When Calls the Heart (TV Series) When Stars Align (2024) User Reviews

Fully enjoyment, lots of wish fulfillment, and a good set-up for the season!

[guardedheartie · 8/10 · 10 April 2024]

I really enjoyed this episode -- I can't give it a 10/10 because there has to be room to go up, but I do think it was perfect in many ways. Also to have balance, I will tell you a couple things I did NOT like about the episode.

The episode opened with a No Gaps scene that picked up immediately after the s10 finale cliff-hanger. This was a new thing for WCTH, and much appreciated. Then after a diary montage, there was a four month gap.

I was happy to see a lot of sparks between Nathan and Elizabeth, strong friendship feels between Elizabeth and Rosemary, a wonderful surprise scene between Nathan and his daughter.

Lucas had a really strong presence in the episode, after a sad and scary s10 finale for his character. I feel a lot of purpose and momentum in him and am excited for the rest of the season.

I was impressed that there were actual outdoor scenes of Union City and at least one new set there. For ages now, When Calls the Heart has only had scenes in Hope Valley and it felt lame and cheap. I'm glad that is changing.

Also the ciniematography is improved this season -- more attention is given to colors in the background, to angles, close-ups and etc. It really improves the viewing experience.

I was loving the story so much that I was easily able to suspend disbelief over the little things -- but there are some nagging questions. For example, why did it seem like Nathan rode his horse home from Union City which was a 22 train ride away? Why was Lucas' head bandage just a single ply of roller guaze around his head?

I fully recommend that everyone and everyone watch season 11. I seems like the cast and production team are thriving creatively under the leadership of showrunner Lindsay Sturman!

Cliffhanger resolved or was it?

[lil-01126 · 7/10 · 8 April 2024]

The episode opens with Lucas in the headlights and we hear two shots. But, he has amnesia and doesn't know who shot him. Elizabeth and Bill travel to CC to be with him. He makes a remarkable recovery. Loved that he was able to see little Jack. Fast forward 4 months. Nathan returns from his investigation of the shooting. He and Bill both have questions. It just seemed too easy. I'm sure there's more to the story and I'm anxious to find out. Elizabeth decides to cut her hair because she feels a change in herself. The sad part about that is that we find out Fiona is gone. Rosemary ends up cutting her hair. She shows up at the saloon just before Lucas's speech to unveil it. Everyone loves it, especially Nathan who terms it "great." Faith is saddened by Fiona leaving. She tells Minnie she's lonely. Enter the cutest little girl Lily. Her grandma is in hospital and asks Faith to watch over her. I am so looking forward to this adorable story. There was a lot to like in the episode. Lee and RM navigate parenthood. Mike and Mei discover they really like each other. Nathan and Elizabeth haven't really had much time yet. I'm sure that's coming.

That Hope Valley Feeling!

[ele117 · 8/10 · 15 April 2024]

The Season 11 Premiere started out slow which was a nice change in pace. It allowed us to catch up with all the happenings between the season up until present day.

This episode brought back the community feel to When Calls the Heart, or as I say "That Hope Valley Feeling" of everything will be alright in the end. The community rallied together to support one another in times of need.

I am the most excited for Nathan and Elizabeth's separate journey's and how their paths will eventually meet for good. Although they have organic chemistry it is still important they talk about everything that has transpired in the last 3 years.

I would recommend this season and series to anyone wanting a "feel good" TV show!

Hope Valley is hopeful again

[travelingal · 10/10 · 8 April 2024]

The first episode felt like coming home again. In the first few minutes last season's cliffhanger is addressed and a new chapter begins. I felt like they set up several good storylines for the new season and I'm sure there will be more to come as far as storylines go but it was a great start and I'm looking forward to seeing how this season plays out!! It's nice to be able to watch a heart warming, family friendly, romance, with a bit of drama and mystery! There is a something for everyone in this series and I do believe this will be a very successful season!!! The writers have really brought it back to the roots. I know not everyone is happy about that but all the negative that you put out totally defeats the theme of this series, and you may not have been the fan you claim to be.

Fabulous season premier!

[debbiech · 10/10 · 8 April 2024]

The people complaining have an agenda. This was the sweetest show! You can see how it's setting up all the stories for this season. This shows is just feel good! I smiled the entire time! Faith has a great story! Lucas is fine and working hard as governor and I really hope that Henry will accept his offer! Anytime Rosemary is on is magic - but her and Lee seeing Goldie walk was precious. Rosemary and Elizabeth have one of my favorite relationships. Minnie has such a calm presence and want her as a friend lol seeing the kids! And Nathan and Elizabeth gave me butterflies. As did Mei and Mike! Well done!

