About the series:
The series is inspired by Janette Oke’s bestselling book series about the Canadian West. “When Calls the Heart” tells the captivating story of Elizabeth Thatcher (Erin Krakow), a young teacher accustomed to her high society life, who receives her first classroom assignment in Coal Valley, a small coalmining town where life is simple, but often fraught with challenges. Lori Loughlin plays Abigail Stanton, a wife and mother whose husband, the foreman of the mine, along with a dozen other miners, has just been killed in an explosion. The newly widowed women find their faith is tested when they must go to work in the mines to keep a roof over their heads. Elizabeth charms most everyone in Coal Valley, except Constable Jack Thornton (Daniel Lissing) who believes Thatcher’s wealthy father has doomed the lawman’s career by insisting he be assigned in town to protect the shipping magnate’s daughter. Living in a turn of the century coal town, Elizabeth will have to learn the ways of the frontier if she wishes to thrive in the rural west on her own.

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First of all, if you are interested in seeing my review of the first season, please follow this link.  Although it is entirely possible to jump into season two of this phenomenal series, I strongly urge anyone who has not seen season one to do so before Saturday if possible.  You should still be able to procure it digitally, and while it means “binge-watching” an entire season, it’s well worth it.

Secondly, there is absolutely no advisory content for this show. It is completely family friendly. My daughter watched right along with me, and she is a “heartie” in the making. There is one use of the word “damn,” and that is the closest you will ever get to profanity in this show. There is no promiscuity, and high morals are strongly emphasized and encouraged. In fact, the providence of God comes into play on more than one occasion.

Note: While there is nothing specific revealed within this review, depending on any number of issues, there may be minimal spoilers. I have not given anything away that cannot be found on social media or has been released by Hallmark or those affiliated with the show.

Erin Krakow as Elizabeth Thatcher and Daniel Lissing as Mountie Jack Thornton

From the opening scene, I was smitten with the two lovebirds of Coal Valley. Granted I love Elizabeth and Jack–who doesn’t–but these two have truly grown closer than the last time we saw them.  The pairing of Erin and Daniel is positively magical.  Their chemistry in season one was enchanting, but now it is more comfortable and spirited. I always delight in seeing the whimsical side of romances, and Jack is always teasing Elizabeth –many “laugh out loud” moments in this premiere.

Jack Wagner as Bill Avery and Lori Loughlin as Abigail Stanton

Thankfully, my favorite couple has returned–sorry Elizabeth and Jack but I still prefer Bill and Abigail possibly because I’m older (certainly not more mature).  I sensed amongst Hearties that there was concern that things would not continue to be the same between these two. Notwithstanding, I refuse to give out any spoilers except to say that what happens between these two may not be what you expect. There is a plethora of drama and a bit of romance sprinkled throughout. One thing of which I can assure you–it won’t be mundane.

Pascale Hutton as Rosemary LeVeaux

Let’s discuss the character that most Hearties love to hate–Rosemary. Now Pascale always plays this character to a fault–the conceited, meddlesome, city girl who can do everything well. I know how Hearties were so concerned about her intentions towards Jack in season one. Much to the relief of the Hearties, Jack made his intentions clear at the end of last season. But do you think Rosemary is done? Well, dear reader, I refuse to spoil the fun. Let’s just say I am completely infatuated with the direction the writers took this character. She is incredibly droll–oh some of the scenes in which  Rosemary is found–absolute classic! And then the scenes in which she, Elizabeth, and a stove are featured–I will say no more than that except to say that was one of my favorite scenes in the premiere!

A few additional characters:

Martin Cummins (Henry Gowen)

Well, come now, you really didn’t think Mr. Gowen was gone, did you? I mean you must have a villain. And unfortunately, even after the premiere is over, it’s clear he’s fast becoming an unwelcome fixture in this community. I won’t tell you of the drama that occurs, but it certainly shakes things up.

Serge Houde (Judge Roy Parker)

Ah yes, even a new judge for this season. And if you stare at him long enough, you’ll probably question his honesty. Watch the premiere on Saturday is all I can say! You will expect some of what you may be thinking, but you’re going to be dumbfounded at its conclusion!

