08 January, 2026

The Tenant by Katrine Engberg - [Book Review]

Book Details:

Title: The Tenant

Author: Katrine Engberg

Genre: Mystery, thriller, suspense

Publisher: Gallery / Scout Press

Print Length: 368 pages

Source: A copy from the local library





Blurb:

When a young woman is discovered brutally murdered in her own apartment, with an intricate pattern of lines carved into her face, Copenhagen police detectives Jeppe Korner and Anette Werner are assigned to the case. In short order, they establish a link between the victim, Julie Stender, and her landlady, Esther de Laurenti, who’s a bit too fond of drink and the host of raucous dinner parties with her artist friends. Esther also turns out to be a budding novelist—and when Julie turns up as a murder victim in the still-unfinished mystery she’s writing, the link between fiction and real life grows both more urgent and more dangerous.

But Esther’s role in this twisted scenario is not quite as clear as it first seems. Is she the culprit—or just another victim, trapped in a twisted game of vengeance? Anette and Jeppe must dig more deeply into the two women’s pasts to discover the identity of the brutal puppet-master pulling the strings in this electrifying literary thriller.

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

Purchase Link:

Amazon


My Review:

The Tenant is a great example of a murder mystery thriller. I am not looking forward to reading a crime thriller, but this book was recommended by other bloggers. This book really impressed me.

The story is about two investigators, Jeppe and Annette, solving a murder mystery that becomes too complex with a web of unknown elements. The investigation starts with Julia's murder, but then it progresses to the murder of her friend Kristopher and the abduction of an old lady, Esther. 

During the investigation, many characters are introduced. Each character has multiple layers and secrets. The characters of Erik and Christopher are different in their own way.


What is great?

I love the story and twists. The story takes many turns that we don't expect. So, it gets interesting and stays like that till 3/4th of the book.

The characterization is great. The way the author reveals details and family secrets gradually is interesting to read. 

What might have been better?

Not much to say about negatives. The reasons for the murder are a little bit implausible, and the relationships of the characters make it more complex. 


Overall, a great crime thriller if you are into that genre.

My Rating: 5/5


Until next time,



06 January, 2026

What the Train Left Behind by Kalpesh Desai - [Book Review]

 Book Details:

Title: What the Train Left Behind 

Author: Kalpesh Desai

Genre: Historical fiction, short stories

Publisher: Kalpesh Desai

Print Length: 120 pages

Source: A review copy from the author



Blurb:

What the Train Left Behind is a literary short story collection set in the long aftermath of the Partition of India and Pakistan.

Rather than returning to the moment of rupture, this book listens to what followed: how ordinary people adjusted to borders drawn after lives had already begun. Across spare, interconnected stories, Kalpesh Desai traces how a single people, divided by lines, continued to live familiar lives, eating the same food, speaking the same language, while slowly drifting apart.

Set in everyday spaces such as homes, offices, ration queues, and courtyards, these stories follow the quiet decisions that shape destinies. A clerk delays a record. A mother teaches a safer sentence. A letter returns unopened. A song is lowered before the verse ends. What changes here is not loud or sudden, but persistent, settling into habit, language, and inheritance.

Written with restraint and moral clarity, What the Train Left Behind offers a deeply human portrait of Partition's legacy across generations.

This book will resonate with readers of literary fiction, diaspora communities, and anyone interested in how historical events continue to shape private lives. It is especially suited for book clubs, intergenerational conversations, and readers drawn to quiet, morally attentive storytelling.

This is not a book about borders being drawn.

It is about how they learned where to live.

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

Purchase Link:

Amazon


My Review:

This book is a collection of short stories about the impact of the partition of India and Pakistan on people and their emotions. 

The stories are very short and focus on feelings like resistance, hopelessness, and yearning. The partition changed the everyday lives of several people; the stories show subtle differences in their lives and how they cope with it. 

After each story, there are a few blank pages. I thought, those are to process our thoughts and journal them or think about similar scenarios in our lives. 

