Thomas Taylor was born in Norfolk, grew up in Wales, lived in France for many years, and now resides on the south coast of England. His first ever professional commission -- as a newly-graduated art student -- was the cover art for 'Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone' by JK Rowling. After this he illustrated and wrote dozens of picture books, and was artist on the graphic novel 'Scarlett Hart - Monster Hunter', with author Marcus Sedgwick. He is now best known as the author of the 'The Mysteries of Eerie-on-Sea': 'Malamander', and its sequels: 'Gargantis', 'Shadowghast', and 'Festergrimm'. 'Mermedusa', the final book in the series, is due in 2023.