things will go easily for her down the road.
I'm digging on the old gods vibe. I'm loving how attached to their cars both Tallulah and Cade were. And I get why. I loved how Tallulah could pack away meals. I just... I LIKED THE ENTIRE BOOK, OKAY? It worked for me.
Here's to hoping we get to see Tallulah battling the odds again soon. *whispers* I really liked the book. I totally want more.
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
July 11, 2025
4.5 stars
This was an excellent paranormal or urban fantasy book. I’m really excited to read more in this series. I loved Tallulah (even though she was a bit too obviously snarky at the beginning) and I loved Cade and I love the hint at their romance. The world-building is fascinating (although one too many gods mentioned at times). I do think it needed an extra chapter at the end because it all ended quite abruptly, but there was great action and interesting characters. Loved it.
This was an excellent paranormal or urban fantasy book. I’m really excited to read more in this series. I loved Tallulah (even though she was a bit too obviously snarky at the beginning) and I loved Cade and I love the hint at their romance. The world-building is fascinating (although one too many gods mentioned at times). I do think it needed an extra chapter at the end because it all ended quite abruptly, but there was great action and interesting characters. Loved it.
March 20, 2023
A Percy Jackson rip off (adult version.)
Being in the protagonists head was unbearable. She thought she was the best thing to ever walk this earth and was unnecessarily rude and sarcastic to everyone. I know that’s meant to be part of her “quirky” character but all I could think about whenever she opened her mouth was how much I wanted to punch her in the face. She was so spoilt and made ridiculously stupid decisions and then acted like because she was the gods puppet she had no choice. I get the whole thing about gods not caring about humans and using them to do their bidding but she was in control of some of the things taking place and handled them so poorly. Oh and then she’d play the victim and act as though none of it was her fault. Basically long story short lack of character development. Also I hated the addition of swear words to make the book more adult. It was like the author was adding swearing in as a way to say “guys just so you don’t forget this is an adult book!!”
Also the writing style. I really don’t like the kind of writing style where the protagonist is having a conversation with you halfway through. Things like “have you ever felt so scared?” Or “if you ever find yourself in a situation like this you should….” It worked in the Percy Jackson books bc it made sense. Percy is specifically telling us the story, that’s made clear from the beginning - he’s explaining what happened after it’s already happened so it makes sense if he talks to the reader. In this one, Tallulah just does it whenever she feels like it. Basically long story short the writing was not consistent.
I liked the love interest, definitely felt chemistry between them. Plot was decent, pacing was decent, characters apart from Tallulah were okay.
Just a very average copycat Percy Jackson book with a very annoying protagonist.
Being in the protagonists head was unbearable. She thought she was the best thing to ever walk this earth and was unnecessarily rude and sarcastic to everyone. I know that’s meant to be part of her “quirky” character but all I could think about whenever she opened her mouth was how much I wanted to punch her in the face. She was so spoilt and made ridiculously stupid decisions and then acted like because she was the gods puppet she had no choice. I get the whole thing about gods not caring about humans and using them to do their bidding but she was in control of some of the things taking place and handled them so poorly. Oh and then she’d play the victim and act as though none of it was her fault. Basically long story short lack of character development. Also I hated the addition of swear words to make the book more adult. It was like the author was adding swearing in as a way to say “guys just so you don’t forget this is an adult book!!”
Also the writing style. I really don’t like the kind of writing style where the protagonist is having a conversation with you halfway through. Things like “have you ever felt so scared?” Or “if you ever find yourself in a situation like this you should….” It worked in the Percy Jackson books bc it made sense. Percy is specifically telling us the story, that’s made clear from the beginning - he’s explaining what happened after it’s already happened so it makes sense if he talks to the reader. In this one, Tallulah just does it whenever she feels like it. Basically long story short the writing was not consistent.
I liked the love interest, definitely felt chemistry between them. Plot was decent, pacing was decent, characters apart from Tallulah were okay.
Just a very average copycat Percy Jackson book with a very annoying protagonist.
July 28, 2022
Interesting take on Gods and their priests in the modern world. The world building was just right for me, enough to make it rich, but not so much that it got boring.
