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If I Ruled the World
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10 copies available
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A fast-paced, juicy debut novel that peeks behind the curtain at the cutthroat world of hip-hop music and the glamorous magazine scene in the late 1990s, written by the ultimate insider
It’s 1999, and Nikki Rose is the only Black editor on the staff of a prestigious fashion magazine she once thought would be her ticket to becoming a respected editor-in-chief. But after being told one too many times by her boss that “Black girls don’t sell magazines,” she walks away to take over Sugar, a struggling hip-hop music and lifestyle magazine with untapped potential.
Thrown into an entirely new world of wealth, decadence, and debauchery, Nikki has just six months to save Sugar—and her own dreams. As she pulls all-nighters at the office and parties with the era’s most influential bad boys, Nikki must prove she has what it takes to lead. But her most dangerous challenge is evading Alonzo Griffin, her very married, very powerful ex-boyfriend and former boss, who’s determined to destroy both her and Sugar. Along the way, Nikki leans on a circle of loyal friends, and navigates unexpected romances that force her to reckon with what—and who—she truly wants.
If I Ruled the World is a smart, utterly immersive romp through one of the most dynamic eras in pop culture history—a story of ambition, friendship, love, and the journey to finding your own voice.
It’s 1999, and Nikki Rose is the only Black editor on the staff of a prestigious fashion magazine she once thought would be her ticket to becoming a respected editor-in-chief. But after being told one too many times by her boss that “Black girls don’t sell magazines,” she walks away to take over Sugar, a struggling hip-hop music and lifestyle magazine with untapped potential.
Thrown into an entirely new world of wealth, decadence, and debauchery, Nikki has just six months to save Sugar—and her own dreams. As she pulls all-nighters at the office and parties with the era’s most influential bad boys, Nikki must prove she has what it takes to lead. But her most dangerous challenge is evading Alonzo Griffin, her very married, very powerful ex-boyfriend and former boss, who’s determined to destroy both her and Sugar. Along the way, Nikki leans on a circle of loyal friends, and navigates unexpected romances that force her to reckon with what—and who—she truly wants.
If I Ruled the World is a smart, utterly immersive romp through one of the most dynamic eras in pop culture history—a story of ambition, friendship, love, and the journey to finding your own voice.
13 pages, Audiobook
Expected publication January 27, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
October 26, 2025
Set in the vibrant, competitive world of late-1990s New York, If I Ruled the World pulls readers behind the scenes of the hip-hop magazine boom and the fashion industry’s glass ceilings. The story follows Nikki Rose, a talented (racially ambiguous) and ambitious editor who, after being told once too often that “Black girls don’t sell magazines,” leaves her prestigious job to take over Sugar, a struggling hip-hop publication on the brink of collapse.
Nikki makes plenty of mistakes along the way but I fell in love with her willingness to keep betting on herself despite setbacks, bad decisions, and the power dynamics working against her. Surrounded by loyal friends and supportive parents, she learns that chasing success doesn’t mean losing herself in the process.
Fast-paced, bold, and layered with heart, If I Ruled the World tells a story about ambition, identity, and the unshakable belief that Black women deserve the corner office without having to play politics to get there.
Nikki makes plenty of mistakes along the way but I fell in love with her willingness to keep betting on herself despite setbacks, bad decisions, and the power dynamics working against her. Surrounded by loyal friends and supportive parents, she learns that chasing success doesn’t mean losing herself in the process.
Fast-paced, bold, and layered with heart, If I Ruled the World tells a story about ambition, identity, and the unshakable belief that Black women deserve the corner office without having to play politics to get there.
January 4, 2026
Quick Thoughts:
Just know that the main character, Nikki, is going to get on your nerves! She makes the same mistake over and over again, but by the end of the book, I believe her hardheadness was not a curse. It was actually a blessing!
Read If I Ruled the World if you like:
*Books with 90s pop culture/music references
*Stories that do not hesitate to get to the drama
*Coming of age stories/character growth
Just know that the main character, Nikki, is going to get on your nerves! She makes the same mistake over and over again, but by the end of the book, I believe her hardheadness was not a curse. It was actually a blessing!
Read If I Ruled the World if you like:
*Books with 90s pop culture/music references
*Stories that do not hesitate to get to the drama
*Coming of age stories/character growth
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is one of the best debut novels I've read in a while. It's obvious the author took her time writing this story. The plot development shows the depth of the author's research into sensitive issues women face in the entertainment industry, The characters were very well developed. One other thing that is obvious is the editing was on point. I can't wait to see what this author produces next. If the writing stays like this I will be a fan for life.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ALC. I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ALC. I am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 23, 2025
If I Ruled the World by Amy Dubois Barnett was such a fun, emotional ride. Set in the late ’90s and early aughts, it perfectly captures that era’s vibes, ambition, and messiness in a way that felt both nostalgic and fresh. I absolutely loved the protagonist! She was flawed, complicated, and very real. Watching her stumble through growing pains and ultimately find her way was deeply satisfying.
I’m always a sucker for books that incorporate music, and this one had me building a playlist as I listened. The soundtrack added so much to the story and the mood. The audiobook narrator was fantastic. She nailed both the humor and the emotional moments. I found myself laughing out loud one minute and getting misty the next.
Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the ARC. This was an easy five stars for me.
I’m always a sucker for books that incorporate music, and this one had me building a playlist as I listened. The soundtrack added so much to the story and the mood. The audiobook narrator was fantastic. She nailed both the humor and the emotional moments. I found myself laughing out loud one minute and getting misty the next.
Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the ARC. This was an easy five stars for me.
November 4, 2025
Barnett creates an inclusive world in this debut novel. The music and magazine scenes are not my world, but I felt like a part of them when reading this book. Nikki, the heorine, grows during the span of this book. One also gets a bit nostalgic for the days of the glossy. Great read.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
If I Ruled the World: Glamour, Grit, and Ambition in '90s New York
Amy DuBois Barnett’s debut, If I Ruled the World, throws you right into the pulse of late-1990s New York, where hip-hop and high fashion rule the scene and every night could change your life. Nikki Rose, the lone Black editor at a glossy fashion magazine, is on the brink: with a big promotion comes an even bigger test, reviving the struggling hip-hop magazine "Sugar" in just six months or risking it all. Her journey is a wild dash through high-stakes offices, glitzy parties, and a city that both seduces and tests her at every turn. But nothing’s simple, not even at home, where Nikki juggles sibling rivalry and her own shaky sense of right and wrong.
The audiobook version of If I Ruled the World adds another layer of energy and authenticity, bringing Nikki’s world to life through clever, heartfelt narration. Listeners call the performance engaging and vivid. The narrator nails the fast pace, swagger, and nostalgia of 1990s New York, while also giving distinct, memorable voices to the supporting cast. Nikki’s internal battles and sharp sense of humour feel all the more personal, letting you hear her doubts, defiance, and triumphs up close. The audiobook has heart, style, and plenty of cultural depth, and the narration brings the boardroom drama and nightlife right to your ears. The pacing and dramatization give the story momentum, making it even more binge-worthy, with vivid dialogue and cultural details that make the era pop.
Nikki leaps off the page (and your headphones) as sharp, ambitious, and refreshingly real, fighting to carve a place for herself in industries obsessed with appearances and power. Barnett’s story zips along, filled with smart, juicy observations on what it means to succeed while staying true to yourself, especially as a Black woman in a space where the rules are stacked against you.
The novel’s style matches its setting: sleek, bold, and always moving. Barnett’s real-life experience at the top of the magazine world means the insider details and atmosphere are spot-on; you can practically hear the music thumping and feel the tension of those newsroom nights. Readers and critics have raved about the novel’s energy, authenticity, and emotional punch. Occasionally, you might crave more depth from the side characters or an extra glimpse into Nikki’s inner life, but those are minor bumps on an otherwise addictive ride.
