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Godspeed, Cedar Key
A tiny island in the Gulf of Mexico survives a global societal collapse by leaning on community and lessons passed down from prior generations of islanders. The Gulf's rich bounty and destructive power are a thrilling setting for a story where love and friendship push back against the darkness.
- GenresFiction
333 pages, Paperback
Published February 1, 2024
74 people are currently reading
1814 people want to read
About the author
Michael Presley Bobbitt
3 books22 followersMichael Presley Bobbitt is an off-Broadway playwright, novelist, and clam farmer living on a tiny island in the Gulf of Mexico off the coast of Florida.
His play, "Sunset Village," about the underground drug and sex culture of the world's largest retirement community, debuted in NYC in 2017 and has had multiple sold-out regional productions thereafter. 2019's "Florida Man" played Off-Broadway on 42nd Street before beginning its regional run. Other notable plays include, "Trailer Park Elegy", "Cedar Key", "Return to Sunset Village", and "Where the Rivers Meet".
"Godspeed, Cedar Key" is Michael's debut novel. The follow-up, "Forever, Cedar Key" was released in 2025. The conclusion to the Cedar Key Triology is set for release in March of 2026.
His play, "Sunset Village," about the underground drug and sex culture of the world's largest retirement community, debuted in NYC in 2017 and has had multiple sold-out regional productions thereafter. 2019's "Florida Man" played Off-Broadway on 42nd Street before beginning its regional run. Other notable plays include, "Trailer Park Elegy", "Cedar Key", "Return to Sunset Village", and "Where the Rivers Meet".
"Godspeed, Cedar Key" is Michael's debut novel. The follow-up, "Forever, Cedar Key" was released in 2025. The conclusion to the Cedar Key Triology is set for release in March of 2026.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
November 21, 2024
Disclosure: I was provided a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.)
A nuclear disaster stops the world in its tracks. The small Florida island of Cedar Key and its inhabitants, suddenly plunged into isolation and radio silence, find themselves drawn even closer to each other as the community struggles to survive – and even thrive – in the aftermath of disaster.
The first chapters of this book are an eerie reminder of the first days of the pandemic, when strange things were happening, a lot was unknown, and fears about scarcity drove people to acts of desperation. It’s a tough look at humanity’s weaknesses and at times is a bit hard to read if you are sensitive to such things.
After the initial panic dies down and the island’s residents realize the situation is for the long haul, the book becomes a tribute to community, ingenuity and the human spirit. If you have lived in a small town in the American South, you will recognize a lot of the character types, but it does not make them any less human or compelling.
A lot of the action is unique to Cedar Key – you’ll learn a lot about clam farming, boats, local history, etc. – and it’s all very real, making hope in an apocalyptic situation sound very possible in such a place.
A nuclear disaster stops the world in its tracks. The small Florida island of Cedar Key and its inhabitants, suddenly plunged into isolation and radio silence, find themselves drawn even closer to each other as the community struggles to survive – and even thrive – in the aftermath of disaster.
The first chapters of this book are an eerie reminder of the first days of the pandemic, when strange things were happening, a lot was unknown, and fears about scarcity drove people to acts of desperation. It’s a tough look at humanity’s weaknesses and at times is a bit hard to read if you are sensitive to such things.
After the initial panic dies down and the island’s residents realize the situation is for the long haul, the book becomes a tribute to community, ingenuity and the human spirit. If you have lived in a small town in the American South, you will recognize a lot of the character types, but it does not make them any less human or compelling.
A lot of the action is unique to Cedar Key – you’ll learn a lot about clam farming, boats, local history, etc. – and it’s all very real, making hope in an apocalyptic situation sound very possible in such a place.
April 1, 2024
A must-read for fans of Pat Frank's Alas, Babylon, delivering a small town's survival story like a neighbor's forgotten diary.
Reminiscent of Pat Frank's Alas, Babylon and Bobby Akart's Nuclear Winter series, Godspeed, Cedar Key pulls the reader through the trials and triumphs of a small Florida town with just enough twists and turns to have you laughing, crying, and shaking your head. Technically speaking the book is smack-dab in the post-apoc genre, but the author uses a narration style that wanders into the most fascinating of classes with your favorite history teacher and storytelling that gets one invested in all the local dirt, wondering what the neighbors are up to now. Descriptive scenes left me feeling that I could visit Cedar Key and know where to find all of the best views, friendliest people, and important sites in town in an instant.
