Gray Matters: Small Town Medical Romance

by Jessica Buss

When a chance at love requires you to cross lines.

Destined to be together, an extremely driven neurosurgeon and a smiley dental hygienist have their meet-cute in her ICU room after she undergoes a craniotomy. At first glance, the attraction he feels for her is unmistakable. They share a connection that’s more than just physical. Thankfully, she isn’t his patient.
After several chance run-ins, Grayson learns how incredible Kaitlyn is. She’s not like anyone else he’s ever met. From their first kiss, he knows one thing: what’s happening between them is something special. He wants more, but does she feel the same?
Kaitlyn knows Dr. Grayson Michaels is different, but to her, pursuing something with him rides the line of being taboo. He works with her doctor, but that fact doesn’t diminish her excitement when he asks her out. The chemistry between them is stifling, and stretches beyond anything cellular. She wants to explore it, but will he?


medical romance - off limits - sunshiny dental hygienist with a brain tumor vs. neurosurgeon - instant connection - one kiss changes everything - golden retriever vibes

344 pages, Paperback

Published October 12, 2026

About the author

Jessica Buss was born and raised in Anchorage, Alaska. She is married to her high school sweetheart and has two sons. Although she has both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Psychology, she stepped away from that field to be a stay-at-home mom. Now that her kids are growing up and she’s getting more time to herself, she’s giving this writing thing a chance.


https://www.jessicabuss.com

https://linktr.ee/jessicabussauthor?u...

Reviews

[justmarvi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was fortunate to receive an Advance Reader Copy, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review.

This is the first book by Jessica Buss that I have read. Because the brain tumor storyline is close to my heart, I was a little concerned that it might be a trigger for me. Thankfully, it was not, and I was able to enjoy the book.

The title fits the story so well. The storyline grabbed me right away and kept me reading well into the evening. The opening was a great way to meet the characters, while the uncertainty surrounding the type of tumor kept me on edge and turning pages. Kaitlyn is a relatable female lead. Grayson, the male lead, was a little more down-to-earth than I would expect a neurosurgeon to be. Then again, his perspective was more personal than professional.

The budding romance between Kaitlyn and Grayson was almost perfect—maybe a little too perfect for me. Small issues came up throughout the book, but each one was resolved neatly. I am used to reading about messier characters and the kind of drama that leads to a third-act breakup. Because this couple was doing so well, I kept expecting something to happen to Kaitlyn. SPOILER: There is no third-act drama. That was new for me as a reader, but it fit this story perfectly.

Alaska is a place I would like to visit, so I really enjoyed learning about the scenic locations in and around Anchorage that the characters visited. The festivals and other happenings around town gave me Hallmark and Gilmore Girls vibes, adding to the story’s magical feeling.

I would definitely read a book about the secondary characters Jana and Taylor getting together.

On a personal note, my mother passed away from glioblastoma, which was why I was concerned that this story might be a trigger for me. Thankfully, the story did not go in that direction. However, while I was reading this book, my older sister was diagnosed with a brain tumor and had surgery. She is okay and home now. Because of our mother’s history and the uncertainty surrounding my sister’s tumor, I had to pause before finishing the book. Once I understood what my sister was facing, I was able to finish it. It was a very strange coincidence.

[•Cici• Theory of A Dreamer Book Blog♥ · Rating 4.5 out of 5]

When this author announces a new book I cannot wait to pick it up! I've been so curious about this book ever since it was announced. I got into this story right away. I adored and really enjoyed this story!

Kaitlyn and Grayson's journey pulled my heart and I from the get go! Grayson is a neurosurgeon and Kaitlyn is a dental hygienist. When Kaitlyn finds out she has a brain tumor she has to get a craniotomy which has her colliding with Grayson. As it ignites so much much between the two, can Grayson and Kaitlyn take a chance and be together?

From the moment that Grayson and Kaitlyn met, I couldn't wait to see how their story would play out! I enjoyed seeing them be brought into each other's lives and truly getting to know them. Kaitlyn and Grayson had me invested and feeling it all with them throughout!

I felt for Kaitlyn and everything she went through. She was so strong. I so admired Grayson and his dedication as a doctor. The way he cared about Kaitlyn was so wonderful to see.

Both Grayson and Kaitlyn were such relatable characters that showed what it means to be human. Their chemistry couldn't be ignored and was so real. Seeing Kaitlyn and Grayson connect and fall made me so happy. These two and their journey got right to my heart in so many ways!

I so appreciated the fact that this story shed a light on very real subjects. Also, I loved how this author took us back to Alaska with this story!

With Gray Matters, Jessica Buss has created such a moving medical romance! This author always brings the deepest of layers and beautiful love with her books which shined bright with Kaitlyn and Grayson's story!




