When reading the reviews I don't recognize my opinion in them. I'm not overly thrilled about the season opening but I als don't think it was very bad. I liked to see all characters again. And there was a setup for some nice storylines. Yet, I found most of the acting a bit stiff and less natural than it used to be. They tried some humor but for me it did not work. Overall, I enjoyed some moments, f.e. The breakfast of Bill&the Canfields in the cafe, the moment LJ sees Mei, the longing way Nathan looks at the balloon. Nathan stays a favorite although I did not really like his storyline so far. To summarize: I found it nice but a bit boring.
101 Reviews
Wonderful
MyTinderbox7 March 2022
I am thrilled that Season 9 has finally arrived and I wasn't disappointed with this premiere. WCTH has quite a delightful ensemble cast which entertained me yet again. I am looking forward to seeing what is in store for all the characters during the remainder of the season.
Remains best show on television
pandagal-906747 March 2022
I for one, immensely enjoyed the opening episode of season 9! The previous season didn't end the way some fans thought it should, and while I was surprised by some plot choices, this show and it's writers have always created such meaningful stories that are better than I could imagine. So I choose to continue to watch and LOVE this show because it continues to bring joy to my life. This episode did not disappoint! Lovable returning characters and interesting new faces. Intrigue, romance, laughter, hope, family, community. Hope Valley continues to be my happy place.
Thank you IMDB
Arnie-1300724 April 2022
Warning: Spoilers
I would like to preface my review with a Thank You to IMDB for letting us voice our opinions. For giving us a platform where we can express our disappointment in this show. In fact, my reviews keep getting deleted by others who would like to silence my voice, who don't want everyone to have the opportunity to tell the truth, but I commend IMDB for allowing everyone to express their opinions, whether positive or negative, when it comes to When Calls the Heart.
Now to my review. I watched this show from S1E1, and loved it up until S8. Then new writers took over and completely ruined this show. Now I don't even recognize the heroine, she's no longer a role model or anyone to look up to.
The love story between Jack and Elizabeth was beautiful, and he left the show in S5. But then entered the new Mountie, who was ten times more interesting than Jack. And the love story they told between Elizabeth and Nathan was just beautiful in S6 and S7. Yes he had a secret and was reserved, but Elizabeth was a woman (by her own confession) who looked at the heart and didn't care about expensive gifts. He saw that and knew that about her, and it was evident that it was Nathan that truly knew her and loved her.
But she devastated 70% of the audience when she picked shady, smooth-talking, gambling saloon owner Lucas (The exec Producer gave that percentage on twitter, it didn't come from me), and the audience lost interest and respect for her, as a character. When she picked Lucas over Nathan, it went against all of the preciously held values and the very premise of the show. Since the beginning of S8, Elizabeth is no longer likable nor even recognizable.
I won't watch any further because Lucas and Elizabeth are not believable together as a couple, and they have zero chemistry onscreen. In fact, Chris McNally admitted in an interview that he and Erin failed their chemistry read through test together. Further evidence that he was never meant to be her final choice (because what director in their right mind would cast him in that "endgame" role if they had zero chemistry from day one?) Anyway, as nice as he can be, and as much as they try to whitewash Lucas' character, that lack of chemistry transfers onscreen and makes it cringeworthy to watch.
Elizabeth and Nathan still have more chemistry sitting across the table from each other for 2 seconds, than Lucas and E ever had. I don't know how they are going to turn it off for season 9! Good luck!
But after that horrible, disjointed premiere, I won't be watching. It's evident the writers are still oblivious to their own horrible writing . If you like a good love story, this ain't it! Only angst and heart break and terrible lessons. Steer clear!
Now to my review. I watched this show from S1E1, and loved it up until S8. Then new writers took over and completely ruined this show. Now I don't even recognize the heroine, she's no longer a role model or anyone to look up to.
The love story between Jack and Elizabeth was beautiful, and he left the show in S5. But then entered the new Mountie, who was ten times more interesting than Jack. And the love story they told between Elizabeth and Nathan was just beautiful in S6 and S7. Yes he had a secret and was reserved, but Elizabeth was a woman (by her own confession) who looked at the heart and didn't care about expensive gifts. He saw that and knew that about her, and it was evident that it was Nathan that truly knew her and loved her.
But she devastated 70% of the audience when she picked shady, smooth-talking, gambling saloon owner Lucas (The exec Producer gave that percentage on twitter, it didn't come from me), and the audience lost interest and respect for her, as a character. When she picked Lucas over Nathan, it went against all of the preciously held values and the very premise of the show. Since the beginning of S8, Elizabeth is no longer likable nor even recognizable.
I won't watch any further because Lucas and Elizabeth are not believable together as a couple, and they have zero chemistry onscreen. In fact, Chris McNally admitted in an interview that he and Erin failed their chemistry read through test together. Further evidence that he was never meant to be her final choice (because what director in their right mind would cast him in that "endgame" role if they had zero chemistry from day one?) Anyway, as nice as he can be, and as much as they try to whitewash Lucas' character, that lack of chemistry transfers onscreen and makes it cringeworthy to watch.
