Autumn, 1952

The entirety of the main narrative is set during the autumn of 1952, and as such, the narrative draws heavily on specific historical phenomena of that time. For example, Rory is a veteran of the Korean War, which lasted from 1950 – 1953. Additionally, the narrative engages heavily with the phenomenon of bootleg whiskey trading, which experienced a resurgence in the 1950s. Alternately, the subplot of Bonni and Connor takes place in 1930.

North Carolina

The entirety of the narrative takes place in North Carolina, mostly in the unnamed town where Rory lives. The town appears somewhat substantial in size but still small and rural relative to major cities. One major aspect of the town is the presence of the seedy neighborhood known as End-of-the-Road. The town’s other major attribute is its position right next to the Appalachian Mountains.

Appalachian Mountains

The Appalachian Mountains are a mountain range that runs through several...