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Defy the Ravaged #4
Defend
Willow and Jason's story of survival and love comes to its conclusion in Defend.
My name is Willow and I am in love with Jason.
I don’t know where he is, or how to find him. Every step forward feels like I’m leaving him a hundred behind. They left me but the farther I travel the more I start to feel like I’m the one leaving.
We had been searching for safety. A place to rest and protect. A home to defend. Now I’m just trying to get by minute by minute. Day by day.
Who am I without them? Why go on when they’re not by my side?
Survival. That’s all that’s left now.
To survive.
Be a survivor.
My name is Jason and she is all that matters.
I am coming for her and nothing and no one will stop me.
My name is Willow and I am in love with Jason.
I don’t know where he is, or how to find him. Every step forward feels like I’m leaving him a hundred behind. They left me but the farther I travel the more I start to feel like I’m the one leaving.
We had been searching for safety. A place to rest and protect. A home to defend. Now I’m just trying to get by minute by minute. Day by day.
Who am I without them? Why go on when they’re not by my side?
Survival. That’s all that’s left now.
To survive.
Be a survivor.
My name is Jason and she is all that matters.
I am coming for her and nothing and no one will stop me.
105 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 31, 2020
About the author
E.M. Raegan
9 books160 followersErin Raegan is an obsessed reader, a dedicated writer, and a lover of all things fantastically impossible. When she's not plotting her next project, she spends hours on her kindle, though nothing beats a real book in your hands. She writes science fiction romance under Erin Raegan but she also writes fantasy and paranormal romance under her pen name E.M. Raegan. She can be found at home in Connecticut with her chihuahua Minnie, and her German Shepard Odin, waiting with her son for her active duty husband to come home. You can contact her at author.erinraegan@gmail.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
May 16, 2020
The final part of the story and again as much as I enjoyed parts of this it was again too short for me to appreciate fully.
I guess I’m just not really a fan of serial type stories.
Don’t get me wrong this was still a good read but I would have preferred this if it had been one complete story rather than. broken down like it was.
Luckily I read this when all the parts were out so I didn’t have to hang around as I might have become disinterested waiting.
The danger of these short serial type reads is not getting easily invested well at least for me.
So there were a couple of things here that I noticed.
First I don’t think the lake group would have been so easily accepting of them after what Paulie and the others had done shooting up members of there group.
Also, Finn still bothers me his obsession towards Willow is strange and slightly odd and felt slightly out of place.
I personally would have preferred if he had not been a part of the story at all.
Or if he had only in passing as a minor character.
I just found him slightly one dimensional and rather unnecessary and he detracted from the whole surviving a zombie apocalypse thing.
Which I do think was enough to carry this story on its own.
I did adore Finn's final fate and thought it was fitting whose hand actually delivered it.
I was also correct about Jay going postal in regards to Ren and Jay is definitely holding a grudge there.
Quite rightly considering his actions nearly killed Willow leaving her behind as he did.
I personally think if she had died Jay would have destroyed Ren.
The fact that nobody even thought to apologise bar Jay for Willows previous unfair treatment also really annoyed me.
Not Pauly, Ren or even Ricks girls thought to hold there hands up and own it that bothered me somewhat.
What can I say I hold a grudge and they were still playing the blame game in regards to Finn and his obsession with her right until the end like it was her fault.
Poor Willow did nothing at all to deserve the treatment she seemed to attract constantly from them.
I still can’t believe they all left her behind like they did, no wonder Jay lost the plot.
So this did wrap things up quite nicely and though there was some sadness there was also a lot of hope and light on the horizon.
I liked where this eventually ended up and there’s definitely scope for more stories set in this brave new world.
This was an imaginative series that taken as a whole I enjoyed just next time I would prefer this as one complete novel rather than many smaller novellas.
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
www.beckiebookworm.com
April 5, 2020
4.5 stars
Defend is the final part of Jay and Willow's story and I'm sad it's over. So the story picks up right where we left off last with Willow running from the hoarde and Jay injured and unconscious. I knew as soon as he woke up to find her missing he was going to lose his mind and he didn't disappoint. Willow is now with a new group and I have to admit I feared for her life since it's been so hard to trust others, but lucky for her she actually found a good community. I loved her reuniting with Jay and their surprise. While Jay and Willow are living their HEA Ren has left to find his sister and I'm thrilled that there is more to come.
Defend is the final part of Jay and Willow's story and I'm sad it's over. So the story picks up right where we left off last with Willow running from the hoarde and Jay injured and unconscious. I knew as soon as he woke up to find her missing he was going to lose his mind and he didn't disappoint. Willow is now with a new group and I have to admit I feared for her life since it's been so hard to trust others, but lucky for her she actually found a good community. I loved her reuniting with Jay and their surprise. While Jay and Willow are living their HEA Ren has left to find his sister and I'm thrilled that there is more to come.
April 6, 2022
A sweet little ending to the series. Book one was still my favorite out of all of them. The continuation of the serial killer drama was annoying. I really wish this book had focused more on their settling in a community, getting to know each other without the constant running.