Elizabeth and Nathan still have more chemistry sitting across the table from each other for 2 seconds, than Lucas and E ever had. I don't know how they are going to turn it off for season 9! Good luck!
But after that horrible, disjointed premiere, I won't be watching. It's evident the writers are still oblivious to their own horrible writing . If you like a good love story, this ain't it! Only angst and heart break and terrible lessons. Steer clear!
Former Team Nathan and now Team Hope Valley!
pgibbons-839537 March 2022
I was disappointed by S8, but I went into S9 with an open mind, and I am so glad I did! I loved every second of this S9 premier and can't wait to see how these storylines unfold. When the episode was over, I had all the warm and fuzzy feelings that Hope Valley brought in S1-7. Truly loved it!
Go back to the original storyline
amandanolessa20 March 2022
Off to a great start! Fantastic season premiere!
rmas37 March 2022
Fantastic season premiere! They totally delivered with the romance, drama, intrigue, comedy, and hope that they promised. Hope Valley is buzzing with new life, new characters, new businesses, all while keeping the heart of the show - community. It's an ensemble show and despite the short length of each episode, this episode was packed in a way that highlighted our favorite characters and gave them all chances to shine. Transitions were smooth and the storytelling was so easy to follow. I missed these characters so much during the off-season and it's so great to see them back on my screen! Off to a great start! I can't wait to watch the rest of the season!
So disappointing
nallbunch19 March 2022
Warning: Spoilers
What an awful start. It's like a Disney pre teen soap series. There's no storyline! Nothing yo h
Grab onto. Episode 2 was even more ridiculous.what's with the googly eyes with E & L? Poor Chris is so stiff. He acts like he really doesn't like her in real life. Is their "romance" only goona be missing in public and touching each other? Nothing compared to the chemistry with Jack and even with Nathan. It's so sad what this series has evolved into.
Best episode yet
missyslynch7 March 2022
This is the best episode yet! Loved all the storyline. Each one is leading into a wonderful season! I love the relationships and the friendships they are showing. I love that the triangle is over and life can move forward in season 9.
Amazing premiere for the show's 9th season!
Whovian427 March 2022
Hope Valley is growing but it still has what made it so special - a town full of heart. This premiere episode catches us up on a one month time jump and sets the stage for storylines for the rest of the season. It's refreshing to see the overall tone of the season is romance and happiness with a splash of conflict and action. A welcome change from the prior two seasons. Elizabeth's irreplaceable Mountie love story unfortunately ended tragically but our protagonist is moving on with her life with a patient and kind man. If you are a fan of period romance, definitely give this show a chance!
What happened to one of my favorite shows?
boxmom-6411618 March 2022
This show needs to win back its base - the story is very lacking
lrondanini14 March 2022
VERY BAD writing and storytelling. They pushed for a competition last season to reach this point when one guy is crowned King of Show and the other one ( who is a phenomenal actor and who created a phenomenal character ) continues to be hit hard by mediocre scenes and unworthy lines. The disservice to the fans is appalling. Nothing great in S9 thus far.
Great start to season 9
canderoo7 March 2022
Don't waste your time!
kathleenhansley18 March 2022
This once beautiful show has been ruined, sadly. Terrible writing, boring storylines. It's basically a trashy soap opera now. The characters have become shallow, and the hot air balloon? So ridiculous! Don't waste your time! No spoilers, it's already been spoiled.
Fantastic as Ever!
ridesharegramma7 March 2022
I couldn't wait to see the new season and it was so worth it. If you're a true fan of the show, you'll really enjoy this episode. Yes there are some intending to affect the rating by posting misleading reviews, be kind to yourself, ignore the misguided motives and watch for yourself. Season 9 will indeed be Devine.
Wonderful first episode for S9
loieingalla7 March 2022
Love, love the first episode. Lots of sweet and beautiful moments between Lucas and Elizabeth and even Little Jack. I can't get enough of the Lucabeth romance. Rosemary and Lee are adorable together as usual and so are The Yosts and The Canfields. Mei has definitely piqued the Constable's interest. I'm so glad the residents of Hope Valley are back to tell the town's story. I love WCTH. It makes me feel so happy.
Dying a slow painful death
margturnley17 March 2022
This show has lost the plot literally. Elizabeth has turned into a character that I no longer fond of and the whole show has turned into a soap opera. With the demise of Jack in season 5 and the debacle of the season 8 love triangle this show needs to END.
Wonderful Start For Season Nine
delaneymae-564717 March 2022
The first episode did not disappoint! Filled with joy, love, and community! Loved seeing all the characters in Hope Valley and their story lines set in motion. Can't wait to see it all unfold! Side note: It was so wonderful see Elizabeth happy and in love! It's going to be a GREAT season!
Soap Opera
ode2nddn7 March 2022
WCTH should be airing in the middle of the day. It's a soap opera now. If you love soap operas, this show is for you. If you watched WCTH for happy, family friendly feel good stories, those days are over unfortunately. I don't think I've even been this disappointed to the demise of a favorite show before.
The wait was worth it!
shelsard7 March 2022
Truth is in the ratings
Sar-835997 April 2022
Warning: Spoilers
Let's be honest. No show deserves so many 10/10's. Don't be fooled. It's the small band of Lucas fans trying to bring up the ratings. But the proof is in the pudding.
