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When The Tigers Roar

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About The Book

In the mystical land of Greeham, the Suryavaghs – ferocious half-man, half-tiger, shape-shifters, live in secret. A prophecy warns of their annihilation, and the key to their survival lies in the unlikeliest of Baani, an ordinary human. When Baani hears haunting whispers from the forest, her life takes a turn she never expected.
Drawn to Raghav, a fierce Suryavagh, she discovers a hidden world. As their forbidden bond grows, Baani finds herself in a race against time to expose her past and face the ‘Matrakopa’, an ancient force hell-bent on vengeance. But in the Suryavagh realm, deception is everywhere, and allies can quickly become enemies.
Rich with danger, heartbreak, and an epic clash of forces, When the Tigers Roar is a tale of love and courage in a world where nothing is as it seems. Will Baani rise to save a race that may not deserve redemption, or will the curse of the past doom them all?

About The Author

Sheba E. Jacob, an engineer-turned-MBA graduate, has worked her way through the corporate world. From coding to project management and marketing, she’s developed a diverse skill set that brings depth to her world-building and character.
Amid her stock market explorations and creative pursuits, Sheba wrote her debut novel, When the Tigers Roar. Inspired by the magic of Harry Potter, the intrigue of Dan Brown’s mysteries, and the emotional intensity of The Twilight Saga, she is eager to share her stories with readers everywhere.
As a lifelong introvert, Sheba has always found comfort in the escape that books provide, whether it’s living through characters or seeing the world from a new perspective. Now, she’s ready to turn the tables and welcome readers into her own fantastical universe.

290 pages, Paperback

Published February 20, 2025

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71 people want to read

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Sheba Jacob

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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
Profile Image for Sruthi NK.
32 reviews3 followers
April 21, 2025
It’s been far too long since I read a book inspired by Indian mythology, and I couldn’t have chosen a better one to dive back into the genre! This story gave me serious ACOTAR vibes (ACOTAR but desi 👀)

A prophecy reveals that the fate of the Suryavaghs (half-man, half-tiger shapeshifters) hangs in the balance, and their survival depends on an ordinary human named Baani.

The narrative is rich with flawed yet compelling characters, each facing their own challenges, and the journey to save them is filled with difficulty. The suspense of what will unfold next keeps you engaged throughout.

This book moves at a great pace, making it hard to put down. I absolutely loved the world-building in the mystical land of Greeham. Even the side characters play crucial roles, receiving ample attention and development, which adds depth to the story and makes Baani and Raghav’s journey even more fascinating.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and can’t wait to see what happens next! It’s a must-read for fans of mythology
Profile Image for LibroReview.
154 reviews926 followers
April 21, 2025
If you want a fantasy novel by an Indian author but you’re not looking for another mythological retelling - you are looking for fairy tale filled with thrill and love, then this is the perfect book for you!

This was my first fantasy novel that was not a mythological retelling and oh my god I loved it! The concept within itself is so refreshing it was enough to have me interested since page one, then the writing kept me hooked moving forward. It’s easy to read, equally tender and ferocious.

I was physically stopping to read and taking my time giggling and blushing in some parts! The plot is fast-paced with a beautiful world that doesn’t take a lot of tedious explaining to imagine. The mysteries and revelations and betrayal gave me a healthy dose of drama I need to enjoy my fantasies. My favourite part was the main female character’s emotional journey and courage, along with many other relationships.

I think about Baani and Raghav a lot. Hope you love the book!
Profile Image for Dr. Prashant Pawar.
58 reviews4 followers
March 26, 2025
"When the Tigers Roar" by Sheba Jacob is an enchanting blend of fantasy, romance, and adventure that takes readers on a mesmerizing journey through the mystical world of Suryawaghs. If you're a fan of Twilight, Dune, Harry Potter, or Dan Brown's gripping narratives, this book offers a delightful combination of these elements, promising a captivating reading experience.

One of the most engaging aspects of the story is the complex and compelling love triangle between the main characters. The emotional tension and heartfelt moments will keep readers hooked, turning pages in anticipation of what happens next. Portrayal of romance is layered with depth, exploring themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and the unpredictability of love.

The world-building in *When the Tigers Roar* is nothing short of spectacular. Sheba Jacob's vivid descriptions transport readers to the fantastical land of the Suryawaghs, where ancient secrets and mystical powers abound. The concept of Suryawaghs, humans who possess the extraordinary ability to shape-shift into majestic tigers, is both fascinating and immersive. The meticulous detailing of their customs, landscapes, and lore adds richness to the narrative, making it easy for readers to lose themselves in this magical realm.

