The Vending Portal

by Judy Liu

Memory fades, but Reminserum is forever.
It's just a normal day for Mel and Sage. They're walking home from school, when they come upon a battered vending machine of mysterious snacks. While examining it, the sisters are whisked away to another dimension by the seemingly innocuous machine. They encounter advanced memory-enhancing technologies, a strange new government, and an ominous secret behind it all. Follow Mel and Sage as they discover friendships, unravel an unknown family history, and brave a multitude of hazards to save a society in a world that was never theirs.
Judy Liu's debut novel is a passion project motivated by a desire to explore the concept of a "perfect" society. In it, she explores both the fantasies and the frightening possibilities that can exist in a world of any design. The Vending Portal is a lightly distorted, funhouse mirror to reflect the pitfalls of our own society, seen through the innocent eyes of two young protagonists.

Genres: Science Fiction, Fantasy, Dystopia

254 pages, Hardcover

Published August 29, 2022

About the author

Inspired by her love of Marvel, sci-fi, old Taiwanese dramas, and ridiculous anime, Judy scribbles mini-stories wherever she can (and subsequently forgets them!). She graduated from Rice University in Houston, Texas, studying history, Asian studies, and education. Judy is not unfamiliar with extensive writing, having published multiple pieces. She spent some time living in rural Japan before working in the legal and compliance sphere. With her debut novel The Vending Portal, Liu hopes to meaningfully add to Asian American literature to further enrich the YA genre.

Outside of work and writing, Judy enjoys dancing with her teammates and friends, exploring unknown spots or cities, caring for her plants, and making nonsense sounds to her sister.

Reviews

[Nathaniel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow…what a story. I am reading this for an endorsement, so I’ll be back with a different review. I just need to write it first.

My official author endorsement:
‘Judy Liu is an exciting new voice in literature. She crafts her characters with precision and keeps her audience engaged with a beautiful, fast-moving plot.’

[Effie Stock · Rating 4 out of 5]

Omigosh what a delightful, cozy portal science fiction read! I absolutely devoured it in 2 sittings, despite usually hating ebooks! I reallllllyyyy wanna see more stories in this world 👉🏻👈🏻🙄👀 please??

Pros:
The characters I felt were true to their age. I loved the sibling dynamic between Sage and Mel and Lewis was so adorable. I loved that they were super smart but also emotionally immature at times and still childish, mostly relying on adults to make the big connections and plans.

The worldbuilding was flawless and the descriptions so colorful. Definitely felt like I was there. And the concept of vending machines being portals!?! Absolutely love it and definitely gonna make me look twice at any other vending machines from now on!
I also loved the Asian elements of the characters' homelives, the rice fields and other settings, and the food they ate!

The length was on the shorter side, but nothing felt rushed or too slow. The pace was perfect and completely engaging without being too fast or stressful. It had me on the edge of my seat though!

Cons:
Only a few cons about some of the grammar but I only noticed this a couple of times and it wasn't anything that made reading this book difficult at all!


I highly recommend this book for anyone who loves cute engaging scifi with unique worldbuilding and settings and who wants something engaging but also super cute! ✨️💜

[Karina Brielle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This novel made me think this could be such a great animated movie. The description is so vivid and detailed that I can envision being there with Mel and Sage, which are such lovable characters. It is an easy read; it kept me intrigued throughout their journey. Now, even though this book is aimed at a younger audience, the novel kept me entertained, and it was a fun read. I definitely recommend it to everyone.

[Bekah Stegner · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such an enjoyable read! It reads like middle grade - easy, clean, quick, and fun. It was so different from something I myself would imagine, and that's exactly what made me love it! The vending machine portals and marine-powered memory technology were super creative. I really appreciated the light, happier tone of this story; it contrasts with much of what is out there today, which is another reason that I enjoyed it so much. I wish it was a little bit longer, but I know that an anthology set in the same world is coming soon, so I look forward to that! I'm excited for Judy Liu's future works & will instantly be picking up anything that has to do with the Second Layer.

