Smiley's People

What is the connection between a penniless Russian woman in Paris and the brutal murder of an old man in a London park? And so begins a new conundrum for George Smiley to sort out.

Smiley makes inquiries among many Russian exiles, and uncovers a photograph revealing an astonishing secret.

Smiley learns that his nemesis, the dreaded Soviet spymaster Karla, has a deep secret hidden involving his personal life. He now attempts to track down certain Russian individuals who could aid him, but they keep disappearing.

Smiley gets into trouble with his superiors, who want the investigation closed. But he finally encounters the woman and gets her account.

Smiley is hot on the trail leading to Karla, but must make the ultimate sacrifice: cutting off his wife Ann.

The final confrontation between Smiley and Karla takes place. But in this game there are no victors, only losers.