Beyond the mesmerizing world and enthralling romance, the story is well-structured with thoughtfully crafted scenes and an excellent narrative flow. Storytelling is fluid and engaging, with a writing style that is both accessible and vivid. The plot progresses seamlessly, building suspense and intrigue with each chapter. The pacing ensures that readers remain on the edge of their seats, eager to uncover the next twist or revelation.

Furthermore, the characters are well-developed and relatable, with authentic emotions and believable growth arcs. Each character's distinct personality and motivations contribute to the story's emotional depth and resonance. The conflicts they face are not only external but also internal, adding further complexity to the narrative.

For readers seeking an Indian fantasy that offers something refreshing and unique, *When the Tigers Roar* is a must-read. Its imaginative world, gripping plot, and heartfelt romance make it a standout addition to the genre. The book is readily available on Amazon, making it easily accessible for readers eager to embark on this thrilling adventure.

Sheba Jacob has masterfully crafted a tale that captures the imagination and tugs at the heartstrings. *When the Tigers Roar* is a testament to the power of storytelling, delivering a reading experience that will linger in your mind long after you've turned the final page. Highly recommended for lovers of fantasy, romance, and adventure!

Profile Image for Ishanika_reads.
29 reviews2 followers
March 25, 2025
When the Tigers Roar* is a thrilling fantasy filled with danger, mystery, and romance. Set in the mystical land of Greeham, it follows Baani, an ordinary girl drawn into the secret world of the Suryavaghs—fierce tiger shifters. As she unravels her past, she faces powerful enemies and a deadly prophecy. Her forbidden bond with Raghav adds heart to the action-packed story.
With unexpected twists, betrayal, and an epic battle for survival, this book keeps you hooked. A perfect read for fantasy lovers who enjoy rich world-building, deep emotions, and a heroine who must decide the fate of an entire race.
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Personally I like the book , there was something that was just not hitting me right , probably because the genre is different from my type of genre.But overall it was a thrilling experience.
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If you like-:
• Fantasy
• Shape shifters
• Mysteries.
The book is for you then ✨💕 Overall it was a must read .
.⭐⭐⭐.5/5

🫧Your favourite Fantasy trope ?🫧
Profile Image for Kriti Dalmia.
435 reviews25 followers
April 19, 2025
“This book roars with heart.”

If you're craving a fantasy novel that blends mystery, danger, and forbidden romance, When the Tigers Roar is a must-read! Set in the mystical land of Greeham, this story introduces us to the Suryavaghs—ferocious half-man, half-tiger shape-shifters who live in secret.

At the heart of the tale is Baani, an ordinary human whose life takes a thrilling turn when she hears haunting whispers from the forest. Drawn to Raghav, a fierce Suryavagh, she uncovers a hidden world filled with deception, ancient forces, and a prophecy that threatens their very existence.

Sheba Jacob’s world-building is immersive and captivating, her characters are layered and compelling, and the story is packed with twists that will keep you hooked. The concept is spectacular and fascinating. I liked the vivid and beautiful descriptions that had me engrossed. The flow of the story was great other than a few parts that felt slow.

If you love books that explore love, courage, and the battle between fate and free will, this one deserves a spot on your shelf! I can't wait to read more of the author's work.
Profile Image for Ritzzz.
216 reviews7 followers
March 8, 2025
This book is a literary gem that stands out as a must-read for its intricately woven narrative and profound exploration of themes like love, courage, and dark secrets. The story follows the journey of a girl named Baani. Life takes a sharp turn when Baani draws attention to the whispers from the Avarana forest. The story turns out to be more interesting when she meets Raghav ( the Suryavaghs from a mystical land ) and discovers a hidden world. The language used is rich and lucid, easy for the beginners and young readers to understand. She finds herself in a race against time to expose her past & face something big. But what ??

The writing style is crisp and evocative, with a good balance of dialogue and description. I loved how the author has given clear descriptions, giving information to the readers & making it easier to imagine.. Right from the amazing storytelling to a beautiful cover, well-developed characters, plot, everything is just perfect. I would definitely love to read more books by the author in future. This book was my first read this March and I absolutely loved it. Baani 's journey will take you on a rollercoaster ride filled with adventure and secrets. Highly recommended to each and every individual.
Profile Image for Ravneet.
117 reviews3 followers
July 22, 2025
Spent the day immersed in a fantasy book that made me wish we had more Indian fantasy series. I have only read The Shiva Trilogy by Amish Tripathi and I was so pleasantly surprised by this beautiful book by Sheba Jacob.

