The Casual Vacancy (novel)

*The Casual Vacancy* is a novel by J.K. Rowling that explores the complex social and political issues facing the fictional English village of Pagford. When a town councilor dies unexpectedly, a local election reveals underlying tensions, secrets, and personal conflicts among residents. The story examines themes of class, inequality, and morality through a diverse cast of characters, highlighting how individual motivations and community dynamics influence small-town life. The novel provides a realistic, nuanced portrayal of community struggles and the often hidden personal dramas that shape the social fabric of a close-knit community.