If I Ruled the World: A witty novel filled with scandal and romance in the world of publishing from a former editor-in-chief

‘An utterly dazzling debut!’ ROBINNE LEE

‘Sparkles with drama, scandal and ’90s New York energy’ ESSIE CHAMBERS

‘A sexy, fast-paced ride!’ TIA WILLIAMS

Get ready for a utterly immersive journey through one of the most dynamic eras in pop culture history.

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 quits 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 New York City’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 married, powerful ex-lover and former boss, who is 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.

Written by the ultimate insider, this is a juicy story of ambition, friendship, love and finding your own voice.

© 2026 Simon & Schuster Audio UK (Audiobook): 9781398543683

Release date

Audiobook: 26 March 2026