Tallulah has been forced to "work" for Seth, the god of thunder (who goes by many names, like the rest of the gods) since she was 7. Seth is not very nice. Actually, none of the gods are nice.
She's on one god's shit list and Seth isn't happy with her either, and she's sent on a mission to save Seth's "child," one Death wants to kill. Luckily, she has Cade, another "priest," who works for the bad luck god.
There's a road trip and lots of adventure. Tallulah is snarky and reckless, and a fun character.
Tallulah has been forced to "work" for Seth, the god of thunder (who goes by many names, like the rest of the gods) since she was 7. Seth is not very nice. Actually, none of the gods are nice.
She's on one god's shit list and Seth isn't happy with her either, and she's sent on a mission to save Seth's "child," one Death wants to kill. Luckily, she has Cade, another "priest," who works for the bad luck god.
There's a road trip and lots of adventure. Tallulah is snarky and reckless, and a fun character.
March 18, 2017
4.5 stars. Solid start to a new series. really enjoyable.
August 4, 2017
Pretty interesting take on the god-thing.
Looking forward to the next book.
Thank You Ms Dean
Ken
Looking forward to the next book.
Thank You Ms Dean
Ken
March 14, 2022
Fun adventure
I had fun reading this book. The characters were fantastic. I did not put this story down. The action was great!
I had fun reading this book. The characters were fantastic. I did not put this story down. The action was great!
October 3, 2022
DNF. Boring
June 4, 2023
3.5 stars
July 26, 2023
Interesting concept, but I'm not sure many would so willingly offer themselves to basically a forced priesthood.
September 16, 2025
3.75 Stars
December 30, 2025
Good trash done right!
August 26, 2016
Awesome start to a new series. Highly recommend.
Review originally posted at http://fictionvixen.com/read-wednesda...
Just when I needed a new UF series to love Sierra Dean releases her newest, Thunder Road.
Tallulah Corentine is a Rain Chaser, marked at birth with Seth, the god of storm’s symbol and given over to him and his temple at a young age by her parents. In the ensuing twenty years, she has done whatever Seth has asked, no matter the danger to herself. In fact when the book opens she is in yet another mess after acquiring an idol from another god for her patron. By deception rather than actual skill, but whatever. What Tallulah soon comes to realize is that this time Seth has gotten her into a world of trouble, bigger than anything she’s been in before and the previous owner of the idol, the goddess Manea, is willing to do whatever is needed in order to get it back or get revenge. Even killing one of Seth’s children.
Tasked by Seth to find and protect his son (who just so happens to be absolutely clueless about his heritage), Tallulah is in over her head and knows shit is about to hit the fan. Aided by several other gods, always with a secret agenda, and Cade, who serves Arda, the goddess of bad luck and misfortune, she slowly makes her way to New Orleans. It’s a crazy good time as only Sierra Dean can deliver. Tallulah is strong, capable and snarky, which just so happens to be my favorite type of heroine. The action doesn’t let up for a minute as Tallulah has to work her way out of one dangerous situation after another. Nothing is easy, and she occasionally gets herself into even more trouble with her actions, but of course she ends up triumphant in the end. At least for now. There are hints of a relationship developing between her and Cade and I can not wait to see what Ms. Dean has in store for them.
I’m kind of bummed I read this so early, as now the wait for book two will seem like forever. The good news is, this author has another urban fantasy release this year that I’m looking forward to, Black Magic Bayou releases in October. If you haven’t yet read her Secret McQueen series or its follow-up, Genie McQueen, y’all need to get on that asap. In the mean time go one-click Thunder Road. Action, adventure, mythology, … it has every single thing guaranteed to make fans of urban fantasy happy.
Review originally posted at http://fictionvixen.com/read-wednesda...
Just when I needed a new UF series to love Sierra Dean releases her newest, Thunder Road.