May 25, 2026
such a good way to end this series. we've come a long way from book 1 to the end of book 4. im happy they've gotten their happy ending after never catching a break and shit hitting the fan multiple times.
SPOILER WARNING BELOW !!
rip to dahlia, you wonderful bitch. ☹️💔 she made this series alot bettter with her amazing personality. she brought a tiny bit of light and hope towards the group and im so sad to see her end like that. :(
FUCK YOU FINN. I genuinely hate you so fucking much. i hope you rot in hell you piece of shit. you deserved that ending and but also worse. you shouldve been tortured. willow shouldve done worse tbh
SPOILER WARNING BELOW !!
rip to dahlia, you wonderful bitch. ☹️💔 she made this series alot bettter with her amazing personality. she brought a tiny bit of light and hope towards the group and im so sad to see her end like that. :(
FUCK YOU FINN. I genuinely hate you so fucking much. i hope you rot in hell you piece of shit. you deserved that ending and but also worse. you shouldve been tortured. willow shouldve done worse tbh
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 25, 2021
Ok….that was intense. Right from the first few pages, I was at the edge of my seat- stressed out for them but also rooting for the whole MC to find a home and for Willow and Jay to have their HEA. I didn’t mind the gore and liked the hot scenes. I liked the writing- descriptive without giving too much detail. Action all the way, baby.
I felt this book- was invested in their story. It was a super fun ride and I’ve ignored all other essential work (except meal making because the complaints were disrupting my reading- LOL) but now that everything is resolved- I can finally focus on real life again.
I like Ren and a little bit curious about his story that continues from here as he goes out to search for his sister but given my recent marathon and the other books I have in my “read next” folder- will take a break from the Ravaged.
Plan to read this author again.
Thanks, Allie, for your awesome recommendation!
I felt this book- was invested in their story. It was a super fun ride and I’ve ignored all other essential work (except meal making because the complaints were disrupting my reading- LOL) but now that everything is resolved- I can finally focus on real life again.
I like Ren and a little bit curious about his story that continues from here as he goes out to search for his sister but given my recent marathon and the other books I have in my “read next” folder- will take a break from the Ravaged.
Plan to read this author again.
Thanks, Allie, for your awesome recommendation!
November 8, 2024
Not good enough for a 400 page book but somehow good enough for 4 consecutive books.
May 31, 2024
First of all. This was incredibly short. It took me about 45 mins to an hour to read it. And, as is the trend I’m realizing with the series, it was worse than the last book.
Why did they spend 3.5 book running from the same villain just for him to be quickly defeated in less than a page?
Why did they build up so many macho man characters with their unbreakable brotherhood relationships, just to break them all at the end?
ALSO probably the most egregious plot hole, is that no one apologized for their treatment of Willow. Even AFTER she found them a safe place to live. wtf!? This group is the worst.
Why is Jay such a rude, arrogant, and possessive asshole?
And why is he lowkey so mean and dismissive to Liam??
I honestly have to believe that the people who love this series and rate it anything more than 3 ⭐️ have to be middle schoolers who missed the Wattpad AO3 era and don’t know any better.
I will not be reading another word from this author and I think this series is officially the worst thing I’ve read this year. Possibly ever.
Why did they spend 3.5 book running from the same villain just for him to be quickly defeated in less than a page?
Why did they build up so many macho man characters with their unbreakable brotherhood relationships, just to break them all at the end?
ALSO probably the most egregious plot hole, is that no one apologized for their treatment of Willow. Even AFTER she found them a safe place to live. wtf!? This group is the worst.
Why is Jay such a rude, arrogant, and possessive asshole?
And why is he lowkey so mean and dismissive to Liam??
I honestly have to believe that the people who love this series and rate it anything more than 3 ⭐️ have to be middle schoolers who missed the Wattpad AO3 era and don’t know any better.
I will not be reading another word from this author and I think this series is officially the worst thing I’ve read this year. Possibly ever.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 6, 2020
(Read July 2020)
The series started well but fizzled out as it continued.
By #4 I was done. I skimmed to finish.
2 stars only because I finished it (barely).
🙄 😬 I'M TIRED OF:
🔻 Finn and his OTT craziness.
🔻 The indestructible zombie hordes that are everywhere.
🔻 All the violence, including people killing each other.
🔻 The romance that wasn't allowed to fully develop.
🔻 The constant peril.
The brief bit of happiness at the end was not satisfying.
🚫 I'm done with zombie books.
The series started well but fizzled out as it continued.
By #4 I was done. I skimmed to finish.
2 stars only because I finished it (barely).
🙄 😬 I'M TIRED OF:
🔻 Finn and his OTT craziness.
🔻 The indestructible zombie hordes that are everywhere.
🔻 All the violence, including people killing each other.
🔻 The romance that wasn't allowed to fully develop.
🔻 The constant peril.
The brief bit of happiness at the end was not satisfying.
🚫 I'm done with zombie books.
