Q&A With Dr. Katherine Hutchinson-Hayes

Publicist Mickey Mikkelson connected me with author Dr. Katherine Hutchinson-Hayes to do this Q&A discussing her Mystery Suspense novel, A Fifth of The Story.
Q: Katherine, would you like to give a brief description of A Fifth of The Story & talk about where the idea for the story came from?

A: “A Fifth of the Story” is a domestic thriller that follows Brock O’Reilly, a CIA operative who’s forced to confront a dark secret from his past. The novel blends elements of suspense, mystery, and emotional depth as Brock and his two best friends, Matthew Shuggs and Andrew Pang, navigate a high-stakes investigation that threatens their lives and legacy. The story was born from my deep interest in human psychology; especially how unresolved trauma can shape adult behavior. I also wanted to explore how faith intersects justice, truth, and redemption. The spark came from real-life stories of government secrecy and personal betrayal, combined with my desire to write complex characters who overcome both internal and external threats.

Q: How long did it take you to write A Fifth of The Story? I enjoy reading mystery and suspense, what drew you into writing in the mystery genre?

A: The novel took about a year to write, followed by several months of revisions and editing. I’ve always been drawn to mystery and suspense because of their psychological intensity and the emotional investment they demand from readers. The genre allows for layered storytelling—where faith, fear, secrets, and courage all intertwine. As a reader, I loved the works of authors like John Grisham and Lisa Gardner, who create tension without sacrificing character development. As a writer, I’m intrigued by the thrill of piecing together clues while also peeling back the emotional layers of each character.

Q: Are there any lessons and emotions you hope readers take away after reading A Fifth of The Story?

A: Absolutely. At its core, the story is about forgiveness, the power of friendship, and the possibility of redemption even after years of secrecy and pain. I hope readers walk away with a renewed sense of hope—that no matter how dark or complicated life becomes, God’s love is still present and active. The novel explores justice not just from a legal standpoint, but from a moral and spiritual one as well. I also want readers to feel the tension, the heartbreak, and ultimately, the triumph that comes from confronting the truth.

Q: What would the characters of A Fifth of The Story be doing right now if there was a sequel? Will the second book be a sequel or a different mystery to be solved this time around?

A: I’ve already rewritten two other books in the series. I’m working with my agent to get them placed with the right publisher. They are prequels in which Patricia Pang’s origin story is told, as well as that of her mother, Margo Lipsett. In the sequel, which I’m currently outlining, Brock is still wrestling with the consequences of the revelations in book one, but he’s more grounded in his faith. Andrew is uncovering a covert operation that puts them all back in harm’s way. This third book will be a sequel but introduces a new mystery that tests their loyalty, endurance, and spiritual growth in new ways. It will be more international in scope, diving deeper into the characters’ backstories and unearthing a chilling conspiracy.

Q: If/when Hollywood gets the rights to A Fifth of The Story who would be your dream cast to play the characters you created?

A: Dream casting is always fun! I’d love to see someone like Michael B. Jordan as Brock O’Reilly—he has the charisma and emotional depth for the role. For Matthew Shuggs, I think Chris Evans could bring the right mix of intellect and vulnerability. John Cho would be perfect for Andrew Pang—he can balance seriousness with dry humor. For a strong female lead introduced in the sequel, perhaps Gugu Mbatha-Raw or Jessica Chastain. Each actor would add layers to these already complex characters, and I’d love to see their dynamics play out on screen.