
Elizabeth Thatcher is a young teacher accustomed to high society, so she experiences culture shock when she gets her first classroom assignment in Coal Valley. Life in the small mining town is filled with challenges. A recent explosion has killed more than a dozen of the town's miners, compelling the widows of those men to work in the mines to earn money. Constable Jack Thornton, also a newcomer, is not as welcoming, because he believes Thatcher's wealthy father doomed his career by assigning him to Coal Valley so he could protect Elizabeth. Over time, though, Elizabeth and Jack become closer and begin a relationship. Janette Oke's books about the Canadian West inspired the series.

When a group of orphans become stranded in Hope Valley for Christmas, their caretakers lead Bill to investigate the circumstances of their arrival.

The residents of Hope Valley celebrate the spirit of Christmas and their connection to one another during the holiday season.

Elizabeth and Allie plan a birthday party for Nathan; Lee and Rosemary weigh business responsibilities against family time; Lucas settles into his role as governor.

Rosemary and Bill team up to investigate a case they believe shouldn't be closed; the women of Hope Valley start a day care; Hickam and Mei celebrate a milestone.