Here, Where Death Delights: A Literary Memoir

by Mary Jumbelic, Joshua Jumbles (cover_art)

Mary Jumbelic has been obsessed with death since the loss of her father when she was 13. The sudden departure of her dad, the mother left behind, and her position as an only child led her to grow up quickly. Yet the why and how of her father's death plagued her. She chose to view an autopsy at the age of 15 and discovered a science that explained the process. Becoming a forensic pathologist wasn't a given. She struggled before deciding on a career as a medical examiner.

For 25 years, she analyzed corpses and explained to families what had happened to their loved ones, something that hadn't been done for her. She faced blood, gore, violence, and grief in urban and country morgues and internationally in mass disasters. This daily confrontation challenged her to re-live her own loss. She became an advocate in recognizing preventable injuries to help reduce fatalities. Dr. Jumbelic developed a way to honor the person's life by speaking for them in courts, classrooms, and interviews. How did she finally integrate death into her own life so filled with hope?

This is her journey.

Genres: Book Club, Nonfiction

302 pages, Hardcover

Published November 1, 2023

About the author

She speaks for the dead. They speak for her.

Mary Jumbelic, M.D. is an author from Central New York, and former chief medical examiner of Onondaga County.

A board-certified forensic pathologist, Mary has performed thousands of autopsies during her 25-year career. She has received awards for her work from the National Transportation Safety Board and the New York State Senate, and has been recognized as a trailblazer by the National Organization of Women. As an expert witness, she has appeared on numerous national broadcasts, most recently Dateline and 48 hours.

In retirement, Mary has published many nonfiction stories, accounts of her life both in and out of the morgue. Using her experiences, she provides a strong voice for the deceased as explores the human imprint made by those departed, demystifying death for herself, and others.

In November 2023, Mary published her first book, literary memoir "Here, Where Death Delights" (ISBN: 979-8988205203) in which she shares her journey from first experience of death to the crimes she has helped to solve with her forensic expertise.

Mary has separately published with more than 25 literary publications and, in 2021, her work was chosen in the top ten for the Tucson Literary Festival and a different story nominated for the Pushcart Prize. In 2014, her piece was selected for the top ten in the AARP/Huffington Post Memoir Writing Contest.

Mary teaches writing, and enjoys sharing her expert tips for a great crime novel or pathology mystery. She is also an Assistant Editor for Stone Canoe.

Mary lives in Central New York with her husband, and is surrounded by family.

Reviews

[Khris Sellin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a beautiful book, written by the former Chief Medical Examiner in Syracuse. I always had a lot of respect for her and her work, and she's an excellent writer too. She takes the clinical stories of death and speaks to the humanity behind every one of them. They're woven in between vignettes of her personal history and her own struggles. Amazing book.

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

I find forensics fascinating. There was a time in my life when I was headed down the path of becoming a forensic anthropologist, before veering off into nursing instead.

A few weeks ago my library hosted a local author event featuring Dr. Mary Jumbelic, a forensic pathologist. I learned that, although now retired from government work, she had previously been the Chief Medical Examiner for my county for many years. I was stoked to attend her talk at the library!

Since retiring, Dr. Jumbelic has now self-published two nonfiction books about her work as an ME. She is currently promoting her new release, Speak Her Name, but I figured I would start at the beginning, and purchased this literary memoir from her. Some of the chapters have been published previously in various scientific journals. There is no cohesive overall narrative present, just a collection of what amounts to vignettes of Dr. Jumbelic's experiences, some personal along with the professional. They vary in length, but are all fairly short. And reader, I was hooked! There is plenty of grim material, of course, but as I said I find the subject matter very interesting and I plowed through this book in two sittings!

Some of the stories leave us all wanting satisfaction (but then what happened?!), but that's the nature of the work. Not all crimes receive justice tied up in a neat bow. Additionally, the author often juxtaposes her professional life against her life as a mother of three children, and how difficult it can be to separate the two realms in your mind, and she doesn't offer anything prescriptive - there is no tidy lesson about how to go about doing this, just glimpses of what she dealt with.

