What do you think?
Rate this book
Turtle A
Turtle A chews on Strawberry B, which causes a string to pull the platform up, releasing Coin C to...you know what? I don't think I am going to tell you much more than that...
Here's the thing though: one event leads to another until you have a chain of events completing a set goal; at least that's how The Girl believes The Universe works. Following The Universe's instructions to set in motion a series of events, The Girl believes that to be her purpose...until she finds Nico, who staunchly believes that The Universe's grand cosmic plans are a load of horseshit.
Which one of them is right? The Girl, who has no identity or place in the world, or Nico, who has worked so hard on his sense of self that somewhere along the way he lost his purpose. How will these two come together to resolve the mysteries of The Universe?
Here's the thing though: one event leads to another until you have a chain of events completing a set goal; at least that's how The Girl believes The Universe works. Following The Universe's instructions to set in motion a series of events, The Girl believes that to be her purpose...until she finds Nico, who staunchly believes that The Universe's grand cosmic plans are a load of horseshit.
Which one of them is right? The Girl, who has no identity or place in the world, or Nico, who has worked so hard on his sense of self that somewhere along the way he lost his purpose. How will these two come together to resolve the mysteries of The Universe?
188 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 6, 2022
3 people are currently reading
44 people want to read
About the author
Ellie Martin-Mckinsey
3 books5 followersEllie Martin-McKinsey has a background in theatre, as both a stage manager and actress, which not only exposed her to many colourful characters but also gave her a strong grasp on realistic, effective dialogue. Writing was never something Ellie set out to do, it was more that she stumbled into it by accident, after watching a television show and feeling like she could have written and utilized the characters better. An avid lover of the performing arts, she draws inspiration from acting techniques and a vast array of media ranging from excellent to highly questionable quality. When not at her day job or writing, Ellie can be found drinking tea, watching tv, or dancing wherever she can find space. She is very excited about her debut novel, Turtle A, and is already working on her next book for Saga Fiction!
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
June 22, 2022
Absolutely loved this story! It was told in a unique way, giving us insight into the characters' minds in a way I'm not used to outside of movies/TV. The character development was fantastic, easy and fun dialogue, great world-building as well. Without giving anything away, I will just say that I was super interested in where the story was going from the very jump. I laughed out loud a few times, and found it very easy to connect with both of the main characters. I highly recommend Turtle A!
July 3, 2022
If you've ever found yourself pondering the tension between self-determinism and inevitability, or
the inevitable occurrence of random events….read Turtle A, where you will meet Nico and “The Girl”!
They are the two protagonists in Ellie Martin-McKinsey’s debut novel, Turtle A.
It is a delightfully quirky story which reads quickly, and actually has you thinking about the characters long after you’ve finished reading. Unlike much of the current literature, you are left with the sense that at least with these two characters, everything will be alright. Turtle A has been compared to work by Matt Haig, and while you definitely encounter the pull between being the master of one’s own destiny, and being at the will of random occurrence, as in Haig’s work, Martin-McKinsey’s Turtle A approaches the topic with a lively, entertaining irreverence.
Nico is a foul-mouthed, angry master of his own eventuality, who works as a male stripper in order to support his independence from his critical, domineering, family. “The Girl”, (don’t let this have you thinking that the story is narrated by Nico---it isn’t), is a serene, unbothered soul who goes where The Universe requires her to be. She seems to be without past or future, and continually reminds Nico that she’s “not a psychic”. Not since Felix and Oscar has there been a more odd duo!
I particularly liked how this book describes the process of “becoming”----discovering one’s own identity, and covers the definition of what identity means, with a light touch. I highly recommend this book, which is available for preorder from Amazon, and comes out on July 6th! I look forward to more from this new author.
the inevitable occurrence of random events….read Turtle A, where you will meet Nico and “The Girl”!
They are the two protagonists in Ellie Martin-McKinsey’s debut novel, Turtle A.
It is a delightfully quirky story which reads quickly, and actually has you thinking about the characters long after you’ve finished reading. Unlike much of the current literature, you are left with the sense that at least with these two characters, everything will be alright. Turtle A has been compared to work by Matt Haig, and while you definitely encounter the pull between being the master of one’s own destiny, and being at the will of random occurrence, as in Haig’s work, Martin-McKinsey’s Turtle A approaches the topic with a lively, entertaining irreverence.
