Interviews with fictional characters generally involve specific answers, as well as questions. With Charlotte, we have to interpret her answers from her body language, assisted by Sophie. We are helped by the fact that Charlotte - unlike every other character in the Shorten Chronicles - is based on a bona fide, real individual: her breed, temperament, likes and dislikes, and her indomitable, unique personality.

And if you haven’t read Stranded yet, you really should.

Breed
Labradoodle: 25% Labrador, 75% standard poodle.

Gender
Female.

Birthday
26 March. 

Birth Sign
Aries.

Like humans born under this sign, Charlotte likes to be the centre of attention. Aries is a fire sign and Charlotte has a typical Aries nature: passionate and inspirational. She’s uncomplicated, a bit too direct and not interested in detail. Brave and determined, she instinctively leaps into battle to defend loved ones.

Birthplace
Aunty Wendy’s rundown house in Buckinghamshire.

Height and Build
Slightly bigger than a Labrador, lean build.

Hair Colour
Dark brown, with natural blond highlights.

Eye Colour
Stunning gold irises.

Academic Background
Graduated from puppy school with a borderline pass.

Age
22 in human years.

Occupation
Companion (Sophie’s view).
Bodyguard (Charlotte’s view). 

Relationship Status
In a committed relationship with Jack, a black Retriever, Sir Richard Lacey’s dog.

Interests
Keeping Sophie, Jack – and Hugo and Freddy – safe. Snuggles, food, sleep, not chasing balls, stealing and eating underwear (not an exhaustive list). 

Skills
Regular canine: superior hearing and powers of smell compared to homo sapiens, perhaps inferior eyesight, encompassing fewer colours. Ability to move more quickly than homo sapiens, before they even register it. 

Professional Veterinary Opinion
‘Practically perfect in every way.’

Knowledge of parallel universe theory, including the maths underpinning said theory
Unknown.

And what’s in store for her?
Like Sophie Arundel and Freddy Lacey, she’s Thursday’s child: far to go.