If you want to know the truth, look back at the ratings of this show Season 1-7. A collective and well deserved 8 to 9 stars, consistently. There were good writers, a cohesive storyline, and the show was heartwarming. And a joy to watch!
Now, do yourself a favor and look at Season 8 ratings. Consistently in the sixes, sometimes even lower (the finale got a 5 and for good reason), and that's generous!!! I'll tell you straight: it stinks. Why? Because of the new Show runner and Head writer, who is writing this show into the ground. He didn't bother to even watch the first 7 seasons of the show. So therefore, from Season 8 on, nothing he writes makes sense, every episode is full of angst and anxiety (not to mention that this is his well known undisputed style of writing - if you don't believe me look into the show Chesapeake Shores, which he was previously fired from!). Gone is all the feels and all the heart warmth. This show is now the sad shadow of its former self.
Sadly, this carried forward into Season 9, as you can see, and it's just getting worse.
It's sad for the exceptional actors who are given nothing good to work with. And the amazing crew that love working together, though probably not so much under his writing style. And, it's horrible for the faithful fans who kept watching, hoping it would get better. It hasn't.
But above all, it's sad for the legacy of the show, which has showcased so many beautiful stories and so many countless, wonderful moments over 7 seasons. Not to mention the whole host of actors who have come and gone, and poured their heart and soul into it, over so many years, and so beautifully.
Now, I find myself among of a collective chorus of tens of thousands of disappointed fans, who only wish someone would get their act together and fire these horrible writers! It's the only hope to save this show!
If you reading this, do yourself a favor: watch the first 7 seasons, enjoy them, and let the show end with the "hug heard round the world". Pretend Season 8 and 9 don't exist - they aren't worth your time anyway!
If you want to know the truth, look back at the ratings of this show Season 1-7. A collective and well deserved 8 to 9 stars, consistently. There were good writers, a cohesive storyline, and the show was heartwarming. And a joy to watch!
Now, do yourself a favor and look at Season 8 ratings. Consistently in the sixes, sometimes even lower (the finale got a 5 and for good reason), and that's generous!!! I'll tell you straight: it stinks. Why? Because of the new Show runner and Head writer, who is writing this show into the ground. He didn't bother to even watch the first 7 seasons of the show. So therefore, from Season 8 on, nothing he writes makes sense, every episode is full of angst and anxiety (not to mention that this is his well known undisputed style of writing - if you don't believe me look into the show Chesapeake Shores, which he was previously fired from!). Gone is all the feels and all the heart warmth. This show is now the sad shadow of its former self.
Sadly, this carried forward into Season 9, as you can see, and it's just getting worse.
It's sad for the exceptional actors who are given nothing good to work with. And the amazing crew that love working together, though probably not so much under his writing style. And, it's horrible for the faithful fans who kept watching, hoping it would get better. It hasn't.
But above all, it's sad for the legacy of the show, which has showcased so many beautiful stories and so many countless, wonderful moments over 7 seasons. Not to mention the whole host of actors who have come and gone, and poured their heart and soul into it, over so many years, and so beautifully.
Now, I find myself among of a collective chorus of tens of thousands of disappointed fans, who only wish someone would get their act together and fire these horrible writers! It's the only hope to save this show!
If you reading this, do yourself a favor: watch the first 7 seasons, enjoy them, and let the show end with the "hug heard round the world". Pretend Season 8 and 9 don't exist - they aren't worth your time anyway!
Exceptional!!!
coachjohnston-497057 March 2022
Warning: Spoilers
This episode did not disappoint! The couple of poor reviews could not even have watched based on their reviews. The chemistry between all of the characters is incredible and they are all fun to watch. One commented on Nate having amnesia and that's how he will forget Elizabeth??? Seriously? That is only one scene from next week and nothing more and who knows if he was even being serious...He will not have amnesia for very long. The new characters were well played and introduced at a good pace. I am looking forward to next week and the rest of the season. It will prove to be a great one!!
Family Friendly full of Love & Friendship
brwxsspp7 March 2022
Soap Valley here we come!!
caroljhoey7 March 2022
Warning: Spoilers
Oh dear, things were worse than I expected. The acting from the lead couple seems forced at times. Their expressions seem too giggly and forced smiles. Lucas dropped character once when he called Fiona, Kayla. I just don't find it believable. I am very disappointed that the so called teased "love interest" for Nathan (Mei) is married. They seem to be doing their best to sully the character of Nathan and make him fall for and flirt with a married woman. This is so inappropriate. No wonder John Tinker (the writer) was worried that we would think the writing team was picking on Nathan. You are picking on Nathan. Any TN that did come back to see if they could still stomach the new season with E and L center stage, will be out again soon enough as Nathan's character gets picked on given heartbreak even more than season 8.
Find other shows to watch. This soap opera is nothing like the previously wonderful heart warming, period drama show it was from seasons 1-7.
Find other shows to watch. This soap opera is nothing like the previously wonderful heart warming, period drama show it was from seasons 1-7.
See also
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