Let me say a word about the wonderful widows and children you’ve come to cherish in Coal Valley. Yes Feisty Florence and all her cohorts return, but you will not see them much in this premiere. Nor will you see the children much as they are on holiday from school. What you will notice about this fine company of actors is that things have changed. The widow garb is gone, and everyone seems happier and ready to move on with life. In fact, the cry of Coal Valley is to leave the past behind. Hence, the tidbit of information about the town name change–yes it does occur as our own Brian Bird mentioned (that was one tidbit I actually picked up on).

Laura Mennell as Samantha Madison

Seven minutes into the premiere, this character gave me my first “OMG” moment. I hadn’t paid attention to all of the hints that had been dropped here and there, so when this lady got off the coach and announced that she was the lawyer, I was completely shocked! Of course, the town was looking for Sam Madison, but no one expected a female lawyer. I would like to look up just how many female attorneys there were at this point in history, but I’m sure they were in existence. After all, don’t forget about Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman. 

As I studied this actress, I knew I recognized her, but I could not recall where. She was fantastic in this role, and gave her performance with such passion and realism. And then it dawned on me. For those who follow my blog, I am always looking for a “Sebastian Spence” connection (he’s my absolute favorite actor of all time, but that’s another story). It just so happens that I saw her in Stolen from the Womb (read that review here if you like), and what a versatile actress she is. She went from playing the crazy lady in Stolen from the Womb to playing a passionate lawyer up against the mining company here in this premiere. And I just discovered she’s in Gourmet Detective (another film I am immensely excited about coming up next month). So this amazing actress is making her rounds, and she was a perfect fit for this poignant role.

I’m not going to say a word about this scene. Another shocking moment in the trial is what leads to this, and I’ll let you see it for yourself. It is quite sincerely the most “OMG” moment in the premiere. Just know that this is an emotional scene that sends everything into utter upheaval.

I so hope to see these two together more. On a side note, watch for something completely unforeseen that takes Rosemary down a path I simply was not expecting.

So glad that Abigail is in the show, and I see plenty of exceptional things in store for her character. Oh there will be some pitfalls along the way, to be sure, but this strong woman is the one with whom I most closely identify. Maybe it’s because I’m a single mother, and Abigail is around my age. She is also full of wisdom, and she cooks well (at least I know I do the latter, but the wisdom part might be iffy at times).

Can we say, “Yes please”? After all, these two guys are around here to stay. While I adore Jack (oh and never fear–Rip is there too. Don’t know who he is? Just wait!), Bill is my guy. I do believe we will see more from him in season two if the premiere is any indication.

Come now, do I really need to say any more? You can guess what is happening or at least get pretty close, right? This is a purely delicious scene, and I can hardly wait to watch the humor between Jack and Elizabeth throughout season 2!

On another side note, let’s briefly consider the scene in the premiere trailer that hints at a former suitor attempting to capture Elizabeth’s heart and steal it from Jack. All I will say is that yes, the man exists, yes he is a “stuffed shirt,” and no, don’t believe everything you see in the trailers. No spoilers–actually the premiere resolves a few issues but still leaves you hanging. But let not your hearts be troubled, Hearties.

While the series is composed of an impressive cast and crew (as well as unbelievably astounding writers), the core of this series is right here. I think When Calls the Heart has made the intelligent decision of focusing on these four principals. While some shows rely on a “cast of thousands,” there is nothing like turning on the show and knowing you will see well-written story lines that are focused on just four individuals. They can bring in guest stars and subplots, but these are the heart of the series. I do believe that if more television shows followed this formula, they might be able to harness the success that this show has. Or at least get close to it.

Speaking of the #Hearties, I can’t thank this group enough. I watched the show from the beginning, but that was before I knew about the social media following this show had. It was some time before I joined the facebook group (found it because of another show), and only recently did I discover all the joys of the #hearties on twitter. I have been loyal to the show (sidetracked somewhat as Cedar Cove is where my heart truly lies–but that’s another story too), and I hope and pray it will be around for many years to come.

Now for the truly exciting news. I have been authorized to giveaway a DVD of When Calls the Heart Season One.  Can you believe it? This giveaway is open only to U.S./Canada, and all you need to do is enter the rafflecopter below by May 7 9:00 P.M. Pacific time.

“Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.

Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway. If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller / FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days, you are not eligible to win. Or if you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”
a Rafflecopter giveaway

As a final thought, please tune in on Saturday! I’ll be there, and this is an event you do not want to miss!

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