An added layer to my personal stake in this book: I would be reading the start of a new chapter and think, "This reminds me of that girl I went to school with," and then because Dr. Jumbelic is local to me, OF COURSE it was the girl I went to school with being discussed! She isn't named, but the story is clearly the same.

Also included are stories of the author's work while attempting to identify the dead after large-scale disasters, such as after Hurricane Katrina and 9/11.

Ultimately, I knew I would find this book interesting, but was surprised by just how compelled I was to keep flipping pages at the rate I did. Her newest book apparently focuses on some of the stories of violence against women she has witnessed, again some of which I recognize as they happened in my own sphere (for example, the gynecologist I saw in place of my own one time who has since been convicted of his wife's murder). I plan on getting my hands on Speak Her Name as soon as I can!

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[Eve Prietz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dr. Mary Jumbelic’s book, “Here, Where Death Delights” is one that should be on the must read list of anyone who is interested in medicine or crime, especially those interested in the science of Forensics. Her career, spanning over 25 years, is one that most people only dream about.

Dr. Jumbelic’s book is easy to read - she doesn’t use a great deal of medical jargon, and when she does, she explains what it means. Her descriptions of specific cases she has worked on gives the reader the sense of being right there with her in the autopsy suite or in the field.

Dr. Jumbelic’s book captures the essence of what it is like to be a medical examiner who is also a woman, a mother and especially a sensitive person who is not afraid to let her emotions show now and then.

[_sassy_39 · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Here, Where Death Delights: A Literary Memoir" written by the author Mary Irene Jumbelic is a must read. This is the story of Mary Jumbelic. When she was thirteen-years-old, her father died of lung cancer while in surgery. After losing her father, Mary was left alone with her mother. She is the only child of her parents and was born twelve years after her parents' marriage.

Mary worked different small jobs that paid little while growing up. Meanwhile, she held on to her dream to become a doctor. Once she realized that she could learn more about the human body by seeing it in the flesh, she started working in the morgue. It wasn't easy to see the bodies of little ones. In 1987, the Deputy Chief at the Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office, told her to use as many senses as possible during an autopsy. By looking at the different bodies and especially the one that involved the heart, Mary was reminded of her own father's death.

When Mary was pregnant with her first child, she learned about the parts of her mother's life which she wasn't aware of earlier. Read this book to learn more about her journey.

Mary has professionally devoted her life to death. I have learned a lot about death from this memoir. The writing style of the author is nice. The title of the book is suitable and the cover photo is nice. Those who are in the medical field would find this book more intriguing.

Those who enjoy reading memoirs should definitely get their hands on this book. I am glad to read it. The years of experience of the author in the field of studying death was reflected well in this book.

[Billy Buttons · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was entered in The Wishing Shelf Book Awards. This is what our readers thought:
Title: Here, Where Death Delights, a Literary Memoir
Author: Mary Jumbelic, M.D

Star Rating: 4 Stars
Number of Readers: 15
Stats
Editing: 8/10
Writing Style: 7/10
Content: 8/10
Cover: 2/5
Of the 15 readers:
12 would read another book by this author.
6 thought the cover was good or excellent.
15 felt it was easy to follow.
13 would recommend this book to another reader to try.
Of all the readers, 9 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘subject knowledge’.
Of all the readers, 4 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘writing style’.
Of all the readers, 2 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘clarity of message’.
14 felt the pacing was good or excellent.
12 thought the author understood the readership and what they wanted.

Readers’ Comments
“I loved the title; very original, making me want to check out the book. Fascinating insight into the work of a forensic pathologist.” Male reader, aged 43
“A complex story of a tragedy in the author’s childhood and how it (might) have impacted on her working life. I suspect a story of this nature might be enjoyed by anybody interested in the work of a medical examiner. The writing style is simple, almost workmanlike; as a result the book is accessible. Enjoyed it very much.” Female reader, aged 52
“The author shows a lot of empathy in her work which surprised me – in a good way. There’s a big demand for books of this nature, that delve into what is seen as hidden job, the work of a medical examiner. Truly fascinating, I suspect it would go down well with readers thinking of entering the profession.” Male reader, aged 67
“When I watch CSI, I always find the work of the medical examiner the most interesting. Often stomach-churning, yes – but still interesting. So I enjoyed this book. I liked the author’s attitude to her work and to the victims who fall under her knife. I must say, far more interesting than the work of an accountant!” Female reader (accountant), aged 66

