The Art of Adaptation: Why Carley Fortune’s Every Year After Resonates Beyond the Page
There’s something deeply satisfying about seeing a beloved book come to life on screen, but it’s also a process fraught with risk. Personally, I think the success of an adaptation hinges on one crucial factor: respect for the source material. And in the case of Carley Fortune’s Every Year After, now streaming on Prime Video, that respect is palpable. What makes this particularly fascinating is how Fortune, both as the author and an executive producer, navigated the delicate balance between staying true to her vision and allowing the story to evolve for a new medium.
The Setting: More Than Just a Backdrop
One thing that immediately stands out is Fortune’s insistence on keeping the story set in Canada, specifically Barry’s Bay, Ontario. This wasn’t just a minor detail—it was a non-negotiable. The initial script placed the story in Wisconsin, and Fortune’s push to correct this speaks volumes. In my opinion, this decision wasn’t just about geographical accuracy; it was about preserving the soul of the story. Barry’s Bay isn’t just a setting—it’s a character in its own right, shaped by Fortune’s childhood memories. What many people don’t realize is how deeply personal this setting is, and how its authenticity grounds the narrative in a way that feels both intimate and universal.
The Characters: A Delicate Dance Between Page and Screen
Casting is where adaptations often stumble, but Every Year After seems to have nailed it. Fortune admits she doesn’t visualize her characters while writing, which I find intriguing. It suggests a level of detachment that allows the actors to truly embody the roles. Sadie Soverall as Percy, Matt Cornett as Sam, and Michael Bradway as Charlie—these choices weren’t just about looks; they were about chemistry. The Zoom chemistry read between Matt and Sadie, for instance, was so compelling that it transcended the limitations of a virtual audition. This raises a deeper question: how much should an author’s vision dictate the casting process? Fortune’s hands-off approach here feels like a masterclass in trusting the collaborative process.
The Scene That Made Fans Gasp
A detail that I find especially interesting is Fortune’s protectiveness over a specific scene in the book—the “You came home” moment. This scene, which elicited gasps from audiences during her book events, became a litmus test for the adaptation. What this really suggests is that adaptations aren’t just about translating words to screen; they’re about capturing the emotional beats that resonate with readers. The fact that this scene made it into the show, and landed beautifully, is a testament to the team’s understanding of what matters most to the fanbase.
Prime Video’s Role: A New Home for Romance Adaptations
Prime Video’s investment in romance adaptations is noteworthy, especially given the success of titles like Off Campus, The Summer I Turned Pretty, and Red, White & Royal Blue. But what sets their approach apart, in my view, is their respect for the built-in fanbase. Fortune mentions that some producers see readers as a means to an end, but Prime Video seems to genuinely value them. This isn’t just a business strategy—it’s a cultural shift. If you take a step back and think about it, this trend reflects a broader recognition of the power and loyalty of book readers in the streaming era.
The Canadian Romance Moment
Another trend worth noting is the rise of Canadian romance authors in adaptations. Fortune, Rachel Reid, Elle Kennedy—these names are dominating the genre, and it’s not just a coincidence. Hockey, Canadian summers, and the unique cultural nuances of these stories are resonating globally. What this really suggests is that there’s a hunger for stories that feel specific yet relatable, and Canadian authors are delivering in spades. Personally, I think this moment is about more than just geography—it’s about the authenticity and heart that these authors bring to their work.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Fortune’s Adaptations
With Meet Me at the Lake and This Summer Will Be Different also in the works, Fortune’s influence shows no signs of waning. What makes this particularly fascinating is her commitment to shooting in the actual locations described in her books. Prince Edward Island for This Summer Will Be Different? Yes, please. This attention to detail isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about honoring the world she’s created. In my opinion, this level of dedication is what separates good adaptations from great ones.
Final Thoughts: Why Every Year After Matters
Every Year After isn’t just another romance adaptation—it’s a case study in how to do it right. From the setting to the casting, from the fan-favorite scenes to the broader trend of Canadian romance, every element feels intentional. What this really suggests is that when adaptations are handled with care and respect, they can transcend the source material and become something new and exciting. Personally, I’m excited to see where Fortune’s journey takes her next, and I’m betting it’ll be just as thoughtful and impactful as Every Year After.
