Hard to Be a God follows Anton, an undercover operative from future Earth, on a mission to an alien planet inhabited by human beings whose society remains in the Middle Ages.

The novel's core idea explores how human progress often involves cruelty and bloodshed, with religion and blind faith serving as tools of oppression against emerging scientific disciplines and enlightenment.

Don Rumata, masquerading as an arrogant nobleman, dueler, and brawler, is sent to the medieval kingdom of Arkanar to observe and save what he can. He faces the challenge of his orders, which restrict him from killing, despite his desire to save the kingdom from Don Reba, the first minister to the king.

With his doubt, compassion, and deep love for a local girl named Kira, Rumata's role becomes complex as he navigates the kingdom's political machinations.

This translation by Olena Bormashenko reintroduces one of the most profound Soviet-era novels to an eager audience.