5.0 (8 ratings)

The Shackles of Ethics

Name: The Shackles of Ethics
Rating: 5 (8 reviews)
Author: August Villalobos
ISBN: B0GSPFK99F

by August Villalobos

ghosts

About this book

Seventeen-year-old Annabelle Sokolov lives in the suffocating shadow of Stalin’s Russia, sequestered on a freezing, desolate farm near Archangel. Her family life is crumbling under the weight of state tyranny and a growing, malevolent dread. Rumors haunt the property—whispers of restless spirits and unnatural phenomena that suggest something far more ancient and dangerous than the secret police is lurking in the woods.

When a handsome, mysterious stranger trespasses onto her land, Annabelle finds the catalyst she has been desperate for. What begins as a cautious, slow-burn connection quickly evolves into a Faustian bargain. As the spectral occurrences intensify, she is forced to confront a harrowing choice: sacrifice her soul to protect the remnants of her broken home, or abandon everything she has ever known to pursue a forbidden love and a life beyond the state’s iron grip.

Blending historical fiction with chilling paranormal elements, this atmospheric haunting explores the true cost of liberation. August Villalobos delivers a masterful, heart-wrenching tale of survival where the ghosts of the past are just as lethal as the regime’s shackles. For readers seeking a dark, emotional romance that lingers long after the final page, this is an unmissable journey into the supernatural unknown.

Publication Date: May 25, 2026
ASIN: B0GSPFK99F

Reader Reviews

A New Author's Must-read

April 12, 2026

This first-time Author is impressive. I found myself researching some of the places and incidents, and he totally nailed the descriptives. The language his players speak pull you into the era so well, you get so immersed in their environment. His writing keeps you turning pages, and then surprises you with a new turn of events...trust me, you won't figure the ending out until you're there. Kudos August, looking forward to your next book. )

What has changed

March 25, 2026

The book is a catharsis for those who have gone through trauma. The political message isn’t why I got this book but I really am changed by it. A book that changes your life really isn’t something I thought I’d find especially in the kind of genres I read but nevertheless I read it and nothing will be the same for me going forward. My political view has officially shifted to pro gun. 5 stars )

Just wow

March 25, 2026

This is nothing short of a modern classic. It’s the first book I’ve seen an author challenge the elites by calling out the epstien files like this. Anyone who is following the REAL politics and not the fake mainstream news politics MUST read this. )

Shackles is a psych-mind bend from the paranormal with no escape possible or wanted!

March 21, 2026

Book is outstanding! Incredibly imaginative and compelling. The story really pulls you in and won't let you go. I can't put this book down. Move over Stephen King, this book reaches spectacular new heights in the paranormal. Let Freedom Ring ) One person found this helpful

Best Novel I've read

March 20, 2026

My whole life I’ve been an avid reader. I’ve read WELL over a hundred books, and I can tell you without a doubt this book is easily my favorite! The romance is so natural, and the details of the mysteries unraveling were unpredictable every step of the way. Above all is the way it’s the first book to call out the demonic elites, heavily alluding to the Epstein files. I give it my top recommendation! )