Tallulah Corentine is a Rain Chaser, marked at birth with Seth, the god of storm’s symbol and given over to him and his temple at a young age by her parents. In the ensuing twenty years, she has done whatever Seth has asked, no matter the danger to herself. In fact when the book opens she is in yet another mess after acquiring an idol from another god for her patron. By deception rather than actual skill, but whatever. What Tallulah soon comes to realize is that this time Seth has gotten her into a world of trouble, bigger than anything she’s been in before and the previous owner of the idol, the goddess Manea, is willing to do whatever is needed in order to get it back or get revenge. Even killing one of Seth’s children.
Tasked by Seth to find and protect his son (who just so happens to be absolutely clueless about his heritage), Tallulah is in over her head and knows shit is about to hit the fan. Aided by several other gods, always with a secret agenda, and Cade, who serves Arda, the goddess of bad luck and misfortune, she slowly makes her way to New Orleans. It’s a crazy good time as only Sierra Dean can deliver. Tallulah is strong, capable and snarky, which just so happens to be my favorite type of heroine. The action doesn’t let up for a minute as Tallulah has to work her way out of one dangerous situation after another. Nothing is easy, and she occasionally gets herself into even more trouble with her actions, but of course she ends up triumphant in the end. At least for now. There are hints of a relationship developing between her and Cade and I can not wait to see what Ms. Dean has in store for them.
I’m kind of bummed I read this so early, as now the wait for book two will seem like forever. The good news is, this author has another urban fantasy release this year that I’m looking forward to, Black Magic Bayou releases in October. If you haven’t yet read her Secret McQueen series or its follow-up, Genie McQueen, y’all need to get on that asap. In the mean time go one-click Thunder Road. Action, adventure, mythology, … it has every single thing guaranteed to make fans of urban fantasy happy.
August 10, 2016
So two people are driving across the U.S. blasting Bon Jovi from a classic muscle car. No, it's not the Winchesters, though their influence is certainly felt. One of those people looks a lot like Frank Castle. He's Cade, servant of Ardra the goddess of bad luck. The other is Talulah, the North American Rain Chaser, servant of Seth the storm god. She's sassy, foul mouthed, and eats like a teenage boy. And, oh yeah, she can channel the power of storms.
In this world, ancient gods are still worshiped, though in a modern way - you can get blessings from a vending machine. They still have temples that serve as headquarters for the humans who are chosen to serve. They still occasionally consort with humans, leaving illegitimate demi-god children all over the world. And they still don't always play nicely with the other gods and goddesses.
Talulah has pissed off the wrong goddess and now Manea and her minions are looking for Seth's son to exact their revenge. Seth sends Talulah and Cade to get the "child" first, but the rest of the gods aren't going to make it easy for them. I felt like there were shades of Percy Jackson in addition to Supernatural on their journey. But road trip stories are one of my very favorite things, so I loved very minute of it.
I liked the blending of mythologies from all over the world and the fact that Dean incorporated some deities, like Ardra, that I wasn't familiar with. And I love that the pop culture influences are just as strong as the classical ones.
Thunder Road is a fast read and a fun ride and I can't wait for more.
Originally published at Goldilox and the Three Weres and based on a copy provided by the author.
In this world, ancient gods are still worshiped, though in a modern way - you can get blessings from a vending machine. They still have temples that serve as headquarters for the humans who are chosen to serve. They still occasionally consort with humans, leaving illegitimate demi-god children all over the world. And they still don't always play nicely with the other gods and goddesses.
Talulah has pissed off the wrong goddess and now Manea and her minions are looking for Seth's son to exact their revenge. Seth sends Talulah and Cade to get the "child" first, but the rest of the gods aren't going to make it easy for them. I felt like there were shades of Percy Jackson in addition to Supernatural on their journey. But road trip stories are one of my very favorite things, so I loved very minute of it.
I liked the blending of mythologies from all over the world and the fact that Dean incorporated some deities, like Ardra, that I wasn't familiar with. And I love that the pop culture influences are just as strong as the classical ones.
Thunder Road is a fast read and a fun ride and I can't wait for more.
Originally published at Goldilox and the Three Weres and based on a copy provided by the author.
July 29, 2016
My full review of this book is posted on my blog https://samanthasramble.wordpress.com/ come check it out and say hello!
