Carmen Maria Machado is an American author known for her unique blend of horror, fantasy, and memoir. She gained widespread recognition for her debut collection of short stories, *Her Body and Other Parties*, which explores themes of gender, sexuality, and the body. Her writing often incorporates elements of magical realism and draws on personal experiences. In addition to her fiction, Machado has written essays and criticism, contributing to various publications. She is also known for her memoir, *In the Dream House*, which examines her experiences in an abusive same-sex relationship. Her work has received numerous awards and nominations, establishing her as a prominent voice in contemporary literature.