What do you think?
Rate this book
Faith & Kung Fu #3
Guarding Aaron
The world continues to press in on Gabriel Livingstone’s quiet life when fifteen-year-old Aaron Buckley enters Yeung’s Martial Arts Studio looking to learn kung-fu. Gabriel knows there’s a desperate secret behind the boy’s bruises, and secretly vows to be his guard, with the help of his friend Christian. But when Tanner Rose pressures him for strength and direction, and Faith’s continued rebellion send him and his friends to the hospital, jeopardizing Tanner’s career, Gabriel is forced to reexamine his decisions. Is he called to the priesthood or is life behind the monastery walls merely an escape?
“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.” (Ephesians 6:10-11 RSVCE)
“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.” (Ephesians 6:10-11 RSVCE)
- GenresYoung AdultChristian
263 pages, Paperback
Published December 4, 2018
20 people want to read
About the author
T.M. Gaouette
12 books45 followersT.M. Gaouette is a wife, home-school mom, freelance writer, ghostwriter, blogger and fiction novelist. She was born in Africa, brought up in London, and is now living in New England, where she raises goats with her husband and four children. Devoted to Him, Gaouette is dedicated to glorifying God through her stories for children and young adults. She believes that life is too short to waste on the superficial and that adversity should be used to make one stronger. More importantly, Gaouette feels that the Lord has given us all special gifts and opportunities to make a positive difference.
T.M. Gaouette is the author of "The Destiny of Sunshine Ranch" and the first and second book in her Faith & Kung Fu Series," Freeing Tanner Rose," and "Saving Faith."
For more on T.M. Gaouette and her work, visit her at tmgaouette.com
T.M. Gaouette is the author of "The Destiny of Sunshine Ranch" and the first and second book in her Faith & Kung Fu Series," Freeing Tanner Rose," and "Saving Faith."
For more on T.M. Gaouette and her work, visit her at tmgaouette.com
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews
December 5, 2018
Guarding Aaron continues the saga of Gabriel, Tanner Rose, Faith, and friends as they learn to follow where God leads.
Gabriel is struggling to discern his vocation, always keeping Tanner Rose at a cold distance; Tanner Rose must make her own way in Hollywood and with her new friends following her conversion; and Faith, well, Faith is back to being a mean girl and creating a wide swath of destruction.
Expect the return of characters from previous books, Kung Fu, a visit to a Benedictine monastery, and a bully who needs put in his place.
Great for prompting discussions about how actions affect others, selfishness, discipline, bullying, detachment, and surrendering to God's will.
Gabriel is struggling to discern his vocation, always keeping Tanner Rose at a cold distance; Tanner Rose must make her own way in Hollywood and with her new friends following her conversion; and Faith, well, Faith is back to being a mean girl and creating a wide swath of destruction.
Expect the return of characters from previous books, Kung Fu, a visit to a Benedictine monastery, and a bully who needs put in his place.
Great for prompting discussions about how actions affect others, selfishness, discipline, bullying, detachment, and surrendering to God's will.
December 4, 2018
Guarding Aaron is the third book in TM Gaouette’s Kung Fu series. The series centers around Gabriel, a handsome teen who is dedicated to his faith, his mother, and his martial arts. In the first book of the series, he meets Tanner Rose, a Hollywood starlet and the daughter of his mother’s friend.
Saving Faith, the second book in this series, and now Guarding Aaron continues the story of Gabriel, Tanner, and their friends. Gaouette does a wonderful job of creating relatable characters that you care about. Through the series, I have admired Gabriel, enjoyed the growth of Tanner and Christian, wanted to scream at Faith, and now wish I could hug Aaron.
Aaron is new to the series. His story, which runs parallel to what is happening with Tanner and Gabriel, is incredibly touching. Aaron is being bullied at school. Tired of being the victim, he has decided to take Kung fu classes. This is where he meets older teens Gabriel and Christian who are his instructors. The two storylines are woven together perfectly to make for a thoroughly engaging novel. There are even a few shocking twists that will keep you turning the pages. (One, in particular, had me gasping out loud.)
You don’t need to have read the other books in the series to enjoy this book but I’m sure you will want to eventually so you can spend more time with these characters.
