Rum, Fire, and Fantasy

Step into a world where rum flows freely, torches flicker in the night, and every drink tells a story.

In Rum, Fire, and Fantasy: A Modern Tiki Odyssey, Ron Black invites you on a vibrant journey through the history, culture, and craft of Tiki, where mid-century escapism meets modern creativity. From the legendary origins of Donn the Beachcomber and Trader Vic to today’s bold reinvention of tropical cocktails, this book is more than a guide, it’s an experience.

Inside, you’ll discover:

• Classic Tiki drinks that built a global phenomenon

• Original cocktail creations inspired by flavor, travel, and imagination

• The secrets behind rum blending, syrups, and show-stopping presentation

• The spirit of Tiki as a lifestyle rooted in connection, creativity, and escape

Blending memoir, mixology, and cultural storytelling, Ron shares his personal journey, from backyard bar experiments to a dream of opening his own immersive Tiki haven. Along the way, he captures what Tiki has always truly been: not just a drink, but a feeling.

Whether you’re a seasoned cocktail enthusiast or just beginning your tropical adventure, this book will transport you, one sip at a time, into a world of flavor, fantasy, and fire.

So, light the torches, cue the exotica, and raise your glass. The escape begins here.