Straight From the Heart: When Calls the Heart Season 9 Episode Review (Updated)

    What the what?!? Lucas got nailed in the face?!? What?!?

    Hey Hearties, and welcome to this week's episode review! I hope your week has been amazing so far, as well as your March. Can you believe we're almost in April? 2022 is just flying by.

    Anyhow, this week we were graced with yet another wonderful episode of WCTH Season 9. I very much enjoyed Straight From the Heart. It was so sweet, and light, yet had some great drama and mystery. And one giant punch that came out of nowhere! But more on that later.

    This season John Tinker seems to be keeping things really lighthearted and fun, which I'm actually really enjoying. Last season was just so tense and stressful, and didn't leave me happy and satisfied after an episode ended. It's almost like he's giving us a chance to breathe again, and it's been so nice to sit down and smile as I watch my favorite show.

    Elizabeth and Lucas are also just so, SO in love, and maybe some people would find their behavior too mushy, but I love it. Really, they are so sweet, so romantic, and I absolutely enjoy seeing them together without the stress and tension of the triangle. Now they're so comfortable, and honestly almost feel like a married couple. But again, more on that later. ;)

    Well, without further ado... Let's dive in!

Side Notes:

    Allie has yet to make an appearance which is really weird. I'm really unsure whether Jadea Miller just couldn't make it to set until later, or if John Tinker didn't want Allie in these earlier episodes. I know she shows up later, (I believe she's in next week's episode) I'm just saying it's weird that she's not here.

    Again Henry didn't get much screen time, but it is interesting that he's agreed to stay on with the oil company. Also it was cute seeing him around Little Jack, with Lucas even asking Henry to watch him for a moment. I actually kind of wish I could have seen that.

    Fiona is also still gone wherever it is she went. It seems to be a habit that she disappears after the first two episodes, and then comes back in the latter half of the season.

Nathan & Mei

    Guys... It didn't hit me until after I had finished watching the episode but... Nathan has officially gone on his first dinner date since he came on the show! And yes I know it wasn't a 'date-date' but... Wow. Nathan has finally gone on his first dinner date with a woman in Hope Valley. If only he knew what he was getting himself into...

    The poor guy. He's just been through so much heartbreak, and now as he's healing and moving on Mei comes along and catches his eye. And I'm not saying that Mei is some terrible person. On the contrary I think she's kind, with a good and generous heart. I just know Nathan doesn't have the full story, and unless she comes clean soon I think Nathan may get another kick to his fragile heart. But the man truly deserves to be happy, and Mei seems to bring him so much happiness and even comfort. She understands him, and is there to help him through this tough time. I'd even say she brings out some good qualities in Nathan, and just makes him smile.

    I will also say I am still not sold on them as a couple however. I've yet to feel the chemistry and just see them click, you know? But it's still early, and Mei is still wary of whatever she's dealing with. But as for Nathan, once again I enjoyed watching him this episode. I like his humor, and I'm really enjoying this playful side he's been showing this season. His look at Ned after asking Mei out? Lol! Nathan's not dumb, and knows if Florence even catches the slightest hint of romance between him and Mei the story will be all over town. :D

    As for Mei... So she is married. Or was married. Or was sort of married? I'm still not sure. Ugh! Guys, I was so excited when she sat down with Bill to discuss her problem, but was disappointed with the lack of info I got. It appears that she is or was indeed married to this Jeffery. Whether she still is remains to be seen as she claims it's 'complicated.' It seems like she may have been married to him at one point, but then possibly divorced him or her married was annulled. Maybe something like that. I mean who knows. Maybe she had a sort of marriage of convenience, where she was really only married to him by name and law. Either way, her words of being a fugitive from her husband sound quite... bad. This Jeffery doesn't sound like a good man so far, especially if she's on the run from him. My question, of course, is why? Why is she running from him? Why did she marry him? Why is she not married to him anymore if that's the case? Honestly it better be with how she's acting around Nathan. 

    I'm so curious to get the whole story, but Mr. Tinker is probably going to stretch things out for awhile. I'll just have to wait. I'm also very curious about this new guy who possibly ran into Nathan! I believe this may be this 'Arthur' character I've heard about, and I'm curious to find out if he did hit Nathan, and just who he is. (More on him later.)

