This novel tells the story of Hadji Murad, a highly esteemed soldier in the Caucasian separatist movement. However, the story begins with Hadji Murad joining the Russian camp because Imam Shamil kidnapped his family. The Russians agree to help Murad, and he meets with them. Before his arrival, a battle takes place between Chechen and Dagestani forces, and when they arrive, there are casualties. Murad meets the prince and the royal family. Murad is an impressive warrior, and for this, the royal family presents him with an advanced watch that amazes him. One day, the military governor's office asks Hadji Murad to write down his story. In Murad's story, we learn that he was born in Tselmes. He was a friend of the Khan family because his mother worked as their royal nurse. The people asked for his help in the jihad against Russia. He hesitated but agreed. Shamil (the man who kidnapped Murad's family) was their leader, and in their first attacks, they attacked Khunzakh, killing the Russian officials there. Shamil's attack was reckless, and Murad's brother died. So, when Shamil asked Murad to continue fighting, he said he would not follow Shamil because Shamil caused his brother's death, and that is why Shamil took Murad's family hostage.