What is great?

The raw emotions and subtle changes in mood are portrayed well in each story. The stories linger in our minds and hearts for a few days even after completing the book. They touch your heart. There is also good poetry to read. It is a quick read.

What might have been better?

A few stories are excellent, a few are too short, and some are a few lines. A few are poems, whereas the majority are stories. I didn't like this combination. 

I didn't expect just a title with a single line. I didn't like this format. 

My Rating: 4/5

PS: I received a review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Until next time,




05 January, 2026

The Ultimate 1-day Valley of Fire State Park Itinerary

🔥 One Perfect Day in Valley of Fire State Park: A Complete Itinerary

Just an hour from the bright lights of Las Vegas lies Valley of Fire State Park, Nevada’s oldest and most dramatic state park. Known for its fiery red sandstone formations, ancient petroglyphs, and otherworldly landscapes, this desert gem is ideal for a memorable one-day adventure.

Valley of Fire State Park is on the way to popular places like Zion National Park / Page, Arizona/ Grand Canyon National Park from Las Vegas. 









Whether you’re a hiker, photographer, or road-trip enthusiast, here’s how to spend one perfect day exploring Valley of Fire. If you have only half a day to spend, this itinerary can be tailored to fit your time.


📍 Getting There

Location: About 55 miles northeast of Las Vegas
Drive Time: ~1 hour
Entry Fee:

  • $10 per vehicle (Nevada residents)

  • $15 per vehicle (non-residents)

👉 Arrive early, especially in warmer months, to beat the heat and crowds.

You can book flights here


Shuttles:

Book a transfer

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🗓️ One-Day Valley of Fire Itinerary

Enjoy the Scenic Drive

Start your day early and drive along Valley of Fire Highway, where vibrant red, pink, and orange rock formations greet you instantly. Pull over at viewpoints to soak in the surreal desert scenery.


From the visitor center, drive towards Balancing Rock, Mouse's Tank, and towards White Domes loop. This drive is very scenic. The Canyon narrows down, and the road goes through a lot of ups and downs with beautiful views of red rock formations. 


Balancing Rock



📸 Golden hour is magical here—perfect for photography.

Fire Wave Trail

Distance: 1.5 miles out and back
Difficulty: Easy

One of the park’s most famous hikes, the Fire Wave Trail features stunning swirls of red, white, and pink sandstone that resemble ocean waves frozen in stone.

💡 Tip: Wear sturdy shoes—the rock can be slick.

This seemed like an easy walk, but you need a little rock scrambling. The trail is not clearly marked, but since this is popular, we followed the other hiking groups.  A few people also continue on the Seven Wonders loop, which is 1.8 miles. 


The Fire wave pattern



We hiked to Fire Wave and came back. The formations really stand out like the wave patterns on red rocks. You get good photos if the sunlight is not too bright and if it's a cloudy day. 

White Domes Loop Trail

Distance: 1.1 miles loop
Difficulty: Moderate

This trail showcases:

  • Slot canyons

  • Colorful rock layers

  • Remnants of an old Hollywood film set

It’s short but incredibly diverse—don’t skip it!

This is the last point in the scenic drive, and this hike is well worth it.

 Rainbow Vista

Drive to Rainbow Vista, one of the park’s most breathtaking viewpoints.

🌈 From here you’ll see:

  • Multi-colored sandstone ridges

  • Vast desert landscapes

  • Panoramic views are perfect for photos

You can stop at this viewpoint while returning from the scenic drive.





Atlatl Rock & Petroglyphs

Next, explore Atlatl Rock, home to ancient petroglyphs carved by Ancestral Puebloans over 2,000 years ago.

  • Short stair climb to the viewing area

  • Interpretive signs explain the carvings

  • Fascinating cultural insight into early desert life

On the way to Atlatl Rock, you will find beehive formations. Those are cool as well.


