Dressler

by Lori Gagnon

Welcome to a charming small town of Cheney, WA where Pollianna "Polli" Grey, a professor who radiates positivity but often neglects her own needs, encounters Henry Jones, her striking, "Viking-esque" teaching assistant. Their initial, competitive clashes at Triple T Trivia nights quickly ignite an undeniable spark.

What begins as a professional dynamic soon transforms into a powerful connection. Henry is drawn to Polli's vibrant spirit, while Polli finds herself intrigued by Henry's quiet strength. As their bond deepens, they each discover in the other a profound support that challenges them to confront their own vulnerabilities. Henry, burdened by a past that subtly shadows him, finds Polli's presence a much-needed light, while Polli, through Henry’s attentive understanding, learns to prioritize her own well-being.

Surrounded by a hilarious and fiercely loyal "found family" of friends, they navigate life, love, and self-discovery. Their journey is one of authentic connection, leading them towards a love that promises healing and transforms their world.

"Dressler" is a heartwarming and "spicy" story of unexpected bonds, the strength found in vulnerability, and the joyous realization that some connections are destined to light up your life.”

"Dressler" is a testament to the power of authentic connection, the strength found in vulnerability, and the joyous, messy journey of finding your person.”

305 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 26, 2025

Reviews

[Allyce · Rating 5 out of 5]

SO MUCH HEART in the fun stuff and in the hard stuff. What a sweet and spicy story about lovely people who deserve all of the love coming to them. The setting, camaraderie and little weekend adventurers made me nostalgic for my own college days. Highly recommend!

[elise hamilton · Rating 4 out of 5]

Spice level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ need more please!

This book had me hooked from the very first page — the emotions between the characters are raw and real, and I couldn’t stop turning pages. The mix of sultry tension and genuine human connection is so well done. It’s not just spice for the sake of spice — the author layered in real life struggles like grief and mental health, showing how differently they can affect people, all while keeping the story undeniably steamy.

There were moments I laughed, moments I wanted to cry, and moments where the heat jumped right off the page. It’s a perfect balance of passion and depth.

Honestly, I didn’t want it to end. I set it down and instantly wanted more — almost felt cheated that it was over so soon. I cannot wait for the next book to release!

Huge thank you for letting me be an Advance Reader — it was an absolute pleasure diving into this story.

[Stacy · Rating 4 out of 5]

DRESSLER is a fun and heartfelt Rom-Com set on the campus of Eastern Washington University. A unique cast of characters: two friendship groups merge for some delightful PNW festivities, including a cozy pumpkin patch outing at our very own Spokane Green Bluff, and don't worry, Riverfront Park's very own Garbage Eating Goat received a much deserved cameo! And did somebody say TRIVIA! Perfect escapism with a dash of spicy romance told by the fresh voice of local author, Lori Gagnon. Equal parts comical and enduring, I am looking forward to reading the next installment in the series AN EAGLE LOVE STORY. NOTE: I received a free digital ARC from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review. Oh, and Go Eags!

[Sadie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cute book about Cheney and the area. Being from the town, it was fun to read a book and actually envision the characters around town. (And yes, Rosa’s ranch is THAT good!)

As a reader of romance, it needed more story/more filler as it quickly jumped from season to season like it was only a few weeks in between. With the romance budding and steaming between the professor and the assistant from the beginning, having it drawn out over the course of two semesters seemed less than real life, given how frequently they see each other.

All the characters were likable and endearing. Overall nicely written!

[Doniell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dressler delivers the perfect amount of spice and romance in this first book of the Eagle Love Story series. Two friend groups collide in the best of ways when Polli, a grad student and part-time professor bumps into Henry, another grad student at a local trivia night event.

The story pushes you along happily as two kindred spirits find their person in each other - and have a lot of fun doing it!

I highly appreciate the nostalgia and coziness of this book as a local Spokane resident and Cheney neighbor.

[Connie M. · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you’re looking for a fun, light hearted romance, this is for you. A little slow in the beginning but about 1/3 of the way through you are invested in these characters and it’s worth it to continue. Liked the light hearted banter between the characters. Totally want to visit Cheney, WA now and try some cheese bread with ranch! Sounds like a great little town. Some good romance and some sex, but not too explicit. Looking forward to seeing what happens in the next books with the other friends.

[Michelle Timmerman · Rating 2 out of 5]

There was minimal, lack luster plot with excessive amount of discussing “the girls” and “the brothers,” two peer groups that become friends and all date. It is just too much repetition of how wonderful their friend groups are. Some spice but minimal. The nostalgia for anyone from the area or an alumni…not sure if it is worth the read for it.

[Kristin Hamond · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dressler is a sweet, small town romance story with a little bit of spice and a lot of warm and happy feels. The characters are quirky and fun, the small town charm is abundant, and the slow burn keeps you reading. The story is light and easy to follow; it's a great fall weekend read.