If I Ruled the World is a captivating standalone hardcover contemporary fiction novel by award-winning media executive Amy DuBois Barnett. Set in the vibrant world of late-1990s New York City, this irresistible debut blends women's fiction, workplace drama, music industry fiction, romance, friendship, and ambition into an unforgettable story of resilience and reinvention. Perfect for fans of Taylor Jenkins Reid, Tia Williams, Candice Carty-Williams, and Jasmine Guillory, this glamorous novel offers an insider's look at the worlds of fashion publishing and hip-hop during one of pop culture's most iconic eras.

In 1999, Nikki Rose walks away from her prestigious fashion magazine after one insult too many, determined to prove that her talent deserves better. She takes over the struggling hip-hop lifestyle magazine Sugar, where she has just six months to save the publication—and her own career. As Nikki navigates celebrity interviews, high-profile parties, office politics, and impossible deadlines, she also finds herself battling a powerful former boss who is determined to see her fail. Surrounded by loyal friends, unexpected romance, and career-defining challenges, Nikki must decide what success truly means and how far she's willing to go to achieve it. Filled with wit, heart, and unforgettable characters, If I Ruled the World is an inspiring story about finding your voice, embracing your ambition, and rewriting your own future.

If I Ruled the World Hardcover – A Glamorous Story of Ambition, Friendship, and Reinvention

Rich with nostalgia for the late 1990s, If I Ruled the World transports readers into the fast-paced worlds of fashion magazines, hip-hop culture, and New York nightlife. Combining workplace drama with heartfelt friendships, romance, and personal growth, Amy DuBois Barnett delivers a powerful debut that celebrates resilience, representation, and chasing impossible dreams. Currently in development as a major Hulu television series, this unforgettable novel is a must-read for fans of contemporary women's fiction and pop culture history.

Product Details

Title: If I Ruled the World

Author: Amy DuBois Barnett

Format: Hardcover

Series: Standalone Novel

Genre:

• Contemporary Fiction
• Women's Fiction
• Literary Fiction
• Workplace Fiction
• Romance

Pages: 352

Dimensions: 1.17 x 9.46 x 6.62 inches

Publication Date: January 27, 2026

Features:

• Standalone contemporary novel
• Women's fiction
• Late 1990s New York City setting
• Fashion magazine publishing
• Hip-hop industry backdrop
• Workplace drama
• Strong female lead
• Romance and friendship
• Coming-of-age career journey
• In development as a Hulu television series

Author Biography

Amy DuBois Barnett is an award-winning media executive, journalist, and author. She made history as the first Black woman to serve as editor-in-chief of a major mainstream magazine with Teen People and has also led Ebony and Honey while holding executive leadership roles at Paramount, Disney, Hearst, Time Inc., and other major media companies. A graduate of Brown University and Columbia University, If I Ruled the World is her acclaimed debut novel.