‘WHEN CALLS THE HEART,’ SEASON TWO: “TRIALS OF THE HEART”(2015)

Last spring a television series made a grand debut for young and old audiences alike. It was When Calls the Heart. Based off of the best-selling novels by inspirational author Janette Oke, the series was a rousing success for the network Hallmark Channel, and was renewed for a follow up season in short order. If season one left girls swoon-y over a certain Mountie, season two gets off to an even better start.  

When Calls the Heart, Season Two: Episode One (2015) Hallmark TV Review

Things in Coal Valley are still in unrest. The town is set to hold the trial to disprove that Noah Stanton had anything to do with the mine explosion. Abigail (Lori Loughlin) is not about to give up her stand to clear her husband’s name. With forensic investigator Bill Avery (Jack Wagner) at her side, a young lawyer is brought in to represent the widows. Coinciding with the challenges Coal Valley confronts, Elizabeth (Erin Krakow) receives a telegram with news that her mother is ill. This sends Elizabeth back to her high society lifestyle and the Mountie she loves, Jack (Daniel Lissing), insistent he accompany her. Once there, Jack begins to pull away from Elizabeth as he sees the contrast in their lives. His family life consists of a brother who cannot get his act together. Hers a family already prejudiced against him.   

The highs and lows of season one is met with approval when, in the finale, the writers gave shippers what they’d been waiting for; a Jack and Elizabeth kiss. Unfortunately, as nearly all shows are prone to, our favorite couple is presented with situations that could nip their budding romance before it has a chance to blossom. This will disappoint some fans whereas I have to confess to liking the idea of seeing Elizabeth in Hamilton. It offers a chance for some fresh storytelling plus in spite of a rocky beginning (between her and I), I admire the fact her mother nudges Elizabeth to go after what she wants. It was a good moment for mother and daughter as well as the audience.  

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Beyond the romance (which I get is the important thing *smile*), there’s a lot going on in the two-hour premiere. Everything from the trial’s conclusion for Coal Valley’s case to Abigail’s disappointment in the misguided trust she placed in Bill. (Sadly, she might be more justified than we thought in this.) The change in locations was way more fun than anticipated. Even with their different personalities (and Viola’s snippy attitude), I enjoy seeing Elizabeth’s interaction with her sisters; seeing the flighty Julie again is always an adventure. From their spontaneous meeting with Jack and his brother to their humorous family dinner, the sequence made me ridiculously happy.  

It all comes down to this. If you’re a fan of season one, you’re going to love this premiere, minor setback (for the characters) or not. There’s more to enjoy, laugh and cry over, and of course, more tension and romance between Jack and Elizabeth. The primary cast is back ready to regale us with another set of stories of wholesome romance, mischievous shenanigans and some good old-fashion fun. 

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Find When Calls the Heart, Season One: Episode One on Amazon Video.