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.