Release Me Not is book two of Ethan and Zoey’s duet and book four in the Badger Creek Duet Series. A two-part, angst-filled, secret relationship, workplace love story. Release Me must be read before Release Me Not in order to enjoy the full story.
After surviving a violent abduction, Zoey Holden’s only thought is to escape. Trapped in an abandoned motel room, she fears her attacker will return at any moment. Desperate to get back to Ethan, she comes up with a plan.
And then there’s Ethan Morrison. Confused and fearing the worst when Zoey fails to show up at his house, he’s left with no other option but to contact the police. Worrying that their relationship is what has led to Zoey going missing, he’s forced to admit their secret.
As the hours tick by, their happily ever after is slipping away, but neither plan to give up, vowing to see each other again no matter what.
I promise no spoilers in this review. Book one left us with a massive cliffhanger. At this point, Claire Raye is the Queen of brutal and emotionally damaging cliffhangers. “Release Me Not” picks up where we left off, and Claire Raye is not kind. We're suspended in the mystery of the culprit taunting Ethan and Zoey.
Despite the mystery of "who." We are treated to the wildly protective side of Ethan Morrison and the fiercely stubborn but resilient Zoey Holden. Despite Ethan being a green-flag boyfriend, he's still a boss in and out of ̶b̶o̶a̶r̶d bedroom meetings. Oh, and Ethan Morrison is still 𝐌𝐘 Book Boyfriend.
Of course, this would not be a Claire Raye book if they didn't tease us for what's to come in Badger Creek! So we're teased relentlessly on [insert character names I cannot spoil]. Also, this would only be a good review if I added I shamelessly begged and pestered Claire Raye to give us books for [certain characters]. You’re welcome.
Rate: 5+☆ POV: 1st/Dual
(This post is grammatically correct. But, fun fact Claire Raye is a bestie duo, so plurals should be applied.)
[ARC generously provided by the authors. This is my honest review.]
Ethan Morrison, owner of the Badger Creek Resort, was once seen as a bit of an enigma by those who worked for him. Making his fortune in his twenties through a tech start up, he purchased the resort as a new challenge, even though he can't ski!
Zoey Holden, whose family are Badger Creek royalty, chose to forge her own path away from the family business and worked her way up the ladder at the Resort. Now reporting directly to Ethan, she may be young but she's determined to prove her business acumen and be more than just her family name.
As they spend each day together, both begin to realise that their feelings are much more than platonic. With Ethan's business and Zoey's reputation on the line, will they be able to keep up their professional boundaries? And what happens when someone sinister uses Zoey as a way to hurt Ethan more than he could have imagined...
Thank you to @claire_raye_author and @theauthor.agency for this second duet in the Badger Creek series. I'm really enjoying the format and the way that book 1 is used to provide the back story of the characters and situation, whilst the cliffhanger then leads into the focus for book 2.
What a fiery he falls first, work place romance 🔥 Zoey is the epitomy of a strong, independant woman and I love that she shut down any misogyny aimed her way. There was such open communication and respect between she and Ethan and it was lovely getting to watch them break down their respective walls.
Ethan adored Zoey, and I love the ways he expressed this to her. I really did feel that respect between them and the fact that he fell first was such a swoonworthy little section 💕
I can't wait to continue on with this series, with the next duet 'Forget Me and Forget Me Not' focusing on Zoey's older brother Max. If you love a suspenseful romance, this series is for you ❤
I really enjoyed the conclusion of Ethan and Zoey's story! This picks up right where we left off on the edge of that cliff at the end of book one (metaphorical cliff 😉).
I'll try to be spoiler free so won't say what happened here, but I loved how Zoey's stubborn and determined character came through from the beginning of this book and continued throughout despite the challenges she faced.
I loved how the events only brought new sides to both Ethan and Zoey and how they automatically knew what the other needed so they could be brought closer together instead of letting it tear them apart.
This situation played out more realistically than in many novels. Not resolved quickly and in a blaze of action, but gradually coming to a head over time which was refreshing and built tension. As a reader I was lulled into a falsesense of security or filled with anxiety that proved unfounded as scenes played out.
