Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Stand by Me #5

The Shape of Trust

Rate this book
A single dad with no time for temptation…

Webb Walters walked on the wild side. Fed his addictions. Lost everything and disappointed those he cared about. His emotional scars prove it. He finally has his life together until he discovers the five-year-old daughter he never knew existed. 

What does a guy do with hair scrunchies and bedtime stories?

Stock figures and startups are his priorities. Not dolls and dresses.

His daughter needs him. He can’t fail. Not at this.

Then Lily Rose offers to help out. Beautiful Lily, with her funky clothes and her love for old 80s hair bands.

He has to admit that she has a way with kids. But she also has a way with him. Revving his motor too hot without even trying. She’s everything he shouldn’t desire—too sweet, too inexperienced, too addictive.

His heart was safe... until life hands him a secret daughter and an irresistible nanny.

Read all of Brinda Berry's books:

The STAND BY ME novels:

The Beauty of Lies ~  (Leo and Harper)

The Fiction of Forever ~ (Gunner and Kiley)

Fit for Love ~ (Aiden and Makenna)

The Possibility of Perfect ~ (Dane and Josie)

The Shape of Trust ~ (Webb and Lily)

THE SERENDIPITY NOVELS:

Chasing Luck ~  (Ace and Malerie, Book 1)
Tempting Fate ~  (Collin and Veronica, Book 2)
Seducing Fortune  ~ (Dylan and Emerson, Book 3)

274 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 31, 2018

396 people are currently reading
345 people want to read

About the author

Brinda Berry

24 books688 followers
Brinda Berry lives in the southern US with her family. Brinda is obsessed with cairn terriers, Kings of Leon, illustrated cookbooks, new technology and sandy beaches. She dreams of finding the perfect pillow--no small feat. She's also terribly fond of chocolate, coffee, and books that take her away from reality.

Join Brinda Berry's Readers Group: https://brindaberry.com/mailing-list/

More ways to connect:

Website: www.brindaberry.com
Facebook: facebook.com/BrindaBerryAuthor
Twitter: twitter.com/Brinda_Berry
Email: brinda@brindaberry.com



Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
145 (45%)
4 stars
102 (31%)
3 stars
57 (17%)
2 stars
11 (3%)
1 star
4 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
Profile Image for Coco.V.
50k reviews134 followers
Want to read
July 27, 2020
🎁 FREE on Amazon today (7/27/2020)! 🎁
Profile Image for Mandy Reads Indie.
1,997 reviews91 followers
January 18, 2019
Hired to take Josie's place while she is on maternity leave, Lily finds herself in a job she finally loves with a boss she has growing feelings for. As the days progress, their attraction for one another does as well. All until Webb finds himself a new father to a little girl. Now his main priority is his daughter and his feelings for Lily get put on the back burner.

THE SHAPE OF TRUST was such a great read. An absolute page turner. Lily and Webb have to be one of my most favorite couples Berry has concocted to date. There was such fire and emotion and fun between the two of them. How could you not love them?

The writing was perfection, the plot had me devouring the book every chance I got, and these characters had stolen my heart from the start. I highly and wholeheartedly recommend this book. Especially if you have been following this amazing series. Pick it up today, and grab the others if you haven't read them yet. You won't be disappointed.
Profile Image for Angela.
9,062 reviews124 followers
January 1, 2019
5 Stars

The Shape of Trust is the fifth book in the Stand By Me series by Brinda Berry. This series just seems to get better and better with each new release. I have really loved this series, so when this book was released I knew I just had to read it- but I wasn’t sure I would love it as much as the other four books. Well, I should never have doubted Ms. Berry, because the characters and storyline won me over immediately, and this book has now become my favourite of the series.
As with the other books, Ms. Berry has produced a wonderful story with a superb plot and a captivating storyline. Added to that were her endearing, fully developed, and somewhat quirky characters- the combination of these pulled me into the story and kept me wrapped up in all the developments. I was so completely emotionally invested in every detail. I couldn’t put it down, as I really had to know how things would play out- so I ended up reading it all in one sitting. Web and Lily Rose are such fantastic characters, but it’s little Julianne who really stole the show!
Ms. Berry manages to instil bucketloads of charm and emotion into her stories and characters- which gives her books a real heart & soul.
I really recommend this book- you’ll be bound to love it just as much as I have!
I can’t wait to get my hands on her next book!

