Author Serena on Her New Book Inspired by a Man Ray Photograph

Author Serena Burdick on Her New Book, Promise to Arlette — Inspired by a Man Ray Photograph of Her Grandmother

After photographing author Serena Burdick for a portrait session, I became intrigued by the story behind her upcoming novel, Promise to Arlette. During our shoot, she mentioned that the book was inspired by a Man Ray photograph of her grandmother — a detail that immediately sparked my curiosity. That’s when the idea for this video interview was born.

In this intimate conversation, Serena shares the personal and creative journey behind her latest work. Set between wartime France and 1950s suburban America, Promise to Arlette follows a couple whose idyllic life is shaken by secrets from the past — all set in motion by a single, haunting photograph.

We discuss:
– The story behind the Man Ray photograph
– Serena’s memories of her grandmother and the emotional roots of the novel
– The blend of fact and fiction in historical storytelling
– Her creative process and evolution as a writer

Promise to Arlette is a sweeping, unforgettable novel about art, memory, betrayal, and the legacy of love.

📖 Available now wherever books are sold.