Only dropped a star because I figured out the culprit and motive fairly early on, and also because I was sometimes left confused over whether their relationship was still a secret or not because they were not discreet 🙈
Overall a great read and I'm looking forward to the next Badger Creek duet.
I really enjoyed the conclusion of Ethan and Zoey's story! This picks up right where we left off on the edge of that cliff at the end of book one (metaphorical cliff 😉).
I'll try to be spoiler free so won't say what happened here, but I loved how Zoey's stubborn and determined character came through from the beginning of this book and continued throughout despite the challenges she faced.
I loved how the events only brought new sides to both Ethan and Zoey and how they automatically knew what the other needed so they could be brought closer together instead of letting it tear them apart.
This situation played out more realistically than in many novels. Not resolved quickly and in a blaze of action, but gradually coming to a head over time which was refreshing and built tension. As a reader I was lulled into a falsesense of security or filled with anxiety that proved unfounded as scenes played out.
Only dropped a star because I figured out the culprit and motive fairly early on, and also because I was sometimes left confused over whether their relationship was still a secret or not because they were not discreet 🙈
Overall a great read and I'm looking forward to the next Badger Creek duet.
I was beyond excited when this hit my kindle. The way book 1 left off, had me on the edge of my seat needing answers and more of the amazing couple that is Ethan and Zoey. Let me just tell you, that spot at the edge of my seat-I didn’t leave it for the entire book, it was nothing short of fantastic. A whirlwind of a read, my emotions were so high and I loved every minute. This book had all the delicious suspense I could ask for! I couldn’t put it down (and was very mad when I had too).
All the wonderful qualities I loved about Ethan and Zoey was magnified in this book. Zoey was such a shining star, her strength, determination, fight and will was showcased beautifully. I loved a protective caring Ethan how he will stop at nothing to have Zoey happy and safe. The love and respect they have for one another along with the teamwork and how well they just get the other is brilliant. Their chemistry and connection is the perfect mix of sweet and hot!
This story was jam-packed with mystery, spice, swoony moments, laughs and love of friends and family. Such a wild ride having you addicted to what will happen next, easily turning the page because you never know what is truly coming. With a few twists that left you trying to figure out which way it will all turn out!
Highly recommend this duet, there is just something about the story that hit all the best spots! I can’t wait until Max and Harper’s book and to be back in Badger Creek once again!
5+⭐️
**ARC generously provided by the author. This review and its opinions are my own**
ARC BOOK REVIEW: RELEASE ME NOT BY CLAIRE RAYE RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
◾️That’s the way, uhuh uhuh, I like it◾️
Here’s my cliffhanger rant that no one wants to hear--I’m not too fond of them. I tolerate them—mainly because I’m invested in the characters and don’t want to leave things unfinished. But I enjoy it when a story picks up without pause right where it left off, and Author Claire Raye does an excellent job again in the Badger Creek Series, “Release Me Not,” in doing so.
As mentioned in my review of “Release Me,” I felt Zoey’s character fell flat. Was I ever surprised when I started “Release Me Not”? Zoey kicked a $ $. I mean, where was this Zoey before? I loved this version of her and how she was portrayed.
The mystery and the suspects were an addition to the story that I found confusing at times only because I didn’t believe it truly warranted such drastic actions. But if the outcome brought Zoey and Ethan even closer than bravo. I love those two together. And I stand by the fact that Ethan is incredibly thoughtful, sweet, and hot all in one package. His efforts to protect and immediately stand up for her without hesitation were incredible. “Release Me Not” was a great way to get the duet.
I received a copy of this book for free and am leaving this review voluntarily.
Release Me Not #4 in the Badger Creek Series by Claire Raye.
This is the second book in the duet of Ethan and Zoey’s story.
5⭐️ 3.5🌶️
Tropes
Small town romance Mystery & suspense Secret romance Age gap Low level angst
Forget Me Not, starts right after the events of part one in the duet. I’m so grateful for that as I desperately needed answers!
Ethan and Zoey have a soul deep connection and I loved reading the way their relationship developed. Ethan is just amazing, so committed to Zoey, willing to do anything for her. Zoey is determined not to let anything destroy her happiness and clings onto her independence. I love that about her especially after the trauma she is going through.