Recycled Content

[drsmith65 · 1/10 · 9 April 2024]

Nothing new presented here. There is a total lack of originality in the last season and the premier for S11 has repeated it yet again. The characters are just caricatures of their former complex and believable personalities. Where is the Mei the brave pharmacist? Where is the trailblazing doctor Faith going out on her own? Where is the astute business man Lee? It is disappointing that this is now just a bunch of boring shmuck with Barbie and Ken leading the way. Not a good example of family friendly when there is clear emotional cheating. What happened to you WCTH? I know. You cowered to the crowd, to the retcon, to the totally destructive behavior and lies of the EPs and the new show runner. Good job jumping the shark.

When Stars Align - a Stellar Season Opener from Start to Finish

[KLForCALF · 9/10 · 8 April 2024]

First of all...Wow...What an opener to a season that-at least for me and a ton of Hearties-promises to deliver the goods, especially after S10.

Normally, season openers aren't the first ones that stick out in my mind, except for the fact that they're the first glimpses we see of the characters and where they're at, but wow. "When Stars Align" has outdone itself. The writers (massive kudos), the actors, the storylines, are already off to a strong start.

The season begins where the S10E12 cliffhanger left off with Nathan and Elizabeth, finally with a long overdue and deserved/earned moment of their own, interrupted by Bill who let's them know that Lucas has been shot. Elizabeth then travels 22 hours with Bill to Capitol City to be by Lucas' side and see if he wakes up and recovers. No, not to rekindle their relationship and reawaken old feelings. Not in the least (I'm sorry to all the Lucabeth fans reading this). That door has been closed at the end of S10, and even more so, has been made clearer throughout this episode. But to be there for him, knowing that there's so much he can give back to the territories as a fair and just leader, a hero, and a good man.

Of course, it's a given that Lucas recovers, and is alright. Even if it had to take me more than 3 trains of thought, convincing, and reframing to be convinced of Elizabeth and Lucas as a couple in S9 and 10, something I genuinely loved coming out of an E/L relationship, however safe it was as a romance, was the friendship between Lucas and Little Jack. I'm overjoyed to have gotten a glimpse of their friendship when he visited the hospital, and I'm grateful that this relationship won't necessarily go away. Little Jack has a ton of amazing make figures in his life, Bill and Lee being the steadfast guardian and godfather, but Lucas being a trusted friend-or really-his Buddy (again, meaning a trusted friend). It's safe to say that Little Jack will have no shortage of uncles in his life. Now he's got a Governor for one.

On the other hand, Elizabeth comes to a clearer realization that life is short and anything could happen to anyone, even if Lucas did survive the shooting, which continues to stir a reawakening in her heart if buried longtime romantic and deep feelings for Nathan that she had never lost, but kept at bay, yet the love and respect they had for one another maintaining their friendship, despite her breaking his heart and telling him she wasn't in love with him in S8 (ummm...there's such thing as subtext. Watch a ton of slow burn romances, push and pulls, on TV and movies as romance tropes. N&E fit the bill like a glove and always have since S6/7), or really, in other words, requesting that he stop fighting for her love.

We then see everyone taking their own steps towards said fresh change, a few being... Elizabeth choosing to change her hair, Rosemary, ever the steadfast and loyal sister of a friend having her back, Nathan and Elizabeth running into each other yet unsure of how the other feels, awkward yet utterly adorable and lighthearted in nature (well-deserved and well-earned after all the tough stuff they've been through), Elizabeth and Little Jack sharing more little moments, Nathan watching his little girl grow up before his eyes, Lucas asking Henry to join his team, Lucas and Lee teaming up to bring a resort to Hope Valley (always his second home, but the land he swears to protect as Governor), Bill, Nathan, and Rosemary sharing a suspicion of a different shooter, Mei and Mike and their new and sweet romance (a la Norman Dorman and Rita Haywith, if you've seen Signed, Sealed, Delivered), Fiona taking a bold step out of Hope Valley indefinitely to join the Suffragettes outside of Canada in Nashville (sad!! But true to her character), and Faith struggling with loneliness, seeking advice and help from Minnie, but soon discovering a newfound purpose in life when she finds herself taking care of a little orphaned girl whose grandmother has fallen severely ill.

