The Ballads of Niam

by Amit Verma

The Ballads of Niam bridges the lives of people who have traversed great distances and times to be where they are. Niam has been burdened with a demanding task and a taxing quest. He has been tasked by his wife, Prisha, to find a name for their five-year-old daughter. He is also on a quest to get the hyena, Ajani, across Paris. These two great efforts involve negotiating a trench and a hill. They also span continents and countries and times. Fortunately for Niam, his palm has triple triplet lines and one single strong, prominent fate line. He also has unsolicited help navigating his path through non-existence. Fortunately, too, this day is long, and, in every version of his life, his company is strong. Maybe the burdens he carries are no match for him.

228 pages, Paperback

Published June 18, 2025

About the author

Amit Verma Is a resident of Houston, TX, where he divides his time among things he is passionate about, including molding captive impressionable minds and conducting research as a professor In Electrical Engineering, a perfect family, and a never perfect yard. His works on literary fiction have been variously called, a “rare find,” a “page-turner,” “… Is refreshing and does a humorous take on some of the pressing Issues …, ” "...brilliant read...," and "...unpredictable gem".

Reviews

[Katherine · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a beautifully crafted tale of love, family, and self-discovery that had me hooked from page one 📖. The story weaves together Niam's past and present, India and Paris, in a way that's both poetic and gripping 🤯.

What I loved most was how the author explores complex themes like identity, love, and connection through Niam's character 🤔. His journey is both heartbreaking and uplifting, and I felt every emotion alongside him 😭. The supporting cast is amazing, and the writing is just stunning - vivid, descriptive, and immersive 🌈.

The plot twists and turns kept me guessing, and the ending left me breathless 😱. It's a truly unforgettable read that will stay with you long after you finish the last page 📚. If you're looking for a book that will make you laugh, cry, and feel all the feels, 'The Ballads of Niam' is a must-read 😊."

[Shifali B · Rating 5 out of 5]

"The Ballads of Niam" is a highly captivating and engrossing read. It intrigues the reader through its catchy narrative and unique narrative. I was hooked from the beginning till the end.

The story revolves around Niam, Prisha and their daughter. In the initial pages, the reader is introduced to the persona of Niam and how he is today. He has a loving wife, Prisha, who is expecting a child. They have a peculiar bond that connects them despite their different personas. 

One day Niam goes on a walk and meets two ladies who pretend to know him better than he knows himself. He doesn't even remember who they are and how they were connected to him. Here the story narrates the background of his work tenure in India and how his roommates and these ladies befriended him. 

I was intrigued by the entry of Hynea and how he and his daughter protect and love him. Prisha is destined to send Niam to look for a name for their daughter. Their journey of finding the name along with Hynea keeps the reader gripped to the story.

Additionally, he is attempting to transport Ajani, the hyena, across Paris. These two heroic endeavours entail traversing a hill and a trench. They also cut across nations, continents, and eras. Niam is lucky to have one strong, noticeable fate line and three triplet lines on his hand.

The author has skillfully blended the ethical and fantastical elements of the characters. The way he weaves the storyline is praiseworthy. The characters' development is equally impressive, as each one grapples with their own dilemmas and desires.

I enjoyed reading this book and would recommend it to all. The intricate relationships and moral challenges faced by the characters not only enhance the plot but also provoke thoughtful reflection on the nature of good and evil. Overall, it is a compelling narrative that leaves a lasting impact, encouraging readers to ponder their own choices long after they turn the final page.

[Archana A · Rating 4 out of 5]

I recently picked up the book The Ballads of Niam written by Amit Verma. The story follows Niam, who has been told by his wife Prisha to find a name for their daughter. Apart from this, there is another journey for him to undertake in Paris. The path of Niam going through these journeys is the story.

Here, though the main character seems to be Niam, there are many more characters. Each of them keep resonating with the readers, filled with a vivid description and contrast with each other. This is also what makes the book special.

Overall, the book is engaging and intriguing at the same time. The background of every scene is expressed with thoughtfulness and is profound. What makes it even more relatable is the naturality of the plot. It seems really realistic.

The writing is simple, making it a quick page-turner. If you're someone into fiction with fantastical elements with it, then this book is for you.

[Sameer Gudhate · Rating 4 out of 5]

Some stories shout for attention. Others, like The Ballads of Niam by Amit Verma, quietly draw you in, and before you realize it, you’re completely absorbed. This is not just a book—it’s a journey through time, memory, and the oddly beautiful connections that make us who we are.

Amit Verma, a professor of Electrical Engineering in Houston, isn’t just an academic. His previous literary fiction works have been called “refreshing,” “brilliant,” and “an unpredictable gem.” With this book, he proves he can bridge the rigor of intellect with the magic of storytelling in a way that feels rare and refreshing.