Nico is a foul-mouthed, angry master of his own eventuality, who works as a male stripper in order to support his independence from his critical, domineering, family. “The Girl”, (don’t let this have you thinking that the story is narrated by Nico---it isn’t), is a serene, unbothered soul who goes where The Universe requires her to be. She seems to be without past or future, and continually reminds Nico that she’s “not a psychic”. Not since Felix and Oscar has there been a more odd duo!
I particularly liked how this book describes the process of “becoming”----discovering one’s own identity, and covers the definition of what identity means, with a light touch. I highly recommend this book, which is available for preorder from Amazon, and comes out on July 6th! I look forward to more from this new author.
July 3, 2022
Turtle A is a philosophical fiction urging us to question how we should live in this world. Our female protagonist (with no identity) believes she must follow the universe’s instructions to set in motion a series of events. It’s her purpose. Nico, completely contrasting the girl, does not believe this and has a strong sense of identity.
When the pair meet they unknowingly embark on a journey of self development and learn huge amounts from each other and how they should live.
I really enjoyed the way these characters contrasted each other, Nico’s angst and cynical beliefs versus The girl’s calm nature and complete optimism. It sends an important message that no matter how different we are in this world, we can always learn from one another.
The philosophical links engaged me as i love philosophy and questions about our existence/how we should live. I think this book does a great job of asking and addressing these questions in a light and accessible way so that it’s not too existential crisis/hard to read.
I think the only let down for me was at times i felt that the author explained things too explicitly/explained them when they didn’t need explaining. At the same time I see why as we are getting two POVs in one.
This is a great short read and i definitely recommend it for anyone who enjoys philosophy or quirky characters.
When the pair meet they unknowingly embark on a journey of self development and learn huge amounts from each other and how they should live.
I really enjoyed the way these characters contrasted each other, Nico’s angst and cynical beliefs versus The girl’s calm nature and complete optimism. It sends an important message that no matter how different we are in this world, we can always learn from one another.
The philosophical links engaged me as i love philosophy and questions about our existence/how we should live. I think this book does a great job of asking and addressing these questions in a light and accessible way so that it’s not too existential crisis/hard to read.
I think the only let down for me was at times i felt that the author explained things too explicitly/explained them when they didn’t need explaining. At the same time I see why as we are getting two POVs in one.
This is a great short read and i definitely recommend it for anyone who enjoys philosophy or quirky characters.
July 16, 2022
A thoroughly enjoyable exploration of diametrically opposed philosophies. Two well written and dimensional characters discover what happens when two forces collide and therefore, as per newtons laws, have equal and opposite responses. However, in this story, after the girl who believes essentially that everything happens for a reason and the man who believes every moment is forged by our hands collide, the two become immeshed instead of maintaining opposition. Learning from one another this story has everything, strippers, angry phone calls from family members, a mysterious drifter, and one hilarious scene involving alcohol and turtles. I particularly love the ace representation as well. You’ll laugh, maybe have a minor existential crisis about the meaning of the universe, and feel a warmth in your heart after reading Turtle A.
August 1, 2022
Turtle A
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
If your a fan of the midnight library then this should definitely be added to your tbr.
This is a philosophical fiction that will really make you ponder about your actions.
Does it really matter if I don’t help the lady pick up her groceries she dropped?
Or walking past that homeless guy and not helping.
Well in the chain reaction of life the answer is yes, it matters. However, sometimes we get caught up in life and need a little help to show us the right direction. Lucky for us the universe will certainly send that help. This story is about that “help” in the form of a girl.
I liked the unique concept of this book and if you really want to see the definition of character development then this is a great read.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
If your a fan of the midnight library then this should definitely be added to your tbr.
This is a philosophical fiction that will really make you ponder about your actions.
Does it really matter if I don’t help the lady pick up her groceries she dropped?
Or walking past that homeless guy and not helping.
Well in the chain reaction of life the answer is yes, it matters. However, sometimes we get caught up in life and need a little help to show us the right direction. Lucky for us the universe will certainly send that help. This story is about that “help” in the form of a girl.