*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from Enticing Journey Book Promotions / the author*

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review!

I finished this book in 2 days! I will say this, this book hooks you from Chapter One Ooof. I started reading it at night thinking I’d read a little before bed, and I seriously could NOT put it down. It kept me turning the pages because I needed to know what was going to happen next!

💕 Emotional Connection/Romantic Chemistry: 5/5
🌶️ Spice: 2.5/5
📖 Pacing: 5/5

One of my favorite things about this book was how the emotions were written. You can actually feel what the characters are feeling. There were scenes that made me smile, and others where I was literally holding my breath because I needed to know what happened next. It was nice to read a story that didn’t take that predictable turns if you know what I mean 😉 . (No spoilers just read the book!)

The dialogue felt natural. Nothing felt forced or awkward.

It kind of reminded me of a mix between a Lifetime movie and Hallmark movie, but with the emotional depth and romance that kept me completely invested.

And YES… there is a happy ending!

I honestly didn’t have any real downsides or a part of the book that I disliked. It was one of those stories that just pulled me in and made me want to keep reading.

Overall: 5/5

Would absolutely recommend reading this one! If you enjoy small-town romance, medical, emotional storytelling, and a story that grabs you from the very beginning, definitely add this to your TBR!

[Wendy Livingstone · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is Grayson and Kaitlyn’s story.
Grayson is a neurosurgeon, while Kaitlyn is a dental hygienists. Kaitlyn finds out that she has a brain tumour which needs to be removed, and she meets Grayson in her ICU room, as he is one of a group of doctors on call for her doctor. There is an instant connection between these two, and one kiss changes everything.
This is a well written easy to read story, with family dynamics, friendships, emotions, challenges, engaging and realistic characters, humour, witty banter, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, and heartwarming, small town medical romance.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.

[Jackie Wright · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gray Matters is Kaitlyn and Grayson’s heartwarming and heart-wrenching story, from the moment I picked this book up I knew there would be no putting down because I was drawn in and captivated by the characters and their journey.
A chance meeting with a doctor that was on call when Kaitlyn’s doctor was off leads to the most beautiful love story. This book had me in tears before the first chapter had ended but it was watching Kaitlyn and Dr Grayson heal together that had me smiling. Watching this couple explore their feelings and take off for adventures in the Alaskan countryside touched me on so many levels. I smiled, I swooned and I shed some tears as I cheered Grayson and Kaitlyn on.This was a very special and well written story.

[Lorey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Phenomenal! Heart-wrenching and heartwarming. Kaitlyn and Greyson's story has all the emotional feels Jessica is so good at writing. I was teary-eyed before the end of chapter 1. Their story wrecked me in the best possible way. Their romance will live in your heart long after you read the last page. Kaitlyn and Greyson heal each other. They notice when something is bothering one another. They talk and listen. Their chemistry is electric and spicy.
I love when Jessica includes tourist spots from her home state. The characters visit Alaskan sites, and the descriptions are vivid enough that I can actually visualize them. Jessica has quickly become a one-click author for me. I hope you give Gray Matters a read. All 5 stars!

[* Elle * the * Babbling * Dabbler * · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a great book!! A crazy meet cute of taboo romance. Perfect balance of spice and plot!!

[Dallas Godlewski · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book had me from the jump, it was a whirlwind romance that might feel rushed to some but considering I married my husband after 4 months of dating and we have been together 12 years now, this romance was absolutely beautifully written to me. Sometimes you just know from the beginning when someone is your person. Jessica did an amazing job bringing awareness to the complexity and fear of finding out you have a brain tumor. It was so well written from the patients point of view and you felt the MFC's fear and doubts with her. Then you switched to Graysons point of view and got the logical doctor point of view and it was also so well written. Genuinely couldnt put this book down and read it all in 3 hours. Loved every second.