To Sum It Up:
‘A fascinating, accessibly written insight into the work (and life) of a forensic pathologist. A RED RIBBON WINNER and highly recommended!’ The Wishing Shelf Book Awards

[Maileen Hamto · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Here, Where Death Delights” is Dr. Mary Jumbelic’s thoughtfully rendered literary memoir. She relays scenes from a lifetime of encountering death, from losing her father at an early age to a storied career in criminal forensics and mass disasters. As the dead spoke through her scalpel, Jumbelic worked with law enforcement and the courts to provide reports and testimony. A medical doctor by training, Jumbelic shares her learnings on the job and their impacts on her personal life. As she honed her investigation skills working on criminal cases in Chicago and Syracuse, she became a well-sought-out forensics expert for her ability to examine evidence closely to unmask the causes of death.

The author began her career in forensics before the use of DNA evidence became commonplace. Jumbelic relied on her intimate knowledge of human anatomy, critical thinking, and keen intuitive skills to tell an objective, evidence-based story. Jumbelic writes in a straightforward way about her experiences at crime scenes and what she uncovers at the morgue. While definitely a page-turner, “Here, Where Death Delights” is not an easy book to read. I found that I could only read so much about unresolved suffering before I needed a break to reflect on the shortcomings of the justice system.

At its core, Jumbelic’s memoir tackles trauma, violence, and grief. Readers in the helping professions, or those who have suffered loss, would find solace in understanding the great care that medical examiners and forensic experts put into their work. One also senses the cathartic purpose of the book as the author recalls her thoughts and reactions to the difficult process of uncovering the truth.

[Muskan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Here, Where Death Delights powerful literary memoir of Dr. Mary Irene Jumbelic's journey as a medical examiner and the in-depth experiences of the same. 


The author's story begins with her first encounter with death of her father. The viewing of the first autopsy at the age 15, inquired her to understand the science of it all. During her 25 years of career span, she has performed many autopsies during the toughest trials of World Trade Center, aftermath of Katrina and more.


With vivid honesty and raw descriptions, this book will take you a whirlwind weaving of profoundly thoughtful and empowering moments. The book is an unvarnished memoir of working as a medical examiner with anecdotes and stories of death, tragedy and grief. 


A book that is aptly titled and conveys a myriad of emotions and feelings. I still believe that to be a medical examiner, you need a brave heart to be one. Because performing autopsies and explaining the grieving near ones the reason behind passing away, the science of it all is not for all. And I am in awe of the author's decision of life. The first hand encounters with death and gloom is honestly something that cannot be explained in words. 


This is an intriguing, eye opening and compelling narration. Mary Irene Jumbelic's unflinching and truthful memoir about death and loss will definitely keep you glued to the book.

[Mia C. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mary Irene Jumbelic offers readers a compelling narrative that personally resonated with me. The book delves into Jumbelic's lifelong intrigue with death, a journey that began with her father's passing when she was young. Her open and vulnerable portrayal of this experience, transitioning from a haunting loss to a career in forensic pathology, is both brave and insightful. The author’s frankness in recounting her experiences is particularly striking. For instance, her decision to witness an autopsy at the age of 15 highlights her deep curiosity and marks the start of her quest for understanding. This blend of professional exploration as a medical examiner and her personal search for healing and acceptance of her past adds depth to the narrative. Her determination to provide closure to others, a contrast to her own experience of unresolved grief over her father's death, showcases her empathy and resilience. Jumbelic's commitment to advocating for preventable injuries and giving a voice to the deceased in various contexts reflects a deep dedication to honoring the lives lost and promoting awareness of preventable tragedies.
Jumbelic's memoir is a celebration of human resilience. Her journey, integrating her experiences into a life of hope, is a powerful reminder of the strength found in facing our deepest fears and sorrows.