OH and I absolutely adore the cover!

[Shina Reynolds · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fun adventure! An imaginative and thoughtful look into some very real dystopian themes. With a bittersweet dose of what it means to remember, and what it means to forget—sometimes not always by choice.

I enjoyed reading how sisters Mel and Sage handled being jolted into an alternate dimension. The relationships they formed along the way were also exciting to read. Lewis was a cute side character. I was a big fan of Romilda, she was great!

Liu’s writing is descriptive and easy to read. She creates a world (well, more than one) which I could imagine as I read. I enjoyed all the foodie aspects of this book, too. The story was full of inventive and captivating details.

The Vending Portal is appropriate for middle-grade readers. It tends toward a younger voice, but tackles some complex and more mature themes (controlling governments and government propaganda).

An entertaining dystopian portal debut by Judy Liu.

[Jen Woodrum · Rating 5 out of 5]

Goodness I loved this book! What a fun and cute read - it's one of those books you can read in a day, maybe even just one sitting. Gave me vibes of Infinity Train x A Wrinkle In Time!!

The dynamic between Mel and Sage was so realistic for two sisters. I was very curious what was going on. I also thought the book had great messages about society and integrity. I think a lot of young readers would really enjoy!!

[Allison · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a sweet sci-fi adventure! (Full disclosure, I won a copy of The Vending Portal by @judyliu_author) To over simplify it in service of no spoilers, the story begins with two adventurous sisters and their desire for snacks. This leads them to an alternate dimension where a mystery unfolds into a conspiracy that hits closer to home than they initially realize.

The Vending Portal reminded me of another sci-fi YA read, A Tale of Time City by one of my favorite authors, Diana Wynne Jones, in spirit with it’s adventurous and action packed story line, tale of friendship and strong FMC (two in this case). Unlike AToTC, the story wasn’t difficult to follow and I liked the characters and was therefor far more invested in their story.

I found The Vending Portal to be unique, gripping and very sweet. I loved getting to know protagonists Sage and Mel, whose relationship as sisters was relatable for me. I also loved the marine science element of the story and the machinations of the world they stumbled into.

I feel this is a great read for all ages, but I would especially recommend for middle grade readers who enjoy adventure and/or sci-fi elements. This story could easily continue in a sequel, but regardless if we get a sequel or something new, I will keep my eye on Judy Liu to see what she comes up with next.

[Brittany Dawn | The Cozy Bee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I picked this book up last year at Imaginarium Book Festival unfortunately the author was away from the table and at the time I wasn’t able to get it signed so when returning to the festival this year, I made sure to bring it back for signature. The author asked me if I had read the book but unfortunately in the year I’ve had it I only read four chapters, not because I wasn’t interested. The plot is incredibly intriguing! It has been left unfinished mainly because I am a terrible mood reader and I go back-and-forth between genres/books constantly.

However, telling the author today, I hadn’t finished their book did not sit right with me. So I sat down after returning from the festival today to open it up and continue where I left off.

When I tell you, I ate the entirety of the book in one night! Five star read all across the board!

[Rebecca Garner · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Vending Portal is a compelling and page-turning story from the very start. Judy Liu creates a fascinating and enthralling world for us to travel to--a world I won't soon forget, with or without Reminserum! Reminiscent of stories like Percy Jackson, The Vending Portal takes readers on an other-worldly adventure.

[Katie Lynch · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a cozy fun coming of age story , with beautiful world building and vivid characters as we follow 2 sisters on a journey to find the truth

[M.H. Elrich · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic book. See my endorsement inside.

[Book Reviewer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Seventh-grader Mel and her sister Sage begin an average walk home from school. Taking a detour through Old Town and out into the rice paddy fields, Mel and Sage discover an old vending machine that is much more than it seems. Suddenly thrust into an alternate world, the sisters find a strange world where everything seems utopian…or is it? With high technology, free food, and smiling faces, the world Mel and Sage have entered looks a little too perfect. Encountering new friends and enemies and discovering their own unique connection to this strange parallel world, Mel and Sage must use their wits to survive. And as the cracks in utopia widen to reveal the ugly secrets beneath the surface, the sisters fight for the world's fate as they struggle to find a way back home.