[Spunky N Sassy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Spunky N Sassy Rating: 5.0

~~~~~~~~~~Tracy's ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Review~~~~~~~~~~

Wow I absolutely love how Jessica Buss writes and the stories that she weaves around her readers. This is not my first book that I've read by her, but I love her books. She tells a story, but she doesn't just jump into the story, she slowly pulls her reader in tells the story of both sides of the characters and the challenges that they face. This isn't uh just they meet they jump into bed and they live happily ever after type of story. This is a story of two people who share an undeniable connection that they don't feel is right, but they can't deny how they keep running into each other that maybe fate has a hand in what is going on. I love even though there is so much chemistry between the two of them that they learn more about each other and what makes the other person tick. This is such a special story, and I loved every word of it that I took my time reading because I want to savor this story. In today's world we don't always come across such a special book with a special story in it like this one. I fell in love with Grayson from the beginning and Kaitlyn is very special and she is someone that in real life I would love to have as a best friend. So, what I suggest the reader to do is to pour yourself a cup of coffee or tea, sit in your favorite comfy chair and open this book and enjoy the ride that Jessica takes you on because I know I did.

[Kari Hansen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kaitlyn meets Grayson during the most challenging time in her life when she is diagnosed with a brain tumor and she finds herself in the hospital where he is covering for her doctor. Despite everything that she is going through, her positive outlook and perseverance are inspiring and when their paths keep crossing, she can’t help but wonder if they are destined to be more.

Grayson is dedicated to his career and his patients but from his first meeting with Kaitlyn he knows that she is special. He is drawn to her in a way that he can’t deny even if the circumstances that brought them together weren’t ideal. He shows her with his attentiveness that he wants to experience everything that life has to offer with her.

This story is both heart wrenching and heartwarming. The emotional impact is impactful and will draw you in but there is also a lighter aspect when it comes to their relationship that will bring a smile to your face. The romance between Kaitlyn and Grayson and their journey is a story you won’t soon forget.

[Sarah Lehman · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is wonderful and at times heart wrenching! As one that has a constant headache with migraines on top of it I felt the shock and all of the emotions that Kaitlyn goes through when she gets her diagnosis of a tumor that needs to be removed. I was cheering for her as having any kind of medical issue can be daunting and extremely terrifying if you don't have anyone that can help you with medical appointments or understand why you need certain tests. Kaitlyn met Grayson as he is a doctor in the group she uses as he's one of the on call drs in the group. I loved their relationship, how he did his best for her, especially as his parents didn't seem interested in him or in his life, they cared more about his siblings. There are so many different emotions that run through this book and I also loved the different areas of Alaska that were mentioned.

[FunUndertheCovers · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an emotional, difficult read. It was not an easy start to this romance, to be faced with life or death.
Kaitlyn faces such a herculean task, that of making life or death decisions concerning her life and well being. So young but faced with such a menacing health issue! In walks the man of her dreams but at the worst point in her mental and physical being and at so young an age.
Grayson can't believe his eyes. For him, Kaitlyn is a sight to behold despite her bandages. He has to be cautious as he is a doctor and she is a patient but he can't seem to stop this emotional force pulling him to her.
I have something that I call emotional "ootz" when I read a story such as this that builds my anxiety to a fever pitch that it makes me feel off balance. Jessica Buss gave me the OOTZ!!
review by C. Seymour - blogger

[Pointeaway · Rating 5 out of 5]

Outstanding heartwarming read. I loved the characters in this book. They are well developed and right way you connect with the what they are going through. I absolutely loved all the fun dates and or adventures throughout the story around Alaskan events or nature. I felt the setting being so well described drew me further into their story. Characters wise I loved Kaitlyn's drive to move forward, and enjoyed how she made cure sweet treats for people. I loved how Grayson was so kind and loving, and how much he truly loved his profession. There is a lot to love about this book, you have to read it find your favorite moments. I received a copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Carol Seymour · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an emotional, difficult read. It was not an easy start to this romance, to be faced with life or death.
Kaitlyn faces such a herculean task, that of making life or death decisions concerning her life and well being. So young but faced with such a menacing health issue! In walks the man of her dreams but at the worst point in her mental and physical being and at so young an age.
Grayson can't believe his eyes. For him, Kaitlyn is a sight to behold despite her bandages. He has to be cautious as he is a doctor and she is a patient but he can't seem to stop this emotional force pulling him to her.
I have something that I call emotional "ootz" when I read a story such as this that builds my anxiety to a fever pitch that it makes me feel off balance. Jessica Buss gave me the OOTZ!!

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book I've read from this author and I can honestly say that I loved it. Kaitlyn, who is a dental hygienist discovers she has a brain tumor that needs to be removed. She meets Grayson as he is part of the group of doctors on call for her doctor. This book felt so real as you can easily feel what she was going through and how nervous she can be just for scans alone. I loved Grayson as I thought he was kind, patient and just a good guy overall. I felt sorry that his parents were more invested in his brothers life than they were with his. You can certainly feel the emotions in the story. Very well written and I'd highly recommend.