Wow...that's a lot for one episode, and I only give this 9 stars due to the many questions I have about what's to come next. A lot of new storylines are in place, but there are a couple of loose ends, ONLY because it's impossible to tie them all up in a single episode. Either way, S11 started out with a bang (so to speak, and ABSOLUTELY NO PUN INTENDED, dare I get cancelled) in an explosion of "infinite possibilities," various storylines, well-roundedness for each and every present character, and no dead-end for every one of them. Each story and each character has somewhere to go. Even with not as much angst, one can see that each lighthearted moment was earned after prior angst, the calm after the storm, if you will. There are so many beautiful places "When Calls the Heart" can go from here, and I am only eager to see where the rest of this season takes us. It's off to a brilliant shining STARt (pun intended this time), not only taking the show back to its roots and capturing the true essence and magic of the show that suddenly vamoosed after S7, yet miraculously returned in S10 and now S11 (in my honest opinion, after many rewatches and looking back), but opening the door to endless possibilities.

I can only hope that Hallmark recognizes this pure magic of the show, shining brighter than ever, fully and hopefully decides to renew WCTH for a Season 12 midway through Season 11. If they've done it for "The Way Home," they can hopefully do it again for "When Calls the Heart." My only concern is that the show has gone on for a long time, and for some shows that go on past 10 seasons, a network tends to call it quits. However, pragmatic as I seem, I am hopeful. And in the off-chance that it doesn't get a Season 12? Let's just say that this season will be a stellar one to mark a legacy of a heartwarming family show that touched the hearts of millions everywhere.

Recycled

[ezebenme-98281 · 1/10 · 9 April 2024]

I thought S10 was terrible writing, but S11 is even worse. Even the beginning was written bad. Lucas was shot, and almost died and they give it 3 minites screen time. They are recycling script from other writers work and changing one character with the other. Terribly writing. I loved this show from S1 to S9. But I'm no longer a fan. This use to be a show with morals, but now is a place where lying, cheating and betrayal is rewarded. It has become a soap opera. The New Showrunner has ruined this once beautiful show. I have watched this show since the Pilot Movie, and It use to be my happy place, but it now, only brings heartache.

When Stars Align

[briani-40467 · 10/10 · 8 April 2024]

This was a well-written episode that answers last season's cliffhanger questions (The shooting of Lucas) and finds the residents of Hope Valley confronting the future. Nathan returns after the Mountie investigation, but questions still linger, and Bill and Rosemary are determined to uncover the truth. Faith's life unexpectedly changes in a sweet way. Mike and Mei grow closer, and there might be sparks between Nathan and Elizabeth. This episode has a real community feel as the town rallies around an injured Lucas and supports him as he takes on his new role as Governor. Lee and Rosemary continue to balance their busy professional lives with the responsibilities of new parenthood.

Ruined a great show

[debmartin-67263 · 1/10 · 9 April 2024]

Saying the writers and new show runner ruined this show is an understatement. It is the worst writing and story telling that has been on television. The history of the last 3 seasons was just rewritten after the creator said it was settled. Viewers are supposed to just forget those seasons happened. They are just using the same old material and scenes as they used before. In other words, choosing to be lazy. It's pitiful and sloppy. The showrunner's last few shows have bombed and this one will too. It is now a silly soap opera with a heroine that can't make up her mind and is ridiculous. Don't waste your time with this show.

Best opener ever!

[ks040404 · 10/10 · 10 April 2024]

This show was so beautiful!! It was full of hope, community and LOVE!!! It was an absolutely perfect opener!! Lee & Rosemary as parents are just too cute!! Rosemary following Bill around was hilarious, Bill reading Nathan about the investigation was spot on & the haircut scene was so cute! Oh and Robert offering to cut Elizabeth's hair was too funny!! I love how Minnie was so concerned with making sure Faith felt loved & Joseph supporting Minnie! Faith and Lily will be the cutest new family!! Mike & Mei...I see wedding bells in their future!! Allie is so grownup!!! The "I love you's" shared were precious!! :)

Back, Better than Ever

[PeriodDramaFan88 · 10/10 · 8 April 2024]

Great job by the creators of this show! They listened to the fans and made a tough decision to fix the big mistake they made at the end of Season 8. It's rare for people to admit when they messed up, so this is really refreshing.

The first episode of the new season was wonderful and had all the warm, friendly vibes that this show had in Seasons 1-7.