Thank you, Ms. Berry.
Profile Image for 2kasmom.
1,448 reviews52 followers
May 7, 2019
This is book #5, in the Stand By Me series. This can be read as a standalone novel. For reader understanding and to avoid spoilers, it is recommended to read this series in order.

Webb loves running the bookstore. He meets all sorts of people. Like the newest employee. She is very attractive, but is really trying. When he needs help the most, they become closer.

Lily offers to help when he needs it. She has found him so hot and could not do anything about it. The closer proximity increases the heat levels until they are unbearable.

This is a sweet, yet sexy story. Right from the beginning these characters seem really meant to be. I love the setting, pace, heat and heart. There is a lot to be grateful for between these pages. As usual, the series is very sexy and the characters have a ton of charm.


***This copy was given in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Stephanie Villere.
1,416 reviews7 followers
December 25, 2018
This is The Shape Of Trust, book 5 of the Stand By Me series, written by Brinda Berry. This book was sweet and steamy and cute and even filled with anguish. You won’t be able to stop yourself from loving the main characters and their forbidden romance. Sometimes things aren’t as simple as black and white. Sometimes you just have to trust what someone is telling you. Enjoy!
Profile Image for Sara Oxton.
3,824 reviews18 followers
January 22, 2019
The Shape of Trust by Brinda Berry a four-star read that will shape your mind. This is the fifth novel in the stand by me series, but can be read as stand-alone, I have read a couple of them, but they are all great story’s and enjoyable in their own right. This was a good story as Lily was such a rounded character and has flaws that will make you fall in love with her, she is quirky but fun. Add in some other amazing characters and you have the makings of a great story, there were a couple of wobbles, but they were still good overall.
Profile Image for Lisa.
3,830 reviews21 followers
January 18, 2019
The Shape of Trust (Stand by Me #5)
By Brinda Berry
Rated 5 stars

This is another super book in the Stand By Me Series. I have read quite a few of this series. This is a interesting one that deals with some tough decisions for both characters. It was all blended well together. I liked each of the main characters and the story was good. The connection between Webb and Lily was very believable. I enjoyed their time together as much as they did. Learning, talking and laughing. That kissing!?!? Meltdown!

Webb has struggles in his life but his most recent is staying away from Lily who he considers “too young” for him. When he hires her for a job the struggle is harder because being around her all the time makes him only think of one thing. When they talk about the physical ”age” difference vs the mental one it’s mentioned by Lily that:

“ It’s not the days that make up a life, you know. It’s the experiences.”

I thought that was so profound. Great line!

I struggled with his daughter sometimes because a 5yo would not be okay with her grandma leaving her with someone she doesn’t know. ....and not crying for her mom all the time. That just seemed weird. She acts like she is perfectly fine living with a man she has never seen. Plus the words she uses and actions make her seem older than her age. I just wish this would Have been addressed at least for a little bit. Then have her adjust to her new life. She is a cute addition to the story so I can fault for that addition.

Again this is not my first book by this author. It is probably my second favorite of the series. I like that the author doesn’t shy away from real problems and uses them to show how people can move forward in life.
Profile Image for PP's Bookshelf.
2,849 reviews404 followers
December 24, 2018
Single dad. Age gap. Sweet , sexy and intense. I don't think you will find any reason to dislike The Shape of Trust by Brinda Berry. The story has some complexities and layers those intrigued me even more!
Lily is a strong, passionate and caring young woman who is used to taking care of her dysfunctional family. Her life is full of struggles and pains but she doesn't let them hold her back. She also has a secret that made life even harder for her. She has to hide it when she gets the part time job of assistant in Webb's bookstore. Now Webb is another story. He straightened himself after making some grave mistakes in his early life. He is now a successful businessman and a perfect gentleman. He is just so confident and sexy! I loved his character so much. He is fighting his attraction to Lily when he suddenly gets custody of his daughter. Someone he didn't know about existing. Now all hells break loose. Webb and Lily would need each other. But it will not be easy considering Lily's secret and Webb's past life are going to tear them apart. An amazing storyline holds all the ingredients together and a spectacular ending finished it.
What I loved about the story was the author's way of creating the relationship between Lily and Webb. It was not hurried or over the top. It was real and honest. Their reactions were so true to their character and story. The author added some interesting twists and turns to make the story different from a regular love story. I thoroughly enjoyed the ups and downs, the smiles and tears, the love and heartbreak.
Profile Image for Laura Furuta.
2,047 reviews28 followers
December 31, 2018
The Shape of Trust (a Stand By Me novel Book 5)
By: Brinda Berry
5 out of 5 stars

