The book follows the life of Timo von Bock, a Baltic German nobleman who is confined to his estate for nine years as a result of a letter he wrote to Czar Alexander I, criticizing the regime and suggesting reforms. The story is narrated by Timo's brother-in-law, Jakob, who has been tasked with monitoring him. As the narrative unfolds, Jakob struggles with his loyalty to the czar and his sympathy for Timo's idealistic views. The book explores themes of freedom, loyalty, and the struggle for personal and national identity against the backdrop of 19th-century Estonia.

"Professor Martens' Departure" is a historical fiction novel that chronicles the life of a real-life international law professor from Estonia. The story is set during the period of the Russian Revolution and World War I, and follows the protagonist as he navigates the political turmoil of the time. The narrative explores themes of personal integrity, professional ethics, and the struggle to maintain one's principles in the face of political pressure and personal ambition.

The novella centers around a young and impoverished artist who becomes obsessed with a captivating portrait he purchases at an auction. The painting, which depicts a menacing figure with a haunting gaze, exerts a malevolent influence over the artist's life. As he delves deeper into the mystery of the portrait's origin, he discovers a chilling story of avarice and the corrupting power of greed. The artist's own moral and artistic integrity is tested as he struggles against the dark forces emanating from the artwork, leading to a tale that intertwines the supernatural with a critique of the superficiality and materialism of the art world.

"The Old World Landowners" is a tale that paints a portrait of an elderly, contented couple living in rural Ukraine, untouched by the passage of time and the changing world around them. They lead a simple, routine life, deeply rooted in traditional values and the comfort of their ancestral estate. Their existence is characterized by a profound connection to their land and a gentle, almost childlike approach to life. However, the story takes a turn when the inevitability of change and mortality confronts their idyllic lifestyle, leading to a poignant reflection on the transient nature of life and the end of an era.

"The Moscoviad" is a satirical novel that follows the journey of a group of Ukrainian intellectuals as they embark on a chaotic and absurd trip to Moscow. Through a series of hilarious and bizarre encounters, the author explores the complex relationship between Ukraine and Russia, while also delving into the themes of identity, history, and cultural clashes. With its sharp wit and biting commentary, the novel offers a unique perspective on the post-Soviet era and the tensions between the two neighboring countries.

"Life Went On Anyway" is a powerful memoir that chronicles the life of Oleg Sentsov, a Ukrainian filmmaker who was wrongfully imprisoned by the Russian government. Through his vivid and poignant storytelling, Sentsov shares the harrowing details of his arrest, imprisonment, and the relentless fight for justice. Despite the unimaginable hardships he endures, Sentsov's resilient spirit shines through as he reflects on the power of art, the importance of freedom, and the indomitable human will to survive.