The Vending Portal by Judy Liu is the chilling tale of two sisters entering a terrifying dystopian universe. I loved the culture in the story and the beautiful descriptions of the rice fields. Clear-headed Mel and spontaneous Sage are as different as night and day, and I love the interplay between the sisters as the plot progresses.

Enigmatic Romilda and savvy Lewis add depth to the increasingly complex story, which has as many intricate layers as a chef's prized recipe. The setting is so well-thought-out and immersive that it is easy to lose time in the parallel world alongside Mel and Sage. With twists and turns, and a deadly threat more perilous than anyone could have imagined, this intense story of heroism in spite of tyranny is one of the best I have had the pleasure of reading.

The Vending Portal is a through-provoking coming-of-age science fiction novel that young adults and teens will be whisked away into. The gripping story will have readers questioning what the perfect society is and what the cost of such a society means to those that live in it. This fascinating story is ideal for opening up the discussion with teenagers about how they want to impact their own society and community.

[Amelia E. · Rating 4 out of 5]

There’s a lot to love about this book! First of all, the overall concept is fun and original - I read it as something of a twist on dystopian, but a somewhat more lighthearted dystopian (lighthearted is a weird word to describe dystopian…it’s less intense, I guess?) I’m not even sure it’s dystopian, but it definitely has at least echoes of it. I love how the society and government itself are not particularly evil (with the exception of 👀someone👀). The vending portal and related world building aspects (the layers, Mensen, etc.) are fascinating, as is the whole Second Layer memory thing.

I will say I didn’t love the omniscient narrative voice, but to be fair I’m not the biggest fan of omniscient POV in general.

Overall The Vending Portal was a good read & kept me entertained on a long trip!

[Kit · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fun read! This was definitely a change of pace from what I typically go for, but I'm so glad I dove into it. The story takes a unique spin on the typical cutthroat type dystopia, instead offering cozier, more playful vibes while still hooking us in with the corrupt government & the heroines who will expose its secrets. It's clear that hours of love and dedication went into the story, the world, and its characters. Hearing that an author is passionate about what they do is normal; it's rare that we actually feel that passion teeming between every line.

Keep an eye on Judy Liu for future reads. I'm anticipating more exciting storytelling to come!

[Savannah Jordan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I cannot recommend this book enough! I had just finished a pretty dark book and wanted something cutesy and playful to read and I finished this in one sitting. It is definitely tailored towards younger readers, but it is a perfect story for exactly what it’s supposed to be. This is one of those books that is excruciatingly adorable and equally captivating. If you’re looking for a quick, lighthearted adventure that makes your heart feel warm and fuzzy, this the book for you.

[Anita · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved this book. Once I started it, it was hard to put down. This is a fun, creative, imaginative young adult page-turner with thought-provoking themes that subtly comment on society & beautiful storytelling of a fantasy world I was fully immersed in. As a sister myself, it was so refreshing and exciting to see a story whose main characters are two sisters with a banter-filled, funny, yet unbreakable bond. Thoroughly enjoyed this book & eagerly awaiting a sequel!!

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Delightful story about an adventure for 2 sisters traveling to a new dimension through a vending machine! I loved their relationship dynamic and how it intertwined with the sci-fi narrative. Because I read this while camping I also relished the descriptions of food and snacks! All in all, a thoroughly enjoyable read.

[RachaelInRealLife · Rating 3 out of 5]

The concept of this book is fantastic and the author delivers it really well. The only reason I gave this book a 4 star is because the main characters are children and I felt like children would not have been able to comprehend a lot of the concepts that made the book so interesting. I feel like Mel, Sage, and Lewis should have at least been in their middle to late teens.

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Judy Liu delivers a well-written sci-fi YA novel that is fun and easy to read. The plot is creative, fast-moving, and each page has the reader holding their breath and anticipating more. By the end of the book, readers will be searching and hoping for a sequel and even a prequel.

