Fascination with Psychics Leads to Published Book

Last summer, Leigh Lyons started writing.

And writing.

And in just one day, she wrote most of a story about a high school student whose best friend disappeared the night of prom.

Along the narrator's journey, she realizes she has psychic ability and uses it to try to find her friend. She also finds out a deep and dark family secret, which all ends up intertwined in the end.

"It was completely random," Lyons said. "I'm into watching shows about psychics and people who have that ability so I started writing with that in mind. I really didn't write it with the mindset of getting published."

But Lyons came across a publisher in South Carolina looking for a book targeting young adults.

"I really wasn't expecting to send it out, but I thought I'd take a chance," she said. "I guess it was luck and good timing."

Lyons' book, entitled The Connection, is now available for purchase on Amazon.com.

Lyons, 26, lives in Upper St. Clair and is a 2003 graduate of Upper St. Clair High School. She received her undergraduate degree from Virginia Tech and law degree from Duquesne University.

Lyons is an attorney in Washington, PA and also writes for IN Community Magazines.

"I love to write," she said.

She said she hopes her story will encourage other writers to continue what they love to do as well.

"The biggest thing is to keep writing and don't be discouraged in this economy," she said. "Write for yourself, because you enjoy it. If you have an idea, put it down. If you can't find an agent or publisher, keep writing, don't give up."

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