The story The Shape of Trust (a Stand By Me novel Book 5) by Brinda Berry is a new adult/romance book. I absolutely loved reading this story. It had me hooked from the very beginning. It is a wonderful romance book that I couldn’t get enough of. I loved reading about the characters of Webb Walters and Lily Rose. Webb is a man that may have had a wild side in the past however is now walking a different path. He has just learned that he has a daughter he knew nothing about. She needs him. Lily is a woman who is wonderful communicating with those she meets. She is caring and compassionate. She is someone who helps others. Just the sort of person who offers to help Webb out in caring for his daughter. These two have an attraction to each other. There is a desire/energy and chemistry between them. Will they try to keep their relationship professional/businesslike or will they give into their emotions/feelings for each other? Will they find their happiness with each other? Read this book to find out. Both Lily and Webb are characters that I grew to care about with each chapter that I read. You want them to be happy. The story has moments that warmed my heart and made me smile. There is flirting/bantering and some steamy scenes that make the temperature in the room rise. This is a story that flows smoothly and had me glued to the pages until I was finished. I would definitely recommend reading it.
89 reviews1 follower
January 22, 2019
I thoroughly enjoyed this 5th book in the Stand By Me Series! I can tell you first off, that if Brinda Berry wrote it, you should read it because it will be amazing! She does it again with Shape of Trust, characters you'll fall in love with, and a story you won't be able to put down!

The quirky Lily jumps from job to job doing anything she can to take care of herself and hopefully, get her younger brother and sister out of the life they are living and make things better for them. It's hard for her to find real work since she is dyslexic and never finished high school. Her friend Josie gets her a job covering for her at her bookstore while she is on maternity leave. This is where she meets Webb. Josie's business partner with a dark past of his own that he has finally overcome and is perfectly content with the way his life is going. He fights his attraction for Lily repeatedly telling himself that he is too old for her.

Enter the 5 year old daughter he never knew he had but she needs him now! He has no idea what to do with a child but Lily offers to help and he takes her up on her offer of becoming his nanny. Will the two of them get over their fears of their pasts, overcome all obstacles, and find a happily ever after? Read on to find out!

It is an engaging story of "characters with character" that will run you through your entire range of emotions! While this can be read as a stand alone, I fully suggest that you go ahead and grab the entire series if you haven't already done so! Each book is a Can't Put Down read! Love Love Love them all!
520 reviews7 followers
January 11, 2019
The Shape of Trust by Brinda Berry is a standalone book in her Stand By Me series. It is a romantic story where both characters have hugely complicated and difficult lives. Both need help, and are reluctant to ask for it until they are sure if they can trust each other.
Webb is a recovering drug addict and successful investor. His life is turned upside down when he discovers he has a young daughter who needs someone to look after her while her mum is in rehab. With no idea how to take care of a child, he turns to an employee, Lily, who is good with kids and could do with the extra work. Lily’s experience with children comes from more or less raising her siblings whilst putting up with neglect from her mother and addict brother.
As you might expect, the book is full of twists and turns. Webb and Lily have a lot to deal with, and need to learn to trust each other and ask for help. They also need to work out whether to fight or embrace the strong feelings they have for each other.
There are some great child characters in this story. I particularly liked Erin, Lily’s sister, who is cunning and observant. I also liked Julieann with her ridiculous vocabulary. It is good to see in the story how Webb and Lily always put the children they take care of first, and are unconditionally loving of them.
This was an enjoyable read! Tense at times, but ultimately heart-warming. I give it five stars, and would recommend it if you enjoy romances with complicated families.
Profile Image for Michelle Austin.
2,842 reviews44 followers
January 18, 2019
The Shape of Trust was a great 5 star read and book five in the Stand By Me series.

Webb is a bachelor that has had some dating nightmares and is a little standoffish when it comes to women. I had a LOL moment from some of his dating experiences.