[Kayla Jones · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book! I'd give it a 3.5 stars. I'm looking forward to Judy's next book.

[Eric · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really enjoyed the well thought out characters and the plot. Great world-building, along with vivid descriptions, made me feel fully immersed.

[Dixita · Rating 5 out of 5]

very well written sci fi, engaging and interesting new world!! looking forward to part two :)

[Esteban Pimentel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Judy Liu immerses you in a world of her design for a fun and thought provoking read. Highly recommend!

[Anna Dodson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very sweet, creative story :) I finished in one sitting. World building is… well, out of this world (or perhaps within it- without too much of a spoiler). We love a girl boss slay

[Books Review · Rating 5 out of 5]

It has been popularly said that one must look ahead to a bright future. And with all the development going on around us daily, it does seem that we are on the path to perfection. But will the future be that bright? Is "perfection" all that good? That is the central question raised by Judy Liu's work, 'The Vending Portal'. And that is why the work can be said to contain satirical elements, as it points out the follies of our society in a "funhouse mirror" way. The corrective feature does not come off as preachy, rather it takes the form of ridiculous and distorted jibes.

The story focuses on the two protagonists, Mel and Sage, who on a normal day, come across a vending machine that transports them to an alternate dimension; a world filled with futuristic technology and controlled by a strange government. And soon they find themselves fighting to save this unknown society. The Prologue of the book opens up with a normal descriptive scene, but soon the mysterious tone sets in and the pace quicken only quickens from then on, as we are told the origins of the vending machine turned interdimensional portal. The following chapters shift their attention to the normal lives of the protagonists till they get warped into a new dimension, where they struggle against forces and atrocities to bring about peace. I urge you to discover the intriguing plot for yourself!

What makes this book interesting is how it can take a sci-fi concept, blend it with mild satire and create a tasteful amalgamation. The characters feel life-like. They are thinking and feeling individuals that a reader can connect with. But the limelight shines on the duo, as their characters develop throughout the narrative. The third-person narrative helps the reader understand the psyche of the characters. The language is flowy and conversational as well. I highly recommend that you dive into this, one-of-a-kind production!

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Judy Liu has crafted an immersive and captivating young adult fantasy world in Vending Portal, bringing readers on an unforgettable journey alongside the protagonist and her sister. From the very first page, the story pulls you into a realm filled with adventure, mystery, and heartfelt moments that highlight the power of family, resilience, and self-discovery.

One of the book’s greatest strengths is how well it balances imaginative world-building with deep, emotional storytelling. The dynamic between the protagonist and her sister feels authentic and compelling, making their journey all the more meaningful. Judy Liu’s writing is engaging, fluid, and vivid, painting scenes that transport readers right into the heart of the adventure.

For fans of young adult fantasy, Vending Portal is a must-read. Judy Liu has created something truly special—a story that is both thrilling and heartfelt, with characters who stay with you long after the last page. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for an exciting, well-written fantasy that explores the strength of familial bonds in a magical setting.

[Trysta Hurley · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a fun short story. Told from the perspectives of two young girls, this was an interesting take on a utopia society. The girls fall through a portal they find in a vending machine that leads them to a world where adults lose their memories and the government doesn’t charge for food or memory retrieval. It seems too good to be true and ultimately it is.

I think this story reminded me a lot of the giver. It could have used a little more world building maybe, it was a pretty short book. But otherwise I enjoyed the story. It makes you wonder what actually defines a perfect world? What’s perfect for someone isn’t perfect for all.

[Krishna Narra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Judy does a wonderful job captivating the reader with the world and characters she built. Each page gets more and more exciting to read. Above all, she really makes you think about what the cost of each benefit in a given society is without you even realizing it. Highly recommend!!

[Deb · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was not my usual genre, but the concept was interesting, and the characters endearing.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to meet Judy Liu and purchase this book at Imaginarium and I'm so glad I did!