In John Scalzi's Starter Villain, Charlie Fitzer, a 32-year-old divorcee, grapples with stagnation and lack of direction. Once a business reporter for the Chicago Tribune, Charlie's life took a downward spiral after he lost his job and divorced his wife. Discovering his father was ill, Charlie returned to his childhood home to care for him. However, although Charlie's father died several years before the story's beginning, Charlie remains in his childhood home, working as a substitute teacher. 

Initially, Charlie exhibits a sense of inertia and reluctance to embrace change. Instead of pursuing new opportunities, he settles for underemployment as a substitute teacher. Despite applying for other positions, Charlie often finds excuses for his lack of success. His cleverness is overshadowed by his acerbic and sarcastic demeanor, with his self-deprecating humor often brushed aside. However, beneath his facade lies a compassionate individual who rescues abandoned cats and extends help to others, even when it may not be needed.

Charlie possesses an egalitarian nature and a strong sense of self-awareness. He is open to listening and heeding advice from those who appear more knowledgeable, even if it comes from an unexpected source, like a cat. Charlie supports the dolphins' quest for unionization and actively aids them in achieving it.