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The Prisoner's Apprentice

The Prisoner's Apprentice

Standalone Novel

Clever Boy. Genius Killer. True Story.

In his father's jail, young Albert finds what he's always wanted: a teacher who understands him. But some lessons exact a terrible price.

When brilliant murderer Edward Rulloff is imprisoned in Ithaca, he offers Albert an education most boys in 1846 could only dream of—languages, philosophy, and the chance to become extraordinary. Under Rulloff's patient tutelage, Albert transforms from a lonely child into a gifted scholar. Yet as their unique friendship deepens, Albert begins to suspect that his mentor's acts of kindness mask a growing darkness. Each new lesson draws them closer to a terrible choice between loyalty and justice.

Based on a shocking true story that captivated nineteenth-century America, The Prisoner's Apprentice delivers a haunting exploration of what drives men to greatness—and to darkness. In the tradition of The Alienist and Devil in the White City, this atmospheric historical thriller weaves true crime and psychological suspense into a gothic tale that blurs the lines between genius and madness.

Winner of multiple historical fiction awards including the 2022 IRDA Award, Eric Hoffer Award Finalist, and B.R.A.G. Medallion Honoree.

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About the Author

Cheyenne Richards is an award-winning author, who creates stories that dance between darkness and light, fear and courage, safety and adventure. Her novels explore the depths of human nature while inspiring readers to chart their own extraordinary course.

She's a global nomad who lives on her sailboat.

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Sample Chapters

That sweltering June began like any other. A few fighters and a buggy thief flowed through our jail. A man from the plaster company married a girl from Dryden. Eph Schutt lost his wife and baby to childbed fever. Mostly I remember the endless funeral sermon and Eph’s sister giving me a hard smack on the shoulder for kicking at the pews.

By the Fourth of July, everyone with a boat was out on Cayuga Lake, dragging chains and hooks and fishing nets, looking for bodies.

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Reading Guide

What inspired the author choose to write this story? What were the questions she wrestled with? What are the themes and tropes worth discussing?

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Your book is printed to order. While it usually ships in 1-3 days, it often takes a week or two to arrive.

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If for any reason your purchase doesn't thrill you, you better believe we want to fix it.

You can return the Ebook or Audiobook for a full refund, or the paperback for store credit, no questions asked. Just reach out by email to support@cheyennerichards.com or by phone to 213-394-5108.