My Rating: 4.5 Stars
My Thoughts
Thunder Road is the newest addition to Sierra Dean's already impressive bookshelf and it did not disappoint. This new series introduces us to Tallulah Corentine and she is one strong lead character. Tallulah is the chosen one for Seth the God of storms. Most of the main characters we come across in the book are clerics/ chosen ones of the different Gods as each God has their own chosen one who goes and answers the requests that people send their specific Gods way. This generally leads to mayhem and things blowing up especially with Tallulah who had a deep and profound love of blowing up cars.
A great bonus of this book is that the powers the characters have and the mythology aspect to it all was very original and refreshing. Ms Dean kind of pulled ideas from multiple different book universes and managed to pop out the world that Tallulah inhabits. While we have seen people in control of weather before, and we have seen Gods and their chosen ones/ servants before Ms Dean has done a fantastic job of just making it all feel very unique and new.
One of the best points of the book is that remarkably it only got better as the book went on. Personally, I wouldn't even say that it got better in the middle then went down hill but rather the book just kept getting better and better right to the very end. Hopefully, Ms Dean will be able to keep the momentum going and if so it will make for a very interesting sequel and hopefully a long run for the series.
My Rating: 4.5 Stars
My Thoughts
Thunder Road is the newest addition to Sierra Dean's already impressive bookshelf and it did not disappoint. This new series introduces us to Tallulah Corentine and she is one strong lead character. Tallulah is the chosen one for Seth the God of storms. Most of the main characters we come across in the book are clerics/ chosen ones of the different Gods as each God has their own chosen one who goes and answers the requests that people send their specific Gods way. This generally leads to mayhem and things blowing up especially with Tallulah who had a deep and profound love of blowing up cars.
A great bonus of this book is that the powers the characters have and the mythology aspect to it all was very original and refreshing. Ms Dean kind of pulled ideas from multiple different book universes and managed to pop out the world that Tallulah inhabits. While we have seen people in control of weather before, and we have seen Gods and their chosen ones/ servants before Ms Dean has done a fantastic job of just making it all feel very unique and new.
One of the best points of the book is that remarkably it only got better as the book went on. Personally, I wouldn't even say that it got better in the middle then went down hill but rather the book just kept getting better and better right to the very end. Hopefully, Ms Dean will be able to keep the momentum going and if so it will make for a very interesting sequel and hopefully a long run for the series.
August 26, 2016
What if the world as we knew it was still populated with gods? All of them, of every pantheon, keeping themselves occupied by interfering with humans, and creating petty wars between each other? Where people could tithe to the gods, hoping for a favorable outcome, such as rain on a test day, the ruination of a cheating partner, or even the death of someone they detested? For Tallulah Corentine, this is the world she knows – all too well. Talullah is a Rain Chaser, the main flunky of the god Seth, the god of storms. It is she who carries out Seth’s wishes, both serious and petty. When a request from Seth goes awry and causes a death god to go after a son Talullah never knew Seth had, all hell breaks loose.
Thunder Road is the first of a series, and it’s one that I will enjoy continuing. Talullah is human, though she does have the ability to channel Seth’s powers – most of the time. However, her human frailty is obvious after she does that, as it takes a toll on her body. Trying to keep on god placated while not aggravating any others is a challenge, and one that Talullah struggles with – she often leads first with her mouth. However, that trait is part of what makes her believable and fun to read.
Overall, I enjoy Talullah, and I thought the idea of these gods and their clerics was an interesting one. I will be looking forward to reading more about her and seeing what trouble she gets into next. Knowing Talullah, it won’t be small, and it won’t be easy.
Thunder Road is the first of a series, and it’s one that I will enjoy continuing. Talullah is human, though she does have the ability to channel Seth’s powers – most of the time. However, her human frailty is obvious after she does that, as it takes a toll on her body. Trying to keep on god placated while not aggravating any others is a challenge, and one that Talullah struggles with – she often leads first with her mouth. However, that trait is part of what makes her believable and fun to read.
Overall, I enjoy Talullah, and I thought the idea of these gods and their clerics was an interesting one. I will be looking forward to reading more about her and seeing what trouble she gets into next. Knowing Talullah, it won’t be small, and it won’t be easy.
