John le Carre is a British author who is best known for his espionage novels. His characters often feature spies and secret agents, and one of the most famous is George Smiley. Smiley is a former British intelligence officer who is highly skilled in the art of espionage. He is a master of disguise and deception, and is often tasked with uncovering secrets and thwarting the plans of his enemies. He is a complex character who is both cunning and compassionate.