"A . . . gleefully bizarre otherworldly story-in-progress."
Kirkus Reviews
A much-beloved actor inspires fan fiction that takes on a life of its own in Dwyer's debut novel.
In the year 1998, Barb and her friends have been crushing on German actor Siegfried P. Hinkelheimer. When they can't get their "Siegfried fix" through theatrical releases or video rentals, they turn to the relatively new internet and quickly discover a fansite, enabling them to discuss all things SPH with fellow aficionados from around the world.
Then Barb writes a story set in "UnEarth," a virtual world in which her avatar, "UnEarthly Barb," has a chance encounter with Siegfried. Others contribute ensuing chapters, including Barb's Aussie pal, Lottie, and webmaster Donna. Their collective narrative spins off into the SF/fantasy realm, with the Hinkelheimer fans as major characters and Siegfried himself functioning more like a supporting cast member. It's a zany, unpredictable tale... Their celebrity adoration soon turns into an obsession as they spin the never-ending story.
Dwyer's novel smoothly alternates between the "Fantasy Saga" and the messages from the women in the real world. The book cleverly satirizes fans' devotion as an undying infatuation- that may suddenly transfer to someone or something else. The author weaves in copious parodies of actors and movie titles, ranging from the genuinely funny (The British Are So Impatient) to the outright silly (like an actor called Nicolas Birdhouse).
"Science Fiction with a Good Dose of Humor"
"Cyberchicks in Love" is an eccentric combination of humor and sci-fi-fantasy. The story, revolving around a group of young women infatuated with a movie star, offers a delightful spoof of various genres - from fanfiction to chick lit and science fiction. Dwyer's writing is refreshingly original, filled with wit and clever twists that ensure the plot is anything but predictable. This book is more than just a satirical take on fan culture; it's a wild ride through a cleverly imagined world, promising to be a future cult classic. A must-read for anyone who loves their stories served with a hefty dose of laughter.
The Reader's Gazette
Reviewed by Christine Nguyen for Readers' Favorite
In Cyberchicks in Love by Barb Dwyer, a trio of girls from Australia, Barb, Tess, and Lottie, become enamored with a German movie star named Siegfried P. Hinkelheimer. Their interest becomes an obsession as they search in video stores for movies featuring their favorite heartthrob. They scour the internet for more information, stumbling upon a fan site all about Siegfried. There is a major glitch in cyberspace when an alternate universe is created with new versions of each woman in the fan club. Barb starts a fantasy saga on the new planet, called "UnEarth," with her alter ego or avatar named "UnEarthly Barb" and Siegfried. The women of the website take turns contributing to the wild storyline collaboratively as they globetrot around the world vying for Siegfried's attention and love.
This is a robust combination of science fiction, fantasy, romance, satire, and comedy set in 1998 when the internet was relatively new. Dwyer weaves a very fast, action-packed, well-written, and outrageously creative story that will make readers laugh out loud one minute and become dizzy and confused the next. The plot is constantly evolving at a rapid pace when the women add to the story, creating a bizarre and wacky narrative that is highly engaging and entertaining. I found the use of Dwyer's parodies of old movies and celebrities hilarious and brilliant. I enjoyed the never-ending banter and camaraderie between the obsessed women. Cyberchicks in Love is a wild and crazy ride of sheer exhilaration.
