Every Year After concluded its first season with a dramatic twist, leaving viewers on the edge of their seats. At the heart of the finale’s shocking developments is the character Alice Everly, whose connection to the unfolding events adds a layer of intrigue.
Note: The following contains spoilers for season 1 of Every Year After.
The Prime Video series, which debuted on June 10, wrapped up its inaugural season by highlighting the fractured relationship between Charlie, played by Michael Bradway, and his brother Sam, portrayed by Matt Cornett. Struggling with family conflicts, Charlie immerses himself in his work, until a surprising weekend at the office alters his life forever.
In a pivotal scene, Charlie stumbles upon an old photograph in his boss’s office—a snapshot of himself, Sam, and Percy, played by Sadie Soverall, from a previous summer. The mystery of who captured this moment piques his curiosity. That night, as the emotional weight of his estrangement with Sam bears down on him, Charlie experiences what seems to be a heart attack.
“Obviously, I read One Golden Summer, and so I knew it was coming,” Bradway told Swooon about Carley Fortune’s sequel book focused on Charlie’s journey. “I didn’t know how soon.”
Based on Every Summer After by Fortune, Every Year After follows Percy, who grew up vacationing in Barry’s Bay. After spending all her time with the Florek brothers, Percy formed a connection with Sam.
Their romance fizzled out — until they meet again years later — and have a second chance at love. The only problem? Underlying issues that led to their initial breakup.

In Fortune’s follow-up, One Golden Summer, readers find out that Charlie has a congenital heart condition. He was diagnosed months prior to the events in the novel, which also follows his romance with Alice a.k.a the photographer behind the photo of him and his loved ones featured in the show.
“There are a couple of things that I was aware of, and tried to play as the season went on, knowing that that was going to happen,” Bradway continued. “But it is a shock, and I don’t know what happens next, so I’m on the edge of my seat.”
While season 1 didn’t introduce Alice — that wasn’t originally the plan.
“We had a version where she walks through the airport, and he sees her when he’s going to pick up his family,” showrunner Amy B. Harris revealed to the outlet. “Yeah, we had talked all about different versions of how to bring her into the finale. We knew we were bringing her in. We just didn’t know how.”
Harris continued: “What we finally realized is we didn’t [have to bring her in yet]. She still has to be a notion, but one that, if you are a lover of Carley Fortune, is just a perfect little Easter egg. … We knew we needed Alice in some way to come in to launch us to season 2.”
Every Year After is streaming on Prime Video now.


