Partners in Crime: A Buckhead Guide

Two best friends from Brookhaven and Buckhead, Kendall Shores and Meredith Lavender, joined forces to write a murder mystery novel called “Happy Wife.” The idea for the book came about during one of their regular walks around Chastain Park, where Shores shared a rough storyline set in her hometown of Winter Park, Florida. Lavender, with her background in writing TV scripts for major studios, was excited about the idea and they decided to work on it together.

Shores, who previously worked in grant writing and communications consulting, was looking for a creative outlet after turning 40. Lavender, who spent 25 years in Hollywood before moving to Atlanta, was no stranger to the entertainment industry. Despite the challenges of COVID and the writers’ strike at the time, they managed to complete a full draft of the novel by Labor Day.

Thanks to Lavender’s connections in the TV industry, the book was picked up by Penguin Random House and is set to hit online and store shelves this month. Both authors credit their friendship and desire to have fun as key factors in the success of the project. They wanted the book to read like a casual conversation with a friend, and their shared enthusiasm for the project shone through.

Their collaboration is a testament to the power of friendship and creativity, showing that with a great idea and dedication, anything is possible. You can find out more about their journey and the book on their website.