August 8, 2024
This was a good series. The plot where Finn was involved was unnecessary. I like the zombies were very involved in the story.
This is my next favourite "walking dead" series after Juniper Unraveling series by Keri Lake.
This is my next favourite "walking dead" series after Juniper Unraveling series by Keri Lake.
April 4, 2020
I have longed for this book for months, especially with the climactic ending of Hunted with Willow left behind, chased by a mob of zombies and Jay shot and separated from her. I excepted a very action-packed and dramatic continuation as well as conclusion to the series with Defend, and while it did deliver both aspects it sadly did not reach the level of excitement that I had for previous books and I had hoped for in this book.
Maybe I had unrealistically high expectations for the story, but all in all I feel like it was very rushed like the author just wanted it over and done with. Like all previous books in the series Defend was short, but it was now even shorter than the rest of the series which also made it so much more rushed to the conclusion, making the depth and struggles suffer for it. Because it was not that much depth the new characters introduced wasn’t given much room for characterization and the conflicts and struggles the characters faced was solved so quickly and easily it became underwhelming and too convenient for it to feel real. The conclusion with Finn coming to mind, or Reese’s fatuation with Willow. It all was solved or brushed by so easily that it made me question why this was even a thing in the book to begin with. Defend, for me anyways, felt like just the ending of a book instead of an actual book because of this.
The story did hold my interested and attention well enough though, especially with the beginning where Willow fights for her survival and her despair. It held both that depth and action that I desired so it wasn’t until after that that the story became so rushed. Even in that rushness there were still very enjoyable moments like Jay finding out she was left behind, his and Willow’s reunion, them finally settling down, a surprise with Willow and even the more tragic event with a loss. All that made for a great story, good enough for me to give it four stars. Had it only had a bit more complexity to it, like a more satisfying conflict with Finn or if Reese’s fatuation had built up to something this would have easily been a five star story. As it is though I am still very satisfied with the ending of this book considering I am a total sucker for HEA. Also, with how it left of I am excited to continue on in the world of Zombies together with Ren in the future.
Maybe I had unrealistically high expectations for the story, but all in all I feel like it was very rushed like the author just wanted it over and done with. Like all previous books in the series Defend was short, but it was now even shorter than the rest of the series which also made it so much more rushed to the conclusion, making the depth and struggles suffer for it. Because it was not that much depth the new characters introduced wasn’t given much room for characterization and the conflicts and struggles the characters faced was solved so quickly and easily it became underwhelming and too convenient for it to feel real. The conclusion with Finn coming to mind, or Reese’s fatuation with Willow. It all was solved or brushed by so easily that it made me question why this was even a thing in the book to begin with. Defend, for me anyways, felt like just the ending of a book instead of an actual book because of this.
The story did hold my interested and attention well enough though, especially with the beginning where Willow fights for her survival and her despair. It held both that depth and action that I desired so it wasn’t until after that that the story became so rushed. Even in that rushness there were still very enjoyable moments like Jay finding out she was left behind, his and Willow’s reunion, them finally settling down, a surprise with Willow and even the more tragic event with a loss. All that made for a great story, good enough for me to give it four stars. Had it only had a bit more complexity to it, like a more satisfying conflict with Finn or if Reese’s fatuation had built up to something this would have easily been a five star story. As it is though I am still very satisfied with the ending of this book considering I am a total sucker for HEA. Also, with how it left of I am excited to continue on in the world of Zombies together with Ren in the future.
April 15, 2020
This ended up not being what I was expecting, or even hoping for. Don't get me wrong, it was definitely good. Maybe my expectations were just higher. I don't know. It was a just a little too idealistic for me where Willow spends most of her time here.
It picks up right where we left off with Willow running for her life from the horde. Her and Ollie have been running so long that she's about to drop and she has come to accept that. But to her great surprise, she actually comes across two boys who manage to save her. Only to then basically kidnap her because they know she's part of the group that just shot at their people.
As we know, Willow has been kidnapped numerous times before so she's definitely suspicious when the boys seem truly repulsed by what she thinks they're going to do to her. Nothing could have prepared her for what she sees when they get where they're going. A huge community is not only surviving and thriving, but they're even managing to push the ravaged back and reclaim truly safe places to live. So many of these people haven't even been touched by the terror that has happened, so they don't understand how her group could do what they did. And after telling her story, it's put to a vote whether she will be allowed to stay or if she will be forced to go. More importantly, which would Willow choose for herself? She knows that Jay would never leave her, but then why was she abandoned?
We don't get a whole lot from Jay's point of view. I get why, but I would have liked more. As expected, he is livid when he wakes to find out they left Willow behind and he is going to do whatever it takes to find her. Fortunately enough, it doesn't take a real long time.
Their reunion is bittersweet in a way because when Jay finds her she was out with the community and when they confront each other hostilities are high. Can these two groups figure out a way to live peacefully and safely together? And when Finn shows back up how much damage can he do before finally meeting his end?
It was a happy end for this couple, which was expected, but it just didn't leave me fulfilled.
