Debut Novel Out Now


Unabashedly Classless by Russell Ernst

Ella Richardson is a creative writing teacher at Fallsworth High School. Her new student, Alex Patorovsky, quickly becomes an outcast in Fallsworth following a despicable incident that his peers and many of the town's adults are convinced he was responsible for. Ella is forced to set aside her initial fears about Alex's character, and a traumatic childhood experience is the driving force behind her decision to confront the community about their prejudices. She offers her unique perspective on the world and shares with the reader her idiosyncrasies. Ella is an exquisite narrator and provides ample context for how society should treat those who don't fit a particular mold.

“it was difficult for me to square the absurd dichotomy between the tranquil town I had called home for many years and the demon-like attack on a building that I considered to be sacred.”

“I drank coffee like a chain-smoker smokes cigarettes. I wore holiday-themed pajamas around the clock. … I ate comfort food that fell short in its ability to comfort me.”


“Despite arresting a decorated recidivist who left physical evidence just a few hundred feet from the scene of the crime, and eventually confessed to committing his crime, I suspect for some people it just won’t be enough. For those individuals, no amount of proof will ever suffice.”



About Russell

Russell Ernst has been a financial industry professional for more than twenty-five years, serving in a variety of roles with Deutsche Bank and S&P Global. Russell has been a frequent guest speaker at Rutgers Business School and plays an active role as an industry mentor to MBA students.

In addition, Russell enjoys the art of storytelling. He is a vocal participant of his local book club and supports all genres. Russell is a firm believer that creativity lies deep within everyone, and sometimes needs to be coaxed out with caffeine or the inspiration provided by a unique setting.

Russell is passionate about pursuing activities outside of his career. He is a three-time marathoner and a second-degree black belt in Taekwondo. Unabashedly Classless is his first novel. Russell lives in New Jersey with his wife and two sons.

For inquiries, contact RussellErnst@hotmail.com