Following the Suryavaghs- a ferocious clan living in secret, made up of half-tiger, half-man shapeshifters, the book centres around a dark prophecy that warns of complete annihilation of the clan from within, stripping away their magic and the only solution seems to be to go back to the beginning- to the dark sacrifices that created the Suryavaghs. The key to unlock this mystery lies in Bani, an ordinary human girl living on the edge of the Avarana Forest, hearing whispers that call her to a world forbidden to her. Her life takes a turn when she finds herself in the centre of a plot of vengeance.

I enjoyed reading this book so much! I loved the world building, the characters and especially the intrigue that never quite settles and keeps you on the edge of your seat. I might have a little soft spot for Vihaan, who seemed more like an antagonistic but one you cannot hate no matter his decisions. The last hundred pages were intense and captivating with the plot twists unfolding and so many secrets getting revealed. The ending broke my heart and I am already hoping for the next book.
25 reviews2 followers
May 11, 2025
An Indian fantasy tale roaring with heart, mystery, and magic.

Sheba Jacob’s When the Tigers Roar is a dazzling dive into a mythical world rooted in Indian culture, with characters that claw their way into your heart and a storyline that prowls with intensity. For readers enchanted by dragons, shape-shifters, and fantasy realms—but longing for an Indian heartbeat beneath the magic—this book delivers a deeply original experience.

The story opens with a harrowing sacrifice: a mother gives up her son to the Lord Sun, a chilling act that foreshadows the fate-bound world we’re about to enter. Years later, we’re introduced to Bani, an ordinary girl from a humble village who works in a bakery and dreams of escape. Her world changes forever when whispers from the forest lead her to a wounded tiger—an encounter that becomes the first thread of destiny unraveling.

She frees him, never realizing that this creature is Raghav, a Suryavagh warrior—and that he has fallen in love with the fire and mystery in her eyes.

As Bani is pulled into the world of the Suryavagh , she learns of their dying prophecy, their bitter internal rivalries, and their desperation to survive. Along the way, she meets Meera, and soon discovers they share more than just fate—they are half-sisters. Both daughters of a complicated past. The Suryavagh world is torn by jealousy, pride, and pain, most notably between Raghav and Vihaan, who are bound by a deep hatred rooted in betrayal and broken brotherhood.

But the heart of the story beats in the shadows—Leela, the mother who gave up her child, now resurfaces with unwavering strength. She is not just a side character. She is the silent architect of fate. As truths unfold, it becomes clear: everything—Bani’s awakening, Raghav’s conflict, the prophecy—traces back to her pain, her sacrifice, and her search for redemption.

And then comes the twist—one so devastating, it flips Bani’s entire existence on its head. Her identity, her bloodline, and her bond with Raghav are not what they seemed. She is no longer just a girl pulled into a prophecy. She is the prophecy.

Sheba Jacob’s writing is lush and lyrical, soaked in Indian myth and wrapped in emotional depth. Her characters are raw, real, and deeply human even when they wear claws. Griham feels alive, with a heartbeat of its own, echoing the jungle, the gods, and the ancient fires that birthed it.

When the Tiger Roared is more than a fantasy. It’s a tale of mothers and monsters, of fate and free will, of love so powerful it can either heal or destroy. And as the final pages close with unanswered questions and shattered illusions, one thing is certain: this story is far from over.

We need a sequel—not just to learn the truth behind Vihaan and Raghav’s enmity, but to see what becomes of Bani, and whether love can survive what destiny has yet to reveal.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
320 reviews8 followers
March 23, 2025
🍀 Book - When The Tigers Roar - The Suryavagh Chronicles
🍀 Author- Sheba Jacob

Baani, a simple girl from the village of Alpha, dreams of moving to Shaanpur. But everything changes when she hears eerie whispers from the forbidden Avarana Forest.

One night, she rescues a wounded tiger, unaware that this single act will alter her fate. Soon after, she befriends Meera, a new bakery worker, and confides in her about the whispers. Meera warns her to stay away, but curiosity pulls Baani deeper into the forest—where she meets the mysterious Raghav.

But when Meera goes missing, Baani’s search leads to a shocking truth—both Meera and Raghav are Suryavaghs shapeshifters from the mystical land of Greeham. And Raghav is the same tiger, she once saved.
She also meets Vihaan one more Suryavagh from Greeham

As dark forces rise and betrayal lurks within the Suryavagh world. Race against time begins when Baani is exposed to her past and had to face the ancient force hell bent on Vengeance.
Things are not so simple the dark secrets are about to come out and deception is engulfing the Suryavaghs, protectors are turning into antagonists.
Her presence is forbidden, but her heart belongs to Raghav with the time running out, a decision has to be taken.

