The Chancellor Turned Sleuth: Inside the Miss Merkel Mystery Phenomenon
BERLIN, 10 February 2026 — While the real Angela Merkel has largely retreated from the public eye since leaving the Chancellery, her fictional counterpart is busier than ever. The “Miss Merkel” book series, a whimsical blend of German politics and “cosy crime” in the vein of Agatha Christie, has become a global literary sensation, reimagining Europe’s former most powerful woman as a small-town detective with a sharp mind and a pug named Putin.
From the Chancellery to the Uckermark
The series, penned by German novelist David Safier, begins with the premise that retirement in the picturesque Uckermark region is not quite as relaxing as Angela had hoped. After decades of managing international crises, the fictional Merkel finds herself bored by baking and hiking. Her life takes a turn for the dramatic when she stumbles upon a murder at a local castle, leading her to apply her diplomatic negotiation skills to the art of criminal investigation.
Safier, an award-winning writer known for the television series Berlin, Berlin, has successfully exported a very German brand of humour. The books have been translated into multiple languages, with the English editions—translated by Jamie Bulloch—finding a significant audience in the UK and North America.
The Miss Merkel Series Bibliography
The series follows a chronological progression of Angela’s retirement adventures. Below is the current list of titles as documented in the Miss Merkel series:
| Book Title (English/German) | Setting | Primary Mystery |
|---|---|---|
| Murder at the Castle (Mord in der Uckermark) | Klein-Freudenstadt | The poisoning of Baron von Baugenwitz in a locked dungeon. |
| Mord auf dem Friedhof | Uckermark Cemetery | A suspicious death involving a local funeral director. |
| Mord auf hoher See | Cruise Ship | A high-seas mystery during a much-needed holiday. |
| Mord in der… | Various | Continuing investigations in the German countryside. |
Key Characters in the Safier Universe
Angela Merkel
The protagonist is portrayed as highly observant, methodical, and occasionally frustrated by the slow pace of village life. She often compares the motives of local murderers to the political machinations she faced in Brussels or Washington.
Achim (The “First Gentleman”)
Angela’s husband, Joachim Sauer (referred to affectionately as Achim), serves as her reluctant sidekick. He would much prefer to be left alone with his scientific journals but is frequently dragged into his wife’s amateur sleuthing.
Putin the Pug
In a satirical nod to her real-life diplomatic history, the fictional Angela owns a pug named Putin. The dog provides comic relief and serves as a constant companion during her investigations through the forests of Brandenburg.
Why the “Cosy Crime” Genre is Booming
The success of Miss Merkel coincides with a broader resurgence in “cosy crime”—mysteries that eschew graphic violence in favour of atmosphere, puzzles, and eccentric characters. As of February 2026, streaming platforms and bookstores report a continued surge in demand for this genre. Recent hits like The Mistletoe Murders and the enduring popularity of Miss Scarlet on BritBox highlight a global appetite for detectives who solve crimes with wit rather than weapons.
For German readers, the series offers a gentle parody of a woman who defined an era. For international readers, it provides a charming introduction to the German landscape and the “locked-room” mystery format that has seen a revival in recent years.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the Miss Merkel series based on true events?
No. While the character is based on the real former Chancellor of Germany, the plots, murders, and the pug named Putin are entirely works of fiction created by David Safier.
Who translated the Miss Merkel books into English?
The English translations, including Murder at the Castle, were translated by Jamie Bulloch.
Where is the Uckermark?
The Uckermark is a real historical region in northeastern Germany, known for its lakes and forests. It is where the real Angela Merkel has a holiday home, making it the perfect setting for the fictional series.
Are there more books planned?
David Safier has continued to expand the series due to high demand. Readers should check local listings for the most recent releases in the “Mord in…” sequence.