Carley Fortune Discusses ‘Every Year After’ TV Adaptation: ‘Their Chemistry Was Undeniable’

Bestselling author Carley Fortune is opening up about bringing her hit novel ‘Every Summer After’ to the small screen, explaining the dramatic creative overhaul that resulted in Amazon Prime Video’s ‘Every Year After’ and gushing over the undeniable chemistry between lead actors Sadie Soverall and Matt Cornett.

During recent interviews about the series adaptation, Fortune revealed she initially imagined her bestseller as a feature film. That changed after conversations with the creative team convinced her the story had far more potential as a television series.

One of the biggest hurdles in adapting the novel was getting past protagonist Percy’s internal monologue. The book exists almost entirely in Percy’s head, but the TV series gives viewers access to supporting characters’ lives and moments she never witnesses.

“The book is very interior,” Fortune said, explaining that television required a broader, ensemble approach. She credited showrunner Amy B. Harris for translating those internal emotions into compelling television drama.

The adaptation significantly expands roles for characters like Delilah and Charlie. Fortune said she always envisioned deeper backstories for these characters while writing the novel. Delilah, played by Abigail Cowen, now carries a major presence in the present-day storyline, giving audiences insight into her personality and relationships.

Charlie also gets substantially more screen time, allowing viewers to explore his relationship with brother Sam in ways the book couldn’t. Fortune called Charlie one of her favorite characters to write, and the TV format finally gives him the development she always felt he deserved.

Fortune had high praise for the show’s stars. She called Soverall’s audition extraordinary, noting the actress captured Percy’s emotional complexity perfectly.

Cornett made an equally powerful impression. His audition actually moved Fortune to tears, particularly during an emotional scene written specifically for casting.

When they tested their chemistry together—even virtually—Fortune knew immediately she’d found her leads.

“Their chemistry was undeniable,” she said, adding that Cornett also shares convincing sibling chemistry with Michael Bradway, who plays Charlie.

Fortune herself appears in the series, though not by design. Showrunner Harris spontaneously invited her to be an extra during a tavern celebration scene while visiting set. After a quick wardrobe, hair and makeup change, Fortune ended up dancing on screen after Soverall pulled her into the action.

She called the unplanned moment memorable and heartfelt.

Fortune admitted she was especially nervous about adapting the famous “you came home” reunion scene. Readers have loved that moment since the novel’s release, often reacting emotionally during public readings.

She’s relieved the television version successfully captured the emotional weight fans were expecting.

Fortune believes the novel’s enduring appeal goes beyond typical romance. She credits the connection between Percy, Sam and the lakeside setting of Barry’s Bay with creating a powerful nostalgia that resonates with readers, even those who’ve never experienced that kind of summer.

For Fortune, the setting matters just as much as the characters. The story isn’t just about first love—it’s about the places and memories people carry throughout their lives.

Now streaming on Amazon Prime Video, ‘Every Year After’ brings Fortune’s bestselling romance to television while expanding its world with fresh storylines and deeper character development, giving fans new reasons to return to Barry’s Bay.