At the heart of the story is Niam, a man carrying two burdens that are both absurdly simple and profoundly symbolic. His wife, Prisha, has tasked him with finding a name for their five-year-old daughter. At the same time, he must escort Ajani—the hyena—across Paris. Yes, it’s as unusual as it sounds, but it’s this very strangeness that makes it enchanting.

As Niam journeys through trenches, hills, continents, and even timelines, he isn’t just navigating physical space—he’s moving through memory, identity, and the strange in-between spaces of existence. His triple triplet lines and strong fate line become metaphors for resilience, hinting that his burdens, no matter how surreal, may not be bigger than him.

Amit Verma’s prose feels like sitting down with a storyteller who knows when to whisper and when to make you laugh. His language is fluid, often philosophical without ever feeling heavy. There’s a quiet playfulness in his narrative voice that turns even the most improbable scenes—like a man and a hyena walking through Paris—into something believable.

He has a rare ability to balance introspection with momentum. You’re never rushed, but you’re never stuck either. His writing invites you to linger, and honestly, I didn’t mind staying in Niam’s world longer than I expected.

Niam is far from perfect, and that’s exactly what makes him relatable. He forgets, doubts, and sometimes stumbles through his responsibilities, but he keeps moving. Prisha, his grounded and intuitive wife, is his anchor, while Ajani the hyena adds both whimsy and unexpected tenderness to the story.

Even the secondary characters—the mysterious women from Niam’s past, his old friends—are sketched with enough depth to feel real. Their dilemmas mirror the quiet, unspoken struggles we all face: memory, choice, and what it means to belong.

This book isn’t only about a quest. It’s about identity, love, and the invisible threads that tie our past and present together. It nudges you to ask yourself: How much of who we are comes from where we’ve been? And how do we carry our burdens without letting them define us?

The hyena itself feels symbolic—a reminder of the strange, untamed parts of our lives that we still somehow learn to live with.

The greatest strength of this book lies in its originality. The blending of the fantastical with the deeply personal is unlike anything I’ve read. There are moments where the pacing slows, but instead of feeling tedious, it gives you time to breathe and reflect—almost like the story is telling you to pause and feel.

By the end, I didn’t just read The Ballads of Niam—I carried it with me. It reminded me of my own quiet “quests,” the small but significant burdens we all shoulder.

If you’re craving something thoughtful, unique, and quietly magical, this is it. I’d happily recommend it and can’t wait to see where Amit Verma’s imagination takes us next.

[Jharna · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve got to say, The Ballads of Niam was one of the most unusual and memorable reading experiences I’ve had in a long time. The story follows Niam, who’s on two very different missions — finding the perfect name for his daughter and getting a hyena named Ajani safely across Paris. Sounds a bit out there, right? But somehow, it works perfectly.

What really struck me was how the author turned these small-sounding tasks into something that felt huge and important. Every trench crossed, every hill climbed, every mile traveled carried a kind of quiet weight. It’s not just about moving from one place to another — Niam is journeying through different parts of his own life. And those little details, like the fate line in his palm and the strange, invisible help he gets, gave the whole story this subtle magical vibe that I loved.

The best part for me was how effortlessly the book blends humor with depth. One moment you’re picturing a hyena wandering the streets of Paris and smiling, and the next, you’re thinking about life’s choices, responsibilities, and the mysterious ways fate works.

For me, The Ballads of Niam wasn’t just a book I read — it was a place I visited. I felt like I was right there with Niam, sharing the sights, the challenges, and the little victories. By the time I finished, I honestly didn’t want the journey to be over.

[Sagar Naskar · Rating 4 out of 5]

Amit Verma's The Ballads of Niam is a masterfully crafted, provocative trip that skillfully combines the fantastical with the real with subtle genius. Niam, a guy assigned two peculiar tasks—naming his daughter, who is five years old, and escorting a hyena named Ajani about Paris—is at the center of the story. As these parallel chores reflect deeper issues of identity, memory, and belonging, what may seem carefree turns into something significant.

Without being overpowering, the author's tale is lyrical, flowing, and profoundly philosophical. It is an interesting and quick read because of the straightforward yet rich writing. His ability to transform fanciful aspects into metaphors for very human emotions and problems is Verma's greatest strength. With evocative characters that make an impression, the story flows well across time and continents.
Ajani The hyena is my favorite character because she gives Niam's adventure a whimsical, unpredictable, and oddly reassuring quality. Sometimes in stillness, Ajani feels like a metaphor for the wild, chaotic aspects of life that we all carry with us.

If you like literary fiction with a hint of fantasy, I suggest The Ballads of Niam. Long after you've turned the last page, the subtly enchanted tale haunts you and inspires reflection.

[Rainu Arora · Rating 5 out of 5]

Title - The Ballads of Niam
Author - Amit Verma
Publisher - Madville publishing
Genre - fantasy/fiction
Pages - 232
Format - kindle

The story of 'The Ballads of Niam' by Amit Verma revolves around the protagonist Niam who has been assigned two tasks - one is to find a name for his five years old daughter and other is to escort a hyena named Ajani across Paris. Yes, it sounds so simple but it's uniqueness that makes it so important.

The book portrays Niam's journey through trenches, hills, continents and even timelines, it's not about moving physically from one place to another - it's about moving through different parts of his own existence. His triple triplet lines and the strong fate lines on his palm gives the story a magical touch.

The cover of the book is aptly designed and the title is totally relevant to the content. The plot of the story is interesting, unique and engaging. It's a perfect blend of humour and depth. The writing style of the author is impressive and hats off to his imagination which makes us feel everything so real.

Overall, a unique read.

Rating - 5/5

I recommend this book to all fantasy lovers out there.

[Pretty Soul · Rating 4 out of 5]

"The Ballads of Niam" by Amit Verma is a rare kind of story that keeps you thinking long after you’ve shut the book. The writing pulls you in from the start—it’s got this really gripping style, kinda poetic but still grounded.

Compiled within 228 pages, Niam’s journey isn’t just physical, it’s emotional and philosophical too. Between finding a name for his daughter and helping a hyena across Paris, his tasks sound odd, but somehow it all fits. There’s layers of time and place stitched beautifully into the story. The characters feel real, struggling with choices and inner dilemmas that reflect bigger questions of right and wrong. The fantasy and ethical themes blend in a way that doesn’t feel forced.

Honestly, it’s one of those reads that’s both entertaining and quietly deep. A bit unusual, but that’s what makes it stick.

I’d definitely recommend it if you’re up for something thoughtful but not too heavy.

[Booklover_rimi · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Ballads of Niam by Amit Verma is an engrossing story and while reading you keep asking yourself what is going on till the very end.

The story is the journey of Niam who is held by two ladies and told that they know him better than himself and how they give some insights about his life. Also this is a story of how Niam is able to help Ajani, a hynea to send him to Paris.

I know this sounds very confusing and it will be for sometime but the story will make you engage and will tell you how fate and time works. How there are so many things in our life we don't know about and we should keep learning.

I would say the pace of the story is perfect for the theme, not too fast not too slow, but medium and would sit at the edge of your seat in anticipation. One negative point is the chapters are way longer, so you need to have a slight patience to read it. But overall I would definitely recommend this book, it's unique and interesting. Definitely worth the read.

[Swarnali Karar · Rating 4 out of 5]

I recently finished The Ballads of Niam by Amit Verma and the story follows the character, Niam who has two big goals: he needs to find a name for his daughter and take a hyena named Ajani across Paris. These strange tasks are what connect the different parts of the story.

The best part of this book is the writing. It's poetic and beautiful; it makes the story feel magical. The characters are well developed. Niam is guided by special lines on his hand and a force which shows how everyone is connected, even in ways we can't see.

It's a book that feels more like a dream than a traditional story. It doesn't follow a straight line. Instead it jumps between different people, places and times, weaving their lives together in a beautiful way. Overall it is a powerful and touching story about love, spirit and the hidden connections between us all.

[ritika · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book's exploration of identity and resilience is one of its greatest strengths. Niam's journey is not just physical, but also emotional and psychological, as he navigates his doubts and fears to discover his inner strength. The supporting characters, including Prisha, Niam's grounded and intuitive wife, and Ajani, the hyena, add depth and complexity to the narrative. Verma's narrative voice is a masterful balance of introspection and momentum, inviting the reader to linger in Niam's world.

It is a truly unforgettable read. With its captivating narrative, well-developed characters, and thought-provoking themes, it is a must-read for fans of literary fiction and adventure. Verma's writing is deliberate and evocative, drawing the reader into Niam's world and refusing to let go. This book will challenge your thinking, touch your heart, and stay with you long after you finish reading.

[Prachi · Rating 5 out of 5]

"🤯 'The Ballads of Niam' is a SERIOUSLY UNIQUE VIBE! 😍 Amit Verma's storytelling is like MAGIC ✨ - who else could make escorting a hyena named Ajani across Paris sound like a BREATHTAKING JOURNEY? 🤩 Niam's search for his daughter's name turns into a wild ride through his own soul 💭 - you'll be LAUGHING, CRYING, and totally VIBING 😮.

The writing's GIVING REAL VIBES 💥 - vivid, raw, and so darn relatable 😍. And those triplet lines on Niam's palm? 😱 Mind. Blowed. The cover and title? PERFECT 👏! If you want a story that's quirky, deep, and OFF THE CHAIN, THIS IS IT 📖!"