Saving Faith, the second book in this series, and now Guarding Aaron continues the story of Gabriel, Tanner, and their friends. Gaouette does a wonderful job of creating relatable characters that you care about. Through the series, I have admired Gabriel, enjoyed the growth of Tanner and Christian, wanted to scream at Faith, and now wish I could hug Aaron.
Aaron is new to the series. His story, which runs parallel to what is happening with Tanner and Gabriel, is incredibly touching. Aaron is being bullied at school. Tired of being the victim, he has decided to take Kung fu classes. This is where he meets older teens Gabriel and Christian who are his instructors. The two storylines are woven together perfectly to make for a thoroughly engaging novel. There are even a few shocking twists that will keep you turning the pages. (One, in particular, had me gasping out loud.)
You don’t need to have read the other books in the series to enjoy this book but I’m sure you will want to eventually so you can spend more time with these characters.
December 10, 2018
Wow, this author just keeps cranking out stuff that I firmly believe every Christian teen MUST READ. In this third installment of the Faith and Kung Fu series, Tanner is back in town. She and her friend Faith both have feelings for series hero Gabriel (who serves as a sort of "guardian angel" to a kid named Aaron in this story). But rumor has it Gabriel wants to become a priest. Faith's overwhelming jealousy causes her to make a few very poor decisions that lead to a series of violent and life-altering events for the group.
I love how there are so many descriptions and scenes illustrating the kids' faith and its influence on their daily lives. In particular, Gabriel's deep trust and reliance on God's plan for him is inspirational to readers of all ages. But Gaouette masterfully manages to mix in plenty of action-packed scenes for these characters that the Faith and King Fu series' fans have grown to love (like Tanner Rose, Faith, Gabe, Christian, etc.)! And cleverly woven into the parties and the punches are just so many important issues. Characters experience and explore everything from bullying and believing in yourself to chastity and true charity. Guarding Aaron's a winner, full of action, emotion, and didn't-see-THAT-coming moments for both girls and guys. Moms and dads would enjoy these books, too.
I love how there are so many descriptions and scenes illustrating the kids' faith and its influence on their daily lives. In particular, Gabriel's deep trust and reliance on God's plan for him is inspirational to readers of all ages. But Gaouette masterfully manages to mix in plenty of action-packed scenes for these characters that the Faith and King Fu series' fans have grown to love (like Tanner Rose, Faith, Gabe, Christian, etc.)! And cleverly woven into the parties and the punches are just so many important issues. Characters experience and explore everything from bullying and believing in yourself to chastity and true charity. Guarding Aaron's a winner, full of action, emotion, and didn't-see-THAT-coming moments for both girls and guys. Moms and dads would enjoy these books, too.
December 4, 2018
Wow! An incredible read, this series gets better with each book. Full review ...
...
As of the writing of this review I have read all T.M. Gaouette’s published novels. I have appreciated her story telling immensely since first reading The Destiny of Sunshine Ranch, about a foster family. But Guarding Aaron is the third novel in a series of four, and I find that with each book in the series the series gets better. I must say I was completely surprised by this novel. The twists that are tossed in this book, some subtle, and some not really make the reader think.
Many of the characters in this book are familiar to us from the first two volumes. And reading about this is like a visit with old friends. It is a chance to catch up and see where they are at in life, and in their spiritual journey. For some there is marked changes, and improvements. For others we see a turning from what they once believed and held dear. There are three main plot lines in this story that all wrap together well. First, we have Aaron being bullied at school, and who discovers the Dojo where Gabriel assists with teaching. We have Gabriel and Tanner who have feelings for each other but are both trying to find God’s plan and purpose for their life. And finally, we have Faith Perry, a young woman who is losing her way. All three plot lines flow in and around having faith, trusting God, and seeking god.
The characters are one of the greatest strengths of this book and the series. The genre of these stories is ‘realistic fiction’. And in fact, reading these books could be like encountering friends and family that you know in real life. In fact, there is a young woman at the Dojo where my children and I train who just achieved her black belt who reminds me of a female counterpart to Gabe. The characters are so well written that readers might be disappointed to find out there is only one remaining book planned in the series.
The second great strength of the story is the story itself. The plot and how Gaouette handles the elements is masterful. In this story we have bullying, teen drinking, discernment of God’s will, and overcoming adversity. The story is an intense and engaging read on many levels. I could not put the book down, and to be honest am desperate for the final installment in the series.
The more I read by T.M. Gaouette the more I want to read. I thoroughly enjoy her works and appreciate that they are good clean Christian fiction. This is an excellent Catholic Young Adult book but can be read and enjoyed by anyone who loves a good story! A truly great read in a wonderful series for readers of all ages.
Read the review on my blog Book Reviews and More and reviews of other books by T.M. Gaouette. As well as an author profile and interview with T.M..
Note: This book is part of a series of reviews: 2018 Catholic Reading Plan!
...
As of the writing of this review I have read all T.M. Gaouette’s published novels. I have appreciated her story telling immensely since first reading The Destiny of Sunshine Ranch, about a foster family. But Guarding Aaron is the third novel in a series of four, and I find that with each book in the series the series gets better. I must say I was completely surprised by this novel. The twists that are tossed in this book, some subtle, and some not really make the reader think.
Many of the characters in this book are familiar to us from the first two volumes. And reading about this is like a visit with old friends. It is a chance to catch up and see where they are at in life, and in their spiritual journey. For some there is marked changes, and improvements. For others we see a turning from what they once believed and held dear. There are three main plot lines in this story that all wrap together well. First, we have Aaron being bullied at school, and who discovers the Dojo where Gabriel assists with teaching. We have Gabriel and Tanner who have feelings for each other but are both trying to find God’s plan and purpose for their life. And finally, we have Faith Perry, a young woman who is losing her way. All three plot lines flow in and around having faith, trusting God, and seeking god.
The characters are one of the greatest strengths of this book and the series. The genre of these stories is ‘realistic fiction’. And in fact, reading these books could be like encountering friends and family that you know in real life. In fact, there is a young woman at the Dojo where my children and I train who just achieved her black belt who reminds me of a female counterpart to Gabe. The characters are so well written that readers might be disappointed to find out there is only one remaining book planned in the series.
The second great strength of the story is the story itself. The plot and how Gaouette handles the elements is masterful. In this story we have bullying, teen drinking, discernment of God’s will, and overcoming adversity. The story is an intense and engaging read on many levels. I could not put the book down, and to be honest am desperate for the final installment in the series.
The more I read by T.M. Gaouette the more I want to read. I thoroughly enjoy her works and appreciate that they are good clean Christian fiction. This is an excellent Catholic Young Adult book but can be read and enjoyed by anyone who loves a good story! A truly great read in a wonderful series for readers of all ages.
Read the review on my blog Book Reviews and More and reviews of other books by T.M. Gaouette. As well as an author profile and interview with T.M..
Note: This book is part of a series of reviews: 2018 Catholic Reading Plan!
December 6, 2018
I was lucky enough to read an advance copy of this book and thrilled that the series continues in such a gripping way. It seemed like this book was all about change--or the threat of change. Gabriel and Tanner are desperate to find out exactly what change God wants for them, Faith wants one change in her life and dreads another, whilst Aaron really NEEDS a change.
The characters react to the actual and threatened changes in different ways, some very active, like Aaron, some more passive, some in really unhelpful ways. As in her previous books, Gaouette presents a lot of very realistic characters, warts and mistakes and all. But Gaouette also ramps up the action in this book in a big way.
There are some good twists in this story, one of them left me gaping like a fish, I so did not see it coming! If you haven’t read the first two books you should probably start with those, but don’t miss this one. Gripping, faith-filled fiction.
[I received a preview copy of this book from the author, with whom I am acquainted through several author groups. Opinions are my own.]
The characters react to the actual and threatened changes in different ways, some very active, like Aaron, some more passive, some in really unhelpful ways. As in her previous books, Gaouette presents a lot of very realistic characters, warts and mistakes and all. But Gaouette also ramps up the action in this book in a big way.
There are some good twists in this story, one of them left me gaping like a fish, I so did not see it coming! If you haven’t read the first two books you should probably start with those, but don’t miss this one. Gripping, faith-filled fiction.
[I received a preview copy of this book from the author, with whom I am acquainted through several author groups. Opinions are my own.]
