The adventure and romance of the frontier returns to ring in the New Year! Elizabeth and Jack are reeling from Charles’ shocking proposal. As Elizabeth assures Jack her heart remains with him, Jack takes some time apart, while dealing with his disappointment in his mentor Bill, who remains in the Hope Valley jail awaiting trial. And while Abigail decides to take in two runaways who need special care, the whole town prepares to put on an elaborate New Year’s Eve celebration.

POTENTIAL SPOILER ALERT: Typically, viewers can count on my reviews being spoiler-free, but there is a chance that I may reveal something you didn’t know or hadn’t heard. I try to stay away from all discussion and press about the show before I watch it, and some of you are probably like me in that respect. So if you are, I advise you to quit reading right now. However, if you are dying to know what may or may not be included in the upcoming premiere, read on. But know you have been warned.

Loretta Walsh, Kavan Smith, Pascale Hutton, Jason Cermak, Carter Ryan Evancic Credit: Copyright 2015 Crown Media United States, LLC/Photographer: Eike Schroter

First of all, if you perused my reviews for season two, you may be surprised to hear that I wasn’t always enthusiastic about that particular season. While I admired and appreciated what they did and faithfully reviewed it, I found myself missing Hope Valley, the kids, and even Rip. Sometimes I think shows take risks, and although I dearly enjoyed much of last season, I cannot tell you how grateful I am to see the show return to what made season one so enchanting. While I’m sure that we will have to catch up with some of Elizabeth’s family (and probably even Charles at some point), it is pleasing to see the familiar and even the engaging unfamiliar, but the sole focus is Hope Valley.

Carter Ryan Evancic as Cody Credit: Copyright 2015 Crown Media United States, LLC/Photographer: Eike Schroter

Let’s begin with one of the new characters. As Cody, Carter suits the framework of Hope Valley with ease. We know of his character’s actions before we literally see him, and something tells me he is going to become a permanent fixture on this show. He and his sister are runaway orphans, and without revealing anything, you may just be able to guess who takes him in (trust me, it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure that one out).

Daniel Lissing, Carter Ryan Evancic Credit: Copyright 2015 Crown Media United States, LLC/Photographer: Eike Schroter

While Carter seems to be a newcomer to the world of television acting, he does reasonably well. He has no problem rising to the occasion and acting like the scared boy who is trying to be the man of the household (even though his sister is older), and no matter who shares the screen with him, he appears to be a natural.

Erin Krakow, Carter Ryan Evancic Credit: Copyright 2015 Crown Media United States, LLC/Photographer: Eike Schroter

While I know that I often say child actors are “naturals” or fit perfectly into the story, I am aware of the fact that in an established show like this, breaking in new characters can be a tall order. But in Carter’s case, it is as though he has always been there.

Jason Cermak as Dr. Burns, Carter Ryan Evancic, Ali Skovbye as Becky, Lori Loughlin Credit: Copyright 2015 Crown Media United States, LLC/Photographer: Eike Schroter

While this photo highlights two new faces, they may be recognizable depending on what you may have seen. Ali plays Becky, Cody’s older sister who is recovering from a dreadful illness. You may have seen her in Gourmet Detective, and it is a sublime treat to see her here. I expect to see her featured throughout the season as she is such a sweet creature who depicts her character efficiently. As for Dr. Burns, he is played brilliantly by Jason. You may have seen him on the most recent installment of Murder She Baked. Yet another wonderful addition to the cast as he plays the benevolent and sincere doctor, and I surely pray they bring him back throughout the season.

Mark Humphrey as Pastor Frank Credit: Copyright 2015 Crown Media United States, LLC/Photographer: Eike Schroter

Never fear as Mark has returned as Pastor Frank. If you remember towards the end of last season, we began to discover that he has had something mysterious and dubious in his background, and the premiere does give us a few more details about that. However, part of the unresolved story at the conclusion of this episode deals with his character. I naturally cannot help but love his character, and it is Pastor Frank, who so aptly brings the faith element into the frameworks of the storyline, as he and Cody pray for Becky’s health to be restored.

