Summon the storm, taste the curse. This week’s Fantasy Friday on the Rocks sails into the shadowy seas of the Ever King series by LJ Andrews with a cocktail as bold and brooding as the pirate king himself, Erik Bloodsinger.
Part dark magic, part temptation. It's a moody twist on a classic. The Cursed Crown takes the familiar comfort of rum and Coke and drags it through the Ever Sea—layered with deep cherry from Amarena syrup, brightened by fresh lime and darkened with activated charcoal. It’s bold, smooth, and just a little dangerous. Exactly how Erik would like it.
The Cursed Crown
Ingredients:
- 2 oz dark rum (I used a St. Lucian rum)
- 1 bar spoon (about 1/8 oz) Amarena cherry syrup
- 0.5 oz fresh lime juice
- Top with Mexican Coke
- Optional: Dash of activated charcoal for that cursed black depth (please note that activated charcoal can affect some medications, so check with your doctor or omit)
- Amerena cherries for garnish
Instructions:
- Add the rum, Amarena syrup, lime juice, and charcoal (if using) to a shaker with ice
- Shake until chilled and cursed
- Strain into a rocks glass over a large cube
- Top with Mexican Coke
- Garnish with an Amarena cherry on a pick and serve with Erik’s signature smirk
Great news for romantasy readers! The Ever King re-releases on August 5th with a stunning new cover and bonus material you won’t want to miss. You can find more from LJ Andrews on her website.
Thirsty for more?
I feature a new fantasy-inspired cocktail on Fridays—each one brewed for a different book boyfriend, morally gray menace, or magical moment. You can find past drinks like To the Stars, Flame of the Valkyrie, Spill the Tea, and more on my blog.
Got a favorite character you’d love to see in cocktail form? Drop a comment or DM me on Instagram—I’m always collecting inspiration for the next Fantasy Friday on the Rocks.