At times the chapters flow like a collection of short stories - an apocalyptic anthology of folks surviving however they can - until the storyline wraps back around and we're reunited in the community's ventures once again. The method can make a reader feel like they should be remembering too many names, but the story will circle back and, like living in a small town, allow one to adjust into a friendly "I know your face, I don't need to know your name" comfort level. Occasionally theatrical language dives back into commonplace prose, creating a story that ebbs and flows like the tides affecting Cedar Key's residents and a rollercoaster of life that keeps the reader engaged and rooting for favorite residents, both human and chicken.
Offering just the right offset between joy and tragedy and characters trying their best and those determined to do their worst, the author finds a balance which is not always easily found in the genre. This title will appeal to those who enjoy post-apocalyptic fiction, as well as anyone with an interest in Florida, maritime history, and even sustainable living. With just the right blend of plot twists and an ending that somehow left me both satisfied and hoping for a sequel, Godspeed, Cedar Key is well worth a read.
***I received an ARC from Reedsy Discovery for review. All opinions are my own.
Reminiscent of Pat Frank's Alas, Babylon and Bobby Akart's Nuclear Winter series, Godspeed, Cedar Key pulls the reader through the trials and triumphs of a small Florida town with just enough twists and turns to have you laughing, crying, and shaking your head. Technically speaking the book is smack-dab in the post-apoc genre, but the author uses a narration style that wanders into the most fascinating of classes with your favorite history teacher and storytelling that gets one invested in all the local dirt, wondering what the neighbors are up to now. Descriptive scenes left me feeling that I could visit Cedar Key and know where to find all of the best views, friendliest people, and important sites in town in an instant.
At times the chapters flow like a collection of short stories - an apocalyptic anthology of folks surviving however they can - until the storyline wraps back around and we're reunited in the community's ventures once again. The method can make a reader feel like they should be remembering too many names, but the story will circle back and, like living in a small town, allow one to adjust into a friendly "I know your face, I don't need to know your name" comfort level. Occasionally theatrical language dives back into commonplace prose, creating a story that ebbs and flows like the tides affecting Cedar Key's residents and a rollercoaster of life that keeps the reader engaged and rooting for favorite residents, both human and chicken.
Offering just the right offset between joy and tragedy and characters trying their best and those determined to do their worst, the author finds a balance which is not always easily found in the genre. This title will appeal to those who enjoy post-apocalyptic fiction, as well as anyone with an interest in Florida, maritime history, and even sustainable living. With just the right blend of plot twists and an ending that somehow left me both satisfied and hoping for a sequel, Godspeed, Cedar Key is well worth a read.
***I received an ARC from Reedsy Discovery for review. All opinions are my own.
February 10, 2024
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of Godspeed, Cedar Key, a dystopian tale that transcends the typical narrative of desolation. This story is a testament to the human spirit and resilience in the face of the unknown.
The lyrical language sweeps readers into the heart of Cedar Key, and Bobbitt has a remarkable ability to capture the essence of community with vivid imagery and evocative prose. Godspeed, Cedar Key is poignant and uplifting, and will remain in the reader's heart long after the last page is turned.
The lyrical language sweeps readers into the heart of Cedar Key, and Bobbitt has a remarkable ability to capture the essence of community with vivid imagery and evocative prose. Godspeed, Cedar Key is poignant and uplifting, and will remain in the reader's heart long after the last page is turned.
December 13, 2024
Post apocalyptic tale that could really happen
Post apocalyptic fiction is my favorite genre and it's really hard to find well written books, but this is one. Great historical details, and interesting, well rounded, believable characters whom I will miss. Cedar Key is a real place which makes the story even better.
Post apocalyptic fiction is my favorite genre and it's really hard to find well written books, but this is one. Great historical details, and interesting, well rounded, believable characters whom I will miss. Cedar Key is a real place which makes the story even better.
April 2, 2025
Great first book. Mr Bobbit creates a post nuclear war world on a tiny island that is believable and interesting.
A very quick read because the book is hard to put down.
Congratulations, can’t wait to read the sequel.
A very quick read because the book is hard to put down.
Congratulations, can’t wait to read the sequel.
May 26, 2025
A small island town is cut off from the rest of the world from some type of disaster. It’s not doom and gloom, they just pull together and find ways to make life work without technology. There are others who are in a neighboring town off the island that becomes a threat to their survival and a rivalry is formed.The narratives shifts focus between central and peripheral characters. I marvel at how the author captures the process of conceptualization of each of them.
The narration of the characters are uniquely introduced by thoughts or feelings they have or are experienced. The character development reminds me of James Lee Burke style of writing. I felt like I got to know everyone in this small coastal town and grew to care about all of them.
At times, serious, complex but also lighthearted and downright funny.
This is not an end of the world book. It felt more like an island that was hit by a storm and was cut off from the world.
I closed this book and thought about the families I got to know, and will miss them all.
