Murder at Lava Point

Red Rock Murders #3

by Nichole Severn

He’d do anything to keep her safe.




Including reining in his true feelings.



Ranger Aslen Woods just needed Murray Simpson to stop being overprotective. The Zion National Park investigator didn’t want his childhood friend involved in anything dangerous. But after a blaze was set to cover up a murder, park firefighter Aslen found herself on the case, an overly concerned Murray at her side. When the killer decided to make both rangers pawns in his deadly game, Murray’s gaze suddenly felt more intense than secure. Would this case bring them unexpectedly closer, only to potentially tear them apart…forever?

218 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 27, 2026

About the author

"First class romantic suspense!"
- Cynthia Eden, NYT Bestselling Author

Publisher’s Weekly bestselling author Nichole Severn writes mind-twisting suspense and bullet-proof romance with strong heroines, heroes who dare challenge them, and cases you won’t be able to forget.

She graduated from Utah Valley University with a degree in Psychology and is working for her masters in Marriage and Family Therapy. She’s a member of Mystery Writers of America, a founding member of the Addicted to Danger Facebook group, and volunteers for a number of non-profits focused on supporting mothers.

She resides with her very supportive and patient husband, as well as her two demon spawn, in Utah. When she’s not writing, she’s constantly injuring herself training for marathons, accidentally stabbing herself with screwdrivers during her many DIY projects, or playing violin. That’s right. She stabbed herself with a screwdriver.

Reviews

[Elaine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Murder at lava point.
Nicole servern.

A page turner. But each book I have read by this author has been a page.Turner.
Can't flip them fast enough.

aslen
Life started out hard for her, only eight years old.Losing her whole family, tragedy struck. Things got harder as she went along until one day.Everything changed.
becoming a fighter was one of her biggest accomplishments.
I really enjoyed this character.

Murray simpson.

The guy next door.
best friend, someone you always want to have on your side. And when things get rough, he's always there.

This story has a serial killer.A pyro.
What a page turner I loved it.
This book should have eight stars.

[Debbie Caswell]

Once again Nichole has delivered another absolute page-turner! This story follows Aslen and Murray, two souls bonded by a traumatic past but kept apart by Murray’s fear of further loss and yes you will get frustrated at him. When Aslen moves to Zion National Park to start over as a ranger, the tension follows her in the form of an arsonist and a cold-blooded killer but Murray is also there and will do whatever he needs to keep her safe.

The setting is breathtaking, the stakes are incredibly high, and the "slow-burn" emotional connection between the leads is palpable. It’s a perfect blend of high-octane action and a deeply moving romance about finding strength in someone else. If you like protective heroes and twists you won't see coming, you need to read this. Highly recommended!

[Brina · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story was easy to finish in one sitting. There were aspects of this book that I liked compared to others in the series and some that I didn't. For instance, the situations they had to get out of were fewer and seemed more believable. On the other hand, there was less dialog between the characters and there wasn't a strong feeling in the romance department. There were a few occasions where it could have come to life and I thought it was going to the way it was depicted, but it went the complete opposite direction. In the end it was the absolute last thing to happen and then the book was over. There was no chance to enjoy them coming together. Since it was brought up so many times that they had been inseparable for 20 years, it would have been nice to get to have that experience. I am voluntarily leaving a review.

[TrishAM · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story just proves why I love Nichole Severn's books so much, she manages to build up the suspense, tension and emotion from the beginning of the book to the end, the raw emotion between Aslan and Murray is palpable.
Aslan Woods had suffered a traumatic childhood, her parents were tragically killed when she was eight years old, she had suffered with foster parents and the only constant in her life was Murray Simpson, the boy next door, the boy who was always there to protect her.
Murray's childhood had been idyllic, loving parents and a much loved younger brother until his parents weren't there anymore and his brother had disappeared, the only person he had left was the person that he had vowed to protect, Aslen Woods.
Twenty years later and Aslen was a firefighter at Zion National Park, Murray had left the job where he had excelled to follow her there, taking a post as park investigator.
Aslen had begged Murray not to follow her, she had been in love with him since she was a child but she knew that he just wanted to protect her, she had to escape to have any chance of a life.
When a wildfire broke out in the park, a fire that turned out to be arson, a fire that resulted in murder, Murray needed Aslen's knowledge to help his investigation but also to keep her close and therefore safe.
This story follows Aslen and Murray's action packed, emotional story as they battle to find the arsonist whilst battling their own emotions. If I could give this book more than five stars I would, I was immersed in the story from the first page, the characters were damaged but courageous and very likeable. the beautiful, sassy firefighter who knew what she wanted but knew that she couldn't have it and the ruggedly handsome investigator who also knew what he wanted but he had made promises to protect her, he had lost everyone that he got close to, he couldn't risk losing her, they were two hearts of the same soul.
I received a free copy of this book and my review is totally voluntary.

