The parking brake on my Volvo XC90 does not release when pulling on the release lever, can I release it manually so that I can drive it to the shop for repair?

Not from up top inside the car if it's frozen.

Sounds like it's been engaged quiet tight. So start the vehicle try depressing the release button and lifting up firmly instead of trying to immediately push downward on it to release.

Do that while lightly easing the vehicle in reverse if parked downhill to take pressure of the brake or in drive if parked uphill.

2005 is relatively new and I don't presume the cable has frozen nor snapped in the engaged position.

It's common when the brake has been engaged on a steep incline and drifted forward or the wheels curbed quiet snugly to avert rolling.