Lily has been hired to work at the bookstore that Webb owns along with his friends sister, Josie. The way she meets Webb was hilarious and definitely embarrassing for Lily. How can she work with someone so hot?

Of all the bosses I’ve ever had, ever dreamed about, ever see on television...none of them looked like this guy. - Lily

Webb has definitely taken notice of Lily and he cant stop sneaking glances at her. And of course Lily has noticed Webb as well. Things take a big twist when a woman and child show up at the store on a rainy night, Webb is thrown for a huge loop. He meets his 5 year old daughter Julieann. Lily steps up and offers to help Webb with his daughter. Will these two connect and get a HEA.? Or will each of their secrets interfere and ruin everything?

My emotions were all over the place and I loved the bantering. We do get some steamy scenes as well. I really liked all of the secondary characters. Brinda Berry does a great job of pulling you right in with her writing. I didn’t want to stop until I was done, I had to see how things ended. And the ending, OMG loved it. I’m an 80’s girl and loved the band that helped Webb out. This is a must read, you will really enjoy it.
Profile Image for Carrie.
726 reviews14 followers
January 24, 2019
The Shape of Trust by Brinda Berry
My rating: 5 out of 5 stars

This is my kind of book, it is sexy but mostly has story and build up. This story made my heart ache and smile at the same time. All of the characters are fantastic and very well written.

Webb is a great man, he is wealthy and accomplished but has his fair share of demons. When his daughter is thrust into his life unexpectedly he is freaked out but I think it started a change in him. He suddenly becomes very protective of her and Lily and having her in his life has stirred up emotions he didn’t think he would have.

Lilly, bless her heart, is trying her best to make the crappy life she has work for her and her siblings, on top of that she has her own secrets she tries to keep away from the ones she loves, namely Webb. She is fiercely protective of her younger brother and sister as her mom can’t be bothered to care for them herself. Her older brother is in some hot water with drugs and keeps bringing his issues around his siblings which in turn puts them in danger and that really makes Lilly’s blood boil. Lilly wants to forget her messed up life and be in Webb’s pretty world but their two worlds eventually have to collide.

Overall a fantastic book, I wish it was longer, but I guess that is how anyone would feel with a book they enjoy! The ending is perfect and I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who loves romance and drama.
679 reviews5 followers
January 24, 2019
The Shape of Trust (Stand By Me, #5) by Brinda Berry
5 out of 5 stars

The shape of Trust is book #5 in the Stand by Me series written by Ms. Berry is a great read and page turner I didn’t put it down. The plot was great and different. The characters are well developed and I also enjoyed the secondary characters the way they played off on each other was hilarious.
Lilly is hired at the bookstore to help out will Josie is on maternity leave this is where she meets Webb. She loves her new job and she is falling for her boss. But she has a secret
Webb has walked on the wild side and fed his addictions. He finally has his life together when he finds out he has a daughter that he never knew about. What does he know about raisin a little girl, but she needs him he can’t fail her he won’t fail her…
When Josie goes back to work Lilly’s hours are cut so she offers to help him out. He has to admit she has a way with kids. She also has a way with him she gets him going even without her trying. But he has secrets too… She’s too young for him to sweat and trusting will he give into his desires or keep a distance?
Can these two people over-come their secrets?

I highly recommend this book…
By
Tracy
@tracym
Profile Image for Jana.
883 reviews
February 3, 2019
The Shape of Trust is the fifth book in Brinda Berry’s Stand By Me series. I have read EVERY SINGLE ONE of them so you can imagine I was pretty impatient while waiting to get my hands on this one! I guess you could read the story as a standalone (I did start with the 2nd book) but I have learnt that you actually get more out of the series by reading them in order as you get the references!
The Shape of Trust is the story of Webb Walters and Lily Rose and it starts at the bookstore that we learnt to love in the previous book of the series. You cannot believe the connection that is there between Webb and Lily, the struggle that Webb goes through to not give in to it … And let’s not forget about the surprise he gets when his five year old daughter is dropped at his door step, well at the book store, one rainy night … from a bachelor with a past into an insta-dad with no clue … and then there is Lily who struggles with her day to day life, who is like a little fairy that all the kids flock to and fall in love with and who drives in to save the day and brings the temptation even closer …
The writer has given us two great characters that struggle with real problems and I love the way she shows us what our potential path could be!
Profile Image for Maura.
2,187 reviews6 followers
January 1, 2019
THE SHAPE OF TRUST is the 5th book in the "Stand By Me Series" yet it is 100% a stand-alone. It is always fun to see the cameo appearances made by characters from previous stories, so I always recommend reading an entire series for that reason.

