The Bailey Chronicles — Catherine Cookson

This modern-day tale features an irresistible hero, Bill Bailey, who, from the moment he arrives to take up residence in Fiona Nelson's home, makes his presence felt in no uncertain terms.

As a young widow left badly off, and with three children to bring up, Fiona has come to know the problems of trying to make ends meet. So, despite the viper-tongued comments of her vain, selfish mother, Fiona advertises for a lodger. The result is Bill: somewhat rough around the edges perhaps, but nobody's fool, and doing very nicely with his own business as a builder.

This wonderful novel spans ten years in the lives of Bill and Fiona Bailey, two utterly remarkable people, and their growing family.