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Michael Ehnert's Debut Crime Novel Draws on Family History

publication · 2026-06-20

Michael Ehnert, a cabaret artist and screenwriter, has published his debut crime novel "Hamburg, Wache 16," which draws on his father's experiences as a police officer at the station. The story is set in 1976 on St. Pauli, Hamburg, following 23-year-old officer Jens-Uwe, who is assigned to the rough district after training. The novel features dry humor and authentic details from the era, including conflicts with local gangs and the red-light district. Ehnert's work has been listed among the best crime novels of June 2026.

Key facts

  • Michael Ehnert is a cabaret artist and screenwriter.
  • His debut crime novel is titled 'Hamburg, Wache 16'.
  • The novel is set in 1976 on St. Pauli, Hamburg.
  • The protagonist is 23-year-old officer Jens-Uwe.
  • Ehnert's father was a police officer at Wache 16.
  • The story includes true events from Hamburg.
  • The novel has dry humor.
  • It was listed among the best crime novels of June 2026.

Entities

Artists

  • Michael Ehnert

Locations

  • Hamburg
  • Germany
  • St. Pauli
  • Wandsbek
  • Eros-Center
  • Schanzenviertel

Sources