Carolina Porter Maybank. AKA "the Fish" of the OBX. Saltwater runs through her veins, just like her brother. She belongs to the ocean just like hurricanes belong to the Carolina coast. Raised on boat docks, sunburnt shoulders, and freshly caught marlin, everyone knows Porter as the girl with endless scars who can be found jumping off docks, starting fights she's too small to win, never saying no to a dare, and eating ice cream like her life depends on it. Just like her brother, she's sharp smiles and bad decisions, carrying her anger like the tide carries driftwood. She's just the ocean- beautiful from afar but dangerous up close.

Mazie Harrington is summer in a person. She's golden waves and a bright, effortless smile, the kind that makes her eyes crinkle because she feels so deeply for everyone around her. She's the type to walk right up to you, even if there's a rumor you're a freak-especially then-because she's never believed in letting whispers decide who deserves kindness. Summer 85' has just finished, and Mazie and her best friend, Will Byers, are entering their freshman year. Mazie is on a mission- fill her beloved brother's shoes while also becoming her own person. But what will happen when she starts to drift away from her small friend group without even realizing it? Why does Dustin hate that she's a cheerleader? Why does El only seem to want to be around Mike? Why does Max seem so sad all the time? Why is Lucas the only one who seems to understand why being popular is so great? And biggest of all, why is Will looking at Mazie that way? Is there something beyond friendship there, or is Mazie imagining it?