#92 - Serena Burdick: When Your Grandmother’s Nude Sparks a Novel

USA Today bestselling author Serena Burdick is living proof that creative success doesn’t follow a straight line. In this deeply personal and inspiring episode, Serena shares how her journey from aspiring actor to celebrated novelist came with plenty of unexpected twists—including returning to waiting tables in her 40s while raising kids and chasing her dream. With honesty and humor, she opens up about the realities of artistic life, the power of resilience, and the value of believing in your own story—especially when others don’t see it yet. We dive into Serena’s new book, A Promise to Arlette, and the fascinating real-life inspiration behind it—her grandmother’s connection to avant-garde photographer Man Ray and a long-lost nude photograph that sparked a fictional journey through postwar France and conservative 1950s America. Serena talks about balancing fiction with history, channeling her theatrical background into richly drawn characters, and navigating the emotional tightrope of writing stories that sometimes go to very dark places. This is a must-listen for anyone who's ever wanted to rewrite their own story. Connect with Serena Burdick: 📘 Buy A Promise to Arlette anywhere books are sold 🖋️ Follow Serena on Instagram: @serenaburdick 📚 Learn more at Zibby Media to purchase signed copies and support indie authors Connect with the Hosts & Show: 🎧 Follow Was It Chance on your favorite podcast platform 📱 Connect with us on ⁠TikTok⁠ and ⁠LinkedIn⁠ ✨ More about Heather at her ⁠⁠website⁠⁠, ⁠⁠subscribe to her Substack⁠⁠, and follow her on ⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠ EPISODE TAKEAWAYS Your first creative dream doesn’t have to be your last Failure is part of the process—and can sometimes lead to unexpected wins Historical fiction is a powerful tool for preserving and imagining untold stories Creative careers often require privilege and sacrifice—acknowledge both Be open to feedback, but stay grounded in your artistic voice Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices