The Libby Garrett Intervention

by Kelly Oram

[lindsey]

The Libby Garrett Intervention is the sequel to The Avery Shaw Experiment, and if you were a fan of the first book, you'll enjoy this one, as well.  It's a quick, light read that deals with a serious subject.  Libby is addicted to Owen - a guy who is not good for her at all.  She knows Owen is using her, and even though he's ashamed to be seen with her because of her weight, and won't admit even to his best friend that he "dates" her (though "date" is definitely not the right word, as Owen never wants to go out in public with her), she just can't give him up.  Her self esteem is so low that she believes she'll never get anyone else if she loses Owen, so she puts up with the embarrassment of knowing her "boyfriend" is ashamed of her.

She's changed and her friends are tired of her ditching them for Owen.  After Libby misses the science fair and causes Tara to have to drop out of the event, the Science Squad decides some tough love is in order, and they stage an intervention.  Avery enlists Adam, who works at their favorite coffee shop, to be Libby's sponsor.  Even though she's not an alcoholic, they follow the AA's Twelve Step Program to try to help Libby get over Owen.

While I didn't like how some things were handled, I ultimately enjoyed the book, and was satisfied with the ending.  Though this is a sequel, it can be read as a standalone, but I would recommend reading The Avery Shaw Experiment first.  Kelly Oram is a wonderful author, and though this wasn't my favorite book, I will definitely read any more books she writes in this series.

The Libby Garrett Intervention is a well-written YA romance with an interesting conflict and resolution, distinct characters and voices, and a plethora of geeky references.  I would definitely recommend to fans of YA romances.