Mark Humphrey as Pastor Frank, Aren Buchholz as Jesse

With the introduction of the character Jesse (portrayed by Aren), the intrigue mounts. Are these two related? Were they partners in crime? I don’t sense we can trust what Aren says, and he knows enough to destroy Pastor Frank, but will he do it? Only time will tell. I thought I recognized Aren, and when I checked out his resume, I noticed a couple former works of his (Trading Christmas and A Mother’s Nightmare). I remember him most from the latter of those works, but he is probably familiar to many of the viewers. We are cognizant of the fact that he is a despicable character from the beginning, but the single ladies of the town had better take heed. I am persuaded that we have not seen the last of this talented actor and his wayward character.

Eva Bourne as Clara

And one of those girls who had better beware is Clara. I was ecstatic to see Eva return as I have been watching her career develop for a few years now. As she has gained more experience and finally seemed to have found her footing in this series, she is excellent as the daughter-in-law of Abigail who lost her husband the same time Abigail hers–the appalling mine accident.

Eva Bourne Credit: Copyright 2015 Crown Media United States, LLC/Photographer: Eike Schroter

Eva has always been one of those fresh and unusual faces out there–she doesn’t fit the stereotypical Hallmark image. But she has so matured in her acting ability (not that she wasn’t qualified before), and I can frankly say she has now wholly immersed herself in this character of Clara. Although we don’t see her much in this premiere, she is memorable, and I have no question she will reappear in subsequent episodes (much to the satisfaction of Hearties everywhere).

Martin Cummins as Mr. Gowen

And what about our proverbial villain? Well, Martin is back, but in this episode, Mr. Gowen is a little more subdued. Assuredly, there are hints that he hasn’t changed his ways (does a leopard change its spots?), but I believe that his character is undergoing a time of alteration. In my opinion (and this is just conjecture), he is waiting for the next moment he can strike. He is biding his time and endeavoring to relish the success he has as mayor and as a businessman.

The only problem is that I really want to despise his character, but the way Martin plays him makes that very difficult. It would seem that Martin does what all accomplished actors do when they depict the “bad guy.” He doesn’t portray the character as morally evil. Instead, he infuses the idea that the man is misunderstood and is only out to be a sound businessman. Of course, there may be a woman who has caught his eye.

Kristina Wagner as Nora Credit: Copyright 2015 Crown Media United States, LLC/Photographer: Eike Schroter

Remember Nora, Bill’s almost-ex? Well, Kristina is back and playing this character again. Of course, Mr. Gowen has set his sights on her once more (remember we learned that he is the one who took advantage of her and impregnated her before Bill stepped in and did the noble thing), and it would seem that Nora is eager to begin again. Will she permit Bill to leave once and for all? Only time will tell. But it does appear that Nora is willing to move on. Notwithstanding, I have to admit, I still don’t trust her. Kristina has lent her beauty and warmth to the character of Nora, and unfortunately, I truly struggle to disparage her character.  It was easier last season, but now we know her better, and she has even engendered some of our sympathies. I anticipate her role in this upcoming season.

Tony Alcantar as Mike Ward/Reporter

As the reporter who comes to cover the New Year’s festivities in a Western settlement, Tony is fully in his element. You might recognize him from Once Upon a Holiday, and it is a pure bliss to see him as this fast-talking reporter who sees right to the heart of this close-knit community in spite of Rosemary’s wheelings and dealings. While I doubt we’ll see him again this season (but I could be wrong), it is a welcome treat to see him pop up now and again when least expected.

Daryl Shuttleworth as Captain James Houston

Yet another guy who regularly leaps into the picture when you least anticipate him–Daryl portrays Captain Houston exceptionally. Daryl is skilled at playing such a wide variety of characters, and nothing is ever beneath him nor too difficult for him to attain. It is wonderful to see him on this show, and you’d better be on guard because you never know when you might see his character again. In fact, all too often he fades into the background and it is only later that you stop and think–where have I seen that fellow before? And there he is!

Genea Charpentier as Laura, Logan Williams as Mr. Campbell

Oh, what rapture to see Genea be featured prominently as Laura in this episode! And as her grieving father, Logan plays Mr. Campbell as well. I don’t want to reveal anything on this story, but if you are a teacher, you are possibly going to revel in this story just as much as I do. One of the conclusive moments of the premiere indeed. And with these two, you can’t go wrong. Genea is such a vivacious pleasure to see on screen, and Logan is the classic foil for her. I couldn’t be more content with what the powers that be chose to do with their respective stories.

Kavan Smith as Lee Credit: Copyright 2015 Crown Media United States, LLC/Photographer: Eike Schroter

Were you genuinely worried about Lee? I wasn’t–I knew he had to come back. And Kavan returned with a vengeance, and because of his stellar and humor-laced performance, I have to be honest–he has become my favorite male character in the show. In fact, he is second only to Abigail, as far as characters go. Kavan is the perfect one to depict the long-suffering Lee–no doubt the only one who could begin to tame and calm Rosemary (as you will see). Don’t be misled by his penchant for agreeing to her every whim, as you will see some depth being added to his character in this episode. Kavan definitely enjoys his character and has thoroughly submerged himself into this gentle, caring, fun-loving, but hard-working man who only has eyes for Rosemary no matter what anyone may think or say.

Pascale Hutton as Rosemary Credit: Copyright 2015 Crown Media United States, LLC/Photographer: Eike Schroter

Of course, I fell in love with Rosemary last season once I saw she was no longer pursuing Jack. I cannot speak of Pascale profoundly enough in this role. She is impeccable, and the way in which she portrays the ambitious Rosemary, who is all about performance rather than what is truly important, is witty and heart-warming. While Rosemary is still up to many of her old “tricks” in one sense, she has matured, and with the help of the dashing and sincere Lee, she will change even more. In fact, Lee teaches Rosie a lesson that more people should attempt to implement. She is in good hands with Lee, and as long as the woman can learn to relax once in awhile and savor the true essentials in this world, she will continue to experience an amazing tenure in Hope Valley. For me, Pascale is a rare talent in this industry as I often find myself thinking–is there nothing this woman cannot do?

Erin Krakow Credit: Copyright 2015 Crown Media United States, LLC/Photographer: Eike Schroter

For those who have missed Rip, I will say only this. Rip is highlighted in this one premiere more than he was highlighted all last season. It is delightful in the extreme, and viewers are going to adore his antics.

Loretta Walsh as “”Feisty Flo,” Kristina Wagner, Erica Carroll Credit: Copyright 2015 Crown Media United States, LLC/Photographer: Eike Schroter

I am ecstatic to see “Feisty Flo” return as played by the gifted and beautiful Loretta Walsh. She didn’t have nearly enough scenes last season, but something tells me that she is going to be featured much more in this season. She is still the Flo that we know, but I am hoping that this year she receives another chance at love. There are no inklings that this may occur, but I will declare that it seems like her character is impatient to go on with life. And her association with Rosie? Well, they are two peas in a pod in many ways, right?

Jack Wagner as Bill Credit: Copyright 2015 Crown Media United States, LLC/Photographer: Eike Schroter

Were you worried about Bill? Well, he comes back, and Jack portrays him better than ever. No spoilers, but there are some dramatic moments featuring him (and Mountie Jack as well). I’m not sure where his character is headed this season, but I do see a potential issue if it is discovered that he and Abigail still have feelings for each other. While I still fancy the character, I think that Bill is quite reticent–almost like a secret agent. You never know what he’s going to be up to next. No one else could depict Bill with such authenticity as Jack, and all I can say is that I hope his name is fully cleared once and for all (but a part of me presumes that he attracts danger, so maybe that isn’t a possibility).

Daniel Lissing, Jack Wagner Credit: Copyright 2015 Crown Media United States, LLC/Photographer: Eike Schroter

Lori Loughlin as Abigail Credit: Copyright 2015 Crown Media United States, LLC/Photographer: Eike Schroter

I am so exhilarated that the woman who is the reason I first became a Heartie is still in the show and is as lovely and immaculate as ever. Lori as Abigail–she is unquestionably my favorite character of the show, and there is no one else on God’s green earth that could play her as convincingly as Lori.

