"The Casual Vacancy" is a novel by J.K. Rowling that explores the complexities of a small English town called Pagford. The story begins with the sudden death of a local council member, creating a vacancy that sparks a fierce battle among residents to fill the position. As the characters navigate their personal struggles and hidden secrets, the novel delves into themes of class, politics, and community. The narrative reveals how the seemingly idyllic town is rife with conflict, exposing the darker sides of its inhabitants and their relationships.