Similar to the other stories in the series, THE SHAPE OF TRUST focuses on our M/m as they navigate new situations in life. The characters are well developed and I was immediately invested in each of them. The story has a very clear path from beginning to end and the story-line holds true through the entire telling. There are children as secondary characters that I would like to read about in the future. This would be a fun group to watch grow and morph as the years progress.

"Dog Eared Books" is a fictional bookstore in the story and I hope that everyone has an independent bookstore they frequent in their own town. They are an asset to local communities and bring so much joy to families.

Brinda Berry is definitely an author who I enjoy reading and I always look forward to what she is writing. I will continue to follow her for her stories in the future.
Profile Image for Krystal Gregory.
253 reviews4 followers
February 3, 2019
The Shape of Trust (a Stand By Me novel Book 5) by Brinda Berry
4 out of 5 Stars

This new aged adult romance novel is a fun, easy paced book about growing into yourself and moving past old expectations and learning from past mistakes.
Webb and Lily and two wonderfully diverse characters who are perfect;y opposite. Webb was a wild man. A man who lived large and partied harder. He has a fortune from busting his butt to get to the top and now the party scene just isn't as appealing as it use to be.
Lily. Her sweet soul. She is just trying to make the best of what life has given her. It hasn't always been easy for Lily. School was difficult because of a learning disability and she is just trying to establish herself in this cruel world.
This is where Webb meets Lily. Webb's 5 year old daughter is thrust into his life and its sink or swim time for him. Luckily, LIly is a lifeboat.
The banter between these two is hilarious. The author crafted an amazing story. I loved reading this story from cover to cover and was left breathless when it ended. A absolutely beautiful story.
Profile Image for Elizabeth.
860 reviews7 followers
February 5, 2019
The Shape of Trust is the 5th book in the Stand by Me Novel series by Brinda Berry, but it is the first of her books I have read. That being said, it can be read as a stand alone novel. I didn't read the prior books, and I still thoroughly enjoyed it. The story is about a rich business owner, Webb, who suddenly discovers he has a daughter. Not only did he discover this when she was 5, but she was basically dropped off on his door step and he is left to figure things out. He know nothing about parenting, but quickly feels the parental bond and the need to protect her. An employee he has been crushing on, Lily, offers to help him. She quickly turns from bookstore employee to nanny and makes the transition seamlessly. She is great with kids, having taken care of her siblings, but also uses the opportunity to her advantage. Webb is forced to spend time with her, and she pushes their relationship to the next level. The characters have good chemistry, but the book is definitely more than just romance. It touches on feelings of love, trust, and friendship. I was hooked and will read more from this author moving forward.
Profile Image for Stephanie Erickson.
247 reviews4 followers
January 5, 2019
Brinda Berry rights a second chance at life romance, with characters you can’t help but fall in love with yourself.

Both have secrets and a past.

For Lily Rose, hers has kept her from keeping a job and providing for those she cares about. Bit as she moves forward to a life she wants to get her younger brother and sister out of, she meets the boss who she is instantly attracted to. But will he push her away once she reveals her secret.

Webb’s past comes knocking at his door. Literally. He finds out that he has a daughter and he must take care of her as her mother is in rehab. But Webb doesn’t know how to care for a child. Let alone a girl.

The feisty, smart, rambunctious little fairy that his daughter pulls her own strings.

He enlists Lily to help care for his child. However, he can’t quit thinking about her and he must keep things professional.

But Lily is straightforward and honest to the bone and he can’t keep his feelings in check for any longer.

But both must protect the other people in their lives, but at what cost?
Profile Image for Angelina Frazzini.
562 reviews7 followers
January 20, 2019
The Shape of Trust by Brinda Berry is book five of the Stand by Me Series. This book can be read as a standalone.

Lily really needs a job so the job at the bookstore was perfect. She didn’t expect Webb or the feelings she would develop for him. When he needs help with his daughter, Lily offers her help. She loves kids and this gets her more time with Webb.