Lori Loughlin Credit: Copyright 2015 Crown Media United States, LLC/Photographer: Eike Schroter

It is no secret that Lori is one of my all-time beloved actresses, and her characterization of Abigail is impeccable, fervent, and beyond what most actors even dream possible. If I were to look up consummate in the dictionary, I can only hope that I would see Lori Loughlin because she is. And throughout the entire series when everyone was floundering, Abigail was the strong one on whom the town rested. She appears to be subdued, but it is that silent fortitude which gives her the intensity to face any trial at hand.

Credit: Copyright 2015 Crown Media United States, LLC/Photographer: Eike Schroter

I tend to think that part of the reason Elizabeth faltered so much last season is that she was away from her dear friend Abigail for what sometimes seemed like an eternity. While Abigail sometimes struggles with her love life, when it comes to speaking words of wisdom that people need to hear (and they often come to her for advice anyway), she is the one who has a limitless supply.

Lori Loughlin, Erin Krakow Credit: Copyright 2015 Crown Media United States, LLC/Photographer: Eike Schroter

The good news is that it seems Elizabeth is finally listening to her dear friend and confidante. I think in some ways, as difficult as last season was, Elizabeth needed that time to evolve and discover who she was. And it is Abigail who notices this first about her friend. How Abigail can counsel others without taking sides or assigning censure is beyond me. That woman is one of the wisest I have ever seen on television, and it seems like she will have a more significant role this season since we appear to be back in Hope Valley (please let’s hope they don’t spend much time in the big city again).

Ali Skoybye, Carter Ryan Evancic, Lori Loughlin Credit: Copyright 2015 Crown Media United States, LLC/Photographer: Eike Schroter

One of my personal favorite scenes in this premiere can be viewed in the following clip. The reason I appreciate it is that Abigail is the one who is soundly rooted in her faith no matter what comes her way. It’s wondrous to hear the others talk about their faith more in this episode than they did all last season. I applaud the writers, producers, and everyone involved for not being ashamed of who they are and preaching this reverential and solid look at the faith of these pioneers.  Definitely something that we all need at this violent and grief-stricken time in our world’s history.  But Abigail is the one who has perpetually been the most stalwart in her faith. And in the clip below, you can see exactly what I mean.

Lori Loughlin Credit: Copyright 2015 Crown Media United States, LLC/Photographer: Eike Schroter

It is probably because of scenes just like this one that I find myself so drawn to Abigail. And Lori has a way of making this character so vibrant and authentic that I never question a word that comes out of her mouth nor a tone inflection nor mannerism. And you can bet your bottom dollar that if these runaways are to become fixtures in the show, you know where they are going to stay. (Again, don’t think too hard on that one because we all know who the logical choice is.) If there ever was a female character on a current television show with whom I would want to share a meal, it would be Abigal Stanton, without a doubt. My simple words cannot even do her part justice (and it’s perfectly fine for you to disagree with me if you so choose), but know that I will always be a fierce supporter of this character and the lovely actress who has breathed life into her.

Daniel Lissing as Jack, Erin Krakow as Elizabeth Credit: Copyright 2015 Crown Media United States, LLC/Photographer: Eike Schroter

All right Hearties, I can imagine your screaming at me–what about Jack and Elizabeth? Yes, I am well aware of the fact that they are the cornerstone of the entire show. Without Daniel and Elizabeth, the show wouldn’t even exist. And never doubt that I am a firm believer in this couple, for I unquestionably am. I probably identify with Abigail because she is older and these two are mere pups compared to me. However, I can guarantee that Hearties are going to simply adore the fact that this couple’s relationship has returned to what it was in season one, but with a depth that is almost intoxicating. Jack is back to giving Elizabeth a playful hard time now and then, and Elizabeth is back to being a bit coquettish at times, but I believe you will note a difference in her. She knows what–no, make that who–she wants. And she is not above pursuing the Mountie of her dreams. While Jack may need some gentle convincing (after all, this does pick up immediately after he heard Charles propose–no spoilers on what is said about all that), Elizabeth is committed to them as a couple without a thought of returning to the big city. Hope Valley is her home now, and it is high time Jack realizes that fact and trusts her.

