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Vacant Possession

novel by Mantel

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"Vacant Possession" is a novel by Hilary Mantel, published in 1986. It is a dark comedy that follows a social worker's involvement with an unbalanced woman and her autistic daughter. The novel explores themes of social criticism and vivid characterization, building on the success of Mantel's first book, Every Day Is Mother's Day.1

In a different context, "vacant possession" is a British term used in real estate to describe property that is empty when sold, allowing the new owner immediate occupancy.2

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