Barnett herself is a trailblazer; she was the first African-American woman to run a major mainstream U.S. magazine, and her firsthand knowledge gives the whole book a lived-in, unshakable credibility.
If I Ruled the World is a fast, stylish, and deeply human novel, just the thing for anyone fascinated by the intersection of race, ambition, fashion, and music in an era when anything felt possible, and nothing was guaranteed. The audiobook only enhances the spirit of Barnett’s story, making it a lively, immersive choice for your next listen.
Amy DuBois Barnett’s debut, If I Ruled the World, throws you right into the pulse of late-1990s New York, where hip-hop and high fashion rule the scene and every night could change your life. Nikki Rose, the lone Black editor at a glossy fashion magazine, is on the brink: with a big promotion comes an even bigger test, reviving the struggling hip-hop magazine "Sugar" in just six months or risking it all. Her journey is a wild dash through high-stakes offices, glitzy parties, and a city that both seduces and tests her at every turn. But nothing’s simple, not even at home, where Nikki juggles sibling rivalry and her own shaky sense of right and wrong.
The audiobook version of If I Ruled the World adds another layer of energy and authenticity, bringing Nikki’s world to life through clever, heartfelt narration. Listeners call the performance engaging and vivid. The narrator nails the fast pace, swagger, and nostalgia of 1990s New York, while also giving distinct, memorable voices to the supporting cast. Nikki’s internal battles and sharp sense of humour feel all the more personal, letting you hear her doubts, defiance, and triumphs up close. The audiobook has heart, style, and plenty of cultural depth, and the narration brings the boardroom drama and nightlife right to your ears. The pacing and dramatization give the story momentum, making it even more binge-worthy, with vivid dialogue and cultural details that make the era pop.
Nikki leaps off the page (and your headphones) as sharp, ambitious, and refreshingly real, fighting to carve a place for herself in industries obsessed with appearances and power. Barnett’s story zips along, filled with smart, juicy observations on what it means to succeed while staying true to yourself, especially as a Black woman in a space where the rules are stacked against you.
The novel’s style matches its setting: sleek, bold, and always moving. Barnett’s real-life experience at the top of the magazine world means the insider details and atmosphere are spot-on; you can practically hear the music thumping and feel the tension of those newsroom nights. Readers and critics have raved about the novel’s energy, authenticity, and emotional punch. Occasionally, you might crave more depth from the side characters or an extra glimpse into Nikki’s inner life, but those are minor bumps on an otherwise addictive ride.
Barnett herself is a trailblazer; she was the first African-American woman to run a major mainstream U.S. magazine, and her firsthand knowledge gives the whole book a lived-in, unshakable credibility.
If I Ruled the World is a fast, stylish, and deeply human novel, just the thing for anyone fascinated by the intersection of race, ambition, fashion, and music in an era when anything felt possible, and nothing was guaranteed. The audiobook only enhances the spirit of Barnett’s story, making it a lively, immersive choice for your next listen.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
3.75 stars
Nikki is a journalist on a journey. Like all of us at her age, she makes a lot of mistakes, trusts the wrong people, and accepts less than what she deserves. She also grows a lot. This is an intriguing look back into a wild time with some very serious themes and motifs included throughout.
When the novel opens, Nikki is in a situation that most readers will immediately clock as disturbing. She's in a physical relationship with a much older man - a childhood friend of her mom's - and there are power dynamics, misogyny, and majorly blurred lines involved. The way this man, a key figure throughout the novel for several reasons, talks to and assaults Nikki? Ick. It happens early, and it put me on edge immediately. Nikki isn't so sure this is all bad, though, and she accepts very poor treatment and total disrespect for reasons she explores as the novel proceeds.
While Nikki is capable of standing up for herself and is not afraid to try new things, when she gets out of one bad situation, she has a real knack for finding others. It's hard to watch, but the repeated behavior also feels authentic. Not all of us can stick our hand on the stove just once.
There are several elements of this novel that really worked for me. I enjoyed Nikki's professional growth. Despite the creepy folks around her, she really wants to find her way and demonstrates genuine passion for her work. Nikki's emerging understanding of her identity - as well as the unenlightened way some of her peers and colleagues discuss her - is a solid reminder of the times and that while there are some glaring exceptions to this, at least some of us have a much stronger understanding of how identity impacts experience now. I also like the way that Nikki's friendships are portrayed, though I'd have loved to spend more time with her friends.
It's important to know that sexual harrasment, sexual assault, and rape are all part of this novel. Because of the time in which this is supposed to take place, some readers will find that characters' understandings and treatments of events are very different than what they may expect if these things were to occur now. There are some tough scenes that include the incidents themselves, victim blaming, misogyny, and other related motifs. Along with that darkness comes hope, but I am not leaving this one unscathed.
This is my first encounter with this author, and I'll look forward to the next. I recommend the audiobook when and where accessible.
*Special thanks to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for this alc, which I received in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
Nikki is a journalist on a journey. Like all of us at her age, she makes a lot of mistakes, trusts the wrong people, and accepts less than what she deserves. She also grows a lot. This is an intriguing look back into a wild time with some very serious themes and motifs included throughout.
When the novel opens, Nikki is in a situation that most readers will immediately clock as disturbing. She's in a physical relationship with a much older man - a childhood friend of her mom's - and there are power dynamics, misogyny, and majorly blurred lines involved. The way this man, a key figure throughout the novel for several reasons, talks to and assaults Nikki? Ick. It happens early, and it put me on edge immediately. Nikki isn't so sure this is all bad, though, and she accepts very poor treatment and total disrespect for reasons she explores as the novel proceeds.
While Nikki is capable of standing up for herself and is not afraid to try new things, when she gets out of one bad situation, she has a real knack for finding others. It's hard to watch, but the repeated behavior also feels authentic. Not all of us can stick our hand on the stove just once.
There are several elements of this novel that really worked for me. I enjoyed Nikki's professional growth. Despite the creepy folks around her, she really wants to find her way and demonstrates genuine passion for her work. Nikki's emerging understanding of her identity - as well as the unenlightened way some of her peers and colleagues discuss her - is a solid reminder of the times and that while there are some glaring exceptions to this, at least some of us have a much stronger understanding of how identity impacts experience now. I also like the way that Nikki's friendships are portrayed, though I'd have loved to spend more time with her friends.
It's important to know that sexual harrasment, sexual assault, and rape are all part of this novel. Because of the time in which this is supposed to take place, some readers will find that characters' understandings and treatments of events are very different than what they may expect if these things were to occur now. There are some tough scenes that include the incidents themselves, victim blaming, misogyny, and other related motifs. Along with that darkness comes hope, but I am not leaving this one unscathed.
This is my first encounter with this author, and I'll look forward to the next. I recommend the audiobook when and where accessible.
*Special thanks to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for this alc, which I received in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
If I Ruled the World is an electrifying, deeply resonant novel that pulses with the heart of late-90s New York and the unyielding ambition of a Black woman determined to claim her place at the top. Nikki Rose, the only Black editor on staff at a revered fashion magazine, is a heroine whose struggles and triumphs feel both intensely personal and profoundly universal. Her decision to walk away from a toxic, exclusionary workplace is both courageous and heartbreaking, setting the stage for a journey that is as inspiring as it is real.
Taking the helm of the floundering Sugar magazine, Nikki steps into the vibrant, chaotic world of hip hop culture at the close of the millennium—a world teeming with glitz, temptation, and relentless pressure. The stakes are sky-high: six months to save a publication, reinvent herself, and finally prove her worth in an industry that has tried to silence her voice. The narrative deftly captures Nikki’s late nights, her brushes with power and danger, and the intoxicating glamour of New York’s music scene. Each page thrums with the anxiety and excitement of risk, and the hope that comes from finding kinship and support in unexpected places.
