Romance fans have expressed disappointment with Prime Video's new drama Every Year After, calling it 'painful to watch' and criticizing significant deviations from the original novel.
Viewers Voice Criticism
Based on Carley Fortune's bestselling novel Every Summer After, the series follows 28-year-old obituary writer Percy Fraser (Sadie Soverall) as she confronts her troubled past. The story unfolds in the lakeside community of Barry's Bay, where Percy spent childhood summers and formed bonds with brothers Sam (Matt Cornett) and Charlie (Michael Bradway).
While some viewers are captivated, many fans of the book have voiced identical criticisms on social media. On Reddit, one viewer admitted being close to abandoning the series after just three episodes: 'I'm considering jumping ship and I'm on episode 3. I'm MAD. There are just too many shallow and pointless things being thrown at something that could have been simply done on a plot/book that was FLAWLESS.'
Unnecessary Changes
Another frustrated reader stated: 'So many totally unnecessary changes... I'm actually angry watching it. So much potential. I feel bad for the actors.' A third viewer wrote on Rotten Tomatoes: 'Every plot point from the book was messed up.'
One key difference involves how Sam learns about Percy's encounter with his brother. In the TV version, Percy reveals this upon returning to Barry's Bay ten years later. In the book, Charlie makes the confession years before Percy's return.
Mixed Reactions
Despite the backlash, some viewers have been charmed by the adaptation. One review described it as 'a delightful summer must-watch and enjoyed every moment of it.' Another admirer enthused: 'Such a dreamy and expansive ode to Percy and Sam's story. Loved every second!'
Every Year After is streaming now on Prime Video.
