Step into the heartwarming world of Rosie Goodwin’s Days of the Week series, where the cobblestone streets of historical Nuneaton come alive with tales of resilience, love, and hope. This enchanting seven-book saga, rooted in the rich tapestry of British historical fiction, follows unforgettable characters as they navigate life’s trials, each novel tied to a day of the week for a unique storytelling twist. Beloved by readers and a staple in UK libraries, Goodwin’s series is a must-read for fans of Catherine Cookson and Dilly Court.
With her knack for crafting emotional narratives, Goodwin, a Nuneaton native, weaves stories that feel like a warm hug on a chilly evening. Whether you’re drawn to tales of triumph over adversity or the charm of a bygone era, the Days of the Week series promises a cozy escape into a world where the human spirit shines.
How Days of the Week Began
Rosie Goodwin, a former foster carer and social services worker, poured her deep understanding of human struggles into her writing, inspired by her lifelong love for Nuneaton and the sagas of Catherine Cookson. The Days of the Week series, launched in 2017 with Mothering Sunday, was born from Goodwin’s desire to tell interconnected yet standalone stories, each reflecting the grit and grace of everyday people in Victorian and Edwardian England. Her intimate knowledge of Nuneaton’s history and culture infuses the series with authenticity, making every setting—from workhouses to canal boats—vividly real.
The Heart of Days of the Week
The series kicks off with Mothering Sunday, set in 1884 Nuneaton, where 14-year-old Sunday Small endures the harsh realities of a workhouse while dreaming of her long-lost mother. This gripping tale of survival sets the tone for the series’ emotional depth. The Little Angel, the second book, follows Kitty, a child abandoned at Treetops Children’s Home in 1896, whose journey to London unveils both adventure and danger. A Precious Gift, the sixth installment, introduces Holly Farthing, who flees an arranged marriage in 1911, embarking on a wartime odyssey that tests her courage. Finally, Time to Say Goodbye, the series’ finale, ties up the saga with a poignant blend of closure and hope.
Goodwin’s storytelling shines through themes of resilience, family, and the enduring power of hope. Her characters—often women facing societal constraints—battle poverty, heartbreak, and injustice, yet find strength in love and community. The historical settings, from Nuneaton’s bustling markets to London’s gritty streets, are meticulously researched, grounding the series in a palpable sense of time and place. Fans praise Goodwin’s ability to balance gritty realism with heartwarming resolutions, making each book a page-turner.
Why Days of the Week Resonates
The Days of the Week series has carved a special place in the hearts of historical fiction fans, earning Goodwin a spot among the UK’s top 250 most-borrowed library authors. Its universal themes of overcoming adversity resonate with readers, while its Nuneaton backdrop offers a nostalgic glimpse into Britain’s past. The series’ emotional pull and relatable characters have sparked glowing reviews, with fans comparing it to the timeless sagas of Catherine Cookson. Its enduring popularity in libraries underscores its role as a comforting, inspiring escape for readers worldwide.
- Publication Years: 2017–2020
- Number of Books: 7
- Setting: Nuneaton, England, spanning 1884–1911
- Genres: Historical Fiction, Saga, Romance
Grab Mothering Sunday and dive into the Days of the Week’s captivating world of historical fiction! Whether you’re a saga enthusiast or new to Goodwin’s work, this series promises an unforgettable journey through Nuneaton’s past.