Ren's book will be next as he leaves to find his sister. I'm kind of on the fence if I want to read it or not though.
It picks up right where we left off with Willow running for her life from the horde. Her and Ollie have been running so long that she's about to drop and she has come to accept that. But to her great surprise, she actually comes across two boys who manage to save her. Only to then basically kidnap her because they know she's part of the group that just shot at their people.
As we know, Willow has been kidnapped numerous times before so she's definitely suspicious when the boys seem truly repulsed by what she thinks they're going to do to her. Nothing could have prepared her for what she sees when they get where they're going. A huge community is not only surviving and thriving, but they're even managing to push the ravaged back and reclaim truly safe places to live. So many of these people haven't even been touched by the terror that has happened, so they don't understand how her group could do what they did. And after telling her story, it's put to a vote whether she will be allowed to stay or if she will be forced to go. More importantly, which would Willow choose for herself? She knows that Jay would never leave her, but then why was she abandoned?
We don't get a whole lot from Jay's point of view. I get why, but I would have liked more. As expected, he is livid when he wakes to find out they left Willow behind and he is going to do whatever it takes to find her. Fortunately enough, it doesn't take a real long time.
Their reunion is bittersweet in a way because when Jay finds her she was out with the community and when they confront each other hostilities are high. Can these two groups figure out a way to live peacefully and safely together? And when Finn shows back up how much damage can he do before finally meeting his end?
It was a happy end for this couple, which was expected, but it just didn't leave me fulfilled.
Ren's book will be next as he leaves to find his sister. I'm kind of on the fence if I want to read it or not though.
October 20, 2024
3.5 stars. Thought the ending was too rushed, but it was ok. Some TDTL live moments considering it's a zombie apocalypse, but it was still entertaining. You can borrow these short novellas on KU or the whole book which I didn't know existed til now. I checked that story and it's the same.
Overall this series was chaotic and OTT, but never was there a boring moment. It's pretty intense from beginning to end. Next book is Ren's who is the best friend of this book's H Jay
Overall this series was chaotic and OTT, but never was there a boring moment. It's pretty intense from beginning to end. Next book is Ren's who is the best friend of this book's H Jay
October 10, 2022
So spicy, so sad but so grateful.
Our sweet love story comes to an end. Willow was a badass and proved herself to the MC.
Great ending to this series. I can see Ren having his own series.
Our sweet love story comes to an end. Willow was a badass and proved herself to the MC.
Great ending to this series. I can see Ren having his own series.
May 27, 2025
Disappointing end to the series if you ask me. Willow doesn’t mention anything about kids or a family in book 1 but suddenly that is all she ever wanted? Isn’t she a teenager?
Oh, and also, every man she meets is fully enchanted with her and either tries to kidnap her (she is a kid after all) or makes her some sort of community leader? AND she’s some sort of brilliant fighter/archer? I dunno. I liked the earlier books better when she was just scared and trying to figure out her situation.
Oh, and also, every man she meets is fully enchanted with her and either tries to kidnap her (she is a kid after all) or makes her some sort of community leader? AND she’s some sort of brilliant fighter/archer? I dunno. I liked the earlier books better when she was just scared and trying to figure out her situation.
September 19, 2024
I could have easily read 5 more of these. 🥺
October 16, 2020
A satisfying conclusion!
April 27, 2025
Sadly this book fell a bit short for me. We started on a high with book one and two and then three went down hill a bit to this... My problem isn't the writing persay, but the direction. The character growth from book two is reverted by the way they treat Willow in book three, which follows in this book.
The other big change is Jay and Willow and the all of a sudden "I love you"s that came in this book. Yes, Jay said it in book 3 while he was fucking her but he might as well have been saying "I love your cunt" because it's all he seems to want, nothing more. And the whole Willow may be pregnant thing was a bit... weird. They used condoms the previous times they had sex. I mean part of one of the other books was literally them going to raid a place and condoms were top priority, which he got in abundance. The only time it wasn't mentioned was when they were reunited and they had sex again where she tells him that she loves him and he's like of course you do.
I was also surprised by Ren in all honesty. I thought he would've been closer to Willow or had a better opinion of her by now but at the end of the last book and this one, it's obvious his opinion of her matches Paulie's - although I get the feeling Paulie is her number one hater, and for such a stupid reason.
Willow's character development was also lacking, or rather it felt like now she was all about her love for Jay and that's all there was to her.
The inconsistencies sorta got to me in the end (the condoms thing, the fact that at the beginning when Willow was remembering who she had back waiting for her excluded Liam until later on when the writer fixed that, etc). The biggest one being the bite and how fast it changed someone. You telling me Dahlia; an 80 year old woman could fight the infection for days before it took her but in book two, Hull (I think was his name), a man in his prime turned in a matter of minutes during the ravaged attacking the military base because of Finn. It just... it didn't make sense really. And can we talk about Dahlia and how she got bit? Running after Liam and taking out 3 biters with a dagger. When did she get a weapon? Or when was she even able to move fast enough with her injury (let alone before she injured her foot).