Their love for one another is beautiful and I just adore this duet. Did I work out who was the person causing all the trouble? Yes I did early on but it didn’t detract from the story. I couldn’t put it down and read it in a few hours.
I highly recommend reading this diet but I would go back and start with Hate Me, book one in this series for the optimal reader enjoyment.
Tension filled conclusion to Zoey and Ethan’s story! This picks up directly from the end of Release Me and the kidnapping of Zoey. The authors perfectly created tension that had me turning the pages to see who is responsible and how she gets out of this. Thankfully she's a smart, resourceful woman and manages to escape, but the nightmare is far from over. The threat continues throughout this second part of Ethan and Zoeys story, with the situation escalating as the story is filled with drama and intrigue. The tone is so different from the first book where their relationship built at a leisurely pace to the frantic, tension filled drama of the second half of the story. I was pretty sure I knew who the big bad was, but that did not stop me being unable to put this down until I found out for sure. I enjoyed both books from start to finish and look forward to heading back to Badger Creek for Max's story up next.
[4.25/5⭐️] Picking right back up where Release Me left off, we are dropped into Zoey and Ethan fighting their way back to each other. Only when they are reunited, their ordeal is far from over.
I loved Ethan and Zoey! While I had my suspicions regarding the person responsible for Ethan and Zoey’s situation, so much of their story was so exhilarating! I really loved getting to see Ethan fiercely protective over Zoey and Zoey reclaiming her strength. Zoey is such a strong female character and she and Ethan were so charming together!
You’ll Find — Secret Relationship Thrilling Suspense Found Family
This duet must be read in order to enjoy Ethan and Zoey’s story!
Thankful for the opportunity to read a gifted digital review copy!
This starts off from where Release me ended. The suspense of who is behind it all was written well. Although there was a clear suspect. What I liked about this book is both Zoe and Ethan didn't let this event and the rest break them apart. It only spurred them on to continue to love hard and fight harder for it. What a duo. Zoe is traumatised but Ethan's love gives her the strength to keep fighting. She is such a fierce and strong character. Oh Ethan, he takes my breath away. 😍. He was the perfect Lover. His gentle caring and force loving was everything. There was plenty of suspense, mystery, drama, emotions, humour, love and wonderful spice. Absolutely loved this duet and now I can't wait to start next one.
After that cliffhanger, I didn’t really know what to expect. But I was kinda happy they didn’t leave us in suspense too long with Zoey and what was going on with all of that! Ethan and Zoey are so cute. Even with all the worries of Zoeys stalker, their relationship just keeps growing and moves into this place where as a reader, you know this is the good stuff. I was honestly shocked when we finally find out who the stalker was. I felt like the suspense around this whole ordeal was kept up the whole book. Both their reactions throughout the book seemed so realistic. And by the end I wish we also had some closure or reassurance about Eric. This series is a must read!
"Badger Creek Duet #4" by Claire Raye is a captivating novel that weaves a tale of love, mystery, and the strength of community. Set in the charming yet secretive Badger Creek, it follows the intertwined lives of characters facing their pasts and futures. Claire Raye masterfully crafts a narrative that is both heartwarming and thrilling, with unexpected twists that keep readers on their toes. The vivid descriptions of the town and its inhabitants create a world that feels real and inviting. This book is perfect for those who love romantic suspense with a strong sense of place and community.
The second part of this duet picks up right where the first one left off, and we get to see how strong Zoey really is. She knows she wants to get back to Ethan; even though she just went through something traumatic, she knows that he did too and wants to be there for him. We also get to see how devoted Ethan is, and I love that we got to see him around her friends and family. I really like Badger Creek and can’t wait for the next duet.
Although Zoey is being held captive, she isn’t about to just accept her circumstances. She is strong and fierce however finding her way back to Ethan is only the beginning.
Ethan was distraught when Zoey went missing it was under these less-than-ideal circumstances that he met her family. Now that she is back, he is determined to keep her safe especially since they don’t know who was responsible and why.
I really enjoyed that it was outside forces that were challenging their relationship and not each other. He is supportive and understanding while she isn’t about to let what happened change her life and they have a great group of friends and family who are there for them every step of the way.
