Robin has signed a four-book deal with Ergmont. The new series is again set in Whitby, North Yorkshire, and is about two friends who get caught up in a supernatural vendetta from the past. The first title will launch in2016 with the others following at six-monthly intervals.

"We are so excited to be working with the fantastic Robin Jarvis," said his new editor. "He is the master of enthralling and scaring children in equal measure, and we are thrilled to be bringing this mix of magic and horror to market for a new audience."

Robin added: "Words like 'excited' and 'thrilled' really can't convey the gothic boogaloo I'm feeling, returning to Whitby after all this time. What's even more wonderful is that my new editor is going to be sharing all the new scares, as she's been suggesting we do this for many years."