If I Ruled the World is a nostalgic, emotionally grounded story that gently pulls you back into a season of life where everything felt possible and just a little uncertain. From the very first chapter, I was transported back to my high school and early college years. The music, the fashion, the energy all felt so familiar. And I’m not even going to lie… every time I picked this book up, I heard If I Ruled the World (Imagine That) playing in my head. “I love ‘em, love ‘em baby…” 🎶 It set the tone in a way that made the story feel not just readable, but experienceable. Amy DuBois Barnett brings a unique authenticity to this story, drawing from her background in media and fashion to create a world that feels both aspirational and deeply real.

Nikki Rose, an emerging fashion editor in New York City, is the kind of character you don’t just read about, you feel. There were moments I was fully in her corner, cheering her on as she chased her dreams. And then there were moments where I wanted to gently (or not so gently) shake her and say, “Sis… we need clarity.” But honestly? That’s what made her real. We’ve all had those seasons: the missteps, the lessons, the growth that only comes through living it.

What I appreciated most is how Nikki’s journey reflects something deeper. Her story isn’t just about career or love, it’s about becoming. About learning who you are when the world stops telling you who to be. That kind of growth doesn’t come easy, and Barnett doesn’t rush it. She lets it unfold in a way that feels honest and earned.

And then there’s New York City; vibrant, fast-paced, and full of possibility. It isn’t just a backdrop here; it’s a character in its own right. You can feel the movement, the ambition, the pressure, and the magic all at once.

Trip Summary: This is a story for anyone who has ever chased a dream, questioned their path, or had to grow through something to get to the other side. It’s nostalgic, yes—but it’s also a reminder that every version of us along the way had a purpose. Some seasons shape you quietly… and others? They make sure you never forget who you’re becoming. Five passport stamps ⭐ 5️⃣.

~ RR