I loved all the new stories they started this season. Love Elizabeth's new hair cut, the humor with Rosemary and Bill, and love seeing how the kids have grown! I'm really excited to see what happens with Lucas's character. And of course, I can't wait to watch the cute love story between Nathan and Elizabeth grow. I'm so invested in this adorable blended family on TV!

Overall, the creators have done an amazing job with this premier episode! They've shown they're willing to listen to the fans and make the hard creative choices to keep the show true to its roots. I can't wait to see what else is coming, and I'll be watching every week.

Stars, Planets, and the Space between Words

[aprilskau · 10/10 · 8 April 2024]

I am recovering from surgery, so there is little I can physically do. But I looked forward to this premiere episode of this season, and it did not disappoint. The unveiling of Elizabeth's new hairstyle played out so well, they made me feel like I was in the room with them. It was delightful to watch the subtle looks between Elizabeth and Nathan, causing me to remind myself what a great actor Erin Krakow is, as well as Kevin McGarry. When Calls the Heart has returned to a heart-warming, sweet, wonderful story, similar once again, to Janette Oke's that I read so long ago. I am thrilled to find hope restored in Hope Valley, and an opportunity for me to not dwell on my physical recovery.

Wow! What a season opener

[sroark-57605 · 10/10 · 10 April 2024]

The only negative thing I have to say about S11 episode one is Fiona leaving.

The plus this season is that every character on the show got some good time on scene. Loving the direction the show is going. WCTH is back and I'm so on board.

I can't wait to see how Lindsay S. Weaves all these storylines together from Nathan & Elizabeth love story, two Rosemary and Bill investigating Lucas shooting, to Faith and that adorable little child, to Lucas and Henry's new "possible" working relationship. Little Goldie walking and how Rosemary and Lee will be able to work and raise Goldie, can't wait to see Allie's big storyline this season. So much to look forward to. The show is off to a great start.

Hearties restored

[Sierrabeautycollege · 10/10 · 9 April 2024]

The first episode of S11 was heartwarming with a little humor. I love the awkward moments between Elizabeth's and Nathan's characters, they are adorable, Lucas was right for the office of governor and I hope that we will see more of that story unfold. I'm sad to see that Fiona won't be returning to Hope Valley it won't seem right without her. I've watched the episode 5 times already, and I'm looking forward to next Sunday. I'm glad I gave the new season a chance. The writers did a wonderful job keep it up. Here's to many more Seasons of the best show in TV. Love love love Season 11 of When Calls the Heart!

Great Start to the season!

[theheartieobserver · 10/10 · 8 April 2024]

Such a great start to Season 11! All of the storylines this year are engaging and interesting! Faith's storyline has me so excited along with the budding romance between Nathan and Elizabeth!

The camera work and use of space in this episode was a welcome and innovative change that I loved! Hopefully this carries into the rest of the season! It gave the show a nice feel and reminded me of Seasons 1-5, which I also loved!

I loved how this episode didn't give us everything at once, but is keeping some mystery and intrigue for future episodes. Overall, a great start to Season 11! I can't wait for more episodes like this in the future!

HOPE VALLEY as it's meant to be

[sneezymcsnifferson-62557 · 10/10 · 9 April 2024]

So glad to be back in the true Hope Valley! I love Faith's new story line. And I found it quite interesting that 'taking the plunge' meant two totally different things to Elizabeth and Rosemary! LOL! Nathan's humility is still on point. And it will be interesting to see how Nathan copes with his daughter approaching adulthood! Interesting return to real life issues and how people cope. However, Hope Valley could probably use a hospital before it gets a resort. JMO!!! I guess my review is too short because I tend to be as quiet as Nathan instead of as loquacious as Lucas! All righty then!!!!!!!

Great Start!

[bvidez · 9/10 · 9 April 2024]

What a great start to S11! Feels like you're home again with the way the writers reeled us in. Every scene keeps one attention as no one is left behind in this Season. Everyone has a story and it fits. No one is acting out of place and it's great to see cohesive and honest storylines this time around. S10 saw a true calling of a return to the roots with Elizabeth finally answering her heart's call. How many of us can step out of the box someone else molded for us? Why should she marry someone that she knows hasn't gotten the full depth of her love? Because others say that she should? By leaving Lucas who did everything for her, she's selfish, a liar and a cheater? Please show us the perfect person because they don't exist. She didn't intentionally mislead Lucas but she felt that he was dependable and had no reason to be lost and would always be there, safe and comfortable. She knows Nathan is her next great love and he loves her unconditionally and unabashedly.