August 9, 2016
I liked this world of Gods, at first I was a bit... just those goods? But it seems Gods are known by different names in different places but still the same god, so the big one here is known as a few other things too. And I just like Gods, I do!
But, yes our world, just with many more real Gods. And people being born to serve those Gods. Like Tallulah, and poor her. She never stood a chance. She was born with the sign and given to serve Seth. There are rules and she goes around delivering thunder to those who pay tithes, and some are just after revenge. But one good thing was that after she brings forth some thunder and lighting, she must sleep and eat and oh how I would eat everything without gaining anything...oh the little things to focus at. Lol. My mind drifts, back to business.
To the point then. She must find someone, she must stay alive as others are after her, and she fancies someone. Danger, a bit of passion, thunder and meddling Gods. There is a lot to handle.
A fun start to a new series, an interesting world and nice characters.
But, yes our world, just with many more real Gods. And people being born to serve those Gods. Like Tallulah, and poor her. She never stood a chance. She was born with the sign and given to serve Seth. There are rules and she goes around delivering thunder to those who pay tithes, and some are just after revenge. But one good thing was that after she brings forth some thunder and lighting, she must sleep and eat and oh how I would eat everything without gaining anything...oh the little things to focus at. Lol. My mind drifts, back to business.
To the point then. She must find someone, she must stay alive as others are after her, and she fancies someone. Danger, a bit of passion, thunder and meddling Gods. There is a lot to handle.
A fun start to a new series, an interesting world and nice characters.
November 24, 2016
I thought this was a decent start to a new series by Dean.
I'm not sure how Tallulah managed to survive or how she will in future adventures, but I really like Cade and want to learn more about him and his life as the "Luckless One".
“I am Tallulah Corentine. I am the North American Rain Chaser, disciple of Seth. I control storms, and so help me gods if you ever threaten me again, I will shove a lightning bolt so far up your ass you’ll be sneezing pure energy for a month."I'm not a mythology know-it-all, but even I found it hard to believe that our main character got away with some things. Still, I enjoyed the read and her feisty spirit. The world building was a bit lacking, but not in a I-wanna-stop-reading kinda way. The gods are having their pets/clerics answer prayers where priority is often based on tithes; a clever play on pop culture to have them doing so by using an app.
I'm not sure how Tallulah managed to survive or how she will in future adventures, but I really like Cade and want to learn more about him and his life as the "Luckless One".
He was a puzzle I’d never been interested in assembling before, and now that I wanted to, I was missing the cover.
Read
April 27, 2017Tallulah Corentine
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Being Chosen was supposed to be a gift.
That’s what Tallulah Corentine’s parents told her when they handed her over to the Rain Chasers on her seventh birthday. It was an honor to be born with a destiny, to be hand selected by the gods before taking her first breath. She should be overjoyed.
Twenty years later, Tallulah is still waiting for the gift. She might have the power of the storm at her fingertips, but she’s spent her whole adult life living under a cloud.
A cross-country trip to find the wayward son of Seth, god of the storm, turns into a fight for her life when she dupes Death out of a valuable treasure. With only a wily con man, a dangerously handsome bad-luck priest, and a lot of lightning to help her, can she deliver the package and keep herself out of an early grave?
Or will Seth be looking for a new Rain Chaser before it’s all over?
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Being Chosen was supposed to be a gift.
That’s what Tallulah Corentine’s parents told her when they handed her over to the Rain Chasers on her seventh birthday. It was an honor to be born with a destiny, to be hand selected by the gods before taking her first breath. She should be overjoyed.
Twenty years later, Tallulah is still waiting for the gift. She might have the power of the storm at her fingertips, but she’s spent her whole adult life living under a cloud.
A cross-country trip to find the wayward son of Seth, god of the storm, turns into a fight for her life when she dupes Death out of a valuable treasure. With only a wily con man, a dangerously handsome bad-luck priest, and a lot of lightning to help her, can she deliver the package and keep herself out of an early grave?
Or will Seth be looking for a new Rain Chaser before it’s all over?
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