[Liz Ranne · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG!! I loved this! It's Kaitlyn & Grayson's story & it's a love story for the ages!! She is having symptoms that didn't make sense to her & they've been going on for a while. After being admitted to the hospital, she finds out she has a brain tumor that needs to be removed. After her surgery, Grayson is on call & is filling in for her doctor. When they first meet the attraction is instant & both would like to pursue it. After things settle down, they can't resist the pull between them, I loved the spice & the story was fantastic!! No OW drama, not too much angst, everything felt very natural between them! Highly recommend this book & author!

[Kasie Harvey · Rating 4.5 out of 5]

4.5⭐️ 3🌶
This is an all around wholesome read! I just adore how Jessica writes. Her stories always come across as realistic, like this is an actual story about someone’s life and the activities and actions during a snapshot of their lives. She touches a bit on a real life moment in her life, and with that, the plot and the characters shine through. And it seems that with every book she writes, I can relate to something in some way, which I think is super touching when you’re immersed in the story. This was a perfect mix of a great story, some swoony characters, and some spice to fill the gaps! Loved this one.

[Christine Woinich · Rating 4.5 out of 5]

4 1/2 stars. I enjoyed the connection between Kaitlyn and Grayson. I found them to be a cute couple. Their pasts were different, and they both had moved away from family to start their lives. My heart felt for the coldness of his parents and upbringing, and I loved her mother. The descriptions of their dates around Alaska allowed me to visualize the actual spots. A wonderful story, though it did move slowly at time.

I received a copy through Enticing Journey Book Promotions, and this is my unsolicited review.

[World Of Books 65 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Some romance reads don’t just touch your heart; they settle there and linger long after you’ve turned the final page. ❤️ And yet again, Jessica Buss brings the beautiful Alaskan setting to life with Gray Matters, a truly touching, moving romance that left me with the warmest of feelings.

Kaitlyn will absolutely steal your heart! ☀️ Her sunshine personality shines through every page, and after her world is turned upside down by an unexpected emergency operation, she finds herself drawn to Grayson while recovering. He might not be her doctor, but the instant connection between them is impossible to ignore.

Grayson is a strong, capable surgeon, but watching this man turn into a complete golden retriever around Kaitlyn? PURE JOY! 🐶❤️ Their dates, set against the breathtaking beauty of Alaska, are an absolute delight, and I found myself smiling as I watched their connection grow into something truly special.

This is what Jessica Buss does so beautifully. She gives us a romance that might not begin in the usual way, but one that unfolds with such warmth, tenderness and heart that you can’t help falling in love right alongside her characters.

Gray Matters is a beautiful reminder that sometimes love finds us when we least expect it, and watching Kaitlyn and Grayson’s love blossom is nothing short of perfection. A heartfelt, feel-good romance that will leave you smiling long after the final page. 💕

WOB65 VERDICT: A sunshine heroine, a surgeon with serious golden retriever energy, breathtaking Alaska and a love story that melts your heart. What more could a romance reader want? 🩷

[Jennifer VanDriel · Rating 5 out of 5]

You never know when fate is going to strike you. Well it chose one heck of a time to strike Kaitlyn and Grayson. However when it comes for you, you need to follow the path it has you take. Well they both took the path and we get the benefits from it. They are perfect for each other. When it comes to the sexy times it is off the charts.
Jessica Buss is one of my most favorite authors so she is a must read for me.

[Melissa]

The characters are well developed, and the setting in Alaska makes you want to visit there. Chapter one is so emotional. I felt Kaitlyn’s pain and nervousness about what was happening to her. Love the events/festivals that took place. I don't want to say too much. Loved the ending! Another great book! Done perfectly.

I hope Jana & Taylor get a book! (Hint, hint, Jessica!!!)

I highly recommend this book and author! What are you waiting for? It's in Kindle Unlimited!!!

[Amanda M · Rating 5 out of 5]

I savored every bit of this story. From chapter one I was pulled in and invested. I loved how the author took and wrote the emotions into the narrative you could actually get a sense of or feel what the characters were feeling. I also liked how the heavy was balanced out with some of the lightness of things. Kaitlyn and Greyson where chef's kiss. I loved, loved the connection they had from the very beginning. I couldn't get enough of these two, especially Greyson because he was just so supportive. Overall, this is a well written beautiful romance story that's absolutely worth the read.

[Jenn O'Leary · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gray Matters by Jessica Buss is a fantastic, heart-wrenching read!
Grayson and Kaitlyn’s story is a very emotional, whirlwind romance.
I was hooked from the first chapter and could not put this book down!

[Gayla Storz · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book! Kaitlyn and Greyson’s story was so emotional and heartwarming. They had great chemistry together. If you like insta-love, small town, medical, emotional romances this a a great book that you will want to read.
Also the setting and the details about Alaska in this book has me wanting to visit Alaska even more.

[Josiah Mercy]

A heartfelt and intriguing romance that blends emotional challenges with a unique medical storyline. I love the contrast between the sunshine-filled dental hygienist and the brilliant neurosurgeon. It sounds like a touching story about connection, healing, and finding love when you least expect it.