I hope those that are criticizing see that they find fault only because their hero no longer has the girl and while no fault of their own, how they navigate the rest of the season says a lot about them. All in all, this episode was beautiful and I can't wait for the others.

The return of Hope Valley

[ydsalemary · 10/10 · 8 April 2024]

This is the first time in two years that I have been excited to watch. The first episode did not disappoint! Gone is all the angst of the last two seasons. It was great to see the characters returning to themselves which was like a breath of fresh air and very heartwarming. There are several storylines that I'm looking forward to, especially Nathan and Elizabeth. My hope is that they get married and see how they work things out with the blended family (so many stories to tell). It will be fun to watch Bill and Rosemary work together. I'm glad Lucas is ok and I'm sure he will do a good job as governor. I have to say kudos to Lindsay and the writing team. They have done a wonderful job bringing the heart back to WCTH. Great job team! I love what you've done so far and can't wait for the rest of the season. I hope we get a season 12 and many more.

Hope in Hope Valley

[thebuzz-2 · 10/10 · 9 April 2024]

After S8 I never thought I'd return to watch WCTH, but I started back S10 and what a joy! The show has returned to the refreshing, beautiful stories that S1-7 was. The characters have all returned to their formal selves and the wholesome tv show is back. This was one of the best season openers of any tv show I have ever watched. It laid the foundation for an exciting season for all characters and we are finally headed toward the greatest love story that has been in the works since S6 - Nathan and Elizabeth! The new showrunner has really done her research to get to know the characters and her writing is superb!

Back to "stories well told"

[mrsacos · 10/10 · 9 April 2024]

I'm so glad this show is back to its original warm fuzzy heartfelt. I didn't watch season 9 because nothing made sense anymore. S10 brought in a new writer (and a female!!!) who turned this ship around! Stories are warm and finished again. Most characters are back to their good old self, friends are friendly again. I love it again! So glad! I hope she stays on for a long time!!!

The protagonist is on a happy path to a great love, the antagonist (well, one of them) got a beautiful redemption story, other people are finding joy and happiness again, no more screaming at each other for no reason.

Awesome Season Premiere

[waitngrace · 10/10 · 9 April 2024]

It was great seeing Hope Valley getting back to where it used to be from years ago. There was a great balance of all the characters! Love seeing the Coulters as both parents and very active community members! Faith's new adventure will be exciting! Love the blossoming love of Mei & Mike! It's awesome to see the kids more visible again! I'm glad that Lucas is on the mend and good things are in store. Most of all, thankful that we are finally seeing Nathan and Elizabeth on the same page! Looking forward to this season for all of Hope Valley but especially for our beloved Mountie & Teacher! THANKS!

FANTASTIC OPENING EPISODE

[tgjczybt · 10/10 · 9 April 2024]

Amazing, amazing! I loved seeing all our different characters and being introduced to there new story lines this episode. It felt like everyone got enough time on screen and nothing was rushed. Not to mention, the cinematography has been so amazing this season and season 10! I also love how we are slowly moving into a newer time period which is reflected in everyone's outfits! As far as I'm concerned this was an amazing introduction to the season! I can't wait to see what else is in store for our beloved characters of hope valley. When calls the heart never fails us with its storylines and joy.

Wonderful. Back to our normal hope valley

[ckbqmrrp · 10/10 · 9 April 2024]

Watching episode 1 makes it exciting for episode 2. The story lines are starting off great actors looking wonderful together. Nathan and Elisabeth are a beautiful couple little jack is so sweet and Rosemary and Lee having all their first with baby Goldie. Hate Fiona is gone. This season seems to be back to its roots. The writer has fixed our story and made it more interesting. Every season we get to see a romance form between Nathan and Elisabeth grow stronger. Interesting on how the story of faith and the little girl plays out. It will be fun watching Robert at the barber shop. Hickems romance is cute. Lovin my hope valley again.

So good to be heading back to Hope Vally

[daniellejkern-00453 · 10/10 · 8 April 2024]

I left watching in S8 and S9 due to horrible writing and inconsistent stories . S10 started WCTH to head back to its original story. The first episode of S11 was amazing. It shows promise and hope that show we loved is back and the beginning of a wonderful future for Nathan and Elizabeth -and all the Hope valley residents. After the horrible stories from S8 and s9 it's refreshing to see hope and faith returning. If this episode is anything to go by this season is going to give us all the show we fell in love with and the story we all wanted the Mountie and the teacher with a beautiful blended family.