Young and determined Elizabeth Thatcher arrives in rural Coal Valley, where she has accepted a teaching post, and is immediately faced with the challenges that come with prairie living.

Coal Valley's widows, facing eviction from their homes, strike a deal with mine boss Henry Gowen, which leads them into the mines. Lead by Abigail Stanton and Cat Montgomery, the women work to win the rights to their homes.

Elizabeth takes a special interest in one of her students, Rosaleen Sullivan, who has not spoken since the mine disaster. Jack begins to look into the church fire, but puts the investigation on hold when Rosaleen goes missing.

Evidence against Cat Montgomery is piling up and Jack has no choice but to arrest her for the burning of the church. Elizabeth takes care of the Montgomery children while Jack attempts to prove Cat's innocence.

New miners arrive in Coal Valley in preparation for the re-opening of the mine. One of the new miners, Billy Hamilton, takes a special interest in Elizabeth and Jack becomes suspicious of Billy's intentions.

Coal Valley is abuzz regarding the annual "Miner's Games" as Jack continues to worry about the budding relationship between Elizabeth and Billy. Complications arise in Carla's pregnancy.