Almost Heaven: True Stories of Faith and Country Life in West Virginia

by Thomas N. Kirkpatrick

When the hour brings stillness, even amid confusion, I think that many of us, if not all, have a private sanctuary hidden within our conscious being. Nothing complex or challenging to reach, just a state to which we can readily retreat and sort out the experience of life. Perhaps for most, it is an unnamed region that we find ourselves when deep in thought. It may be the product of meditation, contemplation, imagination, or whatever four or five-syllable words you choose. But it is accurate. It may not be a tangible substance such as wood, stone, or iron, but to our spirits, it is an anchor to weight us to the realities of our lives. Despite our hopes and dreams, it is our escape within us, bearing a reality that can carry our hopes and dreams to truth. It becomes a vision without the physical eye, which empowers us to see beyond what is seen and view what can be. It is the bedrock of faith. Faith is the immeasurable substance that allows us to know God and accomplish things beyond our reach. If I have faith, then I can dream. If I can dream, then I have hope. If I have hope, then I can have a life worth living. My point of refuge then is called Ballengee. Ballengee is a small community tucked away in my imagination’s rolling peaks and valleys.

Ballengee is the place where my imagination resides. I realize that you see me here or hear of me there, but in Ballengee, I resolve the questions of life. Perhaps it is a strange state of my choice to linger there, as Ballengee is a fictional place, but it also is the reality of my imagination. Ballengee is fashioned not by my dreams but by the realities of past reflections. I believe it is just, as all fiction is born in the truth. So, I shall define Ballengee as the small town my imagination lives within and manifests to you in my words.

314 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 7, 2025

Reviews

[Math]

I kept this on my nightstand and would read a story or two before bed—it was like a warm hug at the end of the day. Each chapter shares a simple, powerful message about love, hope, and faith in action. If you enjoy stories that uplift and inspire, this is the book for you.

[Wenrah Jones]

This book touched my heart in ways I didn’t expect. The stories felt so real and relatable, especially the ones about redemption and finding peace through faith. Ballengee might be fictional, but it reminded me of my own hometown and the people I grew up with. Beautifully written and full of soul.

[Grace]

Kirkpatrick turns everyday people into unforgettable characters. I laughed, I cried, and felt closer to God with every story.

[Jamie Barbour]

Each story is an inspiration! So loving this book!

[Yvonne Marks]

This book was inspirational as each story has a message and lesson to think about.
Thanks for the free book.

[Jamie]

Every chapter is a unique true account. Spiritually uplifting and beautifully touches your heart. I won this in a Goodreads giveaway and am really enjoying reading it. It's extra special because I grew up in West Virginia and understand this culture.