Lastly, all the Finn drama, all books 2 and 3 and what do we get as a comeuppance? Literally nothing. Jay hits him a few times, he goes to the infirmary, kills 2 nurses and gets his hands on Willow just for her to somehow overpower him and gut him. It was so lack luster, especially after everything he did. I mean it's not like the author couldn't make it a bit longer, the book is barely over 100 pages but clearly she had something better to do that she rushed through this book.
All in all I'm glad I finished the series but was left a bit disappointing. Like I said before, the series started with such a high and then took a turn and fell flat.
The other big change is Jay and Willow and the all of a sudden "I love you"s that came in this book. Yes, Jay said it in book 3 while he was fucking her but he might as well have been saying "I love your cunt" because it's all he seems to want, nothing more. And the whole Willow may be pregnant thing was a bit... weird. They used condoms the previous times they had sex. I mean part of one of the other books was literally them going to raid a place and condoms were top priority, which he got in abundance. The only time it wasn't mentioned was when they were reunited and they had sex again where she tells him that she loves him and he's like of course you do.
I was also surprised by Ren in all honesty. I thought he would've been closer to Willow or had a better opinion of her by now but at the end of the last book and this one, it's obvious his opinion of her matches Paulie's - although I get the feeling Paulie is her number one hater, and for such a stupid reason.
Willow's character development was also lacking, or rather it felt like now she was all about her love for Jay and that's all there was to her.
The inconsistencies sorta got to me in the end (the condoms thing, the fact that at the beginning when Willow was remembering who she had back waiting for her excluded Liam until later on when the writer fixed that, etc). The biggest one being the bite and how fast it changed someone. You telling me Dahlia; an 80 year old woman could fight the infection for days before it took her but in book two, Hull (I think was his name), a man in his prime turned in a matter of minutes during the ravaged attacking the military base because of Finn. It just... it didn't make sense really. And can we talk about Dahlia and how she got bit? Running after Liam and taking out 3 biters with a dagger. When did she get a weapon? Or when was she even able to move fast enough with her injury (let alone before she injured her foot).
Lastly, all the Finn drama, all books 2 and 3 and what do we get as a comeuppance? Literally nothing. Jay hits him a few times, he goes to the infirmary, kills 2 nurses and gets his hands on Willow just for her to somehow overpower him and gut him. It was so lack luster, especially after everything he did. I mean it's not like the author couldn't make it a bit longer, the book is barely over 100 pages but clearly she had something better to do that she rushed through this book.
All in all I'm glad I finished the series but was left a bit disappointing. Like I said before, the series started with such a high and then took a turn and fell flat.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 3, 2023
ღ 𝐃𝐄𝐅𝐄𝐍𝐃 ღ Is the conclusion within the (Defy the Ravaged) series by new to me author E.M. Raegan. This book picks up exactly where (Defend) the previous one ended. HERO: Jason HEROINE: Willow. This also had my heart pumping at an irregular pace, when Ren had to make an executive decision save his brother or risk losing the group.
Even though like the previous books I did enjoy this one I did feel like it was too short, especially with it being the end of this series, and some areas just felt too rushed, or maybe it was just me wanting to stay in this crazy world a wee bit longer. I was also hoping for more on Ren or even his own book as he left his crew and went alone looking for his sister.
It has been so refreshing not only finding a new to me author but also a new to me genre, I'm usually a hardcore romance reader rarely verying off that genre until now..
July 26, 2026
This was a satisfying conclusion to a series I thoroughly enjoyed. While I’m sad it’s over, I think the ending wrapped everything up really well. If anything, I just wanted more time with these characters because I had grown so attached to them throughout the series.
I thought Fin’s storyline was concluded perfectly. His obsession with Willow had been building since the earlier books, and seeing that arc finally come to an end felt well deserved. It never felt rushed and provided the closure I was hoping for.
I also enjoyed seeing the group finally reach Olympia and find refuge with Varidy’s community. After everything they had been through, it was rewarding to see them finally find a place where they could begin rebuilding their lives. Of course, getting there came at a heavy cost. They lost so many people along the way, and their trust in humanity had been tested over and over again.
One moment that stood out to me was Paulie’s decision to open fire on Varidy’s people before attempting any negotiation. Morally, it wasn’t the best choice, but given everything the group had recently endured, I completely understood why he made that call. They had just escaped another hostile group that murdered one of their own and seriously injured a child. At that point, they couldn’t afford to take any chances. It was a decision born out of survival rather than cruelty.
Thankfully, the misunderstanding didn’t define their future. I loved that Varidy and the people of Olympia ultimately accepted them into the community, with the condition that they help clear the surrounding hordes of biters. It felt like a fair exchange, and it made sense that a community would value people like Paulie, Jay, and the rest of the group, whose military experience and survival skills made them invaluable.