Daniel Lissing Credit: Copyright 2015 Crown Media United States, LLC/Photographer: Eike Schroter

Ah yes, a man in uniform–no, make it this man in uniform. The majority of the Hearties swoon whenever Jack is in the house, and you can bet that will happen yet again in this premiere. Daniel is effortlessly flawless in this role, and even though we women sometimes roll our eyes at his character’s antics and behavior, there is no doubt that we adore him. Furthermore, Daniel still plays this role of Jack as energetically as he did back in season one. He has not allowed the character to become stale, but he has kept it dynamic. And you never know what he might say or do next as he tends to be quite spontaneous. Exactly what the charming and straight-laced Elizabeth needs to get her motor going, so to speak. As Jack has also ripened as a Mountie, and a young man, I find myself more impressed with him this season than previous seasons. I think it is that he has come into his own, and he is through dismissing his feelings for Elizabeth while using the excuse of the rigors and dangers of his chosen profession. No longer can he ignore this woman who has taken up residence in his heart, and that is a joy at last for me to see. Incidentally, does Daniel become better-looking each year or that just the mature woman in me talking?

Erin Krakow Credit: Copyright 2015 Crown Media United States, LLC/Photographer: Eike Schroter

So what is left to be said about the unbelievably gifted Erin? No matter what, Erin’s portrayal of Elizabeth is at the core of this show. And this gal is so amazing that words fail to describe her perfect depiction of the valiant Miss Thatcher, who has left her world of riches to come to the barbaric wilderness out west with a mission to inspire children to transcend what they even dreamed possible. As a teacher myself, whenever I see Erin’s character in the classroom, I am intrigued. Her character goes beyond the “3R’s.” She is a teacher who is ahead of her time, and the story with Laura in this premiere touched my heart in a way few stories ever do. I can remember those moments as a teacher when I have seen the potential of a student and invited them to pursue it. Maybe they couldn’t see it at the time, but I could. And Erin has captured the very essence of that teacher quality and injected it into her character in an unimpeachably authentic way. Every tone inflection, mannerism, and word that is uttered is precise and conveys exactly what Elizabeth is thinking. Erin is a true master at the art of acting, and every time I see her on screen, I sense her prowess more. Although how one improves on perfection, I do not know. But Erin has learned that secret and displays it with poise and simplicity.

Lori Loughlin, Daniel Lissing, Erin Krakow Credit: Copyright 2015 Crown Media United States, LLC/Photographer: Eike Schroter

In the past two seasons, Erin has never allowed her character to just let go as Elizabeth is high class, and no matter what she did or where she went, she was careful to conduct herself as befitting her station in life. In fact, my mother commented that she wasn’t too sure about Elizabeth because she always appeared just a little bit artificial. And in retrospect, I believe there is some verity to that. After watching this premiere, I understand why. Elizabeth didn’t know who she was the last two seasons. She was attempting to find herself. And that means that Erin was doing her job in permitting Elizabeth to appear somewhat false at times. I am happy to report that just as Abigail states within the first few minutes of the premiere, Elizabeth has changed for the better. She knows who she is. Therefore, Erin now infuses something new into her character–authenticity that was lacking the past two seasons. Elizabeth knows who she is, and I believe viewers will be able to see that transformation, subtle though it may be. Erin herself was never fake, in my opinion, but she knew how she had to characterize Elizabeth. Furthermore, I believe even Erin herself is truly enjoying the fact that Elizabeth is more confident, more courageous, and can finally let go and with boisterous energy, truly enjoy the moments she has.

Ali Skoybye, Lori Loughlin, Daniel Lissing, Erin Krakos Credit: Copyright 2015 Crown Media United States, LLC/Photographer: Eike Schroter

Oh, and never fear. There is plenty of chemistry between the lovebirds. And in answer to fan pleas, there just may be a song!!

Erin Krakow, Daniel Lissing Credit: Copyright 2015 Crown Media United States, LLC/Photographer: Eike Schroter

In conclusion, this is the most passionate I have been about a When Calls the Heart episode since season one, and I strongly encourage and implore each of you to tune in and watch this Saturday night, December 26, on the Hallmark Channel. You will not be sorry!

For more information:

http://www.hallmarkchannel.com/when-calls-the-heart

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