If you are a longtime reader of The Nora Theory, you already know this, but if it’s your first time here, you should know that I am Sierra Simone’s biggest fan. Not in a weird, parasocial way; I just truly love every single thing she writes.
Come September 6th, one of her masterpieces, the Lyonesse trilogy, is getting a vertical series adaptation with ReelShort.
ReelShort is a short-form vertical storytelling app, specializing in high-drama and user-friendly, quick entertainment. Think like TikTok, but for fiction. Users can scroll through a story without having to turn their phones.
Based on the novel by Sierra Simone, a reimagining of the story of Tristan and Isolde, this adaptation will follow ex-soldier Tristan as he becomes bodyguard to his uncle-in-law, a magnetic billionaire who runs an exclusive sex club. Despite his best efforts to stay professional, Tristan’s drawn to his boss’s dominance, breaking down his defenses until he finally submits. Under Mark’s seduction, Tristan is pulled into a world of pain and pleasure he never imagined. But his lust for Mark unravels when he’s sent to retrieve Mark’s fiancée… and falls for her too.
A format like this is perfect for the Lyonesse series, a story I’ve enjoyed via e-reader, paperback, and audiobook. The confident, campy style of the app will lend itself well to a new take on these high-stakes books.
For readers who are familiar with the books, some things will change for the ReelShort adaptation. It’s an entirely different format, so this will be a new version of Lyonesse, but with all the spicy drama we love.
Nico Totorella and Jake Lively are set to star as Mark and Tristan, with Katelyn Rose filling the role of Isode. So far, the cast stays remarkably true to the spirit of the story.
Salt Kiss, the first installment of the trilogy, will be available exclusively on ReelShort September 6th, followed by Honey Cut on September 15th, and finally the conclusion, Bitter Burn on September 24th.
It will be a delight to see such a high-heat, audacious, queer romance brought to screen.
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