I bought this novel some time ago but held back reading it during the frenzy of 'The Da Vinci Code' and similar offerings. I am glad I did so: as I am sure I would not have enjoyed it anywhere near as much.Yes, this is another novel based on coded mysteries. It is also a fascinating view of the times in which Leonardo da Vinci lived, and incorporates some details of his life and paintings.The novel moves quickly, but in small chapters. While I solved the puzzle well before the end of the book, that was simply because I'd been paying attention to the clues being offered along the way. Solving the puzzle prematurely in no way diminished my pleasure in reading the novel.I enjoyed this novel immensely and had no difficulty in imagining Leonardo in such a role.Jennifer Cameron-Smith