James Jarvis's first book published a year after his death

James Jarvis was a postgraduate student in the university’s Centre for Medieval Studies after graduating in history in 2010.

He was close to completing an MA in medieval history when he was found dead on July 12 last year.

His mother, Philippa, said she knew James had been writing a book, but it was not until after his death that she realised the full extent of his writing – with one book written on his computer and another four written out in longhand.

Mrs Jarvis said: “It wasn’t a complete surprise as I know James had been writing a book ever since he was a teenager.

“He had sent some sample copies of his work off to publishers and after his death we got letters back from a couple of publishers saying they were interested in printing his work.

“He has written five books in a series called The Other World Chronicles and the first book called The Midgard Knight is going to be published by Teesside firm Quoin.

“Blackwells bookshop on the York University campus has also agreed to sell it.”

The book is a fantasy adventure which draws on several old myths and legends to tell the tale of a young man drawn into the Otherworld. There he finds the source of all our stories, magic and nightmares.

Mrs Jarvis said James took inspiration and advice from author Anthony Horowitz whom he met at a book signing.

After James’s death, his family set up a bursary at the university. Since it was established last autumn, it has helped three post-graduate history students.

Mrs Jarvis said: “James’s books are an amazing legacy, and if the first book sells well any money we raise will go into the bursary.”

James’ funeral was held at York Minster last year and although his family lives on Teesside, Mrs Jarvis is from Kirkbymoorside and James is buried there.

The Midgard Knight went on sale recently priced £7.99. It is available at the Little Apple Bookshop, High Petergate, York, or phone Quoin on 01642 252023.