The setting of "The Gathering" by Kelley Armstrong places the school at the outskirts of town, emphasizing its secluded nature. This location reflects a broader theme where much of the area surrounds uncharted natural landscapes, such as dense forests that are easily accessible from the school. The description suggests a feeling of isolation and hints at an environment ripe for adventures or mysteries that could unfold within this wild backdrop.

This edge-of-town positioning creates a sense of claustrophobia and entrapment in the story, illustrating how the characters may be confined not only physically but also emotionally as they navigate their challenges. The proximity to the forest symbolizes both danger and discovery, setting the stage for pivotal events that may arise from their encounters with the untamed wilderness surrounding them.