Overall, this was a fantastic ending to an addictive post-apocalyptic series. It delivered plenty of action, emotional moments, and a satisfying resolution while staying true to the characters I’d grown to love. I’ll definitely miss following Willow and the group, and this has easily become one of my favorite zombie series.
I thought Fin’s storyline was concluded perfectly. His obsession with Willow had been building since the earlier books, and seeing that arc finally come to an end felt well deserved. It never felt rushed and provided the closure I was hoping for.
I also enjoyed seeing the group finally reach Olympia and find refuge with Varidy’s community. After everything they had been through, it was rewarding to see them finally find a place where they could begin rebuilding their lives. Of course, getting there came at a heavy cost. They lost so many people along the way, and their trust in humanity had been tested over and over again.
One moment that stood out to me was Paulie’s decision to open fire on Varidy’s people before attempting any negotiation. Morally, it wasn’t the best choice, but given everything the group had recently endured, I completely understood why he made that call. They had just escaped another hostile group that murdered one of their own and seriously injured a child. At that point, they couldn’t afford to take any chances. It was a decision born out of survival rather than cruelty.
Thankfully, the misunderstanding didn’t define their future. I loved that Varidy and the people of Olympia ultimately accepted them into the community, with the condition that they help clear the surrounding hordes of biters. It felt like a fair exchange, and it made sense that a community would value people like Paulie, Jay, and the rest of the group, whose military experience and survival skills made them invaluable.
Overall, this was a fantastic ending to an addictive post-apocalyptic series. It delivered plenty of action, emotional moments, and a satisfying resolution while staying true to the characters I’d grown to love. I’ll definitely miss following Willow and the group, and this has easily become one of my favorite zombie series.
March 30, 2026
Book 4 (Final Book) brings Jason and Willow’s story to a close, and overall, it left me with a bittersweet feeling. It was a quick read, but it wrapped things up in a way that felt satisfying, even if it pulled on my emotions a little.
What I appreciated most was that Jason, Willow, and their growing family survive and finally find a place that feels relatively safe. After everything they’ve been through—the chaos, the constant danger, and all the uncertainty—it felt good to see them reach a point where they could actually breathe for a moment. That sense of stability, even if it’s not perfect, felt earned.
The ending itself was definitely bittersweet. You’re happy for them, but at the same time, it’s the end of their journey, and that always comes with a little sadness. It didn’t feel overly drawn out, though—the book moved quickly, which made it an easy and engaging read from start to finish.
If I’m being honest, while I did enjoy the series overall, I think what really kept me hooked was Jason. His character arc—from someone I loved to hate to someone fully devoted and all in—was what made the story for me. The way he consistently showed up for Willow and the family, no matter what, really stood out.
Also, this whole series honestly feels like it should be made into a show. The mix of zombies, survival, messy relationships, and found family would translate really well on screen.
Like, zombies + hot bikers + chaotic relationships + found family?? That’s a whole hit show waiting to happen.
You’ve got:
• The constant tension of a zombie apocalypse
• A morally gray, ride-or-die guy like Jason
• A strong female lead in Willow
• Random kids getting added to the group like it’s the apocalypse adoption agency
• And just enough drama and messiness to keep people hooked
It’s basically the perfect mix of The Last of Us and Sons of Anarchy vibes.
I don’t know who wouldn’t watch that—but I know I’d binge it in one weekend 😄
What I appreciated most was that Jason, Willow, and their growing family survive and finally find a place that feels relatively safe. After everything they’ve been through—the chaos, the constant danger, and all the uncertainty—it felt good to see them reach a point where they could actually breathe for a moment. That sense of stability, even if it’s not perfect, felt earned.
The ending itself was definitely bittersweet. You’re happy for them, but at the same time, it’s the end of their journey, and that always comes with a little sadness. It didn’t feel overly drawn out, though—the book moved quickly, which made it an easy and engaging read from start to finish.
If I’m being honest, while I did enjoy the series overall, I think what really kept me hooked was Jason. His character arc—from someone I loved to hate to someone fully devoted and all in—was what made the story for me. The way he consistently showed up for Willow and the family, no matter what, really stood out.
Also, this whole series honestly feels like it should be made into a show. The mix of zombies, survival, messy relationships, and found family would translate really well on screen.
Like, zombies + hot bikers + chaotic relationships + found family?? That’s a whole hit show waiting to happen.
You’ve got:
• The constant tension of a zombie apocalypse
• A morally gray, ride-or-die guy like Jason
• A strong female lead in Willow
• Random kids getting added to the group like it’s the apocalypse adoption agency
• And just enough drama and messiness to keep people hooked
It’s basically the perfect mix of The Last of Us and Sons of Anarchy vibes.
I don’t know who wouldn’t watch that—but I know I’d binge it in one weekend 😄
August 2, 2025
This is more a review of the whole series. It's an ok apocalypse series, but not much of a romance. There's lots of action, lots of kidnappings---too many IMO honestly--and they even manage to fit in some sexy time. I was a bit shocked at the first I Love You, because all I could think was how?! They barely spoke to each other, granted there's man-eating monsters chasing them, but i still needed a little more for it to be believable. I kinda got the impression these author wanted us to assume they both loved each other before this series even started, which I personally hate in romance novels. The stalker guy that became the zombie whisperer was a bit OTT. So we're supposed to believe he's able to find her so easily every freaking time? Come on -_- I thought at the least, maybe they'd learn ways deal with the zombies from seeing what he did, but that didn't happen.