Will the complicated love of Raghav and Baani meet the goal?
Will Baani ever come to know the secret behind the whispers ?
What is the dark secret behind the existence of Suryavaghs?

🍀Review -
This debut novel by Sheba Jacob takes you into a world filled with surprises, mysteries, and secrets that pull you in as you dive into the storyline.

From the very first scene, the author grips the reader’s nerves, setting a pace that keeps you hooked. Page after page, you find yourself caught in the mysterious realm of Greeham and its intriguing inhabitants.

Though a fantasy, the book is rooted in logic—every character, event, and connection between the past and present has been carefully crafted. It’s clear that the story wasn’t written just for the sake of writing; instead, extensive research has gone into building this mystical world.

The language is velvety, the descriptions breathtaking, the secrets dark—this book is pure magic. Though a debut, it reads like the work of a seasoned author.

The only thing that felt slightly off was the ending—it could have been more secretive, delivering a stronger surprise.

I rarely pick up fantasy, but this book completely blew me away.

Grab your copy and embark on an unforgettable journey to Greeham.
Profile Image for Kitabi Keeda.
625 reviews70 followers
April 2, 2025
A saga of Love and Revenge!

🐅Insight: This is the first book of the fantasy series “The Suryavagh Chronicles”. Set in the mythical kingdom of Greeham, where over a millennium ago, a tyrant King driven by the thirst for power, performs a ruthless sacrifice to the Sun Sovereign. Four chosen individuals are burnt alive to give rise to the four ferocious Suryavagh clans—half-man, half-tiger shapeshifters. Many years later, in the Human village of Alpa, an orphan girl named Baani hears Whispers from the forest of Avarana. Baani meets a Suryavagh, Raaghav. Little did she know, this encounter shall be the reason for a daring journey into Greeham, leading her to dangers beyond her imagination and the secrets threaten the very fabric of the Suryavagh Realm.

🐅Review: This mystical story is captivating and astonishing! I got fully engrossed and could not just put the book down.
It explores a wide array of themes, focusing on passionate romance, heartbreak, courage, and sacrifice. “Good and Evil” and “Revenge” stand out.
The author has used her literary talent and techniques to build this magnificent fantasy world of Greeham, making it very easy for the reader to imagine the various landscapes and also be a part of the story. I loved how the author has crafted different archetypes, beautifully developed and used throughout the plot. The characters beautifully express the emotions of love and revenge which made me shed tears. The author has created unique creatures and plot elements inspired by Indian mythology and folklore that shall appeal to a larger worldwide audience. The author has a knack for writing expressive and emotional dialogues.
I highly recommend this book to readers who want to read a different kind of fantasy story. I am eagerly waiting for the second instalment of the series.

🐅Strengths:
• Fluent language
• Refreshing plot

🐅Weakness:
• There were some slower parts in the story, but they used to develop the world and characters.

🐅Target Audience: Young Adults, although age does not affect this book in any way.

🐅Genre: Fantasy

🐅Rating: 4.7/5
52 reviews3 followers
October 5, 2025
A beautifully written tale that stands out for its rich storytelling and exploration of powerful themes like love, bravery, and long-buried secrets. The story follows Baani, a young girl whose life takes an unexpected twist when she becomes intrigued by strange whispers echoing from the mysterious Avarana forest. Her journey becomes even more fascinating when she meets Raghav, a member of the Suryavaghs from an enchanting, hidden world, and discovers that there’s more to her life than she ever imagined.

The author’s writing style is a perfect blend of clarity and creativity. The language is simple enough for beginners and young readers to grasp easily, yet it’s filled with vivid descriptions that create a magical atmosphere. The balance between dialogue and narrative is spot-on, ensuring the story flows smoothly without losing its immersive quality.

What truly stands out is how the author paints each scene with just the right amount of detail enough to spark the imagination without overwhelming the reader.

The characters feel real and relatable, while the plot twists keep you on the edge of your seat. From the stunning cover design to the well-paced storyline, every aspect feels thoughtfully crafted.I loved every moment of it! This is a highly recommended read for anyone who loves fantasy, adventure, and stories that touch the heart.
Profile Image for Wittygirlwithabook .
119 reviews
March 26, 2025
💌BOOK REVIEW 💌

This is an enthralling tale that will transport you to the magical world of Greeham, the Suryavaghs ferocious half-man, half tiger and shape-shifters who live in a secret, threatened by a prophecy of annihilation.

