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.

Elizabeth and Jack are closer than ever after their first kiss; Abigail confronts Bill about a surprising discovery that could put their romantic future on hold; the mining disaster trial takes a turn.

Jack and Elizabeth get a fresh start; a surprise guest for Abigail; Rosemary and Lee have an adventure; an unwanted visitor from Pastor Hogan's past; new beginnings for the town make this a very special New Year's celebration.

A peddler comes to Hope Valley selling the townspeople his wears and teaching them lessons about joy and giving; the townspeople come together after they realize that the recently displaced settlers in the area will not have a proper Christmas.