[Jillian · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Ballad of Niam begins in a straightforward way, but it almost immediately twists off into a complicated tapestry of timelines. The multiverses are centered around Niam, but he ends up being the least important character. Every character he encounters get a complicated, nuanced backstories. Perhaps the biggest risk is the POV of the hyena, who takes center stage in the last two sections of the novel. It's easy to get lost here, but there's something intriguing about Verma's exploration of time and lifelines and possibility.

[Snigdha · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a thrilling adventure that masterfully weaves together Niam's past and present. With a unique blend of mystery, family dynamics, and self-discovery, the story keeps readers engaged as Niam navigates his journey to find a name for his daughter and transport Ajani the hyena across Paris. The author's vivid descriptions and well-developed characters bring the story to life, making it a compelling read.

[Jehovah Shalom · Rating 5 out of 5]

A masterfully crafted narrative that defies genre conventions. The story's unique blend of whimsy and profundity, humor and pathos, makes for a captivating read. Niam's journey is a poignant exploration of identity, love, and self-discovery, set against the backdrop of a fantastical adventure. Verma's vivid, evocative writing brings the story to life, making it impossible to put down. A truly original and unforgettable debut.

[Vishakha Gupta · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a masterful blend of mystery, adventure, and self-discovery. Niam's character is complex and relatable, and the supporting characters are well-developed and interesting. The author's writing style is engaging and descriptive, making it easy to visualize the story. A must-read for fans of adventure and mystery!

[Vishakha Gupta · Rating 5 out of 5]

In a captivating tale of love, family, and destiny, Niam's journey will keep you on the edge of your seat. With a unique blend of mystery and self-discovery, this book is a must-read for fans of adventure and intrigue. The author's vivid descriptions and well-developed characters bring the story to life, making it a compelling read from start to finish. Don't miss out on this thrilling adventure!

[Gaurav Raj · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amit Verma's latest book is a masterful tale of love, identity, and resilience. At its heart is Niam, a complex and relatable protagonist tasked with finding a name for his five-year-old daughter and escorting a hyena across Paris. Verma's writing is a rare blend of intellectual rigor and storytelling magic, with a quiet playfulness that makes even the most improbable scenes feel believable.

[Scarlet · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a masterpiece! The writing is lyrical, the characters are complex and relatable, and the story is both epic and intimate. I loved how the author explores themes of family, love, and belonging through Niam's journey. The plot twists and turns kept me guessing, and the ending left me breathless. A truly unforgettable read - 5 stars isn't enough!"

[REHANA · Rating 5 out of 5]

I devoured this book in a few sittings - the writing is just that good! I love how the author has crafted a story that's both a page-turner and a thought-provoking exploration of identity, love, and connection. Niam's journey is both heartbreaking and uplifting, and the supporting cast is amazing. Can't wait to read more from this author!"

[readerkd · Rating 5 out of 5]

"🌟 A MASTERPIECE 🤯! The writing is lyrical, the characters are complex and relatable, and the story is both epic and intimate 🌈. I loved how the author explores themes of family, love, and belonging through Niam's journey 💕. The plot twists and turns kept me guessing, and the ending left me breathless 😍. A truly unforgettable read.

[The Terminal · Rating 5 out of 5]

"😍 I'm still reeling from this incredible read! The way the story weaves together Niam, Prisha, and their daughter's journey is pure magic. The narrative is catchy and unique, keeping me hooked till the very end. I loved how the author explores the complexities of relationships and identity through Niam's character. A must-read for anyone who loves a good story!"

*

[LURKING BEHIND THE BOOKS · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was completely swept up in Niam's world! The way the story jumps between past and present, India and Paris, had me on the edge of my seat. The characters are so vivid and real, I felt like I was right there with them. The writing is beautiful, the plot is engaging, and the themes of love, family, and self-discovery are timeless. Highly recommend!"

[Lingam · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just finished ‘The Ballads of Niam’… Still processing. It’s like Amit Verma reached into my brain and heart, then wrote it out.

The writing’s so vivid — I felt like I was right there with Niam, wandering Paris streets and unearthing old memories . If you love books that make you _feel_, add this to your list ."

[Rohit Sharma · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is a beautifully woven tale of love, loss, and self-discovery 🤯. Niam's dual quests to name his daughter and escort Ajani the hyena 🐾 across Paris are a metaphor for life's messy beauty 🌈. Amit Verma's writing is lyrical, vivid, and unflinching 💭. With its unique blend of whimsy and heart, this book will linger long after you finish reading 📖.

[Rohan Jethloja · Rating 5 out of 5]

Y'all, Ajani the hyena 💀 is GOALS 🐾! Niam's journey's like life - messy, wild, beautiful 🌈. Verma's words hit different 💥 - vivid, quirky, unforgettable 😮. If you want a story that FEELS like home 🏠, read this 📖.