[Yvonne Cruz · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author delivers another edge of your seats suspense romance in this latest addition to the series.
Aslen Woods has suffered many losses. It all started when a fired was accidentally started and her whole life was torn apart when her parents died. This eight year old survived neglect, an alcoholic foster caregiver and almost beaten to death at school until the day Murray Simpson came into her life and rescued her from that beating.
They have both been secretly in love with each other but Murray keeps her away. He two has lost every person he’s loved and losing Aslen would destroy him. Instead of showing his love and care, he’s overprotective and a tad irrational.
When Aslen leaves him behind to become a park ranger at Zion National Park, he follows her never expecting that an arsonist and killer is loose in the park, putting Alsen and everyone else in danger.
Why are they targeting the park? Who are the victims?
This is more than an action packed story. This is a story about two broken individual who have faced the unthinkable, and even through it all , a strong string unites them.
Will they survive the danger? If they do, will they realize that they are each other’s soulmate and meant to not only open their hearts, but also to be together . As together they are stronger than either imagined.
A wonderful addition to the series full of twists and turns that will keep the readers guessing from the first page to the last.
I was entrusted a copy of this book published by Harlequin. The opinions expressed are solely my own.

[MK · Rating 3 out of 5]

While I like this series this was my least favorite. Aslen has a rough childhood. Murray is there for her. Now she’s a ranger at the Zion National Park who puts out fires. One breaks out, and it’s not good. Then Murray her friend, and protector comes to investigate it. She has found something, and that shocked everyone at the scene. He wants her away, and not involved. He tells her just that, and takes over. It was really a bit overbearing. He was telling her what she was going, and she was not getting far away from this case as possible so she cant not get hurt. Then he does something she couldn’t believe. He wants her, and only her help to catch an arson. He even goes to her boss to request it.
The push and pull things between these two just got so old.
Aslen didn’t want him around, because of it. He was way overprotective of her. She doesn’t have anyone this is true.

Then he has to talk about all the women he’s had, or more the badge bunnies. She could never be one of those. Then while they’re working the case he runs into one.
She was coming onto him when they were supposed to talk about the case. She was a ranger as well.

One thing I could not stand, and I felt It was pointless in knowing what’s mentioned in the book as “badge bunnies”. Really? Sorry about how I fell about this, but seriously I don’t see how Murray sleeping with so many women has anything to do with the book. Who cares!

The ending was good. Never saw that coming. I will say that.

[Becky Claxon · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was so good! It has mystery, suspense, frustration, betrayal and love. Aslen was in a fire at a young age and lost her father and mother. There were such heartbreaking circumstances around the fire. The woman that took Aslen in foster care was horrible, and the kids in Aslen’s life were horrible except for Murray. I was glad that Murray and his family tried to help Aslen. Murray was determined to always protect her. Unfortunately Murray had some demons of his own that put a wall between him and Aslen. Murray never gave up on his promise to protect Aslen. He followed her to Zion National Park where she was a firefighter and he was the head of the park police. It was so scary reading about the fires that was intentionally set by an unknown arsonist who was also got rid of bodies. It was on the edge of your seat action through most of the book. I got frustrated with Murray as he felt he was not good enough for Aslen. The betrayal at the end caught me by surprise. I strongly encourage you to read the book.

[Gail · Rating 5 out of 5]

Aslen and Murray have known each other most of their lives. Aslen needed his help and the love of his family in order to survive the treacherous world of foster care that she had been thrust into. But she is all grown now. She doesn't need Murray following her everywhere and being overprotective. Murray has lost everyone in his family and doesn't want to lose Aslen also. When they find a killer arsonist in Lava Point in Zion National Park, Murray decides to keep Aslen close to help him investigate. Will this put them both in more danger? If they live through this will Murray finally realize that Aslen was meant to be his and that she could take care of herself? Or will his overbearing attitude lose her completely. This is another wonderful mystery in the Red Rocks series, full of action and angst.
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving this review.

[Bobbi Hoffman · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the third book in the series form Zion National Park. This one while it includes the Park Rangers, it also focuses on the Park's Fire division. Ashely grew up in the foster division after the death of her parents form a house fire. Murray stood up for her when she was being bullied and with the help of his family watched over her as she grew up. He is now a Park Ranger in the Investigative division. An arson fire in the park leads to the discovery of a body. Ashley is qualified in arson and helps Murray. They have loved each other for 20 years, but Murray tries to be a big brother instead. I did read this book in one day and I did enjoy both the mystery and the relationship aspect, but Murray's attitude was frustrating.

I received an ARC of the book and all of the reviews are mine alone. .