What makes this novel truly exceptional is its honesty. Nikki’s journey is fraught with hard choices and close calls, especially as she faces the manipulations of her powerful, married ex-lover, Alonzo Griffin. The tension between ambition and vulnerability, between the dream and the reality, is masterfully rendered. Through it all, Nikki is never alone: her circle of friends, her moments of romance and self-discovery, and her indomitable spirit make her story one of empowerment and hope.
If I Ruled the World is a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of finding and owning your voice. With sharp prose, unforgettable characters, and a setting that crackles with authenticity, this novel is as immersive as it is moving. It will linger in your mind long after the final page, a reminder that the pursuit of your dreams is always worth the fight. The narrator did a wonderful job drawing you into the era! A must listen!
Thank you, Amy Dubois Barnett, NetGalley, and Macmillan Audio, for the ARC. It did not disappoint.
Taking the helm of the floundering Sugar magazine, Nikki steps into the vibrant, chaotic world of hip hop culture at the close of the millennium—a world teeming with glitz, temptation, and relentless pressure. The stakes are sky-high: six months to save a publication, reinvent herself, and finally prove her worth in an industry that has tried to silence her voice. The narrative deftly captures Nikki’s late nights, her brushes with power and danger, and the intoxicating glamour of New York’s music scene. Each page thrums with the anxiety and excitement of risk, and the hope that comes from finding kinship and support in unexpected places.
What makes this novel truly exceptional is its honesty. Nikki’s journey is fraught with hard choices and close calls, especially as she faces the manipulations of her powerful, married ex-lover, Alonzo Griffin. The tension between ambition and vulnerability, between the dream and the reality, is masterfully rendered. Through it all, Nikki is never alone: her circle of friends, her moments of romance and self-discovery, and her indomitable spirit make her story one of empowerment and hope.
If I Ruled the World is a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of finding and owning your voice. With sharp prose, unforgettable characters, and a setting that crackles with authenticity, this novel is as immersive as it is moving. It will linger in your mind long after the final page, a reminder that the pursuit of your dreams is always worth the fight. The narrator did a wonderful job drawing you into the era! A must listen!
Thank you, Amy Dubois Barnett, NetGalley, and Macmillan Audio, for the ARC. It did not disappoint.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
First off, a huge thank you to Flatiron for this FREE ARC that was sent to me through the Flatiron First Look program! This is a completely honest review of "If I Ruled the World" by Amy Dubois Barnett.
Let me start this off with the fact that I was enthralled with this book. The cover art? Stunning. The writing? Impeccable. I cried, I screamed at this girl to break up with who she was with multiple times, my jaw was dropped more times that I can count, and I laughed out loud all while reading "If I Ruled the World" I don't read many contemporary novels, but Barnett has me craving more.
This book opened my eyes to so many things I didn't realize happened. I don't usually read many contemporary pieces, but Barnett made me crave so much more with this novel. It felt so real and like my friend was catching me up on the past few years of their life.
It was so refreshing to read a story where the protagonist is genuinely flawed. Everyone in this story has some sort of flaw, and they weren't polished. Every character felt like a well-rounded person that I wanted to know even more about.
The pacing of the novel felt rushed in spots, but I can understand with how much Nikki went through. There were a few moments where I couldn't figure out how much time had passed between scenes until it was stated in the next time jump.
"If I Ruled the World" gives a glimpse into some of the struggles that many women of color are presented with, not only on the streets and in their homes, but also at the workplace. These issues are still seen today, despite the book being based in 1999. It filled me with so much joy watching Nikki make decisions, mistakes, and resist. Her passion and determination are clearly conveyed, even showing how it affects other aspects of her life.
Overall, I loved this novel. Despite it being a faster paced novel, "If I Ruled the World" had me wrapped around its finger. I finished it in two sittings, only getting up until I was pried away from my couch to go to work or to sleep.
Thank you again to Flatiron and to Amy Dubois Barnett for my very first physical ARC!
Let me start this off with the fact that I was enthralled with this book. The cover art? Stunning. The writing? Impeccable. I cried, I screamed at this girl to break up with who she was with multiple times, my jaw was dropped more times that I can count, and I laughed out loud all while reading "If I Ruled the World" I don't read many contemporary novels, but Barnett has me craving more.
This book opened my eyes to so many things I didn't realize happened. I don't usually read many contemporary pieces, but Barnett made me crave so much more with this novel. It felt so real and like my friend was catching me up on the past few years of their life.
It was so refreshing to read a story where the protagonist is genuinely flawed. Everyone in this story has some sort of flaw, and they weren't polished. Every character felt like a well-rounded person that I wanted to know even more about.
The pacing of the novel felt rushed in spots, but I can understand with how much Nikki went through. There were a few moments where I couldn't figure out how much time had passed between scenes until it was stated in the next time jump.
"If I Ruled the World" gives a glimpse into some of the struggles that many women of color are presented with, not only on the streets and in their homes, but also at the workplace. These issues are still seen today, despite the book being based in 1999. It filled me with so much joy watching Nikki make decisions, mistakes, and resist. Her passion and determination are clearly conveyed, even showing how it affects other aspects of her life.
Overall, I loved this novel. Despite it being a faster paced novel, "If I Ruled the World" had me wrapped around its finger. I finished it in two sittings, only getting up until I was pried away from my couch to go to work or to sleep.
Thank you again to Flatiron and to Amy Dubois Barnett for my very first physical ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Nikki Rose’s story opens in the most uncomfortable way possible—caught between her parents and the married man she’s been seeing, a moment that shatters more than just her pride. When the dust settles, Nikki is left to pick up the pieces of her life and figure out how to stand on her own two feet. That determination leads her to a job at Stylist, a major magazine that pays the bills but doesn’t quite reflect the women Nikki knows—or the woman she is becoming.
What truly drives this story is Nikki’s hunger to see herself represented. She wants pages that speak to the urban woman, the stylish woman, the Black woman navigating ambition, culture, and identity. A chance encounter with Barbara, the powerhouse behind Sugar magazine, changes everything. Nikki is offered the coveted role of editor-in-chief—but with a brutal catch: she has six months to turn the magazine around, or she’s out.
From there, the novel dives into the exhilarating and exhausting highs and lows of leadership. Nikki’s rise comes with glamorous parties, status, and visibility, but it also exposes the cost of success. Her romantic relationship crumbles under the weight of her new life, and her friends begin to question whether fame and power are changing her in ways she doesn’t yet see herself. The story does a great job of showing how ambition can blur priorities and test the strength of personal connections.
Set against the vibrant backdrop of late ’90s and early 2000s New York City, the book captures a distinct era in media, fashion, and culture—one where magazines held real power and representation mattered deeply. Nikki’s journey feels both timely and timeless, especially in its exploration of what it means to claim space in an industry not built with you in mind.
I received an early copy of the audiobook, and the narrator did a fantastic job bringing Nikki to life. Her voice captured Nikki’s vulnerability, confidence, and inner conflict, making the emotional beats hit even harder. Overall, this was a compelling, nostalgic, and thoughtful listen about ambition, identity, and the price of chasing the life you’ve always wanted.
What truly drives this story is Nikki’s hunger to see herself represented. She wants pages that speak to the urban woman, the stylish woman, the Black woman navigating ambition, culture, and identity. A chance encounter with Barbara, the powerhouse behind Sugar magazine, changes everything. Nikki is offered the coveted role of editor-in-chief—but with a brutal catch: she has six months to turn the magazine around, or she’s out.
From there, the novel dives into the exhilarating and exhausting highs and lows of leadership. Nikki’s rise comes with glamorous parties, status, and visibility, but it also exposes the cost of success. Her romantic relationship crumbles under the weight of her new life, and her friends begin to question whether fame and power are changing her in ways she doesn’t yet see herself. The story does a great job of showing how ambition can blur priorities and test the strength of personal connections.
Set against the vibrant backdrop of late ’90s and early 2000s New York City, the book captures a distinct era in media, fashion, and culture—one where magazines held real power and representation mattered deeply. Nikki’s journey feels both timely and timeless, especially in its exploration of what it means to claim space in an industry not built with you in mind.
