The book is well written. It is, perhaps, even technically better than Tinker, Tailor (odd, given that Tinker came later). Tinker, however, has more style and is more challenging to read in a good way. Call for the Dead is linear and easier to follow though there are still the shifts of view that are sometimes jarring. Tinker is clearly a “classic” spy caper while Call looks a lot like a straight murder mystery. It’s one weakness is an inclination for exposition. I found myself skimming at times. Tinker is stronger in this respect: exposition is replaced by dialog or action, which still conveys setting and mood.