Webb has messed up a lot in life. He can’t afford to mess up where his daughter is concerned so agreeing to Lily’s offer of help while a tough choice was a no brainer.

Both Webb and Lily have their secrets. Will their secrets and the past threaten the future they hope to build?

I absolutely loved this book. There were some unexpected turns but I was on the edge of my seat the whole time! Lily is so strong and independent. She’s found a way to push through and keep moving forward with life when it would have been so easy to make a few different choices. Webb has overcome something not a lot of people can overcome. These characters together are great. I absolutely recommend this book!
Profile Image for Tracy Wilkin.
1,210 reviews14 followers
January 23, 2019
The Shape of Trust is book five in the Stand By Me series by Brinda Berry. I am fascinated by this author's twist of words.  How they intricately intertwine to deliver an impeccable romance story.


Webb is a cheeky character with charisma and class. He is also a human that has his scars to wear. He has turned his life around, but never expects to become an instant dad. He takes to the role naturally, and was a joy to get to know. Out of his element, he gains the assistance of Lily, who he is insanely attracted to. Lily made me want to wrap her up, protect her from the world's ugliness and spoil her rotten. She is exceptionally selfless and honourable, both qualities that I admire and applaud. She knows no limit to her kindness, and is not afraid to share how much her people mean to her.


The Shape of Trust was an profoundly excellent story that I could not put down. Captivating and stimulating, I cannot recommend this book enough. High praise for this story and its author. 5 stars.

Profile Image for Katie.
2,260 reviews15 followers
January 24, 2019
The Shape of Trust (Stand By Me, #5)
By Brinda Berry
5 stars

The Shape of Trust was a fantastic read! I have read all but one of the books in this series and each one I have absolutely loved. From the very first page until the last I am lost in the story and characters that this wonderful author has created. As with the other books in this series I fell in love with the characters almost instantly – there is just something about them, they are always genuine and down to earth and you just want to keep reading about them. I really liked Lily; she had that quirky quality that I have come to love from this author's characters. I loved her determination in life and I really wanted her to succeed in everything she wanted.
I liked Webb and thought that he and Lily did have this great connection. I admired Webb for turning his life around and how he dealt with the unexpected news of a daughter that he never knew he had.
Again, this was another fantastic story in this series that I 100% recommend! I look forward to more from Ms Berry again in the future!
Profile Image for Jenni.
6,848 reviews85 followers
January 26, 2019
The Shape of Trust (a Stand By Me novel Book 5) by Brinda Berry​ is wonderfully sweet story. Brinda has done a great job of writing wonderful characters that take a hold on your heart. Her​ writing style is captivating and makes it one book you are unable to put down. It is a wonderful romance story that you can’t get enough of.

Lily is such a quirky character she will have you going through an array of emotions as we wade through her no so good life. That is until she meets someone who steals her heart but does he even notice her in that way? She is caring and most compassionate person, always looking out for others, but who looks out for her?

Web finds himself enamored with the new girl but all that needs to stay locked away as he is confronted with the biggest thing to ever happen to him. Something from his past, something he knew nothing about until now. Something that will forever change his life and now that he has it he will not let it go.

I really look forward to reading more in this series. I love it.
Profile Image for Debbie.
483 reviews
December 21, 2018
I enjoyed this book, it was easy to read and the characters were easy to love!

Lily gets a part time temporary job at a book store, as soon as she sees her boss, she knows she is in trouble, he is gorgeous, but doesn’t think someone like him would ever want someone like her!

Webb is a part owner of the bookstore and when he catches Lily in a state of undress, he knows he wants her, but a spanner is thrown in the works, in the shape of Julieann, his 5 year old daughter that he had no idea about!

Lily has a secret which has caused her to lose many jobs, but she realises she trusts Webb enough to tell him, especially when he covers for her when she makes a mistake which could have cost the bookstore a lot of money!

When Webb offers Lily a different job, she agrees to take it, and then neither of them can stop the sparks from flying! What follows is a heartfelt story of family, hope and love!
Profile Image for Chickee.
13 reviews2 followers
December 28, 2018
I received an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.

Webb and Lily both have pasts and problems.

Part of Webb's past comes crashing into his present. Julianne a daughter he never knew he had is dropped on his doorstep and in the space of a moment he is a Dad. He needs help juggling life and work with this new situation.