The narration of the characters are uniquely introduced by thoughts or feelings they have or are experienced. The character development reminds me of James Lee Burke style of writing. I felt like I got to know everyone in this small coastal town and grew to care about all of them.
At times, serious, complex but also lighthearted and downright funny.
This is not an end of the world book. It felt more like an island that was hit by a storm and was cut off from the world.
I closed this book and thought about the families I got to know, and will miss them all.
June 15, 2025
This was almost good... I didn't care for the writing style, too much detail on things that didn't add to the story. I don't care how clams are propagated, and I really don't need to read about the bags they're placed into, then how you ship them south, and then the type of boat that puts the bag out, and then you have to get them and move them into a different bag!!!! See how boring THAT is, and it went on and on in the book. If that was the only instance, okay, but there were so many things like that, I couldn't care about the "main" characters. There were too many multi generation back stories that just seemed like filler.
January 12, 2025
I’ve always been a fan of post-apocalyptic fiction, and I started this book with great expectations. The writing was really readable…BUT it was exactly like going to a 3-act play and only seeing the second act. No beginning and no end. Just a chunk of middle. I was expecting more.
I found the Tom Clancy-like dives into exhausting detail about clam raising, boat building, power generators, etc unnecessarily interrupted the storytelling.
I found the Tom Clancy-like dives into exhausting detail about clam raising, boat building, power generators, etc unnecessarily interrupted the storytelling.
February 13, 2024
Godspeed, Cedar Key by Michael Presley Bobbitt crafts a compelling narrative in a post-apocalyptic setting on Cedar Key, an island off Florida's coast. As the remnants of civilization dwindle, the island's inhabitants grapple with challenges such as invasions, disease, and the breakdown of communication. Yet, a strong sense of community and resilience becomes their beacon of hope in this desolate environment. The story delves deep into the lives of these residents, whose connections span generations and mirror the island's enduring spirit amidst the Gulf's beauty and dangers.
Bobbitt skillfully merges contemporary fiction with apocalyptic elements, creating a novel that initially piques interest with its title and sustains it with a captivating narrative. The book navigates the complexities of community life against an apocalyptic backdrop, revealing the depth and resilience of human connections. The straightforward prose is deceptively rich, drawing readers into a world where adversity is met with unwavering strength and unity. At its heart, Godspeed, Cedar Key is about enduring friendships and the power of love woven into the fabric of Cedar Key's storied past. This theme adds a timeless quality to the plot, echoing the island's ability to withstand the ravages of disaster. The author's skill in storytelling is evident in each chapter, maintaining the reader's interest as events unfold. Contrasting with its dystopian setting, the novel emanates a hopeful undertone, emphasizing resilience and human connection.
Godspeed, Cedar Key is a compelling read for those interested in a blend of contemporary and apocalyptic fiction, offering an engaging story that resonates beyond its final pages.
Bobbitt skillfully merges contemporary fiction with apocalyptic elements, creating a novel that initially piques interest with its title and sustains it with a captivating narrative. The book navigates the complexities of community life against an apocalyptic backdrop, revealing the depth and resilience of human connections. The straightforward prose is deceptively rich, drawing readers into a world where adversity is met with unwavering strength and unity. At its heart, Godspeed, Cedar Key is about enduring friendships and the power of love woven into the fabric of Cedar Key's storied past. This theme adds a timeless quality to the plot, echoing the island's ability to withstand the ravages of disaster. The author's skill in storytelling is evident in each chapter, maintaining the reader's interest as events unfold. Contrasting with its dystopian setting, the novel emanates a hopeful undertone, emphasizing resilience and human connection.
Godspeed, Cedar Key is a compelling read for those interested in a blend of contemporary and apocalyptic fiction, offering an engaging story that resonates beyond its final pages.
February 16, 2024
What can I say about "Godspeed, Cedar Key" that hasn't already been said?
This multi-focal, multi-generational, crises response story is artfully told in an incredibly immersive way. Fast action and complex, almost poetic prose combine to pull the mind through the full gamut of human emotion.
The author pulls a rare stunt here with a few flawless misleads so subtle they don't even invite speculation, but the true literary work is achieved in the process. Imagine the worst thing that can happen, to the people and the places you love most. Make it real on the page, then pour yourself out inside it. Michael Presley Bobbit has done so in this riveting work of modern fiction.
This multi-focal, multi-generational, crises response story is artfully told in an incredibly immersive way. Fast action and complex, almost poetic prose combine to pull the mind through the full gamut of human emotion.
The author pulls a rare stunt here with a few flawless misleads so subtle they don't even invite speculation, but the true literary work is achieved in the process. Imagine the worst thing that can happen, to the people and the places you love most. Make it real on the page, then pour yourself out inside it. Michael Presley Bobbit has done so in this riveting work of modern fiction.