Arch rock 
Photo by Andrew LaBonne: https://www.pexels.com/photo/arch-rock-in-the-valley-of-fire-6070117/



Beehive formation



Mouse’s Tank Trail

Distance: 0.75 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy

A flat walk through a rocky canyon leading to Mouse’s Tank, a natural water basin. Along the way, spot more petroglyphs etched into canyon walls.

We skipped this due to a lack of time.

Elephant Rock

Just inside the east entrance, Elephant Rock is a natural sandstone formation shaped like an elephant.

  • Easy walk from the parking area

  • Great quick stop to stretch your legs

  • Iconic photo opportunity

We covered this while exiting the park and driving towards Page. Not a hike, actually. We can see the rock formation with a 0.2-mile out-and-back trail.


Elephant Rock



Sunset at Fire Canyon or Seven Sisters

End your day watching the rocks glow in deep reds and golds as the sun sets.

🌞 Best sunset spots:

  • Fire Canyon Overlook

  • Seven Sisters



🎒 What to Bring

  • Plenty of water (no vendors inside the park)

  • Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)

  • Comfortable hiking shoes

  • Snacks or picnic lunch

  • Camera or phone for photos


⚠️ Helpful Tips

  • Visit October–April for cooler weather

  • Summer temperatures can exceed 110°F

  • No cell service in many areas

  • Stay on marked trails to protect fragile terrain


Final Thoughts

Valley of Fire State Park feels like stepping onto another planet—fiery landscapes, ancient history, and quiet desert beauty all in one place. With this one-day itinerary, you’ll experience the park’s highlights without feeling rushed.

Whether you’re visiting from Las Vegas or passing through Nevada, the Valley of Fire is an unforgettable day trip worth every minute.

Until next time,





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29 December, 2025

Best places to visit in Page, Arizona

This post may contain affiliate links; clicking on those links may earn us some commission without any additional cost to you.

Page, Arizona, is a beautiful place where anyone can spend more than 2 days and enjoy a relaxing and adventurous vacation.

It is centrally located to access Antelope Canyon, Lake Powell, and, of course, the breathtaking Horseshoe Bend.





How to reach Page?

✈️ By Air (Closest Airports)

Page does not have a major commercial airport. The best options are:

  1. Las Vegas (LAS)Most popular

    • Distance: ~275 miles

    • Drive time: 4.5–5 hours

    • Best choice for flights, car rentals, and road trips

  2. Phoenix (PHX)

    • Distance: ~465 miles

    • Drive time: 7–8 hours

  3. Flagstaff (FLG) – regional airport

    • Distance: ~135 miles

    • Drive time: 2.5 hours

    • Limited flights, usually via Phoenix or Denver

➡️ From any airport, rent a car — driving is essential in this region.


🚗 By Car (Most Practical Option)

From Las Vegas

  • Take I-15 North toward Utah

  • Exit at UT-9 / Hurricane

  • Continue via US-89 South to Page

  • Scenic route, very popular for travelers visiting Zion + Bryce

From Phoenix

  • Take I-17 North to Flagstaff

  • Then US-89 North to Page

From Flagstaff

  • Take US-89 North directly to Page

  • Easiest and fastest route


🚌 By Bus (Limited)

  • Greyhound / Amtrak does not go directly to Page

  • Some tour buses and private shuttles run from Las Vegas (usually combined with Antelope Canyon or Horseshoe Bend tours)


You can book flights here

Shuttles:


Here are some popular tours:

Where to Stay?

Page and Kanab offer many accommodation options.



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If you’re planning a visit, here are the five best places to explore in and around Page, Arizona.


1. Antelope Canyon

The crown jewel of Page

Antelope Canyon is one of the most photographed slot canyons in the world—and for good reason. Its narrow passageways, smooth sandstone walls, and magical light beams create an otherworldly experience.

  • Upper Antelope Canyon: Famous for its light shafts and easy, flat walk

  • Lower Antelope Canyon: More adventurous with ladders and curves

📌 Tip: Entry is only possible through guided tours, and tickets sell out fast—book in advance!