I received an early copy of the audiobook, and the narrator did a fantastic job bringing Nikki to life. Her voice captured Nikki’s vulnerability, confidence, and inner conflict, making the emotional beats hit even harder. Overall, this was a compelling, nostalgic, and thoughtful listen about ambition, identity, and the price of chasing the life you’ve always wanted.
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
📚 On Casey’s Bookshelf
Book: 1
Dates read: 01.01.2026 – 01.02.2026
Title: If I Ruled the World
Author: Amy DuBois Barnett
Format: digital ARC; audiobook ALC (2 chapters)
#caseysbookshelf
Baybeee this one took me straight back.
It’s 1999 and Nikki Rose is the only Black editor at a glossy fashion magazine that keeps reminding her she does not belong. After one too many “Black girls don’t sell” conversations, she quits and takes over a struggling hip hop magazine with only six months to save it and herself. Chile.
What follows is late 90s NYC media culture in all its glory and grime. Long nights. Big egos. Messy power dynamics. Industry politics. And the pressure of being young Black and brilliant in rooms full of men who do not want to see you win.
Nikki can come off as insufferable at times but that felt honest to me. She’s young. She’s ambitious. She’s naïve. She chooses the wrong men to love and trust. And she’s up against the big boys in a cutthroat industry with no real safety net. That friction made her feel real. We would lose the authenticity of her inexperience if she were too polished or put together.
I also appreciated how the author handled real figures from that era. Some names are unavoidable if you’re telling a story about hip hop truthfully. Their presence and influence are acknowledged without glorification which mattered to me given what we now know. And the Nelson George mention had me giddy. I was a fan. I had a subscription to Vibe (and Right On!) and I own both of his fiction books. It felt like a subtle nod to his work in hip hop journalism and I was absolutely here for it.
As a Gen Xer, this era was the soundtrack of my life. The music. The magazines. The culture. This book understood that moment without romanticizing the harm baked into it.
Smart. Nostalgic. Messy in the right ways.
Very much a Casey’s Bookshelf kind of read.
Thank you Flatiron Books for the ARC and ALC gifted copies from Edelweiss and Libro.fm respectively in exchange for an honest review.
Book: 1
Dates read: 01.01.2026 – 01.02.2026
Title: If I Ruled the World
Author: Amy DuBois Barnett
Format: digital ARC; audiobook ALC (2 chapters)
#caseysbookshelf
Baybeee this one took me straight back.
It’s 1999 and Nikki Rose is the only Black editor at a glossy fashion magazine that keeps reminding her she does not belong. After one too many “Black girls don’t sell” conversations, she quits and takes over a struggling hip hop magazine with only six months to save it and herself. Chile.
What follows is late 90s NYC media culture in all its glory and grime. Long nights. Big egos. Messy power dynamics. Industry politics. And the pressure of being young Black and brilliant in rooms full of men who do not want to see you win.
Nikki can come off as insufferable at times but that felt honest to me. She’s young. She’s ambitious. She’s naïve. She chooses the wrong men to love and trust. And she’s up against the big boys in a cutthroat industry with no real safety net. That friction made her feel real. We would lose the authenticity of her inexperience if she were too polished or put together.
I also appreciated how the author handled real figures from that era. Some names are unavoidable if you’re telling a story about hip hop truthfully. Their presence and influence are acknowledged without glorification which mattered to me given what we now know. And the Nelson George mention had me giddy. I was a fan. I had a subscription to Vibe (and Right On!) and I own both of his fiction books. It felt like a subtle nod to his work in hip hop journalism and I was absolutely here for it.
As a Gen Xer, this era was the soundtrack of my life. The music. The magazines. The culture. This book understood that moment without romanticizing the harm baked into it.
Smart. Nostalgic. Messy in the right ways.
Very much a Casey’s Bookshelf kind of read.
Thank you Flatiron Books for the ARC and ALC gifted copies from Edelweiss and Libro.fm respectively in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Think THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA, but Black and centered on the boys' club, glass ceiling aspects of the magazine world.
Premise - It's 1999 and Nikki Rose leaves a prestigious fashion magazine where she's been blocked from opportunity time after time for being Black, choosing to start over at Sugar, an up-and-coming hip hop lifestyle magazine... that's not all that up and needs help coming. Nikki has six months to save Sugar.
The blurb promises to sweep readers along on a glitzy, glamorous ride through a cutthroat NYC industry, with a vengeful former affair partner lurking in the periphery. What a ride! Written by industry insider Amy DuBois Barnett, I have to assume there's quite some authenticity in the way this world is painted (even when it seems too dramatic to be real).
That said, this is a #metoo story pre-#metoo and at times the way the protagonist thought about things and phrased things felt very, very post-#metoo. Maybe she really was that enlightened that early, but things like emphasizing the use of 'females' vs. 'women' by a rapper, how quickly she came to realize that the affair was coercive and that the power dynamics weren't okay, how quickly she acknowledged in-relationship rape, etc. felt a little more 2025 than 1999.
Still, it was a well-crafted, well-told story and I really liked how it managed to promote Black culture, while also holding the misogynistic aspects of the culture accountable and not protecting Black men at the expense of Black women.
I listened to the audiobook, narrated by Kristolyn Lloyd. Lloyd is a new-to-me narrator, but she did a really great job. The sleazy charmer voice she gave Alonzo (particularly in the beginning when he's still seeing Nikki, and consent isn't much more than seven letters) had me humming TLC 'No Scrubs.' Highly recommend!
Thanks, NetGalley and Macmillan Audio, for the audio ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Premise - It's 1999 and Nikki Rose leaves a prestigious fashion magazine where she's been blocked from opportunity time after time for being Black, choosing to start over at Sugar, an up-and-coming hip hop lifestyle magazine... that's not all that up and needs help coming. Nikki has six months to save Sugar.
The blurb promises to sweep readers along on a glitzy, glamorous ride through a cutthroat NYC industry, with a vengeful former affair partner lurking in the periphery. What a ride! Written by industry insider Amy DuBois Barnett, I have to assume there's quite some authenticity in the way this world is painted (even when it seems too dramatic to be real).
That said, this is a #metoo story pre-#metoo and at times the way the protagonist thought about things and phrased things felt very, very post-#metoo. Maybe she really was that enlightened that early, but things like emphasizing the use of 'females' vs. 'women' by a rapper, how quickly she came to realize that the affair was coercive and that the power dynamics weren't okay, how quickly she acknowledged in-relationship rape, etc. felt a little more 2025 than 1999.
Still, it was a well-crafted, well-told story and I really liked how it managed to promote Black culture, while also holding the misogynistic aspects of the culture accountable and not protecting Black men at the expense of Black women.
I listened to the audiobook, narrated by Kristolyn Lloyd. Lloyd is a new-to-me narrator, but she did a really great job. The sleazy charmer voice she gave Alonzo (particularly in the beginning when he's still seeing Nikki, and consent isn't much more than seven letters) had me humming TLC 'No Scrubs.' Highly recommend!
Thanks, NetGalley and Macmillan Audio, for the audio ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I have said many times that I would have loved to be an adult in the 90s, and this book took me straight there.
This story felt like black lip liner and clear lip gloss. Like the He Wasn't Man Enough for Me music video. Like Nia Long, Toni Braxton, and Halle Berry with that iconic haircut. This was pure 90s Black girl magic on the page.
Watching Nikki Rose step into her power and push back against the tired narrative that Black women do not sell magazines was everything. Amy DuBois Barnett captured the late nights, the silent tears, and the constant internal and external battles that come with being a disruptor while trying not to lose everything you have worked for. Nikki’s journey felt deeply real and incredibly relatable.
The character development was beautiful. From identity exploration to friendship highs and lows, complicated relationships, and serious moral dilemmas that collide head on with career ambition, Nikki’s story mirrors the experiences so many Black women are still navigating today. It felt honest, validating, and affirming in a way that stayed with me long after I finished reading.
