Desperate Bodies depicts the fragility, strength, and unruliness of Black women and girls' bodies and the power in being honest about their desires.

In unflinching prose, Mathis takes a frank and determined look at what it means to be subjected to imbalances of power through the perspectives of young girls and adult women. With surprising turns and a touch of the supernatural, these stories refuse to look away from the most honest, raw moments of womanhood.⁠ ⁠ Visceral and unyielding, Desperate Bodies is a thrillingly dark ride that introduces Lydia Mathis as a major new writer.⁠ ⁠ Charis welcomes Lydia Mathis (@lydiamathis97) in conversation with Yemi Combahee (@fruitattheroot) in celebration of Desperate Bodies, a debut story collection excavating the desire, humor, and horror in the everyday lives of Black women and girls. (@roxanegaybooks) (@noticebooks)⁠ ⁠ This event is in-person at Charis and virtual on Crowdcast. More information at the link in our bio!⁠