Every Year After

Based on Carley Fortune's bestselling novel 'Every Summer After,' 'Every Year After' brings a beloved BookTok romance to the screen with a nostalgic atmosphere and plenty of emotional baggage. The series follows Percy Fraser as she returns to Barry's Bay, the lakeside town where she spent her formative summers, forcing her to confront her first love, Sam Florek, and the painful events that tore them apart a decade prior. The dual-timeline structure, weaving between youthful summers and the present day, effectively builds intrigue and highlights how the past continues to shape the characters' lives.

The series excels in its early episodes, establishing Percy's deep connection to Barry's Bay and the significance of her relationship with Sam. The chemistry between the young actors portraying Percy and Sam is particularly noteworthy, making their burgeoning romance feel authentic and compelling. The picturesque setting of Barry's Bay itself becomes almost a character, enhancing the show's summery, romantic vibe.

The cast, led by Sadie Soverall and Matt Cornett, delivers strong performances, with Soverall being particularly praised for her portrayal of Percy. While the series leans into familiar genre conventions, including love triangles and emotional misunderstandings, its heartfelt performances and scenic backdrop make it an engaging watch. However, the narrative occasionally struggles with pacing and can feel a bit stretched, with some critics noting that the story becomes less cohesive as additional subplots are introduced.

Despite these minor drawbacks, 'Every Year After' offers a sweet and often irresistible romantic drama that, while not entirely groundbreaking, provides a satisfying binge-watch for fans of the genre.