The cast of characters was vibrant and layered, and even the villains were compelling in their own way. This book does not shy away from hard topics, so readers should be aware that there are trigger warnings for misogyny, sexual assault allegations, and verbal violence toward women.
This was a phenomenal debut novel that I would recommend without hesitation to my Bookies. Nikki Rose absolutely deserves a part two, and honestly, I would love to see some of her best friends get their own stories as well. Well done, Amy. I am very much looking forward to what you do next.
Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the advanced copy of If I Ruled the World.
This story felt like black lip liner and clear lip gloss. Like the He Wasn't Man Enough for Me music video. Like Nia Long, Toni Braxton, and Halle Berry with that iconic haircut. This was pure 90s Black girl magic on the page.
Watching Nikki Rose step into her power and push back against the tired narrative that Black women do not sell magazines was everything. Amy DuBois Barnett captured the late nights, the silent tears, and the constant internal and external battles that come with being a disruptor while trying not to lose everything you have worked for. Nikki’s journey felt deeply real and incredibly relatable.
The character development was beautiful. From identity exploration to friendship highs and lows, complicated relationships, and serious moral dilemmas that collide head on with career ambition, Nikki’s story mirrors the experiences so many Black women are still navigating today. It felt honest, validating, and affirming in a way that stayed with me long after I finished reading.
The cast of characters was vibrant and layered, and even the villains were compelling in their own way. This book does not shy away from hard topics, so readers should be aware that there are trigger warnings for misogyny, sexual assault allegations, and verbal violence toward women.
This was a phenomenal debut novel that I would recommend without hesitation to my Bookies. Nikki Rose absolutely deserves a part two, and honestly, I would love to see some of her best friends get their own stories as well. Well done, Amy. I am very much looking forward to what you do next.
Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the advanced copy of If I Ruled the World.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I really enjoyed this debut novel from trailblazing editor Amy Dubois Barnett.
This book focuses on a young woman named Nikki Rose who is navigating her dream of working as an editor in the magazine publishing business. Nikki learns a lot of lessons in relationships with men, her parents, friends while at the same time learning the cut throat world of magazine publishing and journalism. It is not always easy following your passion when people who you wish would support you are some of the people who are in the way of your progress.
I really enjoyed Nikki Rose’s story of learning lessons at one magazine and to risk it all becoming Editor in chief at Sugar magazine. The lessons Nikk learns from crazy mentors in the magazine publishing business and the cut throat world of trying to get the best cover story.
This was a great look into the 90’s hip hop culture and the infusing of headline stories and the journey to capturing stories and putting her creative stamp on it. I really enjoyed Nikki’s reflections and I loved her editorial notes. That was one of my favorite parts of this book and Nikki finding her footing as an editor in chief making a magazine for women. I also enjoyed Nikki learning to navigate love and finally finding true love.
I really felt a part of Nikki’s journey, and as I read this book I found myself cheering Nikki on. I absolutely loved the epilogue too.
I highly recommend this debut historical fiction novel from Amy DuBois Barnett. I truly enjoyed being immersed in the world of Nikki Rose a black woman editor in chief of Sugar magazine, and insight into the magazine publishing world. The good, the bad and the ugly!
I want to thank Netgalley and Macmillan audio for the opportunity to read this debut novel. I highly recommend. Great job Amy DuBois Barnett!
This book focuses on a young woman named Nikki Rose who is navigating her dream of working as an editor in the magazine publishing business. Nikki learns a lot of lessons in relationships with men, her parents, friends while at the same time learning the cut throat world of magazine publishing and journalism. It is not always easy following your passion when people who you wish would support you are some of the people who are in the way of your progress.
I really enjoyed Nikki Rose’s story of learning lessons at one magazine and to risk it all becoming Editor in chief at Sugar magazine. The lessons Nikk learns from crazy mentors in the magazine publishing business and the cut throat world of trying to get the best cover story.
This was a great look into the 90’s hip hop culture and the infusing of headline stories and the journey to capturing stories and putting her creative stamp on it. I really enjoyed Nikki’s reflections and I loved her editorial notes. That was one of my favorite parts of this book and Nikki finding her footing as an editor in chief making a magazine for women. I also enjoyed Nikki learning to navigate love and finally finding true love.
I really felt a part of Nikki’s journey, and as I read this book I found myself cheering Nikki on. I absolutely loved the epilogue too.
I highly recommend this debut historical fiction novel from Amy DuBois Barnett. I truly enjoyed being immersed in the world of Nikki Rose a black woman editor in chief of Sugar magazine, and insight into the magazine publishing world. The good, the bad and the ugly!
I want to thank Netgalley and Macmillan audio for the opportunity to read this debut novel. I highly recommend. Great job Amy DuBois Barnett!
December 26, 2025
If I Ruled the World by Amy DuBois Barnett grabbed me immediately because I genuinely did not know what kind of story I was walking into. From the jump, Nikki’s journey pulled me all the way in as she tried to carve out space for herself in the editorial world while constantly being underestimated, dismissed, and flat out mistreated. This book does not romanticize the climb. It shows how brutal it can be when you are talented, ambitious, and surrounded by people who do not want you to win, whether that comes from men or other women.
The entire vibe gave me strong Brown Sugar energy mixed with Khadijah from Living Single running Flavor magazine. The hip hop references, the behind the scenes chaos, the egos, the power plays, and the constant need to prove yourself all felt so real. Nikki is messy, determined, exhausted, and brilliant, and watching her navigate an industry that kept trying to break her was both frustrating and empowering. The story does an excellent job showing how Black women were and still are forced to work twice as hard just to be seen as capable, while others are handed opportunities and benefit from mistakes that would have ended Nikki’s career.
What really stuck with me was how honestly this book tackles race, gender, and power. It does not shy away from how Black women are questioned, sabotaged, and exploited, especially when success threatens people who are used to holding control. Men abusing power, careers being toyed with, and the constant pressure to be perfect just to survive are all laid bare. I devoured this book and walked away feeling like I had been given a rare, unfiltered look into the 90s editorial world. If you love stories about ambition, resilience, and Black women refusing to be counted out, this one is a must read.
The entire vibe gave me strong Brown Sugar energy mixed with Khadijah from Living Single running Flavor magazine. The hip hop references, the behind the scenes chaos, the egos, the power plays, and the constant need to prove yourself all felt so real. Nikki is messy, determined, exhausted, and brilliant, and watching her navigate an industry that kept trying to break her was both frustrating and empowering. The story does an excellent job showing how Black women were and still are forced to work twice as hard just to be seen as capable, while others are handed opportunities and benefit from mistakes that would have ended Nikki’s career.
What really stuck with me was how honestly this book tackles race, gender, and power. It does not shy away from how Black women are questioned, sabotaged, and exploited, especially when success threatens people who are used to holding control. Men abusing power, careers being toyed with, and the constant pressure to be perfect just to survive are all laid bare. I devoured this book and walked away feeling like I had been given a rare, unfiltered look into the 90s editorial world. If you love stories about ambition, resilience, and Black women refusing to be counted out, this one is a must read.
Read
December 17, 2025I listened to If I Ruled the World on audio and really enjoyed it. The story follows Nikki (Nicole Rose) making her mark on the late 90s magazine and hip hop world, navigating a demanding job in an ultra critical field, complicated friendships, and a relationship that doesn’t always give her what she needs. The setting of Harlem/BedStuy/ Manhattan felt familiar and specific to that time, especially the office politics, the music, and the sense of everyone hustling for the next rung.
The book does a great job showing how ambition and insecurity can exist at the same time. Nikki wants more for herself and believes she deserves it, but she is also figuring things out in real time and sometimes makes choices that feel messy and human. I appreciated that the story doesn’t rush her growth or pretend she has all the answers.
