The Grace-Filled Homestead: Lessons I've Learned about Faith, Family, and the Farm

by Lana Stenner

These charming snapshots of life on the farm invite readers to incorporate the heart of homesteading—slower living rooted firmly in faith and family—into their everyday lives.
 
For nearly two decades, Lana Stenner and her family have been living their version of the simple life on their small Midwest farmstead—following God, chasing goats, and tending gardens. Join Lana as she shares heartwarming stories, hearty recipes, and some of the valuable lessons she’s learned in her homesteading journey,       Though you may not be ready to pack up and move into a 120-year-old farmhouse like Lana, you can experience more grace and authenticity right where you are when you learn to seek beauty in your surroundings, cultivate bonds with those you love, and work hand in hand with God.  
 

Genres: Nonfiction, Christian, Religion, Lifestyle, Parenting

224 pages, Hardcover

Published October 4, 2022

Reviews

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this delightful book, narrated by the author on audio, as she describes every day moments through life with family and friends. She beautifully describes the ups and downs of life, the changes of the seasons and the times of transition that she has experienced living on a homestead with her family. The way she pairs places around the farm with lessons learned and important tie-ins with her faith were simply and beautifully said. I found this book to be a valuable reminder of God’s faith and endurance as He remains by our side throughout all the seasons of our life and how simple yet powerful His love and mercy are. Each chapter includes memories and lessons, a connection to faith and a recipe that is beloved by the author.

This is my introduction to the author. I enjoyed getting to know her throughout the course of the story and appreciated her messages of slowing down, enjoying the every day moments and finding the beauty and embracing the gifts that God has given us. Each of her stories resonated with me differently and I found myself truly appreciating the simple yet profound correlations between every day life and God‘s love for us.

I have a feeling that this is going to be a fantastic coffee table book, a book that can be revisited time and time again and referred to for inspiration and for important life reminders. Many thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for an advance copy of the book, all opinions are my own.

[Emily · Rating 3 out of 5]

I listened to this on audiobook.
I enjoyed Lana reading it, it gave it a personable feel to it since it was her words penned.
This book was different than I expected, I didn’t look into it much beforehand like I tend to do with books.
It gave a what I would call a basic overview of the more intense homesteading life, with suggestions for doing similar things in smaller homes/plots of land. Like farming with animals, plants and crops.
They didn’t talk a lot about the preserving, homemade, handmade aspect of homesteading. Which is fine, I just feel the need to clarify that homesteading is a very wide range of things but tends to get shoved just into the animal aspect a lot (think chickens).
I liked that she shared recipes for all different things though.
Just what I would call a “sickeningly sweet” book about faith and family based on personal experiences and nothing to nitty gritty about the toughness of homesteading or the way they live their life. She shared some tough and rough spots but I got the sugar coating feeling that doesn’t feel real to me when hearing a story told. Nothing wrong with that, just not my cup of tea. If I had read the acknowledgments first, she acknowledges “sweet baby Jesus”, I would’ve never listened/read it.
But she gave good tips and shared the nice and happy-ending parts about her wonderful life and so if that’s what you’re looking for, then this is a read for you.

[Sydnee Blackburn · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this. It’s a worthwhile read even if homesteading is not on your bucket list. I especially loved the homesteading tips and recipes at the end of each chapter. Reusing an old bookshelf as a raised garden bed = brilliant!

[Delaney · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book came at the right time for my heart and soul. Thank you Lana Stenner for taking the time to write this book!

[Patricia · Rating 5 out of 5]

You don’t have to live on a farm or raise animals to love this book, but having a family to share the journey with and a measure of faith is a must! 5⭐️

[Jolie Estes · Rating 3 out of 5]

First, please, PLEASE tell authors not to narrate their own books. They know the story. They have told it a thousand times. They have written it, read it, re-read it, rewritten it, proofed it, scanned it and revisited it so many times that their delivery is horrible. It is flat, not engaging and painful. They are AUTHORS, not performance artists and not narrators. Only once have I listened to a book narrated by the author and enjoyed it. This was not that time.

The story itself was okay, but not terribly engaging – which is, in part, down to the horrible narration. But there was no point to it. I listened. I homestead and there were things Ms. Stenner wrote/read that I have experienced myself, but nothing that made me think, “YEA! THIS… this is why I listened to this book! So glad I did.” And I’m not. It kept me occupied while I did some mindless chores around here, but it wasn’t anything special.

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m not a homesteader. And I feel like that’s important to clarify before going on.

Lana’s candid way of presenting her homestead life was easy to listen to, and truly delightful. While I’m most definitely a city girl, her thoughts about slow living and community really struck a chord with me.

I don’t see myself raising goats or chickens (even if the author is confident that I’ll love them)! But I know I want a grace-filled intentional life. And the practical and friendly way in which she navigates this topic is so wonderful.

Obviously, I loved the stories more than the homesteading advice, but I can see myself easily recommending this book to friends of mine who do desire their own homesteads.

The recipes and projects peppered into each chapter would make this book something I’d want to keep close at hand if I had my own homestead, and I think they are such a beautiful and personal touch!

Overall, this book was really sweet, and I’m glad I gave it a listen!

[Lauren · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have purchased countless homesteading books in the past few months, in countless- I mean roughly 27 homesteading books, maybe more. I have been waiting for this particular book from Lana from the moment I heard about it months ago. I patiently waited for it to arrive in the mail and when I tell you I had chills throughout my entire body the moment I held her book. I stayed up until 3:00 am reading it with my little nightlight as my husband slept soundly next to me as I giggled and gasped at her stories. This book is so beautiful and so incredibly heartfelt! Each page is absolute perfection, the details and love that were put in this book simply can’t be matched with any other homesteading book. The pictures alone will inspire you, oh my goodness the beauty of this book is truly breathtaking! You will not be disappointed with this incredible find and I am patiently waiting for her second book to come out!

[Kayse · Rating 4 out of 5]

I listened to this audiobook as an advanced reader of @netgalley (in exchange for an honest review)and I wish I had the actual book. It’s going to be the perfect coffee table book to add. Homesteading is a passion and dream of mine. And well faith, family, farm and oh my baby goats on the cover - its speaking my love language in all the ways. I enjoyed listening to this read and reconnecting to my why behind making all the big moves in life. I loved how she shared her homesteading journey, recipes and other tips, sprinkled with faith throughout the chapters. If a slower more intentional way of living is something you think about but not really sure, this is an easy read or listen to inspire you to connect with your why and tune into that feeling. May you live the grace-filled life whether on the farm or in the city that you desire.

[Arika · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed listening to this audiobook, it was a quick and fun listen. The audiobook is narrated by the author, and you can hear her emotion and smiles when she is talking about certain parts of her story. She has a soothing voice and it was enjoyable to listen to. The Grace-Filled Homestead is all about following your dreams and following Jesus, weaving the 2 together in a beautiful story. The author is honest about how hard homesteading is but also shares about how rewarding it is. You can tell by reading a short time in this book how much the author loves animals, especially her goats. As an animal lover I enjoyed those parts especially. There are DIY projects and recipes throughout, which all sounded wonderful and delicious. I am planning to get the physical copy of this book just so I can have the recipes and see the pictures.

[Dawn Beavers · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a wonderful book that incorporated just the right amount of faith and home. I loved hearing the author read the audiobook. You could feel her passion for her homestead. Hopefully, the audiobook, when released, has a pdf with the recipes and “projects”. That would be very helpful to listeners. It’s hard to stop while driving down the road to write down the recipe for rosemary steak skewers…they sound delicious but I still have no idea how to get the steak on the rosemary sprig. After living in Switzerland, the way the author said Gruyere cheese made me cringe but it was also cute. Overall, I loved the book, length was perfect and it was a great balance!

[Nadine · Rating 3 out of 5]

Well now I just want to move on some land, grow a garden and play with goats! I want a grace-filled intentional life.

I received an audiobook of The Grace-Filled Homestead and really appreciated that the author read it. I enjoyed consuming this on audiobook, it felt like that author was just telling me stories about her life in my car. It kept me entertained.  I hope then released, it will come with PDF of the recipes and such, as that is hard to put to use from an audio copy.

**I received an audio copy of The Grace-Filled Homestead from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are of my own.**

[Colleen Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

As someone who is preparing to transition from city living to farm living and who LOVES goats the cover & title of this book grabbed my attention immediately! Not only was this book full of humor, faith, grace and life it was also beautiful!

Lana's faith, intentional living and simplicity drew me in from the beginning and her reminder to not get lost in the big things but to truly slow down and be intentional was refreshing and convicting!

The added recipes were such a sweet surprise and bonus!

Thank you Lana, for this book and for the reminders to slow down, enjoy the small things and to live life with intention!

[Keri Willis · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fun and inspirational book. Lana blends her love of life on the farm with practical and biblical application. Her writing invites you into her home and heart in a way that makes you appreciate God in the simple things of life, like baby goats and fluffy chickens. Her recipes are simple and delicious! I have already used her bread dough recipe for pizza and cinnamon rolls and made her super easy goat cheese. The pictures are beautiful and make me want to go out and buy a goat and a good camera to take more pictures. Every time I pick up this book and read a section, I find myself smiling. Now that is the kind of book we should all be reading!

[Brianna Hart · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved being able to listen to this book but I think a physical copy would be even better. There’s no way I’ll remember the recipes, tips, and tricks but they were all so awesome!
It’s a very niche book but it just happens to be the life I live too so, of course, I loved it.

🌀Synopsis
The homesteading life isn’t for everyone but Lana will make you crave the lifestyle. She describes life on their homestead- the good and the bad. She also shares recipes, projects, and various other tips and tricks she’s learned along the way.

[Heidi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love that this audiobook is read by the author! It just seems to give it more authenticity and entertainment! I truly enjoyed listening to this and had to buy a physical copy, too!

I love how Lana weaves stories from her life into homesteading and turning it all back to God. It's truly inspirational along with moments I was laughing out loud and moments of tears. I can't wait to try some of the recipes she shares at the end of each chapter. They sound scrumptious!

I can't wait to start our homestead life! This book was a wonderful look into homesteading and finding God in the details!

[Sarah E. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Warning: This book may cause a fondness for goats!

“Goats are pure happiness.” Yes, they are!

Lana has created a wonderful book for those curious about homestead life or a beautiful gift to others you know are interested. With a beautiful cover and photos, I found myself slowing down to savor every page. The Homestead How-Tos are inspiring and practical. The recipes are an added bonus! They look delicious. I look forward to trying them. There’s a lot of great information here, but it doesn’t feel overwhelming and comes with the grace to try what you want and leave what you don’t.

[Nikki · Rating 4 out of 5]

As someone who also lives on a hobby farm, this book greatly appealed to me right away. The title (looking at you, "faith" and "farm") and the cover (excuse me, baby goats <3 ) hit all my buzz words.

Lana's faith really inspired me, while her humor and wit made this a quick and entertaining read. I loved hearing about the ups and down's and how it all related back to simple and intentional living. The world today is all about 'more, more, more!' and The Grace-Filled Homestead was a great reminder to slow down and focus on the things that truly matter. The inclusion of recipes was a great addition to the book, every recipe made me want to drop everything and eat!

I do wish there was more faith content, though. What was there, I loved, but some of it seemed tossed in just to keep up the Christian narrative. I would've really enjoyed more scripture related texts and more about how their faith has encouraged the slow-living lifestyle Lana was describing.

Overall, The Faith-Filled Homestead was a quick and uplifting read, I only wish it was a bit *more*.

**Thank you to NetGalley for allowing me to listen to the ARC audiobook in exchange for an honest review**

[Jessica · Rating 3 out of 5]

This audiobook was a good refresher for anyone struggling with their “why” when it comes to homesteading and living a slower paced, simpler lifestyle. The author gives several cute antidotes of things that have happened to her family and how they found grace throughout. I did find some portions to be somewhat redundant and wasn’t a huge fan of the author’s narration. She seemed nervous and the quality was a little lacking.

[Dione Hanke · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Grace-Filled Homestead was a neat book to listen to, but I would recommend buying the book instead. I think I would have enjoyed the book more.
I love the cover of this book - it represents the warm and cozy feeling you get from the rest of the book. I have always loved goats but never have had any, they are so cute. This book does make you want to buy some land and move out of the city limits.

[Diane Woodson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Found her book in a cute home store in Door County. Each page made me happy. Enjoyed getting cozy with a cup of tea and reading this down home sweet book. The pictures will make you smile. It’s just full of goodness and reminders of what’s truly important in life and creating a life you love with your family. Love how she shares her faith as well. She is someone I’d love as a friend or neighbor. Looking forward to more!

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

While I wasn't sure what to expect when I picked up The Grace-Filled Homestead, I absolutely loved it! Full of wit, humor, and plenty of homestead wisdom, Lana Stenner writes a wonderful book that I'm sure I'll read again and again!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Rebecca Cox · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Grace-Filled Homestead held my attention. It was full of sweet anecdotes about Lana’s decision to leave corporate life and fully embrace a life of homesteading. They face trials in their journey, but also form sweet memories together. A light, fun read that was narrated by the author herself.

[Hannah Kamerman · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a short, sweet read. The author gave good Biblical reminders in her stories of living intentionally and to the fullest. She ended each chapter with a recipe or a how-to activity. It was really sweet. She talked a lot about her farm and animals which I couldn't relate to but wanted to.

[Tanya · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love how this author shares heartwarming stories from around the farm while sharing tips on how to on homesteading and the joys of intentional living all sprinkled in with the cutest photos of farm life!

[Kacey/Kris · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was so good. It is what I needed to hear right now. It came along just at the right time. I highly recommended this book for families or if your about to start a family.

[Nicole Hudspeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a fun, faith filled little book on homesteading. In my opinion there is no better life to raise your family in than a farm life.

[Alyssa Miller · Rating 3 out of 5]

A sweet little read, if a bit saccharine at times. I listened to the audio but I’m sure it would make a lovely little coffee table book - best served in bite-sized platitudes.

[Trish · Rating 4 out of 5]

I like the message of living the slow and simple life.

[Kayla Murphy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lots of practical advice, some good recipes, and sweet stories