Dr. Katherine Hutchinson-Hayes
Author, speaker, educational consultant, and editor–Katherine Hutchinson-Hayes, Ed. D. has had her hand in leadership for many years. She loves speaking to groups and delivering messages with a quick wit and real-life stories. Katherine is a freelance writer/content editor, a content editor/writing coach for Iron Stream Media, and a sensitivity reader for Sensitivity Between the Lines. She is a review board member and contributor to Inkspirations (an online magazine for Christian writers), and her writing has been published in Guideposts. Her work in art/writing is distinguished by awards, including the New York Mayor’s Contribution to the Arts, Outstanding Dr. Katherine Hutchinson-Hayes Dressing in God’s Love Through the Spoken and Written Word Resident Artist of Arizona, and the Foundations Awards at the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writer’s Conference (2016, 2019, 2021). She is a member of Word Weavers International and serves as an online chapter president and mentor. She belongs to FWA (Florida Writers Association), ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers), CWoC (Crime Writers of Color), AWSA (Advanced Writers and Speakers Association), and AASA (American Association of School Administrators). She serves on the board of the nonprofit organization Submersion 14 and is an art instructor for the nonprofit organization Light for the Future. Katherine hosts the podcast Murder, Mystery & Mayhem Laced with Morality. She has authored a Christian Bible study for women and is currently working on the sequel to her first general market thriller novel. As a trainer of trainers, Katherine believes there are many ways to do things well but only one way to do God’s will right. Katherine flourishes in educational and Biblical discipleship. Her sweet spot or zone of genius has evolved from a career spanning 20 years in education and both children’s and women’s ministry; Katherine morphed and transitioned into an educational consultant for charter schools, home school programs, and churches that led up program development; growth facilitating and public relations. Quickly identifying holes and problem areas in these projects, developing strategic planning and team building, Katherine combines over 20 years of experience into her current consulting business. Katherine provides executive-level accountability so you and your organization get the attention to detail they deserve and you start excelling in a healthy, productive work environment.
Marina Raydun: Your background is vast and diverse. When did you first start writing?
Dr. Katherine Hutchinson-Hayes: I started writing as a young girl, journaling my prayers and poems. Writing became a sacred space where I could explore my thoughts, process emotions, and express faith. Professionally, I began writing more intentionally during my years as a school administrator, crafting devotions and educational materials for staff. Over time, that grew into writing books that blend faith, suspense, and emotional healing.
MR; A Fifth of the Story is an incredibly punchy title. Can you tell us a little bit
KHH: about the story and how you came up with the title? Thank you! The title *A Fifth of the Story* plays on the dual meaning of a “fifth”—both as a fraction and as a bottle of liquor. The story follows Brock O’Reilly, a CIA operative with a complicated past who uncovers dangerous secrets about his own family. His journey is about confronting generational trauma, addiction, and betrayal while trying to hold onto faith and purpose. The title hints at how we often only know a portion of the truth—whether about others or ourselves—and how dangerous that can be. Finally, the premise draws on the idea that if we live for that fifth of our lives (the part God knows and approves of), we will have lived a good life.
MR: If it were to be adapted for TV or film, how do you envision the cast for it?
KHH: I would love to see someone like Michael B. Jordan play Brock—he has that mix of intensity, vulnerability, and charisma. For Matthew Shuggs, maybe Oscar Isaac, bringing depth to a loyal but conflicted character. Andrew Pang would be great with someone like Steven Yeun, who can balance quiet strength and emotional nuance. I see the show or film having the vibe of *Jack Ryan* or *The Night Agent*—high- stakes action blended with emotional suspense.
MR: How does mystery/suspense writing intersect with devotional writing for you?
KHH: At first glance, they seem worlds apart, but they both explore the human condition and our need for hope. Suspense writing lets me delve into the darkness people face—grief, betrayal, danger—while devotional writing allows me to anchor those themes in biblical truth. Both genres are about tension and resolution. The thrillers challenge the mind and heart; the devotionals restore the soul.
MR: In addition to being a writer and a speaker, you're also an educational consultant. Tell us a bit about your work in education and how you feel it influences your writing.
KHH: As an educational consultant, I work with schools and organizations to create trauma-informed, culturally responsive environments. I also coach leaders and help design professional development. This work deeply influences my writing—I’m constantly observing human behavior, communication, and conflict resolution. It helps me write layered characters and realistic dialogue. Plus, my heart for teaching shows up in my devotionals, which are often written to inspire, equip, and educate readers spiritually.
MR: What is your favorite genre to read?
KHH: I love thrillers and romantic suspense—stories that keep me on the edge of my seat, but also dig deep into emotional and spiritual arcs. But I also enjoy devotional literature, historical fiction, and well-written memoirs. If it has heart, grit, and truth, I’m in.
MR: What are you currently reading?
KHH: Right now, I’m reading *The Warsaw Orphan* by Kelly Rimmer. It’s heartbreaking and beautiful, set during WWII, and really captures the resilience of the human spirit. I’m also reading *Embracing Trust* by Joanna Weaver—it’s a powerful devotional on surrendering to God’s plan.
MR: Tell us a bit about Christian Bible Study for Women that you authored. More specifically, how do you find writing in that genre different from thriller writing in terms of your process?
KHH: *Christian Bible Study for Women* was birthed out of a desire to walk alongside other women in a deep, intentional way. It offers reflection, scripture exploration, and real-life application. Writing it required a different posture—one of stillness, prayer, and deep listening to the Holy Spirit. Thriller writing is more dynamic and intense, while Bible study writing is more contemplative. But both require discipline, empathy, and a heart for the reader.
MR: Are you a plotter or a panster?
KHH: I’m a bit of both—a “plantser,” if you will. I love outlining the big picture and knowing my destination, but I leave room for organic moments of discovery. Characters sometimes take me places I didn’t expect, and I’ve learned to trust that process.
MR: When you’re driving alone in your car, what do you find yourself thinking about?
KHH: Often, I’m thinking about my next story—dialogue, plot twists, or character arcs. Other times, I’m reflecting on scripture or praying. Driving is one of my sacred spaces. It’s where I listen to worship music, podcasts, or just the silence. It’s also where God often downloads ideas or gives me clarity on something I’ve been wrestling with creatively or spiritually.
Connect with Dr. Katherine Hutchinson-Hayes here:
Website: https://www.drkatherinehayes.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/khutch0767
Personal Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/katherine.hutchinsonhayes
Author Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authordrkatherinehayes/
Books: https://www.amazon.com/Gods-Little-Black-Dress-Women/dp/1365056163
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-katherine-hutchinson-hayes-3b5a3254/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.kathy.hayes/
Podcast (Apple): https://podcastsconnect.apple.com/my-podcasts/show/murder-mysterymayhem-
laced-with-morality/ade5f5bb-6cbf-4722-a421-9874b24fa49d
Podcast (Spotify): https://open.spotify.com/show/4zWmZckdnPsYG9CUAKkv1p