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.
Click here to get your copy!
About the Author
A native Floridian, Tracy L. Smoak grew up riding horses and climbing citrus trees. Her passion is to encourage others in their faith journey. Smoak writes for Guideposts. Ambassador International released her debut novel, Who Brought the Dog to Church?. Bold Vision published her Bible study about encouragement titled Refuge of Grace: Finding Your Safe Place.
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.
MY REVIEW
Who knew that a small dog brought to church would change many lives that day? Some people at the church were not happy that this strange woman brought her little dog to a prayer meeting. I loved how the author brings different people together in this story from a small encounter at church. The story is funny at times with the ladies from the church who like to gossip but mean well. A prayer chain starts a rumor that someone is stepping out on their spouse while in the midst of their congregation is a woman who is desperate for help.
Ida Lou was my favorite character because she walked into church with her dog who comforts her to seek guidance from God. Sitting in the pew she needs healing and friends. A simple card where she writes hers prayer request opens doors that will bring healing and reconciliation. I loved her sweet spirit and how she never once judged others. Her story is emotional and the author does a good job of weaving faith, hope and family into this woman’s life.
There is another part of this book which was very important and told with compassion. Domestic abuse happens everyday and for those that are victims they feel ashamed, hopeless and scared. I admired Sarah for taking that bold step to leave her abusive husband. Sarah seems lost but is directed to someone who gives her and her son a safe place to go. I loved how the author highlights this crime in a way that not only gives hope but a new beginning for many.
The story is a mixture of well meaning women in the church and others who step up to comfort someone who has lost their loved one, reunite two people and bring a community together to share their faith.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
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
God’s Word + YOUR Real Life
Joy Suzanne Hunt is the Pastor of Adult Education for CityWide Mosaic Church in Temecula, CA and a professor with SoCal School of Ministry. Her mission is to equip men and women to take ownership of their lives, faith, and finances. When she’s not teaching, writing, or coaching, you can find her walking her Temecula neighborhood, trying out crockpot recipes, or playing board games with friends.
They vanish without a trace, disappear into the night… 
Victoria McCombs is the author of YA fantasy books such as 