The Coulters

     

    Okay, I have to ask... What happened to Lee's lumber mill? How has that company kept him so incredibly busy ever since Season 2, but all of a sudden he just has SO MUCH time to work for Rosemary? I mean, don't get me wrong, it is nice to see him doing something new. I just don't know how he has the time to do both jobs, especially with Jesse gone. I also feel like Lee hiring Joseph wasn't explained enough. It wasn't talked about a whole lot, so it's kind of weird to hear that Joseph is book keeping for Lee now. But, oh well. :)

    Either way, I'm really enjoying how sweet and loving Lee and Rosemary are this season. I mean, they always have been, but I think last season things were just not the same between them. There wasn't the same level of gentle love that there is in this season, and it is so nice and honestly just a breath of fresh air. Rosemary has found her calling and is very good at running the paper, what with all her confidental sources and all. And she loves hat she does. Now she's being so sweet, understanding, and loving to her husband as he tries to find a new calling in his own life.

    Now I have to say I'm unsure if he's going to stay at the newspaper, if I'm being honest. I just don't know if that's really his calling. I almost wonder if Hickam will somehow step down from being mayor and Lee will take his place. But for now Lee is really trying to make a go of working at the Valley Voice, even writing articles. Again I never took him as a writer, but it's an interesting new side of Lee. If only he didn't have to write about Hickam being mayor. It's like rubbing salt in a still fresh wound, and I have to admit I verbally scolded him when he started doubting Hickam's abilities as mayor. But his wife knocked some sense in him. Lol! I'll be curious to see where things go for both Lee and Rosemary.

The Canfields

    Oh, Cooper... You poor sweet child. I actually think Elias Leacock's acting has improved since Season 8 just by watching his facial expressions and such. The poor boy is certainly going through something, but I just don't know what exactly is wrong. One thing's for sure... he loves his teacher. I get the feeling that somehow Elizabeth is involved in this. I don't know how, but she just seems to be. Cooper was heartbroken to hear how he'd caused Elizabeth trouble, and had upset her. I mean... he was literally crying in her arms. (Sniff!) I'm just... confused. 

    Why is he so upset lately? First he's causing trouble, then he'd not doing his chores, then he doesn't want to go to church, and now he doesn't like Mr. Landis. (Which I don't blame him there.) But he was so stubborn and angry, stating that he would glue the man's hat all over again, and that his dad just doesn't understand. I just get the feeling that we've yet to get to the bottom of his problem. Like the real, underlying issue behind everything. I'm very curious to find out what that is. This little boy needs help, healing, and love.

    On a side note, I'm curious to see if Joseph buys into Lee's lumber company, and if Minnie buys into the cafe. I'm also curious to see how they deal with Cooper. The boy was so proud of his dad after Joseph caught the guy who had the bent up car. Which also brings me to the question... who is that guy? I'm thinking he may not have been the one to hit Nathan, but was driving the car that did, and may know who really hit Nathan. Or he just flat out did it. After all... You don't run when you have nothing to hide. Good job catching him, Joseph!

Bill, Molly, & Mike

    Mike and Bill as neighbors? Lol! Oh, isn't Bill going to love that. Just a daily reminder that Mike won the election and he didn't. How lovely. Honestly that was so sweet of Mike to find a new office for himself. He really could have kicked Bill out, but instead just found a new space for himself. You're a sweetheart Mike.

    And it's official. The Bill and Molly romance is over. Dead. Burned out. How do I feel about this? Meh... I sort of would have been fine with either outcome. I never would have thought I'd be okay with Bill and Molly as a couple, but somehow they worked. Molly could match Bill's ire, and brought him comfort and happiness. I very possibly would have enjoyed seeing them as a permanent couple, so it's kind of sad that they broke up. It just means that they're going to stay single much longer and may very possibly continue to have romances that never amount to anything. But hey! Molly actually mentioned her daughter! Oh my jelly beans! I didn't see that coming!

 

 

Wyman & Landis

    Wyman might have killed someone!?! And in Brookfield!?! And Gabe's name was mentioned but he didn't have the kindness to show up and make the Hearties' day?!? (I tease, I tease... :D ) But wow. Wyman is turning out to be an even worse baddie than I thought he was. And to make things worse, he's got that giant of a man named Spurlock to help him. Honestly when is Elizabeth going to learn that Pinkerton's name? How long will they keep us in suspense? All I do know is that someone needs to catch this guy, because he is pure bad news.

    I also need to mention Mr. Landis showing up again. I have mixed feelings about the man. I don't think he's all bad to be honest, and may have some good intentions at heart. He's just a bit... stiff. Sort of stubborn, and unwilling to show Elizabeth and her students some grace. Elizabeth also doesn't help the situation as she has quite the chip on her shoulder when it comes to the man. I believe her burning desire to protect her students makes her a bit hasty to get agitated at the man. But on the flip side... Mr. Landis is just unwilling to cooperate, and has quite a temper of his own. I do have to wonder if something bigger will come of his appearance, especially after he got his hat glued to the desk. Oh, yeah... and after learning that Elizabeth's certification that she received while in Hamilton to teach blind students somehow doesn't count in Hope Valley? 

    What, the what? How can she receive her license to teach school in Hamilton and it counts, but receiving her certification to teach blind students from the same place doesn't count? I guess different places have different qualifications and standards. But wouldn't Elizabeth look this sort of thing up before doing it? How did she not know this? And will she still lose her teaching position after all? I'm going to need some answers in the next episode.

Faith

     

    Really, Carson? You just can't help yourself when it comes to keeping Faith confused about her feelings, that you literally had to call right after her inspired talk with Molly. For shame, Mr. Doctor... Lol! Poor, Faith. So many times she's met a guy who she thought could be her lifetime. And every single time that guy has turned out to not be the one. The poor girl just wants to be in love, and find someone who will stick with her AND the town. That always seems to be the deal breaker. Guys like her for sure. They just don't want to stay in Hope Valley.

    The weird thing is... I thought Carson was that guy until Season 8. Carson and Faith never really had to work at their romance until that season. Before it was just concerns and fears if things didn't work out since they worked together. But I don't recall things being hard until Season 8. People change I guess. But I think things between them are officially over, especially since Carson isn't coming back this season. Who knows? Maybe Faith will find her soulmate this season, or maybe she'll just be content to stay single for now.

Lucas, Elizabeth, & Little Jack

    Take that everyone who ever said Lucas wouldn't make a good father! Ha! (Cough!) I mean... wasn't that sweet?😉 Guys, this episode had so many sweet moments, as well as lots and lots of romance. And I absolutely love that! I mean, Elizabeth and Lucas already feel like they're a married couple. (Except for the part where she made him go home. 😋) There's a lot to talk about so I'm dividing this topic into three sections. But first I just have to say... I love that they brought Hyland on to play Little Jack. He is a joy, and brings a smile to my face with his silly antics, and little giggle. :)

Babysitter Lucas

    "Right, buddy." Lol! Before I didn't know how Lucas and Little Jack would get along, as they had very little screen time together. But now I'm pleased to see them being the best of pals. Oh, excuse me, I mean buddies. :D How cute is that, anyway?

    Lucas was so sweet in this episode for so many reasons. From offering to watch Jack, to the pure joy and exuberance he had while taking care of the boy. That's one of the many reasons I'm glad Elizabeth picked Lucas. He just has such a positive and happy outlook on life, and you can see how much he truly loves being with his favorite people. Lucas was so concerned about being a good father-figure to Little Jack, getting so worried when Jack was acting fussy. And the way he pulled him around in that wagon... So fun! This is such a new side we're seeing to Lucas, and it's wonderful. And I really thought Lucas was going to cave and give Jack ice cream, but surprise, surprise he didn't. Good boy, Mr. Bouchard!

    I think this episode will definitely become a favorite for LucaBeth fans as it just made so many LucaBeth dreams come true. Lucas spent so much time with Jack, read to him, played with him, (Honestly that lion roar was something coming from the quiet Lucas.) and on top of that we got so much romance, and even drama and mystery! But before I get to that I just want to say that Lucas did a great job with Jack. His wanting to do such a good job as well as the joy he had as he watched him showed us all what a great father he will be. I almost wonder if his upbringing played a part in how much fun he had with Jack. His childhood sounded... less than perfect, and it didn't sound like his mom was there for him like Elizabeth is for Jack. Now he just has so much love to give Jack, and it's very sweet.

Lucas & Elizabeth's Romance

   

    Update: Oh my stinking goodness!!! How did I somehow miss Elizabeth saying she loves Lucas while he was asleep?!? I must have not heard it when I watched it! But wow!!! She literally said, "I love you!!!" Of course Lucas was asleep so he didn't hear it, but wow. Wow, wow, wow... I think this shows that she truly does love Lucas, (Obviously) but there is still some fear holding her back from saying it to him while he's awake. Okay... Glad I cleared that up. (How on earth did I miss that!?!)    

    As to Lucas and his school teacher... Let me grab a fan, cause things are getting steamy! I don't know how other people feel about their romance but I personally love how intimate and in love they are.

    And Elizabeth used a term of endearment on Lucas! I don't know if she even did that to Jack! She actually called Lucas darling! But I guess if you're thinking of marriage it just comes naturally... Oh yeah, that's right. For the first time the subject of marriage was brought up to Elizabeth, first by her students, and then by Rosemary. Everyone can clearly see how in love her and Lucas are, and even Elizabeth stated that she realized she feels more for him than she thought. (She even said, "I love you!!!") She clearly does love him, which is something I really wanted to see from her this season. Throughout season 6-8 I could see how Lucas felt, but due to the triangle I didn't see the same feelings coming from Elizabeth. But this season is changing that for sure. She may just be a little scared to actually admit that she loves him to his face. After all, she was married to Jack, and suffered so much heartbreak when he died.

    But all in all I loved all the romance they showed each other this episode. From multiple kisses, hand holding, and just the way they look at each other, it's so nice to see them so happy. Honestly I'm afraid of any tension possibly coming their way as I just want them to stay in this happy, dream-like state. But speaking of tension...

Lucas in Trouble

     

    Oh, Lucas... what have you gotten yourself into? Apparently Elizabeth's front door is pretty sound proof because the moment she shut it, some thug charged at Lucas and socked him in the eye. And she had no idea all this was happening right outside. Now obviously the questions are, who did it, and why? I'm not sure just yet who hit Lucas. After rewatching the scene it kind of looked like Spurlock, but it's hard to tell. Either way, Lucas is headed for trouble. Actually scratch that, he is in trouble. And of course his mind automatically goes to Elizabeth and Little Jack. 

    He outright tells Wyman and Spurlock to stay clear away from them, which at first I thought was really dumb. Lol! I was like, dude! Why would you mention their names? But afterward I realized that Wyman is probably well aware that Lucas is courting Elizabeth, especially since the attack happened right outside her house. So in the end it doesn't matter as much if Lucas mentions their names. He also had a phone installed at Elizabeth's house the very next day, which I found very sweet, even though he didn't ask. He was also incredibly understanding when Elizabeth started to reprove him for it. Those two are so in love that they can't even fight. Lol! But honestly, it's high time she got a phone, and Lucas did it to protect her no doubt. (Aww!) And eventually Elizabeth decided maybe she could keep the phone for now. I wonder if this means a situation will arise where she'll need to use it. Something dangerous, perhaps?

    But I think there is some trouble headed for paradise. How much I don't know, but with Elizabeth in the dark about the danger Lucas is in, as well as him refusing to tell her anything about it... I don't think she's going to be pleased. But I don't entirely blame Lucas for not telling her where he got the black eye. Should he have lied? Meh... That wasn't his finest moment, but I believe he has her best interests at heart and telling her could put her in danger. But honestly... she knows he didn't run into a door. Hopefully Elizabeth and Lucas will figure this all out without too much tension being dragged on for too long, as again, I'm really enjoying the bliss. (Oh, and the suspenders. Can't forget about the suspenders. ;)

    Over all this was one of the best episodes yet. Tinker continues to be keeping things very fun, happy, and lighthearted, which I'm truly enjoying. While I'm not saying I wouldn't enjoy some more drama, and I'm sure that's coming, this season is just a breath of fresh air compared to Season 8.

Thank you so much for reading! Feel free as always to leave your thoughts below in the comments or on my Twitter page! Also thank you everyone so, so much for not sharing spoilers int he comments. I so appreciate that. And sorry for my delay in responding to your comments in the last post. Please know I read every one, and am going to try and do better this time around. :) Have an amazing week! God Bless!

P.S. My shop is having a big sale! 20% OFF EVERYTHING! Feel free to stop by and see if there is anything you like! :) https://heart-and-family-mercantile.myspreadshop.com/