Their survival rests on Baani an ordinary human who is drawn into their world by forest whispers and her connection to Raghav, a fierce Suryavagh.

The world building is immersive and creating vivid picture of Greeham and its inhabitants. The plot is full of twists and turns the author skillfully creates sense of suspense as Baani and Raghav race against time to expose the conspiracy that threatens the existence of the Suryavaghs. This book offers adventure, suspense and romance.

In my opinion the author has done a phenomenal job in balancing elements of mythology and folklore without making it ambiguous and perfectly blending in with narrative.

So, if you like a thrilling and enchanting novel then do pick this one.
Profile Image for Pallavi Shukla.
196 reviews4 followers
April 30, 2025
The story follows Baani, who wants a better life in Shaanpur. When she meets Raghav, Meera, and Vihaan, she uncovers secrets and betrayals linked to her own mysterious past!

This book starts strong, setting a fast-paced and suspenseful tone. You’ll be captivated by Greeham’s mysterious world and intriguing people. The author has built a rich, logical world. The story feels researched and intentional, with connections between past and present that add depth.

The last part of the book was intense and exciting, with surprising twists and secrets revealed. The ending was heartbreaking, and I’m already eagerly waiting for the next book!

I loved this mystical story! It’s full of romance, heartbreak, and bravery. The battle between good and evil is intense, and revenge is a major theme. If you love fantasy, romance, and surprising twists, ‘When The Tigers Roar’ is a must-read!💙🐯
Profile Image for Sarita Pahuja.
50 reviews5 followers
April 17, 2025
I didn’t expect to love a fantasy book by an Indian author this much, but wow… this debut totally surprised me! When the Tigers Roar by Sheba Jacob is such a well-written, imaginative story that it didn’t feel like a debut at all.

The story follows Baani, a village girl who dreams of a better life in Shaanpur. One night, she hears whispers from the nearby Aravana Forest and ends up saving a trapped tiger. This small act leads her into a magical world she never knew existed. She soon finds out that the tiger she saved is actually Raghav, a shapeshifter (called a Suryavagh) from the hidden land of Greeham.

Baani also meets Meera and Vihaan, other Suryavaghs, and learns about a rising danger threatening their world. Secrets come out, betrayals unfold, and Baani discovers that her own past is connected to all of it.


My review:
The story was gripping, though it did feel a bit stretched at times, but maybe that’s just me.
I absolutely loved Raghav and Baani’s relationship.
The twists, Baani’s past, and the entire world Sheba created were so fun to unravel.

If you love fantasy, this is your sign to pick up this book right away!
55 reviews6 followers
August 1, 2025
Your desi fantasy is here.

I love the world building from the beginning and the way it's fast paced and so mysterious kept me hooked till the end.


It's about 4 people on a journey to find some answers and they found who6le new truth about their own community and the way they became the warrior and saviour of their own community was amazing.

I seriously loved a few characters here they were themself holding the book like they are the main character.

Loved the villain of the book 😂😂 she was so cruel yet so idiot. Every now and then ull feel like tearing her brain aside .. bt then villains are always idiot u knw 🤣

Anyways a good book if u want to dive into some shape shifter falling in love with potential human and some love triangle with loads of magical and fantasy stuffs this should be the next pick..
Profile Image for Changu.
10 reviews
October 7, 2025
When the Tigers Roar is a beautifully crafted novel that intertwines historical events with a poignant coming-of-age story.
It felt really different from the age old mythological stories and I really like it.

It was really great to build this magnificent fantasy world of Greeham. The way Suryavagh clans—half-man, half-tiger shapeshifters was created and how four individuals are burnt alive was breath catching.

All the characters are well-developed, and it is a rollercoaster of emotions that's easy for beginners to follow. It's really catchy how the prophecy is told and find it beautiful.

The Character of Meera was heart welcoming and the relationship between Meera and Raghav was heartbreaking.

Vihaan was really enticing and the way he provoke Raghav was captivating.

The way Leela wrestled with revenge and remodeled into Omisha Vyomar was really unexpected and thrilling.

The way Baani get drawn into Raghav and the way Raghav gets attracted to her was really lovely. Altogether, Baani 's journey will take you on a rollercoaster ride filled with adventure and secrets.

Overall, When the Tigers Roar is a powerful tale of courage, empathy, and survival.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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