December 6, 2018
"Guarding Aaron" is the third book (and in my opinion, the best) in T.M. Gaouette's series for teens. The stories in all three novels revolve mostly around Gabriel, a devout Catholic boy who is a master at martial arts, and Tanner Rose, a Hollywood starlet who, although having found the faith, still has a long road to travel on her journey to God. The rest of the cast is made up of their various friends and while each book has several plots running through the story, they focus on a particular character alongside Gabriel. In "Guarding Aaron", that character is . . . you guessed it . . . a boy named Aaron. Aaron is new to the series, and definitely someone many teens can relate to, for he is a victim of school bullying. Although Aaron's part in this book runs side-by-side with other plots, his was the story that I found the most engaging. His character arc is fantastic, and I found myself deeply identifying with his struggles and cheered for him all the way through. If you have ever been bullied, or know someone who is, you need to read this story. I hope Aaron has a place of honor in any future novels that Gaouette may write!
But if bullying isn't something you can relate to, perhaps envy is. Another plot in "Guarding Aaron" is Faith's problem. If you've read the other books in the series, you will already know Faith. Faith and her brother have been friends with Gabriel for a long time, but Faith is no longer content being "like a sister" to him. She has a giant, all-consuming crush on the handsome Kung Fu master. (Surely every teen girl out there can relate to a crush, right?) But how can Faith compete with gorgeous movie-star Tanner Rose? It just isn't possible. So as Faith allows envy to eat at her heart, a dark side of her emerges which eventually leads to major trouble for all her friends. Her lesson is learned in grief and at great cost.
A third thread of the story is Gabriel's own inner struggles trying to discern God's will for his future. There are some wonderful scenes set at a peaceful monastery, which were enjoyable and edifying to read.
Like I said, this is my favorite of Gaouette's books. Even if you are unfamiliar with the others, this can certainly be read as a stand-alone novel. The author handles the three topics of bullying, envy, and discernment in a way all teens can relate to. I was really impressed.
But if bullying isn't something you can relate to, perhaps envy is. Another plot in "Guarding Aaron" is Faith's problem. If you've read the other books in the series, you will already know Faith. Faith and her brother have been friends with Gabriel for a long time, but Faith is no longer content being "like a sister" to him. She has a giant, all-consuming crush on the handsome Kung Fu master. (Surely every teen girl out there can relate to a crush, right?) But how can Faith compete with gorgeous movie-star Tanner Rose? It just isn't possible. So as Faith allows envy to eat at her heart, a dark side of her emerges which eventually leads to major trouble for all her friends. Her lesson is learned in grief and at great cost.
A third thread of the story is Gabriel's own inner struggles trying to discern God's will for his future. There are some wonderful scenes set at a peaceful monastery, which were enjoyable and edifying to read.
Like I said, this is my favorite of Gaouette's books. Even if you are unfamiliar with the others, this can certainly be read as a stand-alone novel. The author handles the three topics of bullying, envy, and discernment in a way all teens can relate to. I was really impressed.
October 15, 2021
Thank you so much T. M. Gaouette for sending me a complimentary copy of Guarding Aaron! I was happy to read and receive this book. My review of this book is entirely my own. I LOVED Guarding Aaron and was so sad to see it end, but I am hopeful for the fourth and final book in this series! Gabriel is 18 now and struggling to find the path God wants him to take, and it is even more confusing when Tanner says she needs him. All of the characters felt so real that I could almost feel every emotion they felt, and once I started to read, I could not stop. I read the whole book in about two days, and then a few weeks later, I reread it!
This novel deals a lot with choosing your vocation and listening to God's will for you. Gabriel doesn't know if he should become a religious, so he goes to a Benedictine Monastery for a retreat when things get complicated. There he learns a lot about their way of life and the Rule of Saint Benedict. I have read one other book that also talks about Saint Benedict and his Rule, and I wish even more people would talk about it.
There is a quote from the Bible on the back of each book in the Faith & Kung Fu series, and Guarding Aaron it is Ephesians 6:10-11. Guarding Aaron perfectly explains and goes deep into the meaning of that quote and shows what it means to find all our strength in the Lord and rely on nothing else. Aaron thinks that by learning Kung Fu, he will be able to protect himself, but what he understands as the story goes on is that only through God can he do all things, and he must rely on the Lord for protection. Another character, Gabriel, continually tells Tanner that she must rely only on the Lord and look to Him for strength, but Gabriel also learns that it is good to have friends and family to help you on the path to salvation. Guarding Aaron was a fantastic addition to the Faith & Kung Fu series, and I can't wait to read the next one!
Things to Mention: There is an accident, and a lot of the main characters get hurt. A boy gets bullied and is punched and made fun of. Tanner and Gabriel go to a celebrity party, and they see inappropriate people and underage drinking.
Come check out more of my reviews of clean wholesome books at:
https://www.acatholicgirlreads.com/
This novel deals a lot with choosing your vocation and listening to God's will for you. Gabriel doesn't know if he should become a religious, so he goes to a Benedictine Monastery for a retreat when things get complicated. There he learns a lot about their way of life and the Rule of Saint Benedict. I have read one other book that also talks about Saint Benedict and his Rule, and I wish even more people would talk about it.
There is a quote from the Bible on the back of each book in the Faith & Kung Fu series, and Guarding Aaron it is Ephesians 6:10-11. Guarding Aaron perfectly explains and goes deep into the meaning of that quote and shows what it means to find all our strength in the Lord and rely on nothing else. Aaron thinks that by learning Kung Fu, he will be able to protect himself, but what he understands as the story goes on is that only through God can he do all things, and he must rely on the Lord for protection. Another character, Gabriel, continually tells Tanner that she must rely only on the Lord and look to Him for strength, but Gabriel also learns that it is good to have friends and family to help you on the path to salvation. Guarding Aaron was a fantastic addition to the Faith & Kung Fu series, and I can't wait to read the next one!
Things to Mention: There is an accident, and a lot of the main characters get hurt. A boy gets bullied and is punched and made fun of. Tanner and Gabriel go to a celebrity party, and they see inappropriate people and underage drinking.
Come check out more of my reviews of clean wholesome books at:
https://www.acatholicgirlreads.com/
December 11, 2018
Author TM Gaouette is really onto something with her Faith & Kung Fu series! A master in the martial arts must be disciplined, possessing inner strength along with physical ability. And isn’t this what we Christians need too? This story shows the need for not only knowing right and wrong but also for the self-control and discipline to pursue it, without acting on impulse.
Gabriel, with his steady faith, always has a Scripture verse at the ready and sound advice for others, but inside he’s not sure what God is calling him to. He meets a new kid, Aaron, whose bruises make Gabriel concerned. When Gabriel discovers that the boy is bullied at school, he secretly becomes the kid’s guardian and guides him not only in kung fu but in important life lessons that will strengthen him spiritually and morally. This thread in the story has a strong message about looking out for others who might be the victim of bullying, getting involved, being a friend, and the right way of standing up to bullies.
Meanwhile, another main character, Faith, finds her affections for Gabriel growing and allows her jealousy of actress and friend Tanner Rose to spiral out of control. She justifies treating Tanner cruelly because Tanner had once treated her badly. And when Faith’s best friend doesn’t share her negative attitude toward Tanner, she pushes her best friend away too. This thread shows well how jealousy has a way of bringing out the worst in us.
This story has some lovely scenes, like one with Gabriel and Tanner praying before the Blessed Sacrament. And it has some tense scenes, too. With kung fu action, high emotions, and themes that we can all relate to, Guarding Aaron is a powerful story that teens are sure to enjoy. I highly recommend it!
Gabriel, with his steady faith, always has a Scripture verse at the ready and sound advice for others, but inside he’s not sure what God is calling him to. He meets a new kid, Aaron, whose bruises make Gabriel concerned. When Gabriel discovers that the boy is bullied at school, he secretly becomes the kid’s guardian and guides him not only in kung fu but in important life lessons that will strengthen him spiritually and morally. This thread in the story has a strong message about looking out for others who might be the victim of bullying, getting involved, being a friend, and the right way of standing up to bullies.
Meanwhile, another main character, Faith, finds her affections for Gabriel growing and allows her jealousy of actress and friend Tanner Rose to spiral out of control. She justifies treating Tanner cruelly because Tanner had once treated her badly. And when Faith’s best friend doesn’t share her negative attitude toward Tanner, she pushes her best friend away too. This thread shows well how jealousy has a way of bringing out the worst in us.
This story has some lovely scenes, like one with Gabriel and Tanner praying before the Blessed Sacrament. And it has some tense scenes, too. With kung fu action, high emotions, and themes that we can all relate to, Guarding Aaron is a powerful story that teens are sure to enjoy. I highly recommend it!
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews