"A Murder of Quality" is a detective novel by John le Carré, featuring the British intelligence officer George Smiley. Set in a boarding school, the story begins when a murder occurs, prompting Smiley to investigate. He is called to the school, which serves as a microcosm of society, reflecting various social classes and tensions. As he delves deeper into the case, he uncovers secrets and hidden lives of both students and staff. The narrative explores themes of class distinction, morality, and human relationships. Through Smiley's interactions, le Carré illustrates the complexities of human nature and the darker facets of seemingly innocent environments. The characters are richly developed, revealing their motivations and shortcomings as the investigation unfolds.