[Avid Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great story set in the iconic Zion National Park up at Lava Point. I loved the characters of Murray and Aslen who have been friends since they were teenagers and shared unimaginable tragedy in their young lives. The loss of loved ones has moulded them into the adults they are but each carries deep scars from the past. These arson cases hit close to home forcing them to confront uncomfortable truths. The description of the fires was so detailed you felt you were there, experiencing the exhaustion of the firefighter and the searing heat of the flames. A good book really makes you want to interact with the characters and I really wanted to hug Aslen and shake Murray. A rollercoaster of emotions in this action packed book. Loved it.

[Anima · Rating 4 out of 5]

Imagine loving someone for twenty years and never doing anything about it, that’s Murray and Aslen. Having survived a tragedy at a young age brought her into Murray’s life, he became her protector and never left her. Neither one has the nerve to deal with feelings. She has an exciting career as a Firefighter Ranger for Zion National Park and he is a law enforcement Ranger. A couple of arson fires lead them on a chase for the arsonist when the pieces start falling into place about who he is and why. This was a thrill ride from the beginning and a terror that hits close to home for most readers. As part of a series this is not connected to the other books or characters. My copy came from the author and I’ve given this review voluntarily.

[Tammy Morse · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nichole Severn I loved Murder At Lava Point.

Aslen Woods Park firefighter was first on site of the fire. She worked and hard at her job she loved so much. She also had feeling for Murray Park law enforcement. she under her protection since she was a little girl. Murray was a guy who didn't want to be in a relationship. They worked hard at what they loved doing. They protected the people who where there during the fire. They had been through some hard times her loosing her family at the age of 8. Murray promised her he would protect her 2 decades ago and planned to do it. The 2nd fire was at Lava Point. Aslen knew arsonist and how they worked.
Nichole did a fantastic job with description threw the whole book.
This is another book you won't want to put down

[BecReadReview · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hold on to your temper—because Murray will push it to the limit. You’ll feel Aslen’s pain deeply, finding yourself angry on her behalf and armed with a whole dictionary of swear words aimed at Murray, despite understanding his reasoning. Watching Aslen’s heart slowly chipped away is genuinely painful, especially when it’s so clear how deep Murray’s love runs and how determined he is to bury it under misguided choices. As emotions spiral, danger creeps closer and burns hotter, compounding the heartbreak with shattered moments and far too many near misses. The tension keeps you on edge, clinging to the hope that love will be stronger and ultimately shine through. Powerful, emotional, and unforgettable.

[Leanne ~ Tales From The Heart]

Ranger Aslen Woods and Murray Simpson were neighbours as children. He'd do everything in his power to keep her safe, after losing all his family he can't lose her too.
Set in the wonderful landscape of Zion National Park an arsonist and murderer is on the loose. Aslen is a firefighter and Murray an investigator. Together they must find a killer and stop more fires. This story was so suspenseful and full of danger. The clues were there they just had to put them together.
I enjoyed the flashbacks of their childhood and how they came to be where they are as adults.
This was a page turner, I couldnt put it down and spent a couple of hours finishing it. Great story, I highly recommend this series.

[JustJeri · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book had every element a great story should have. An intriguing and compelling plot, attention to detail and creative situations, twists and turns, all written brilliantly of course. There’s an abundance of well-illustrated scenes that make you feel like you are right there in the story, feeling the flames creeping closer. The plot is so well laid out. Just when you think you have it figured out, it changes and just pulls you in again. Loved it. Very well done. My two biggest fears are drowning and caught in a fire. Who knew Ms Severn was able to scare me with both. Even while my heart is racing, I can’t stop reading the story! I received a complimentary ARC, but I am voluntarily offering my personal opinion.

[Zoe · Rating 4 out of 5]

Murder At Lava Point
A Harlequin Intrigue
Red Rock Murders #3
Nichole Severn

Murray Sampson takes way too long to appreciate the incredible, strong lioness Aslen Woods who has been right by his side most of his life. Murray is a law enforcement ranger and Aslen a fire ranger in the unforgiving Zion National Park.
An arsonist could prove to be the very thing that tears their whole world apart.
All that you expect from a Harlequin Intrigue, twists and mostly likeable characters. A clean romantic suspense with hea. This novel can be read as a standalone story but is part of the Red Rock series. I received an arc of this book. I look forward as always to the next brilliant book Ms Severn will undoubtedly write.
4 stars

[Gazelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Aslen Woods is used to facing fire and running towards danger. Only her best friend/self- proclaimed protector Murray Simpson thinks he needs to save her from anything dangerous. When arson strikes the park Murray decides the only way to keep Aslen safe is to partner with her. What Aslen needs is for Murray to finally talk to her about the hard stuff instead of just bark orders. There is a lot of mystery, danger and oh no moments! This book had me sucked in from the very beginning and I couldn't put it down! If you love a good grump, LEO/fire-fighter, forced proximity, best friends along with suspense then you won't want to miss this one!

