Amy DuBois Barnett's Debut Novel 'If I Ruled the World' Celebrates Black Women's Ambition
Get ready to be transported back in time with Amy DuBois Barnett's debut novel, 'If I Ruled the World', a love letter to Black women's ambition that combines the nostalgia of 90s and 2000s hip-hop with a sizzling storyline. This grand adventure follows protagonist Nikki Rose as she navigates the cutthroat world of publishing in Manhattan, all while trying to stay true to herself.A Journey of Ambition and Self-Discovery
At its core, 'If I Ruled the World' is a story about Nikki Rose's journey to become the boss at Sugar, a fledgling urban brand with serious potential. But as she rises through the ranks, she must confront her own demons and learn to balance her ambition with her values. With the help of her love interest, Joseph, a dashing Wall Street prototype, Nikki must navigate the complexities of her relationships and figure out what truly drives her attachments.
A Personal Journey Inspired by Real-Life Experiences
Amy DuBois Barnett draws heavily from her own experiences as an editor in chief at Honey magazine. She shares that she was 30 years old when she took on the role, and while her journey is not identical to Nikki's, it shares many parallels. Barnett reveals that she had to make tough decisions and confront complex moral choices, all while trying to stay true to herself. This personal touch adds depth and authenticity to the story.
A Gift of Creative Freedom
After putting her manuscript aside for decades, Barnett found the safe space she needed to complete her novel at Mara Brock Akil's Writer's Colony. She describes it as a 'gift' that gave her a month of pure creative freedom and license to focus on her writing. This experience allowed her to tap into her creative voice and finish the novel that had been on her heart for so long.
With its engaging storyline, memorable characters, and themes of ambition and self-discovery, 'If I Ruled the World' is a must-read for anyone who's ever felt like they're trying to navigate an uncertain world. Amy DuBois Barnett's debut novel is a love letter to Black women's ambition that will leave readers feeling inspired and motivated to chase their dreams.
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