What an intense ending to Zoey and Ethan's story! I devoured this in less than 24 hours! Book 1 ended on such an intense cliffhanger that I just had to dive right in. Zoey is such an awesome character, and she's pretty b@d@$s, too! Ethan is such a sweet guy, and their relationship is GOALS!
Zoey has been taken, and she doesn't know where she is or who took her. She just knows that she's not giving up and will try her hardest to escape, which she does. Meanwhile, Ethan is distraught and angry that Zoey is missing. He ends up having to tell her Zoey's friends and family about their relationship since he has to explain what happened to her. Everyone is worried about her and doing what they can to find her when they are notified that Zoey has been found. Now that Zoey is home and safe, all that's left to do is find who took her. After multiple threats, they still haven't figured out who it was... that is until Zoey hears the voice of her attacker in the last place she expected. This was such a good story and was very suspenseful. I really enjoyed it!
After that cliffhanger I was DYING to get some answers. So when Release Me Not hit my kindle I simple devoured it. The story kept me on the edge of my seat, speculating and theorising. But it was Ethan and Zoey's relationship that kept giving me all the feels. They are so perfect for each other I can't get enough of them. And don't even get me started on the spice. Mouth-watering and will definitely leave you hot and bothered.
Seriously, Ethan can't get more swoony. I simply adore him. And I was here for b@d@$$ Zoey. I love love looooove Claire Raye's heroines. They always deliver on the girl power and I was here for it! And they way they write their male characters? Always so supportive and showing such respect and admiration for their women. Ethan was no exception.
I simply couldn't put this book down. It had everything I could ever ask for. Suspense, spiciness, all the feels, laughs. It was perfect!
And I can't wait for what comes next. I'm also going to bug Claire Raye to get stories for [REDUCTED] and [REDUCTED]. As well as [REDUCTED] who intrigued me. And to think this all started with two siblings and their best friend way back when. I can't wait to see where this journey will take us.
I DEVOURED this book. The second I started I didn’t move. I was sucked right back into Ethan and Zoey’s story. I needed to know what was going to happen next and who was behind everything after the ending of book one.
I love everything about Ethan and Zoey’s relationship. Ethan will go to the ends of the Earth for Zoey. The man is protective of her and I love that about him. I love Zoey more than I already did, the woman is just a BA and she is strong. The chemistry and the passion between these two is still top notch throughout this book, too.
The mystery and the suspense kept me turning the page. I needed all the answers! I was absolutely hooked. Throw in the spice, the friends, and the family and I’m in absolute heaven reading this book.
I am already counting down the days until I can return to Badger Creek for Zoey’s brother, Max.
If you’re looking for an age gap, workplace, romantic suspense check this one out, but make sure you read Release Me first!
I could not put this book down, from beginning to end, I was completely captivated by this story. After the way book one ended I couldn’t wait to find out what was next!
This book picked up right where book one left off and let me tell you. Zoey Holden is epic. She is strong and fierce, and she refuses to give up. The love that she has for Ethan and that he has for her is so incredibly heartwarming. They refuse to give up on each other, and Ethan’s protective side…all I can say is WOW.
This book was full of suspense and had me on the edge of my seat from beginning to end. I absolutely adore the Badger Creek crew and I’m pumped for Max’s story next!! As always Claire Raye delivered an amazing story full of everything I know and love from them!
Did I binge read this and finish it at 4am? Absolutely. The second it hit my kindle I was all in. I needed to find out what was happening and who was behind Zoey’s abduction. Zoey is an absolute fighter and I love that, she may be terrified but she never once gives in or gives up. Ethan can we talk about Ethan? I mean, just when you think he can’t get any better.. he does. He’s amazing, protective, sweet and would literally do anything for Zoey - and he proves that. This book was a roller coaster ride of emotions, but in the absolute best way. I could go on and on and talk about it all day, but I don’t want to spoil it and you really should just read it. You will not be disappointed.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book. This is the 4th book in the Badger Creek Duet series. The second book in Ethan and Zoey duet. You must read the first book in this duet before starting this book. As this book picks up right from the cliffhanger from the previous book. I don't want to give anything away but this book will have you on the edge of your seat trying to figure out who is trying to sabotage their perfect romance. Ethan and Zoey are a power couple with off the charts steam. Can't wait to read more from this series.