The friendships were a highlight for me! They felt supportive, strained, loving (even when the words aren't loving), and occasionally frustrating, which is often how real friendships look when people are growing in different directions. I also liked how the book handled work and power, especially the pressure of being one of the few Black women in professional spaces and the constant balancing act that comes with that.
I listened to the audiobook, which was mostly well done. There were a few moments where the intonation or emphasis was off, but it didn’t pull me out of the story.
Overall, this was an entertaining and engaging listen. It made me nostalgic, thoughtful, and invested in Nikki’s journey, and I’m glad I picked it up.
Thanks to MacMillan and Netgalley for the advance copy!
The book does a great job showing how ambition and insecurity can exist at the same time. Nikki wants more for herself and believes she deserves it, but she is also figuring things out in real time and sometimes makes choices that feel messy and human. I appreciated that the story doesn’t rush her growth or pretend she has all the answers.
The friendships were a highlight for me! They felt supportive, strained, loving (even when the words aren't loving), and occasionally frustrating, which is often how real friendships look when people are growing in different directions. I also liked how the book handled work and power, especially the pressure of being one of the few Black women in professional spaces and the constant balancing act that comes with that.
I listened to the audiobook, which was mostly well done. There were a few moments where the intonation or emphasis was off, but it didn’t pull me out of the story.
Overall, this was an entertaining and engaging listen. It made me nostalgic, thoughtful, and invested in Nikki’s journey, and I’m glad I picked it up.
Thanks to MacMillan and Netgalley for the advance copy!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I received an eARC of this book from NetGalley and the publisher, for which I thank them.
“If I Ruled the World” is a debut novel by Amy DuBois Barnett. This book follows Nikki Rose in 1999 NYC. Her dream is to be an editor in chief of a magazine and while she has a job at a fashion magazine, she’s hit more than one brick wall. She decides to leave that magazine and become the editor in chief for a smaller magazine, Sugar, and this book follows her journey not only in the professional world (and dodging her powerful ex-boss/ex-boyfriend) but also her personal one - as she tries to find herself, be true to herself, and also figure what is important to her. The first thing that attracted me to this book is the cover - it’s beautifully done and very striking. In a number of ways, the beginning of this book reminded me of “The Devil Wears Prada” with the overbearing (and dare I say crazy acting?) boss - but it also deals with “the boy’s club” and the struggles people of color deal with seemingly everywhere. My minor two comments are that in some places this book felt a bit too #metoo for the time (it didn’t annoy me, but it did take me out of the 1999 timeline occasionally) and some of the “getting to sexy time” word descriptions were a bit too graphic for me. But putting those aside, Nikki does grow in this book - and watching that journey happen at times was painful, but in the end it was satisfying that she did grow. The other thing that I liked is that many (most?) of the characters are flawed in some way - no one is perfect, which was refreshing. It’s also obvious that Ms Barnett knows the fashion industry and that was shown throughout the book.
“If I Ruled the World” is a debut novel by Amy DuBois Barnett. This book follows Nikki Rose in 1999 NYC. Her dream is to be an editor in chief of a magazine and while she has a job at a fashion magazine, she’s hit more than one brick wall. She decides to leave that magazine and become the editor in chief for a smaller magazine, Sugar, and this book follows her journey not only in the professional world (and dodging her powerful ex-boss/ex-boyfriend) but also her personal one - as she tries to find herself, be true to herself, and also figure what is important to her. The first thing that attracted me to this book is the cover - it’s beautifully done and very striking. In a number of ways, the beginning of this book reminded me of “The Devil Wears Prada” with the overbearing (and dare I say crazy acting?) boss - but it also deals with “the boy’s club” and the struggles people of color deal with seemingly everywhere. My minor two comments are that in some places this book felt a bit too #metoo for the time (it didn’t annoy me, but it did take me out of the 1999 timeline occasionally) and some of the “getting to sexy time” word descriptions were a bit too graphic for me. But putting those aside, Nikki does grow in this book - and watching that journey happen at times was painful, but in the end it was satisfying that she did grow. The other thing that I liked is that many (most?) of the characters are flawed in some way - no one is perfect, which was refreshing. It’s also obvious that Ms Barnett knows the fashion industry and that was shown throughout the book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
"If I Ruled the World" is Barnett's debut novel, which she knocks out of the park! The fast-paced storytelling reminds me of "The Coldest Winter Ever" while navigating office politics as a young, black woman like "The Other Black Girl." I found myself wanting to listen to the audiobook whenever I had a spare moment. The main protagonist is both likable yet flawed. She is tasked with finding her voice in the fashion magazine setting while also deciphering a male-dominated world. The author also tackles many timely social issues, such as micro-aggressions and sexual assault. This story would make a great selection for book clubs as there are many topics that you could draw meaningful deep dives into. Overall, I really liked this story.
Regarding the narration of the audiobook, Lloyd makes you feel immediately integrated into this world. It is easy to recognize the many different characters as they all have their own distinct voice and style. My biggest gripe, though, may have been the voice of the protagonist's best friend who has a specific accent. I believe the accent is on par with what would be stereotypically expected, but after a while, it was tiresome to listen to. However, that may also be a testament to how realistic that accent is. Nevertheless, I did enjoy Lloyd's narrative efforts.
Thank you NetGalley and Macmillian Audio for providing an advanced copy of this audiobook!
Regarding the narration of the audiobook, Lloyd makes you feel immediately integrated into this world. It is easy to recognize the many different characters as they all have their own distinct voice and style. My biggest gripe, though, may have been the voice of the protagonist's best friend who has a specific accent. I believe the accent is on par with what would be stereotypically expected, but after a while, it was tiresome to listen to. However, that may also be a testament to how realistic that accent is. Nevertheless, I did enjoy Lloyd's narrative efforts.
Thank you NetGalley and Macmillian Audio for providing an advanced copy of this audiobook!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I absolutely loved this book! Go Nikki!
Nikki is an early 30s mixed race woman living in NYC in the late 1990s and trying to make her way in the cutthroat magazine world. She has an impetuous and slightly impulsive personality, and a penchant for destructive men, but her drive and ambition, combined with her honesty and authenticity, help her to muddle through the crazy, challenging, misogynistic and racist career path she has selected.
I really enjoyed Nikki's personality and loved how the author wrote her character with such a soft touch. Nikki has her flaws, but is tremendously relatable. I particularly loved how she is written with self-doubts, and as owning her mistakes. We see her tackle some seriously awful obstacles and injustices, yet she is never portrayed as whiny. She is a cool character and I was rooting for her the whole way!
I also appreciated the portrayal of hip hop culture and the magazine industry in the 1990s, as well as the discussion of the cultural movement of black fashion becoming trend setting. I thought the novel was extremely readable and accessible, but also does a great job documenting a number of important components of history. To me this novel could well be characterized as historical fiction.
Finally, the narration for the audio book was outstanding. The narrator brings Nikki to life with perfection!
Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the advanced listener copy of this audio book.
Nikki is an early 30s mixed race woman living in NYC in the late 1990s and trying to make her way in the cutthroat magazine world. She has an impetuous and slightly impulsive personality, and a penchant for destructive men, but her drive and ambition, combined with her honesty and authenticity, help her to muddle through the crazy, challenging, misogynistic and racist career path she has selected.
I really enjoyed Nikki's personality and loved how the author wrote her character with such a soft touch. Nikki has her flaws, but is tremendously relatable. I particularly loved how she is written with self-doubts, and as owning her mistakes. We see her tackle some seriously awful obstacles and injustices, yet she is never portrayed as whiny. She is a cool character and I was rooting for her the whole way!
I also appreciated the portrayal of hip hop culture and the magazine industry in the 1990s, as well as the discussion of the cultural movement of black fashion becoming trend setting. I thought the novel was extremely readable and accessible, but also does a great job documenting a number of important components of history. To me this novel could well be characterized as historical fiction.
Finally, the narration for the audio book was outstanding. The narrator brings Nikki to life with perfection!
Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the advanced listener copy of this audio book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Story:
Nikki is ambitious, smart, and full of personality and I found myself cheering for her throughout the story. The 90s NYC setting and the behind the scenes look at magazines and hip-hop culture make the story vibrant and fun. That said, there were moments where I shook my head at some of the decisions she made, which added both tension and realism to her character.
The story also addresses some serious and sensitive issues, including racism and gender discrimination in the workplace, power imbalances, and situations where women feel silenced or unable to speak up, including references to sexual assault. These themes make the story more grounded and relatable, even when they bring frustration or emotional weight.
As for the supporting characters, they could have been more fully developed. A few are memorable but most aren’t. Overall “If I Ruled the World” was an engaging, thought provoking story with heart, style, and plenty of cultural depth.
Narration:
The narrator does an excellent job bringing Nikki to life. Her voice captures Nikki’s personality, ambition, humor and occasional questionable decisions perfectly. She handles the heavier and sensitive topics with care and appropriate tone. Dialogue feels natural, and even slower scenes stay engaging. Kristolyn’s strong performance really enhances the audiobook experience.
Thank you @netgalley and @macmillan.audio for this ALC in exchange for an honest review.
Nikki is ambitious, smart, and full of personality and I found myself cheering for her throughout the story. The 90s NYC setting and the behind the scenes look at magazines and hip-hop culture make the story vibrant and fun. That said, there were moments where I shook my head at some of the decisions she made, which added both tension and realism to her character.
The story also addresses some serious and sensitive issues, including racism and gender discrimination in the workplace, power imbalances, and situations where women feel silenced or unable to speak up, including references to sexual assault. These themes make the story more grounded and relatable, even when they bring frustration or emotional weight.
As for the supporting characters, they could have been more fully developed. A few are memorable but most aren’t. Overall “If I Ruled the World” was an engaging, thought provoking story with heart, style, and plenty of cultural depth.
Narration:
The narrator does an excellent job bringing Nikki to life. Her voice captures Nikki’s personality, ambition, humor and occasional questionable decisions perfectly. She handles the heavier and sensitive topics with care and appropriate tone. Dialogue feels natural, and even slower scenes stay engaging. Kristolyn’s strong performance really enhances the audiobook experience.
Thank you @netgalley and @macmillan.audio for this ALC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
As a journalism major and a Black woman, I grew up idolizing Amy DuBois Barnett. I remember being a teenager and tracking her moves from Essence to Honey (one of my favorite magazines ever) to Teen People, all the way to Ebony and The Undefeated. When I found out she was releasing her second book, her debut novel, I knew I had to read it. And I'm so glad I did.
I started reading on Christmas thanks to an early ARC from NetGalley and Macmillan, and I was instantly sucked into the world of the protagonist, Nikki Rose.
The book opens with a spicy scene (consider yourself warned), but I loved following Nikki's messy, determined journey. She faces constant setbacks: microaggressions, being told that Black girls don't sell magazines, navigating toxic relationships with men, and fighting against power dynamics stacked against her. Despite it all, she pushes through to become editor-in-chief of Sugar, a struggling hip-hop magazine she's determined to save.
I also loved the setting: late-1990s New York, with all the music references that defined the era. 2Pac, Biggie, the Waiting to Exhale soundtrack, and so much more. The nostalgia hit perfectly.
You're definitely going to want to add this book to your TBR list.
I started reading on Christmas thanks to an early ARC from NetGalley and Macmillan, and I was instantly sucked into the world of the protagonist, Nikki Rose.
The book opens with a spicy scene (consider yourself warned), but I loved following Nikki's messy, determined journey. She faces constant setbacks: microaggressions, being told that Black girls don't sell magazines, navigating toxic relationships with men, and fighting against power dynamics stacked against her. Despite it all, she pushes through to become editor-in-chief of Sugar, a struggling hip-hop magazine she's determined to save.
I also loved the setting: late-1990s New York, with all the music references that defined the era. 2Pac, Biggie, the Waiting to Exhale soundtrack, and so much more. The nostalgia hit perfectly.
You're definitely going to want to add this book to your TBR list.
December 16, 2025
If I Ruled the World had me rooting for Nikki Rose from page one. A Black woman navigating the cutthroat late-’90s magazine and hip-hop world? Say less. The setting is juicy, the industry drama is messy in the best way, and Amy DuBois Barnett clearly knows this world inside and out.
That said… Nikki stressed me out 😭. I wanted better for her so badly, but her decision-making had me annoyed more times than I can count. The ambition was there, the talent was there, but the self-sabotage? Loud. Very loud. I spent a good chunk of the book internally yelling, “Girl, stand UP.”
What saved this from being a lower rating is the growth. I genuinely appreciated watching Nikki finally realize how she’d been getting in her own way, course-correct, and start finding her footing. That moment of clarity felt earned, and by the end, I was proud of her, even if it took a while to get there.
Overall, this was a solid, immersive read with a strong sense of time and place. I didn’t love every choice Nikki made, but I respected the journey. Messy, frustrating, and ultimately satisfying enough to land at a solid 4 stars.
January 6, 2026
(ARC REVIEW) If you’re a fan of Brown Sugar or Living Single (especially Khadijah’s Flavor magazine era), and you’re open to a story that doesn’t shy away from hard truths, this book is for you. It thoughtfully explores misogyny in the ’90s and early 2000s, as well as themes of sexual assault, without losing its emotional pull.
Nikki is in her late twenties, chasing her dreams while navigating powerful, older men who threaten to derail them. At the same time, she’s forced to prove her worth in an industry that questions her Blackness as a biracial Black woman. Her journey feels intimate and real.
I didn’t want to put this book down. Every scene was so vivid that I could picture it clearly, even the quiet moments of her simply moving through the city. By the end, I found myself wanting to follow Nikki into her thirties and learn more about her friends and their individual stories as well.
I don’t know if this will become a series, but the foundation is absolutely there if Amy DuBois Barnett chooses to take it in that direction. I’ll definitely be buying a physical copy and recommending it to friends.
Nikki is in her late twenties, chasing her dreams while navigating powerful, older men who threaten to derail them. At the same time, she’s forced to prove her worth in an industry that questions her Blackness as a biracial Black woman. Her journey feels intimate and real.
I didn’t want to put this book down. Every scene was so vivid that I could picture it clearly, even the quiet moments of her simply moving through the city. By the end, I found myself wanting to follow Nikki into her thirties and learn more about her friends and their individual stories as well.
I don’t know if this will become a series, but the foundation is absolutely there if Amy DuBois Barnett chooses to take it in that direction. I’ll definitely be buying a physical copy and recommending it to friends.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Nikki Rose will not let being a woman, a minority, a less than stellar reputation or anything else keep her down or stop her from becoming a force in the glossy magazine editing field. It's the late 90's, a time when print magazines, non-minority and male domination were all at the forefront. Nikki is working hard as the only black editor at a fashion magazine, but feels less than respected or fulfilled in her job and life. After talking with her friend Teresa, she decides to leave her current great salary gig to be head editor at a less prestigious music and minority focused magazine. She's forced to overcome obstacles, her past and her current life situation to find her voice, identity and place.
This was a great audio book listen, telling a story of ambition, perseverance and redemption. It was super easy to listen, medium-paced in plot movement and hella entertaining all around. I predict this book and audio book to be a huge hit. If you're looking for a fun, engaging, throwback to the 90's read. Pre-order this book and add it to your TBR!
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC audio copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
This was a great audio book listen, telling a story of ambition, perseverance and redemption. It was super easy to listen, medium-paced in plot movement and hella entertaining all around. I predict this book and audio book to be a huge hit. If you're looking for a fun, engaging, throwback to the 90's read. Pre-order this book and add it to your TBR!
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC audio copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The narrator was great Kristolyn Lloyd. Loved her voice and how she switched between the characters to make it distinctive enough to know there was a different character in the dialouge.