[Sharon Caldwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Murder At Lava Point book 3 Of the Red Rock Murders series by Nichole Severn, is one action packed book, from start to finish. Murray Simpson and Aslen Woods have known each other since childhood and they have loved each other. It just took longer for Murray to admit he loves Aslen. They are investigating two murders and fires at Zion National Park. Both come close to dying but the love they have for each other keeps them going.
This book is great with a wonderful couple in it. I give it 5 stars.

[Gin · Rating 3 out of 5]

The suspense/thriller scenes were fantastic, as always. However, the sections expounding upon Murray's and Aslen's feelings for each other and why he was holding back got really repetitive, especially since sections from the POV of one or the other seemed to come up in every chapter. I also felt there was a spoiler in the introductory material that framed my expectations and how I read this book-- maybe this will be removed from the final product.

I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

[Melissa May · Rating 5 out of 5]

Murder at Lava Point by Nichole Severn is another great addition to the awesome Red Rock Murders series.
I absolutely loved it and read it in one sitting!
The plot is suspenseful and I really liked the main characters Aslen and Murray.
They both had so much emotional baggage and the way they handled that is so beautifully captured by the author.
I was immediately drawn into the story and just couldn’t put it down.
The description of the scenery makes me feel like I’m right there with the characters.
I recieved this arc from the author and this review is my honest opinion

[Lynn Brooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

Best friends with a boatload of baggage! The next book in the Red Rock Murders series is taking place in the Zion National Park with lots of drama and danger. I liked Murray and Aslen both and was invested in their story. The plot drug a bit but I was hooked on the core part of the story to try to figure out who the killer was. I wanted more development, particularly on the details on the loss of his brother to make it feel complete. There is a good bit of intrigue with bits of love and friendship mixed in. The ending was quite abrupt.

[Karen Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book! Beware- once you’re about half way through you won’t want to put it down! Lots of action, good pacing and story and 2 main characters with significant background trauma that you’re pushing for their HEA. I did figure out who the arsonist was but that didn’t take away from the storyline. Highly recommend this entire series. I received the book early through a paid Harlequin subscription.

[janelle beaver · Rating 5 out of 5]

We're back in Zion National Park for another rollercoaster ride. Murry and Aslen have known each other from the time they were kids and Murry protected her and to this day is still protecting her whether she wants him to or not. Aslen is a firefighter for the parks, and they now have an arsonist and two murders. Lots of action, danger, page turning, and intense with emotions. Another great read by Nichole.

[Valeri Sullivan (vsulvn29) · Rating 5 out of 5]

‘If I shoot you, it won’t be an accident.’

Murray and Aslen had been each other’s chosen family for over twenty years, but they’re at a breaking point. He’s overbearing and over protective and she’s tired of it. If he can’t love her like she loves him she’s ready to move on. Then an arsonist enters the picture. When faced with the possibility of losing each other forever they fight together in a scorching installment in this wonderful series.

[Kristy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nichole Severn is a master at combining suspense, tension and raw emotion with intrigue in the background. Her characters are always put through the wringer (along with the reader) making their success all the more rewarding. Her leading ladies may need a helping hand occasionally but they are not damsels in distress. Aslen is smart and a survivor with a good heart which makes you pull for her to find her happiness all the more.

[Tesh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic book! This author writes a full on action and mystery.

When a fire is set to cover a murder in the national park, firefighter Ashlen and Murray are targeted when they get too close.

Ashlen and Murray have the chemistry but they are more there to solve the murder. Working together to not only protect each other but work out the murderers.

Danger, drama, suspense and loads of action. So well done. A great plot and characters are realistic and inventive. Great book!

[Lili · Rating 4 out of 5]

This episode of the stories set in the Zion National Park is as fast-paced and intense as the others, the criminal is as mad, ruthless and cunning and the MCs as heroic and in love.
The insight into the psychological profile of the victims of arson is interesting, it makes the story very poignant and brings both sides of death through fire (intentional or accidental) for consideration.

[Liz Sadowsky · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great page turning read! Aslen and Murray’s story is non stop action from start to finish. These two have quite the relationship which helps and heeds their investigation into a murder in Zion Park. How it all works out is a fabulous keep you reading till the very end story. Loving this Zion series!

[Monique Westwood · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! Crazy good! There were times that I wanted to smack Murray but he finally found his way. The killer's motivation was believable and kinda sad. Aslen was a likable and strong character. This author can keep you involved in the story. This book is part of a series but can definitely be read as a stand-alone.

[Laura R · Rating 5 out of 5]

Murray and Aslen have quite the history and it doesn't take long to figure out that they are in love with each other - even if Murray fights it. This story is a great addition to the series and the location again plays a central part in the story. As the story progressed, so did the suspense level and the angst between Murray and Aslen. And I didn't expect the one twist at the end.