I liked the unique concept of this book and if you really want to see the definition of character development then this is a great read.
July 3, 2022
This was such a fun, quirky read! I can honestly say I’ve never read a book that introduced the characters in such a unique and fun way. Laughed out loud multiple times during the book. Can’t wait to read more from Elle Martin-Mckinsey!
July 8, 2022
I absolutely loved this book! I felt like I was always waiting for the next domino to fall and Ellie Martin Mckinsey always delivered. If you liked Dirk Gently’s Holistic Detective Agency, you will love Turtle A!
July 11, 2022
Turtle A is so unbelievably charming and thought-provoking, it's quite surprising when you remember this is McKinsey's first published work! If you're looking for a polished and naturalistic approach to some very out there exciting ideas, Turtle A is a fast and fun read!
July 27, 2022
Book Review – Turtle A by Ellie Martin-McKinsey
Turtle A is a new twist on contemporary fiction with elements of the universe as a whole and it’s complex features. The main chapters, featuring a young woman and man, meet by circumstance through the Universe’s calling and embark on adventures that are both plot and character driven.
There are fresh ideas about the universe and our world as we know it colliding and compounding that I have not seen yet in a book. This is done through so many different styles such as metaphors. The metaphors used throughout this book, without spoiling, are so rich and enticing and go hand-in-hand with the novel itself while keeping the plot fresh.
The Girl and Nico, the two main characters, have complete opposite insights as to how they perceive the world and want to live it. She believes I’m a higher caller and more natural and substantial endeavors for life, and he is a rather individualistic and independently grown soul. But through that independence he has not found him self, whereas the Girl is always content sounding, Nico is immersed in self deprecating thoughts and downfalls.
The overall world-building was easy to follow and slip into. The description did not overrun the plot itself and worked well with the dialogue. Overall, this is a great story from a debut author that I hope to hear more about and read more from in the future.
Turtle A is a new twist on contemporary fiction with elements of the universe as a whole and it’s complex features. The main chapters, featuring a young woman and man, meet by circumstance through the Universe’s calling and embark on adventures that are both plot and character driven.
There are fresh ideas about the universe and our world as we know it colliding and compounding that I have not seen yet in a book. This is done through so many different styles such as metaphors. The metaphors used throughout this book, without spoiling, are so rich and enticing and go hand-in-hand with the novel itself while keeping the plot fresh.
The Girl and Nico, the two main characters, have complete opposite insights as to how they perceive the world and want to live it. She believes I’m a higher caller and more natural and substantial endeavors for life, and he is a rather individualistic and independently grown soul. But through that independence he has not found him self, whereas the Girl is always content sounding, Nico is immersed in self deprecating thoughts and downfalls.
The overall world-building was easy to follow and slip into. The description did not overrun the plot itself and worked well with the dialogue. Overall, this is a great story from a debut author that I hope to hear more about and read more from in the future.
February 3, 2023
TURTLE A
From debut author Ellie Martin McKinsey
An amazing debut novel!
The Girl and Nico, two characters, each with completely different philosophical worldviews.
The Girl has no sense of personal identity of her own, she believes her only purpose in life is to follow the instructions of The Universe to set off event sequences. The Universe guides her to places and people whereby she becomes the catalyst to create a domino effect of events which ultimately makes the world a better place.
The Girl's latest mission connects her with Nico, an independent, angry, cynical young man who does not believe in The Larger Plan. Together, much to Nico's surprise, they create a series of events which change several people's lives for the better.
However, The Girl suddenly loses her connection with The Universe, which puts her into a tailspin. She believes that she hasn't completely completed her mission with Nico, and must stay with him until her mission is completed to reconnect with The Universe.
Together they try to work through their incompatible belief systems and attempt come to an understanding of their own roles in The Universe.
Ellie Martin McKinsey has created a well written, thought provoking novel that was also fun to read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
From debut author Ellie Martin McKinsey
An amazing debut novel!
The Girl and Nico, two characters, each with completely different philosophical worldviews.
The Girl has no sense of personal identity of her own, she believes her only purpose in life is to follow the instructions of The Universe to set off event sequences. The Universe guides her to places and people whereby she becomes the catalyst to create a domino effect of events which ultimately makes the world a better place.
The Girl's latest mission connects her with Nico, an independent, angry, cynical young man who does not believe in The Larger Plan. Together, much to Nico's surprise, they create a series of events which change several people's lives for the better.
However, The Girl suddenly loses her connection with The Universe, which puts her into a tailspin. She believes that she hasn't completely completed her mission with Nico, and must stay with him until her mission is completed to reconnect with The Universe.
Together they try to work through their incompatible belief systems and attempt come to an understanding of their own roles in The Universe.
Ellie Martin McKinsey has created a well written, thought provoking novel that was also fun to read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 27, 2024
Absurd, Chaotic & Preachy....you would totally love it. I think after this book Philosophical Fiction is going to be my new go-to genre.
What worked for the book?
✨ The Writing: Reflecting a lot of The Girl's personality into the narrative. The constant shifting of narration from The Girl to Nico didn't feel absurd or off-track. It synched perfectly.
✨ Balancing the contrast: Nowhere in the book did it feel one was right and one wasn't. Both their perspectives were clearly laid out and you had moments of association with both characters.
✨ Simplification: While this may be seen as a red flag by some, I quite enjoyed the book explaining just complex terms in simple ways. It focuses more on you and the questions you should be asking rather than delving into the functioning of the Universe.
What didn't work for the book:
❌ Lack of character depth: Both the characters seemed one-dimensional. I think adding some depth to the characters might make the plot a bit more interesting.
❌ Aha Moments: While the story has a lot for you to question, I felt, moments where you go like Ah, that's it! were missing.
Overall it's a good compact, filled with questions kinda read.
What worked for the book?
✨ The Writing: Reflecting a lot of The Girl's personality into the narrative. The constant shifting of narration from The Girl to Nico didn't feel absurd or off-track. It synched perfectly.
✨ Balancing the contrast: Nowhere in the book did it feel one was right and one wasn't. Both their perspectives were clearly laid out and you had moments of association with both characters.
✨ Simplification: While this may be seen as a red flag by some, I quite enjoyed the book explaining just complex terms in simple ways. It focuses more on you and the questions you should be asking rather than delving into the functioning of the Universe.
What didn't work for the book:
❌ Lack of character depth: Both the characters seemed one-dimensional. I think adding some depth to the characters might make the plot a bit more interesting.
❌ Aha Moments: While the story has a lot for you to question, I felt, moments where you go like Ah, that's it! were missing.
Overall it's a good compact, filled with questions kinda read.
February 2, 2023
I really enjoyed the concept and plot of this book. It’s a lively story of self discovery and interconnectedness. However the writing felt confusing. The author would often mix perspectives between paragraphs and that really took me out of the moment.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 8, 2023
An interesting concept about self discovery and your place in the 'grand scheme' of the Universe.
February 24, 2023
I loved the unique and interesting concept of this novella! I like when a book can grab my attention straight from the prologue, and I wasn’t disappointed here. I was nervous going into it as philosophy isn’t a subject I think or read about often but it was written in such a way that was so easy to follow and make sense of. The metaphorical explanations and the way examples were applied in real time to the characters and their storyline’s were well written and thought out without getting too complicated.
As for our protagonists we have Nico who is angry and cynical and ‘The Girl’ who is indifferent and unbothered, her only mission being to answer the universes call. I’m always a big fan of character growth and I got plenty of it here as well as themes involving self identity and finding joy in life.
My only qualms were I’d sometimes get lost with the POVs, more so at the beginning but this seemed to resolve as I read further.
I found this read unique and quirky so if you’re interested in philosophy but perhaps a little intimidated I highly recommend Turtle A as a good intro to the genre.
As for our protagonists we have Nico who is angry and cynical and ‘The Girl’ who is indifferent and unbothered, her only mission being to answer the universes call. I’m always a big fan of character growth and I got plenty of it here as well as themes involving self identity and finding joy in life.
My only qualms were I’d sometimes get lost with the POVs, more so at the beginning but this seemed to resolve as I read further.
I found this read unique and quirky so if you’re interested in philosophy but perhaps a little intimidated I highly recommend Turtle A as a good intro to the genre.
January 4, 2023
This book is beautiful! If you like Douglas Adam's Dirk Gently then you'll love this universal loving book!!!!!!
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews