About the Book
Book: Who Brought the Dog to Church?
Author: Tracy L. Smoak
Genre: Christian Contemporary Fiction
Release Date: June, 2023
Betty is sure that Ida Lou does not belong in their church when the woman shows up to the Good Friday service with her small dog in tow. But before she knows what’s happening, Betty is pushed into helping the woman as she deals with the sudden hospitalization of her husband. Having lost her own husband just one year ago, Betty is chosen as the perfect person to help walk through this valley with the newcomer—along with the other women of the WUFHs (Women United For Him).
Sarah McAdams knows her husband loves her. He just loses his temper sometimes. It comes with the stress of being a highly recognized police officer. But when Sarah makes the decision that this is not the life she wants for her young son, will she be able to get out alive? Where can she go? And who will help her?
God works in mysterious ways—and through ordinary people. The town of Prosper is about to experience some drama—and it all starts with a dog who comes to church.
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My Thoughts:
Who brought the dog to church? My mother did. Not what the book is about but my mom has done such a thing and I wonder what other church goers thought. Well, a peak into some of these character's minds might have given a hint.
This novel is a good story. It is heartbreaking and heartwarming. It takes all the characters and pulls them together in their current situations, heartbreaks, and makes something beautiful. I will admit I had a hard time reading certain parts of the story. The author takes us down the road of widowhood and spousal abuse, of loneliness, and grief. She takes those topics and turns them around for some of the characters, reluctantly of course, to be a help and blessing for others experiencing such trials. Keep tissues nearby.
It all started with a little dog being in a place that it shouldn't have been in. How often do we let minor frustrations with others blind our eyes to their hurts and fears? This is a relevant story for those who want eyes to see, ears to hear, and hearts full of compassion for their fellow man.
I was provided a copy of this novel from the author. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
About the Author
She loves photography and authored two hardcover devotionals with her original nature art (Living Water to Refresh Your Soul – tranquil lake scenes; and Arranged with Love– floral landscapes).
Smoak holds a master’s in Education and a bachelor’s in Communication. At her church home, she leads small-group Bible studies. She is an active member of Word Weavers International.
More from Tracy
What secrets are hidden behind your neighbor’s door? What do you try to hide?
The idea for this contemporary fiction began in a small country church during an Easter prayer vigil a decade ago. As I sat in the pew late at night, I heard a strange scratching noise. When I turned to locate the sound’s source, I saw a woman across the aisle with a little Yorkie.
The vigil was silent, so I didn’t approach the lady, but I did wonder why that pooch accompanied her in the sanctuary. That scenario, connected with others in my weekly involvement in several volunteer roles, sparked imagination. We judge appearances and may completely miss needs of the heart. Do we know our neighbors?
Experiences as an advocate for survivors of domestic violence started me wondering how do people get free from damaging situations? What are the obstacles holding them back?
Serving as a Stephens Ministry leader in my home church exposed me to people suffering loss. How are we to stand with those crushed with grief?
Another volunteer role helping immigrants settle in the U.S. reminded me of the difficulties they face. How can one fill out an online job application when a person relocates from a refugee camp with no electricity and never has had a computer?
The story’s heart is learning to really see, and know, our neighbors. Three women and their friendships reveal how doing good unites a community. Through comic misunderstandings and risky undertakings, the characters show us how to be Christ’s hands and feet.
Short videos to introduce the main characters can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5kuEoU7pFvU&list=PLf6ZzeQjavMcocMuZDOZUvLxZG48BiWm5&index=1.
Audio book excerpts can be found at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bwxqS2mNisI&list=PLf6ZzeQjavMcocMuZDOZUvLxZG48BiWm5&index=9.
Video resources for survivors of domestic violence are at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f3Aq2myofjo&list=PLf6ZzeQjavMd0mkdKujmZeq7iKDzi8IoQ&index=2.
Blog Stops
Book
Reviews From an Avid Reader, February 28
Lighthouse
Academy Blog, February 29 (Guest Review from Marilyn Ridgway)
Gina Holder,
Author and Blogger, March 1 (Author Interview)
Debbie’s
Dusty Deliberations, March 1
Texas Book-aholic,
March 2
Locks, Hooks
and Books, March 3
Truth and Grace
Homeschool Academy, March 4
Pause for Tales,
March 5
Artistic
Nobody, March 6 (Author Interview)
Lots of Helpers,
March 6
Cover
Lover Book Review, March 7
Fiction Book
Lover, March 8 (Author Interview)
Happily
Managing a Household of Boys, March 9
For Him and My
Family, March 10
Books I’ve Read,
March 11
Girls
in White Dresses, March 12
Giveaway
To celebrate her tour, Tracy is giving away the grand prize package of a paperback copy each of Who Brought the Dog to Church? and Refuge of Grace: Finding Your Safe Place!!
Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.
https://promosimple.com/ps/2a3cd/who-brought-the-dog-to-church
This looks like a great novel Thanks for hosting this tour.
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