December 22, 2024
A wonderful tale of disaster and the resiliency of the human spirit.
Having visited Cedar Key, the setting of Bobbitt’s story, this book was a delight for me to read. Even if you’ve never been there, however, the colorful characters and beautiful setting will pull you in immediately and keep you engaged. Some awkward writing in places, but overall a truly enjoyable read.
Having visited Cedar Key, the setting of Bobbitt’s story, this book was a delight for me to read. Even if you’ve never been there, however, the colorful characters and beautiful setting will pull you in immediately and keep you engaged. Some awkward writing in places, but overall a truly enjoyable read.
January 10, 2025
An interesting take on the apocalypse. The characters are interesting and their interactions with each other engaging. The plot was interesting but not spellbinding while still an enjoyable read. I was very disappointed in the end, it seemed as though the book was unfinished. I don't know if the author will make this the first in a series, it sure could some threads tied up.
July 31, 2025
As an occasional visitor to Cedar Key, I was intrigued to read what this book was all about. After finishing the book, I felt more connected to Cedar Key and was left feeling perplexed, wanting more. Luckily, I just started reading Forever Cedar Key! I am looking forward to reading more about this beloved little slice of paradise.
August 27, 2024
We’ve been to Cedar Key, and for my husband THAT’S what made this book so enjoyable. While it was written well, and has good plot development. The fact that it talks about places we’ve been to, or seen, made all the difference. My husband would highly recommend, a good read.
September 3, 2024
If you like literary fiction centered around a small town and how they survive a disaster, check this one out.
My Review
My Review
October 23, 2025
The history of Cedar Key and surrounding area was fascinating and educational. The characters were down-to-earth. TJ was the hardest loss. Looking forward to the secnd book. Spent many times on the island and played in a high school band with friends so everything was familiar. Thanks Michael.
February 26, 2025
A plausible post apocalyptic story with well written characters.
March 16, 2024
A post-apocalyptic story brimming with richly developed characters and small-town charm.
While there are the expected elements of life after a nuclear attack that isolates a small coastal Florida community, the author focuses more on rebuilding families and society than combating the persistent threats from man and nature alike. The prose is evocative and original, the characters well-developed with deep backstories, and the painting of life for Cedar Key residents before and after the catastrophic event is a beautiful tapestry.
The author often shifts into teaching mode to convey pertinent information on a wide range of topics, from history to science to maritime culture. Some readers may not enjoy such expositions in a fiction novel, but I do, especially when they provide deeper context to important plot points.
I began this read expecting more of a thriller, and there are scenes that fit that bill, but I was pleasantly surprised to discover the deliberate pacing, character development, and gorgeous language in Godspeed, Cedar Key.
Congrats on a well-researched, heartfelt, and wonderfully written story about the beginning of a new world!
While there are the expected elements of life after a nuclear attack that isolates a small coastal Florida community, the author focuses more on rebuilding families and society than combating the persistent threats from man and nature alike. The prose is evocative and original, the characters well-developed with deep backstories, and the painting of life for Cedar Key residents before and after the catastrophic event is a beautiful tapestry.
The author often shifts into teaching mode to convey pertinent information on a wide range of topics, from history to science to maritime culture. Some readers may not enjoy such expositions in a fiction novel, but I do, especially when they provide deeper context to important plot points.
I began this read expecting more of a thriller, and there are scenes that fit that bill, but I was pleasantly surprised to discover the deliberate pacing, character development, and gorgeous language in Godspeed, Cedar Key.
Congrats on a well-researched, heartfelt, and wonderfully written story about the beginning of a new world!
February 16, 2024
What can I say about "Godspeed, Cedar Key" that hasn't already been said?
This multi-focal, multi-generational, crises response story is artfully told in an incredibly immersive way. Fast action and complex, almost poetic prose combine to pull the mind through the full gamut of human emotion.
The author pulls a rare stunt here with a few flawless misleads so subtle they don't even invite speculation, but the true literary work is achieved in the process. Imagine the worst thing that can happen, to the people and the places you love most. Make it real on the page, then pour yourself out inside it. Michael Presley Bobbit has done so in this riveting work of modern fiction.
This multi-focal, multi-generational, crises response story is artfully told in an incredibly immersive way. Fast action and complex, almost poetic prose combine to pull the mind through the full gamut of human emotion.
The author pulls a rare stunt here with a few flawless misleads so subtle they don't even invite speculation, but the true literary work is achieved in the process. Imagine the worst thing that can happen, to the people and the places you love most. Make it real on the page, then pour yourself out inside it. Michael Presley Bobbit has done so in this riveting work of modern fiction.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews