As Theo makes the long trek to Constantinople, he must watch out, not only for his own back, but for his new wife’s who is masquerading as a man to make their traveling a bit easier. Travel in these times is still extremely treacherous and Theo and Viola must use all their skills and wit to survive.

As part of Viola’s training, she learns that many of a Fool’s talents can be put to a more practical use. Once in Constantinople, the two must again keep their wits about them as they try to learn what happened to their fellow Fools, staying alive themselves as it becomes harder and harder to known whom to trust.

Jester Leaps In is a very dense Medieval mystery. It is a very researched, detailed mystery. Those with a keen interest in this time period will enjoy the book the most. Readers unfamiliar with the time period and geography of Thirteenth century Europe may find themselves lost more than once. A map of Thirteenth Century Europe, even on the endpapers, would have been helpful to this end.

Theo and Viola are delightful characters. They are not young, innocent newlyweds, yet there is something very refreshing in their devotion to each other, in Viola’s determination to become a respectable Fool and Theo’s determination to stay safe. The slight flaw Viola shows is her willingness to leave her children from previous marriage to embark on a troubadour-like existence. The two have sharp tongues and quick wit when necessary, but are also able to play their parts when necessary to survive.

The mystery, while well laid out and thoughtful, takes a back seat to the setting and colorful characters. Historical mystery fans will be delighted with the rich history and detail the book offers. It may not be as accessible to those not as familiar with this period, though.

--Jennifer Monahan Winberry