I've Been to Heaven: The True Story of a Husband's Supernatural Near-Death Experience of the Afterlife, His Wife's Prayer That Brought Him Back, and God's Message of Hope for the World

by Steve Boyls, Kathy Boyls, Troy Anderson

Admitted to the ICU with COVID-19, Steve Boyls spent forty-five days on a ventilator and three and a half months in the hospital. As his body struggled to stay alive, his wife, Dr. Kathy Boyls, fought bureaucracy, medical protocols, and demonic attacks and, through warfare, supported by friends and family, received a miracle.

But as the battle raged on earth, Steve was ushered into Heaven, where he witnessed unspeakable beauty, unimaginable joy, and overwhelming hope. From watching a ball game with the son he lost through miscarriage to seeing old friends, family, and pets to an incredible encounter with Jesus and his warhorses, Steve's adventures in Heaven are some of the most detailed and uplifting stories brought back from beyond the veil.

Engaging and masterfully told with the help of Pulitzer Prize nominee Troy Anderson, the Boylses' story is an incredible reminder that even with eternity before us, this life we live now is worth the fight. Miracles do happen, God still answers the prayer of faith--and He's coming back very soon.

224 pages, Paperback

Published October 14, 2025

Reviews

[Jean Mader · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am so thankful that I read “I’ve Been to Heaven- “ The True Story of a Husband’s Supernatural
Near-Death Experience of the Afterlife. His Wife's Prayer That Brought Him Back, and God's Message of Hope
for the World” by Steve Boyls and Kathy Boyls M.D.

Steve Boyls developed a very serious case of Covid during the Pandemic. He faced a long hospitalization, and recovery. He was near death many times. Thanks to his loving Savior, the prayers of his wife, family, and friends, and the medical staff, he achieved a full recovery. This in itself is a wonderful testimony. Something amazing also happened- for a short time Steve was taken to heaven and saw the Glory of God and met many people he knew. Yes, truly amazing.

While his medical story and visit to heaven are remarkable to read about, I was most taken with the faith and strong Christian beliefs Steve and Kathy demonstrated. I also appreciated their presentations of scripture and how they relied on it during his amazing illness. “We know we can depend on him entirely.” ‘What an amazing God we have!”
‘
I highly recommend this book. Thanks to NetGalley for an advance digital review copy. This is my honest review.

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book absolutely moved me from the very first page. It’s not just another story about surviving COVID, it's a powerful testimony of faith under fire and the miraculous love of God. Steve’s firsthand account of his time in Heaven is awe-inspiring and filled with such vivid, heartfelt detail that I found myself in tears more than once. You can feel the peace, the beauty, and the reality of what he experienced beyond this life.

What truly touched me just as deeply was Kathy’s fierce fight here on earth. Her unwavering faith, her courage to stand against impossible odds, and her persistence in prayer remind us that miracles are not just ancient stories they still happen today.

The writing, with the help of Troy Anderson, flows beautifully. It balances raw emotion, spiritual depth, and heavenly wonder in a way that’s both inspiring and deeply personal. By the end, I felt encouraged, strengthened, and reminded that God is still on the throne and that prayer truly changes things.

If you’ve ever doubted whether God still moves in our world, or if you need hope in the middle of your own battle, this book will rekindle your faith. A must-read for believers and seekers alike.

[Kathleen Ryder · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book shares a powerful and deeply personal account of Steve Boyls’ near-death experience and the prayers that brought him back. The story itself is moving, offering an inspiring glimpse into faith, love, and hope. It’s clear that the authors’ intent was to provide encouragement and reassurance about God’s presence and promises.

That said, the narrative leans heavily on scripture references, which at times made the book feel bulked out and slowed the pace of the story. While this won’t be an issue for readers who enjoy detailed biblical discussion, those primarily interested in the near-death experience itself may find the theological emphasis a little overwhelming.

Overall, it’s a good read with a heartfelt message. For readers seeking both a testimony of a miraculous event and a thorough scriptural exploration of its meaning, this book will resonate. For those looking for a more streamlined personal account, it may feel a bit too scripture-heavy.

[Nat Eveleigh · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read this book.

This is a true story of Steve, who was critically unwell in hospital with Covid, while his wife, Kathy, prayed hard for him. Steve retells his story of visiting Heaven, while unwell, and how he overcame every obstacle in his way to recover.

I wanted to read this book as I definitely believe this is something after this life, and there will be a time when we get to reunite with passed loved ones. It does offer hope, and helps firm my beliefs in the afterlife. The downside to this book is that it contains a lot of scriptures and, which bulks the book out. I did like Steve's story though.

[Cheri Swalwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I could not put this book down. It's told in such a humble, conversation style way. I love the back and forth between Steve and Kathy. It flows effortlessly. I love the two forewords and also the introduction by Steve himself. I could relate to Steve growing up Baptist but having a Pentecostal experience and I love Kathy's prayer warrior, Marilyn. There isn't anything I don't love about this book and I'm so glad I read it. I can't help but talk about it with those I love and also with friends, etc.