Lily is struggling with problems of her own. She needs a steady job. Getting a job is hard and keeping one even harder when employers learn of her disability. So jumps at the chance to make good money and be near Webb when he offers her a job.

This is a story of how wonderful yet flawed people can make a future.

This book kept me on my toes. One more chapter each evening became one more and one more. Just when I thought I knew what was going to happen... Webb and Lily would throw me another curve. I enjoyed it and will now seek out more Brinda Berry novels.
Profile Image for Heather.
1,654 reviews3 followers
January 1, 2019
Brinda Berry's The Shape of Trust is the fifth book in the Stand By Me series. This new adult/college romance was touching, unique, and rife with pieces of drama filled obstacles that need to be overcome. Webb's character has demons in his past that he has worked to rise above, but yet still allows that to have some type of impact on the decisions he makes now. He comes across as a charismatic and dependable individual, but yet afraid at the same time. Enter Lily. She's just an amazing character. Of course, she has her own unique challenges in her life, but she works to make sure they don't define her and attempts to arise above. These two are certainly the opposite of one another, but yet the ultimate mate to one another. Reading these characters' stories and wondering if they'll work to gain what they desire and need within their lives was entertaining, emotional and truly well written.
Profile Image for Debi.
1,136 reviews6 followers
January 17, 2019
The Shape of Trust (a Stand By Me novel Book 5) by Brinda Berry

5 Stars

This is my second book in this series and also by this author, I loved book 4 and was happy to revisit Josie’s bookstore.

This story had me hooked from page 1, I love how the author took a real life issue and turned it into part of who Lily was and it was written beautifully. Then tackling another real life problem with Webb. I loved everything about this story. I started it thinking i'll just get it started and read it throughout my day but that didn't work, I ended up reading it in one sitting. The words flowed too perfect to put down and my interest stayed glued to my kindle the whole book.

I still have to download and read the first 3 of this series and will as soon as i can, but rest assured this can be read as a stand alone. I just can't wait to put the whole series together and read them all one right after the other..Its that good!

Can't wait to see if there is more to come.

Loved it.
185 reviews
December 27, 2018
I was so excited to receive an ARC of this book. This is my second Brinda Berry book. Great very emotional read! Webb and Lily were not typical romance novel characters. Their attraction was immediate but the characters were very true to life, as were their struggles (don't want to give anything away here). They were like real people with serious problems, in situations that were often uncomfortable to read about because they were so realistic, trying to navigate through all that and find their way to HEA. I love that they were flawed, good people. The impact of addiction is explored here from a few different points of view and tears at the heartstrings. Julieann, however, was the star of the show! She could have her own book about the thoughts and adventures of a child prodigy! Love knowing that there are more books in this series and other characters to explore.
Profile Image for Krystal gaston.
959 reviews8 followers
January 15, 2019
The Shape of Trust : A Stand By Me Novel Book five written by Brinda Berry. The Shape Of Trust is a cute story about want, need and self control when you think something is wrong. Lilly is a cute yet seductive character, you don’t expect it from her at first and as the story goes on you see her coming out of her shell more boldly to get what she wants, Webb. Webb is a man with a past that he’s not proud of, he’s worked hard to get to where he is. And then a daughter is thrust into his life and changes everything. Reading as Lilly lusts after Webb and he denies any attraction because he thinks she’s too young and too innocent is entertaining because that’s what makes Lilly’s boldness come out. As the story progresses you see them both come out of their shell but will they ever make it past the friends and employee relationship.
Profile Image for Gail Guerrero.
731 reviews1 follower
January 21, 2019
THE SHAPE OF TRUST by BRINDA BERRY

Four Stars

Family is what’s suppose to hold us together. The glue to our foundation. Some people don’t get so lucky as to have family like that. Lilly's life hasn’t been easy. Caring for her siblings and doing what she can to survive. Webb is such a smooth guy. Until you get his temper going. I enjoyed these two characters coming together. The author made their age a big deal but I think it might have highlighted something unique to them. I don’t like large age gaps especially if it’s a teenager. The author pointed out how their age shouldn’t matter. So much emotional pain for such a young life. Julieann was too smart and straight forward. She seemed to have missed a normal childhood with her mom. But you can see that changing with Webb. The story was strong and sweet.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.