Late Rehearsals

A collection of self-contained chapters exploring human imperfections, life, and death through humor and raw introspection, perfect for readers who enjoy character-driven, literary fiction.

The characters in Dominic Hoffman's tales of Late Rehearsals are familiar. Their choices are recognizable, and the people are far from perfect. Humor is a constant.

However, their most significant commonality is the sense that every day is a rehearsal for the next. In this compilation of narratives, contemporary fables and intimate accounts, we travel cultures and cities, contemplate life and death to discover that our lives can be justified, vilified or distanced by the simple act of viewing the lives of others.

The individuals in these stories walk their own paths, and their Late Rehearsals will continue into the inevitable closing night.

Sharp, funny, and surprisingly tender character snapshots

Late Rehearsal is a collection of tight, character-driven short stories that feel like eavesdropping on people at their most unguarded. Dominic Hoffmann’s writing is quick, witty, and full of little details that make each character instantly recognizable – you’ve either been them or you know them. I loved how the humor is dry and clever without ever losing heart; even the funniest moments have a little emotional sting underneath. Because it’s a collection, a couple stories landed less strongly for me than others, but the hits are really strong. Overall, it’s the kind of book where you keep thinking, “Just one more story,” and suddenly you’ve finished the whole thing.