There are 2 companies from the Navajo Nation that provide tours - Ken's and Dixie's. We booked the Lower Antelope Canyon tour through Dixie's Tours. Our guide was very knowledgeable, and he gave good tips on how to take photos. 

It took 1.5 hrs to finish our tour. The guide explained the geology, about the Navajo tribe, and how the canyon transformed over the years. 


The arch formation captured from the canyon

The flying Lady or Lady in the wind



It is suggested to book the tour between 11 am to 1 pm for better light peeping through the canyon. Our tour started around 11.45 am, and we got very nice photos of the canyon. 

In April, we can see the Sun directly above the canyon, and so, the sun rays go through the canyon straight down. That's the best time to visit. Tickets are around $55 per person, and the tour is worth the price. 



2. Horseshoe Bend

A jaw-dropping Colorado River viewpoint

Just a few minutes from Page, Horseshoe Bend offers a dramatic overlook where the Colorado River curves nearly 270 degrees around a towering sandstone cliff.

  • Short hike (~0.75 miles each way)

  • Best views at sunrise or sunset

  • Guardrails now make it safer while preserving the view

📸 This is one of the most iconic photo spots in Arizona and a must-see even if you’re short on time.





This is must see spot and it gives us awe of nature. The Colorado River curving through the cliff is an amazing view to watch. This is one of the bucket list destinations for me, and it is really worth the hype. 

Entry is free, but you have to pay a parking fee of $10 per vehicle. 


3. Lake Powell

A desert oasis of deep blue waters

Created by the Glen Canyon Dam, Lake Powell stretches across Arizona and Utah and offers a striking contrast of red rock and turquoise water.

Things to do:

  • Boat tours and kayaking

  • Paddleboarding and swimming

  • Scenic viewpoints like Wahweap Overlook

🚤 Even if you don’t get on the water, the surrounding vistas alone are worth the visit.

Lake Powell can be seen from several viewpoints. If you cannot get a ticket for a boat tour, Wahweap overlook is an amazing one to watch. 


Wahweap overlook




If possible, try to get a boat tour to Rainbow Bridge. We couldn't, due to a lack of time, but I heard from many that this is a must-see when you are around Page.

A boat tour followed by a hike to Rainbow Bridge. Try these tours - Lake Powell boat tours, Antelope Point Marina boat tours.


4. Glen Canyon Dam & Bridge

Engineering meets epic scenery

The Glen Canyon Dam is an impressive structure that holds back Lake Powell and provides hydroelectric power across the region. Walk across the nearby bridge for incredible views of the Colorado River below.

  • Visitor center with exhibits

  • Panoramic overlooks

  • Great quick stop close to town

This spot offers a fascinating blend of history, engineering, and natural beauty.


Photo by Murali Raju on Unsplash



The visitor center has many interesting exhibits explaining the construction of Glen Canyon Dam, the power production etc., The visitor center features large windows that provide an excellent view of the dam. There is also a trail that allows us to walk over the bridge and enjoy the scenery. 


5. Toadstool Hoodoos 

A hidden gem for hikers

Located about 45 minutes from Page, the Toadstool Hoodoos trail leads to whimsical rock formations that resemble giant mushrooms.

  • Easy, family-friendly hike

  • Less crowded than major attractions

  • Perfect for unique photos and quiet exploration

🌵 This lesser-known stop is ideal if you want to escape the crowds and discover something different.

This 1.5-mile hike is not very well-marked, but it is crowded and not too difficult to navigate. There is some rock scrambling in the middle, but it is an easy hike overall. 

The last part of the hike leads to Toadstool Hoodoos and many rock formations. We loved this hike. It is well worth the time. 





So, that's about the best spots in Page.

If you have a few more days, here are some other spots that are worth a visit.

Moqui Caves

Ancient history and natural wonder

Located just across the Utah border near Kanab, the Moqui Caves are sandstone formations carved into a cliff face that were once used by the Ancestral Puebloans for food storage.

  • Short but steep climb

  • Cave-like rooms with panoramic views

  • Great mix of history and geology

⚠️ Wear sturdy shoes — the climb can be slippery.

This is near Kanab, around 1 hr from Page. These are also called Sand caves, a man-made structure. Be careful with kids, as there are steep sections to climb. 

There is also a museum featuring native American artifacts, dinosaur tracks etc., 


Dragon’s Belly

A hidden slot canyon adventure

Dragon’s Belly is a lesser-known slot canyon near Page that feels like stepping inside a creature carved from stone. Its smooth walls and twisting corridors make it a favorite for photographers and adventurers.

  • Short hike to reach

  • No permit required

  • Less crowded than Antelope Canyon

📌 Check local conditions before visiting, especially after rain.

This is an interesting quick stop. 


The New Wave Hike

A mini Wave without the permit stress

Often called the “Wave’s little sibling,” The New Wave offers stunning swirling sandstone patterns similar to The Wave, but without permits.

  • Easy to moderate hike

  • Located near the Glen Canyon area

  • Perfect for unique rock photography

This is a great alternative if you didn’t win the Wave lottery.





We couldn't see the wave pattern that well. It depends on the time of day and daylight while capturing photos. 

We did the beehive trail, which is a 2-mile loop. The hike is moderate with a few steep, slippery sections. 



Lone Rock Beach

A peaceful lakeside escape

Lone Rock rises dramatically from Lake Powell and offers one of the few places where you can drive directly onto the sand.

  • Popular for camping and picnics

  • Calm waters for swimming and paddleboarding

  • Stunning sunrise and sunset views

🏕️ Ideal for families and relaxed lake time.





Be careful while driving on sand, as there is deep sand in some places. The beach looks peaceful with fewer crowds. 


Lee’s Ferry

Where history meets the Colorado River

Lee’s Ferry is a historic crossing point of the Colorado River and marks the official start of the Grand Canyon.

  • Historic buildings and ranger talks

  • River access and scenic walks

  • Popular launch point for rafting trips

📍 A must-visit for history buffs and photographers alike.

This is the place where you can drive to the Colorado River. The drive from Page to Lee's Ferry is beautiful as well. If you have time, don't miss this. 

Spencer Trail is a moderate trail that takes you to the beautiful viewpoint of the river. 





You can also drive to Paria Beach, which is just 10 minutes away from Lee's Ferry. Here, the flow of water is more, and it looks serene. 

You will drive through Vermillion Cliffs National Monument on the way to Lee's Ferry. You can check balanced rocks on the way and hike the Cathedral Wash trail, which is moderate level. 


Historic Navajo Bridge

A dramatic canyon crossing

Spanning the Colorado River near Marble Canyon, the Historic Navajo Bridge offers incredible views down into Marble Canyon.

  • Pedestrian-friendly bridge

  • Spot California condors soaring below

  • One of the best free viewpoints in the region

🦅 Bring binoculars if you love wildlife spotting.





We loved the views from this bridge. You can walk on this bridge and visit the interpretive center. 


Shell Gas Station Cave (Page, AZ)

A surprise hidden gem

One of Page’s most unexpected sights is a natural cave hidden behind a Shell gas station. Inside, you’ll find colorful sandstone walls shaped by water and time.

  • Quick and easy stop

  • Great for kids and casual explorers

  • Completely free

📍 Proof that Page’s magic can be found in the most unexpected places.






A spot easy to access, and it is completely worth it. We loved the cave. But it is crowded.

Address: 1501 Coppermine Rd, Page, AZ 86040


Final Thoughts

Page, Arizona, is far more than a gateway to Antelope Canyon. From secret slot canyons and historic river crossings to quiet beaches and ancient caves, this region offers endless opportunities for exploration.

Whether you’re visiting for a day or staying longer, Page rewards those who venture just a little beyond the obvious.


Until next time,



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