Jay was hot, but one-dimensional. I think he's a marine, and he has an awesome dog, but that's about all I know about him. If I hadn't just finished Imogen Keeper's Love in the Apocalypse series, maybe I would have liked this more, but Jay is no comparison to my apocalypse-husband Yorke and quite honestly, Willow is weak sauce too. When she got that bow and arrow, I got so excited thinking she was gonna become a total badass, and instead she never even used it. Never even learned to shoot a gun or learn the german commands for the dog she was always with. Lame :/
Jay was hot, but one-dimensional. I think he's a marine, and he has an awesome dog, but that's about all I know about him. If I hadn't just finished Imogen Keeper's Love in the Apocalypse series, maybe I would have liked this more, but Jay is no comparison to my apocalypse-husband Yorke and quite honestly, Willow is weak sauce too. When she got that bow and arrow, I got so excited thinking she was gonna become a total badass, and instead she never even used it. Never even learned to shoot a gun or learn the german commands for the dog she was always with. Lame :/
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 9, 2025
First book started out great. Loved Doll, Billy, and the dogs. Everything that pulled me into the first book(s) was lost at the end. Besides Willow and Doll, there was zero diversity in these characters.
The inconsistencies and the typos were insane this book. Olly just disappeared after the boats and showed up on the last pages, Doll got bitten and lasted for days (so mad she died), and author just forgot Willow lost her shoe a page prior?
Finn’s only motivation was that he was crazy. Why did he care so much about Willow? He wanted a wife and kids, but he could’ve had that with anyone? He was also teleporting around the map, somehow.
And I do not blame Ren for leaving Willow at all. They either all died or they left her. Jay is a dick for not forgiving, or at least understanding his brother at the end.
I found this series recommended on Reddit for its romance but I didn’t care for Jay. He was just lusting and protective, felt like he had no unique personality. I skimmed through whenever they were alone, no value at all.
All in all, even though it was four books it was a quick read. Started off strong so I don’t regret reading, I just wish the MMC was better.
The inconsistencies and the typos were insane this book. Olly just disappeared after the boats and showed up on the last pages, Doll got bitten and lasted for days (so mad she died), and author just forgot Willow lost her shoe a page prior?
Finn’s only motivation was that he was crazy. Why did he care so much about Willow? He wanted a wife and kids, but he could’ve had that with anyone? He was also teleporting around the map, somehow.
And I do not blame Ren for leaving Willow at all. They either all died or they left her. Jay is a dick for not forgiving, or at least understanding his brother at the end.
I found this series recommended on Reddit for its romance but I didn’t care for Jay. He was just lusting and protective, felt like he had no unique personality. I skimmed through whenever they were alone, no value at all.
All in all, even though it was four books it was a quick read. Started off strong so I don’t regret reading, I just wish the MMC was better.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 26, 2020
Does anyone else ever get the impression that an author gets tired of a story/character/what have you, and decides to wrap it up in the quickest way possible? Kind of like Game of Thrones season 8? Well, that is how Defend felt to me. Not as jarring and as WTF as season 8, but everything was wrapped up in a nice tidy little bow with a cherry on top.
Disclaimer here, I didn’t remember the ending of Hunted so (a bit of a spoiler here) I didn’t remember why or how Willow got separated AGAIN. She is that dangerous Damsel in distress that gets everyone killed! Anyway, there is some great recap seamlessly worked in, awesome job Reagan. You should teach a class to some authors. It is a skill that few have mastered.
Defend was ok, I don’t buy what Reagan was selling in this one. I think those people would have sent the gang packing. It was too neat and tidy, and as I said, felt too neat, tidy, and rushed.
Disclaimer here, I didn’t remember the ending of Hunted so (a bit of a spoiler here) I didn’t remember why or how Willow got separated AGAIN. She is that dangerous Damsel in distress that gets everyone killed! Anyway, there is some great recap seamlessly worked in, awesome job Reagan. You should teach a class to some authors. It is a skill that few have mastered.
Defend was ok, I don’t buy what Reagan was selling in this one. I think those people would have sent the gang packing. It was too neat and tidy, and as I said, felt too neat, tidy, and rushed.
