Mind’s Edge by R. Morello takes place in a dystopian world permanently divided by a nuclear catastrophe, creating distinct, contrasting zones defined by infection, mutation, and technology.
The society is split into two primary, geographically segregated areas:
The Worlders’ Sector (Uninfected): This area represents the clean, uninfected side of society. It is the location of the major corporation, Digitech, and the corporate headquarters where Edge works as an insurance claims handler. This sector is characterized by a privileged, technology driven society that harbors deep prejudice against the “radios.”
The Infected Sector (New England / “Radios”): This is the irradiated home of the “radios” and where Edge returns to spread his mother’s ashes.
Physical Appearance: The sector is defined by the physical mutations of its inhabitants (e.g., tumors, elongated features).
Local Governance: The local community is highly protective of its own, with the local police refusing to investigate beloved figures like Ramone Moon, demonstrating a break from the “worlders'” legal authority.
The Bar/Safe House: A key location in this sector is the bar run by Kyree, which serves as a safe haven and meeting point for “radios”.
The Antique Style Hotel Room: This is the setting for the high profile murder of Jack Carver, one of the Digitech board members. It is the initial crime scene that sets Edge’s investigation in motion.
Digitech Headquarters: The corporate center where Edge works and where the conspiracy surrounding the board member murders is hatched. It represents the height of the “worlders'” power and corporate greed.
The Infected Rock: A unique, specific location where Evit, a mutated “radio” friend, is able to perform his special ability, entering and emerging from the rock, highlighting the extreme and often hidden consequences of the infection on the environment and its inhabitants.