The story itself gave Brown Sugar movie vibe. The story was a bit long to be simple, if that makes sense. I also didn't understand how Nikki ended up messing around with someone that was very close to her family/mother. Like girl, what were you thinking and then semi ended up in the same situation again with JJ. Ulitmately, Nikki is trying to find herself in the world she wants to be in as an editor chief, she leaves from a prestigous fashion magazine to hip hop magazine that is struggling and she is given a certain amount of months to bring afloat. She is super naive not only in the entertainment industry but also her personal life. The vibe of the book is ealry 90s, hip hop culture and touch on themes of women breaking into a male dominant world, sexual abuse, ambition, friendships and self discovery.
Thanks to NetGalley and MacMillian audio for the early copy.
The story itself gave Brown Sugar movie vibe. The story was a bit long to be simple, if that makes sense. I also didn't understand how Nikki ended up messing around with someone that was very close to her family/mother. Like girl, what were you thinking and then semi ended up in the same situation again with JJ. Ulitmately, Nikki is trying to find herself in the world she wants to be in as an editor chief, she leaves from a prestigous fashion magazine to hip hop magazine that is struggling and she is given a certain amount of months to bring afloat. She is super naive not only in the entertainment industry but also her personal life. The vibe of the book is ealry 90s, hip hop culture and touch on themes of women breaking into a male dominant world, sexual abuse, ambition, friendships and self discovery.
Thanks to NetGalley and MacMillian audio for the early copy.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to Flatiron Books for the e-ARC! If you love messy characters who are sometimes unlikable, this book is for you!
If I Ruled the World follows Nicole Rose's rise from an anonymous editor at a predominantly white fashion magazine to becoming EIC at Sugar, a lifestyle and music magazine targeted to Black women. Set in the late 90s and early 2000s, Nicole navigates several hurdles to make her job a success.
The prologue alone could have been its own book! I loved the setting of the late 90s/early 2000s hip hop music industry. It was very nostalgic. Nicole was a very frustrating character to read about, but I definitely was rooting for her to win. This is a debut novel, but the author was the former EIC of Ebony Magazine and Honey Magazine, so it was clear there was a lot of personal expertise.
The ending felt a little too neat for me, but overall it was still a really good book. Read if you enjoy:
-Women's fiction
-Devil Wears Prada vibes
-90s/2000s Hip Hop
If I Ruled the World follows Nicole Rose's rise from an anonymous editor at a predominantly white fashion magazine to becoming EIC at Sugar, a lifestyle and music magazine targeted to Black women. Set in the late 90s and early 2000s, Nicole navigates several hurdles to make her job a success.
The prologue alone could have been its own book! I loved the setting of the late 90s/early 2000s hip hop music industry. It was very nostalgic. Nicole was a very frustrating character to read about, but I definitely was rooting for her to win. This is a debut novel, but the author was the former EIC of Ebony Magazine and Honey Magazine, so it was clear there was a lot of personal expertise.
The ending felt a little too neat for me, but overall it was still a really good book. Read if you enjoy:
-Women's fiction
-Devil Wears Prada vibes
-90s/2000s Hip Hop
Read
January 5, 2026THIS BOOK IS FANTASTIC. A love letter to NYC, Hip-hop, and Black women working in media. Nikki goes on this journey of not only loving and respecting herself in this male-dominated and white space. She develops integrity and her values that she learns not to abandon. She finds her voice, her work family and inner fulfillment and happiness. When you are young and attractive life puts you through some difficult lessons. Being a Black woman and working in white work spaces, the off-handed comments, some of which I heard myself at the work place can take a toll on your heart, and your motivation and you begin to question your place in these spaces. This story also examines the dichotomy of our cultural love of hip-hop but also acknowledges its problematic misogyny and degradation of women. Amy Dubois Barnett has written a sexy fun, impactful, and stylish debut. I hope she is working on book #2.
January 11, 2026
This was such a fun, nostalgic read. If I Ruled the World really captures the feel of the 1990s—the music, the mindset, and the cultural atmosphere—and it made me feel like I was right back in that era. The story blends humor, heart, and reflection in a way that feels both entertaining and meaningful.
The author does a great job bringing the characters to life, and the dialogue feels natural and true to the time period. There’s a lot of warmth in this book, along with thoughtful moments about identity, ambition, and how our dreams change as we grow.
The audiobook narration was especially strong. The narrator delivered the tone, pacing, and emotional beats really well, which made the story even more immersive. It was easy to get lost in the world and just enjoy the ride.
Overall, this was an enjoyable and engaging listen that will especially resonate with readers who love 90s nostalgia, character-driven stories, and a touch of reflection mixed in with humor. I’m glad I had the chance to experience it through an ALC
The author does a great job bringing the characters to life, and the dialogue feels natural and true to the time period. There’s a lot of warmth in this book, along with thoughtful moments about identity, ambition, and how our dreams change as we grow.
The audiobook narration was especially strong. The narrator delivered the tone, pacing, and emotional beats really well, which made the story even more immersive. It was easy to get lost in the world and just enjoy the ride.
Overall, this was an enjoyable and engaging listen that will especially resonate with readers who love 90s nostalgia, character-driven stories, and a touch of reflection mixed in with humor. I’m glad I had the chance to experience it through an ALC
Review of advance copy received from Storygraph
This audiobook was so good! It is essential to note that this is primarily historical fiction with minimal romance. With that said, it is amazing! We follow Nikki Rose's professional journey as the only Black editor on staff in a fashion magazine. Her boss told her that her article pitches wouldn't sell magazines countless times. Nikki was presented with an opportunity that she had been waiting for at Sugar, a hip-hop music and lifestyle magazine. The only problem is that Sugar is struggling.
It has all the 90s vibes that we know and love. It has sabotage, betrayal, love, and friendship. Nikki's personal growth was wonderful. Kristolyn Lloyd did a wonderful job narrating the story. I was invested in Nikki, her job, and her friendship. The last hour or so had me in a chokehold. I didn't want to stop listening.
I highly recommend!
Thank you, StoryGraph and Macmillan Audio, for the ALC in exchange for my honest opinion.
It has all the 90s vibes that we know and love. It has sabotage, betrayal, love, and friendship. Nikki's personal growth was wonderful. Kristolyn Lloyd did a wonderful job narrating the story. I was invested in Nikki, her job, and her friendship. The last hour or so had me in a chokehold. I didn't want to stop listening.
I highly recommend!
Thank you, StoryGraph and Macmillan Audio, for the ALC in exchange for my honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
3.75 out of 5 (rounded to 4)
This story follows the growth of a young woman, Nikki, as she works toward her dream while navigating the music and fashion scenes in New York, all wrapped in strong late ’90s vibes. The setting and atmosphere felt immersive and nostalgic, and at times, the story felt like it could easily be adapted into a movie or TV show. Barnett makes every character and interaction feel intentional, and it truly helps pull the reader in.
As for the pacing, it felt both slow and fast at different points, especially given that much of the story unfolds over six months. While the characters were thoughtfully developed, I noticed an uneven pacing throughout the book.
That said, the audiobook itself was very well done. The narration was spot-on and brought the characters to life, adding depth and personality to the overall experience.
**Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for an advance copy of the book for an honest review. all opinions are my own**
This story follows the growth of a young woman, Nikki, as she works toward her dream while navigating the music and fashion scenes in New York, all wrapped in strong late ’90s vibes. The setting and atmosphere felt immersive and nostalgic, and at times, the story felt like it could easily be adapted into a movie or TV show. Barnett makes every character and interaction feel intentional, and it truly helps pull the reader in.
As for the pacing, it felt both slow and fast at different points, especially given that much of the story unfolds over six months. While the characters were thoughtfully developed, I noticed an uneven pacing throughout the book.
That said, the audiobook itself was very well done. The narration was spot-on and brought the characters to life, adding depth and personality to the overall experience.
**Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for an advance copy of the book for an honest review. all opinions are my own**
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