March 12, 2023
Amazing
I love this series. It kept me on my toes the hold time. I love how you didn't just automatically make it like all the cars stop working and they had to walk. It's a zombie apocalypse not EMP. I also love the characters and love the faith and love of the main characters and how no matter what he was always there. And yes she found trouble but he stuck beside her. Just she did him and all the people of the MC (even though they were wrong here). I like how you never made Paulie apologize (he's just not that type of man.) But he showed it in other ways. Hate that Doll had to die. Would love a story Billy. Maybe a future story for Blue and Liam. Thank you for the amazing story. It's was perfect
I love this series. It kept me on my toes the hold time. I love how you didn't just automatically make it like all the cars stop working and they had to walk. It's a zombie apocalypse not EMP. I also love the characters and love the faith and love of the main characters and how no matter what he was always there. And yes she found trouble but he stuck beside her. Just she did him and all the people of the MC (even though they were wrong here). I like how you never made Paulie apologize (he's just not that type of man.) But he showed it in other ways. Hate that Doll had to die. Would love a story Billy. Maybe a future story for Blue and Liam. Thank you for the amazing story. It's was perfect
August 26, 2025
2⭐️
Mantengo mis 2 estrellas porque… es muy similar al tercer libro y la verdad que carece de accion, todo pasa mega rapido la ciudad en el agua, la gente nueva con personajes nuevo, Finn, Doll, todo todo y todo pasa demasiado rápido, esta serie tendría que haber sido mas de un libro completo no seriada! todo fue tan rápido que ni llegue a disfrutar de nada ni me pude poner teiste por Doll y Billy que ya pasaba a otra cosa! me puso mal eso y que el final sea tan repentino y rápido y acelerado, me faltaban 8 minutos de libro y Willow estaba matando a Finn todavía. Siento que daba para MUCHO! mas
Definitivamente el primero es mi fav y igual ame la serie!
Mantengo mis 2 estrellas porque… es muy similar al tercer libro y la verdad que carece de accion, todo pasa mega rapido la ciudad en el agua, la gente nueva con personajes nuevo, Finn, Doll, todo todo y todo pasa demasiado rápido, esta serie tendría que haber sido mas de un libro completo no seriada! todo fue tan rápido que ni llegue a disfrutar de nada ni me pude poner teiste por Doll y Billy que ya pasaba a otra cosa! me puso mal eso y que el final sea tan repentino y rápido y acelerado, me faltaban 8 minutos de libro y Willow estaba matando a Finn todavía. Siento que daba para MUCHO! mas
Definitivamente el primero es mi fav y igual ame la serie!
February 27, 2026
This is the last of the series and i think it's the shortest. I'm happy with how everything ended Don't get me wrong, I'm just surprised that it was only 100 pages.
Overall this series was pretty good for a zombie apocalypse book. it had moments of real feelings including loss and friendship and love. I shed a few tears during this series. my only real beef was how easy it was to kill Fin. which okay is kind of a spoiler but honestly not, like this is a HEA story....even with the zombies.
Anyway it was a good read to pass the time and i would recommend it to readers looking for something fast paced with lots of flow and movement plot. No standing still in this zombie filled world.
Overall this series was pretty good for a zombie apocalypse book. it had moments of real feelings including loss and friendship and love. I shed a few tears during this series. my only real beef was how easy it was to kill Fin. which okay is kind of a spoiler but honestly not, like this is a HEA story....even with the zombies.
Anyway it was a good read to pass the time and i would recommend it to readers looking for something fast paced with lots of flow and movement plot. No standing still in this zombie filled world.
April 19, 2020
Zombies, blood, death, life, love and a psychopath all make for a really great read. Add a handsome Marine, a motorcycle, and his club and it is perfect!
I love this book. It's a great ending to the series. I was not disappointed. I'm excited about Ren's spinoff. During desperate times people either come together, fall apart, or do both. This book is about making a home but it's also about community and forgiveness. When the world falls apart there will always be people who can help pick up the pieces as long as you're willing to help.
I love this book. It's a great ending to the series. I was not disappointed. I'm excited about Ren's spinoff. During desperate times people either come together, fall apart, or do both. This book is about making a home but it's also about community and forgiveness. When the world falls apart there will always be people who can help pick up the pieces as long as you're willing to help.
June 16, 2020
Just finished the Defy the Ravaged series by E.M. Raegan whom is fast becoming one of my favorite authors. At this point I'd read anything she wrote without even reading the blurp (except to check for cliff hangers...I usually wait for an entire series to be complete before reading). Amazing world building, strong characters, and interesting story lines can be found in all her books. And she makes her books available on kindle unlimited which I find very generous for a writer of her caliber. I highly recommend this and her Galactic Order series.
October 5, 2022
Disappointing series
I have mixed feelings. I stuck with this series, so it had my attention. But the relationship I was hoping for never happened. This is weird alpha male dominance that is lacking in depth. Is claiming a woman after being a jerk and not establishing a bond sexy? The imagery was great. The character development was disappointing. The men were definitely lacking and the female lead was very damsel in distress but then thrust into leadership without the character development to warrent it.
I have mixed feelings. I stuck with this series, so it had my attention. But the relationship I was hoping for never happened. This is weird alpha male dominance that is lacking in depth. Is claiming a woman after being a jerk and not establishing a bond sexy? The imagery was great. The character development was disappointing. The men were definitely lacking and the female lead was very damsel in distress but then thrust into leadership without the character development to warrent it.
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