[Dani Savante · Rating 5 out of 5]

This fascinating memoir delves into themes of loss, discovery, and the integration of death into the fabric of life, presenting a nuanced portrayal of a profession marked by both brutality and beauty. The author’s writing is engaging, drawing readers into her world—a realm where analyzing bodies is not just a scientific task but a pathway to understanding the complexities of life and death. The people she mentions are described vividly, enhancing their depth and relatability. The book's strength lies in its ability to capture the raw and visceral reality of forensic science while simultaneously offering insights into the protagonist's inner world. What I found particularly striking about this book is its balance of technical detail and narrative drive. Jumbelic's expertise as a forensic scientist lends credibility to the narrative, ensuring that the scientific aspects are both accurate and accessible. The book's concise and engaging style makes it a compelling read, suitable for a reflective afternoon. I appreciated the journey of self-discovery and reflection that the book prompted. It invites contemplation on broader themes of hope and meaning, particularly in contexts of loss and desolation.

[Nancy Ashburn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dr. Jumbelic's book is riveting! Beautifully written, I could not put it down. While the subject matter can be difficult to read, because of the painful nature of the circumstances that have brought some of her patients to autopsy and the details of the autopsies themselves, Dr. J writes with such sensitivity and obvious care and concern for her "patients" that it seems a blessing that they came to her. She courageously shares what she has learned from the dead,often providing invaluable details leading to the apprehension of perpetrators of heinous crimes that may have otherwise remained unsolved. The doctor's skill and professionalism are admirable. The book is throughout also a memoir of her remarkable life from the death of her father, when she was only 13, which inspired her career choice, to her own narrow escape from death while vacationing overseas. The book is full of twists and unexpected turns worthy of any mystery, while also providing an endearing portrait of a consummate professional, wife and mother who served her country through many of our most well known mass tragedys. Easily the best book I've read this year, I highly recommend it.
Dr. A, Retired Physician in Delaware

[S Tyty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mary Jumbelic's candid recounting of her early loss and how it shaped her life and career choices is both touching and insightful. The memoir stands out for its raw honesty in detailing her complex relationship with death, a subject that is often difficult to confront. Her professional experiences, marked by encounters with violence and the realities of mortality, are portrayed with a balance of sensitivity and directness. Her commitment to giving a voice to the deceased and her efforts to prevent future tragedies are noteworthy. These aspects of her work not only highlight her professional dedication but also her deep-seated compassion and resilience. The author shares with readers how she handled loss and found meaning in adversity. Jumbelic's narrative serves as a powerful reminder of the human capacity to endure, grow, and transform even in the face of our deepest fears. It's a reflective and inspiring read, inviting readers to consider their own perspectives on life, death, and the indomitable spirit of resilience.

[Danelle✍🏽 Reviewer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Here, Where Death Delights by Dr. Mary Jumbelic is one of the most interesting memoirs I have ever had the pleasure of reading. Despite the dark subject matter, Dr. Mary shows a knack for drawing in the reader and keeping their attention with her interesting narrative; the meticulous way in which she describes the crime scenes and explains the inner workings of pathology is impressive– she had my complete attention. I was intrigued, and the stories in each chapter were so interesting that it was impossible to put down. I love how Dr. Mary added her training of Carl into the book, it was educational and I felt that I was learning something worthwhile. Here, Where Death Delights provided me with firsthand knowledge of what goes on behind the scenes of a crime. Dr. Mary's professionalism, modesty, and warm nature are also other reasons why I enjoyed her book so much. Not only does Dr. Mary lend an authentic voice to the dead in this captivating memoir, but she also treats them with the utmost respect which is admirable.

[Santiago Flores · Rating 5 out of 5]

The narrative begins with Jumbelic recounting the sudden loss of her father during her youth, an event that resonated with me on a personal level. What particularly intrigued me was the author’s brave journey into her fascination with death, which ultimately led her to a career in forensic pathology. Over two decades, Jumbelic has dissected the complexities of mortality, revealing a deep commitment to understanding her past and the concept of death itself. Jumbelic’s memoir is characterized by her dedication to speaking for the deceased and providing solace to their families. These actions highlight her empathy and compassion. Her endeavor to incorporate the reality of death into her life, in the face of the void left by her father's absence, is both inspiring and reflective.
The author’s skill in intertwining her personal story with broader themes of death, healing, and hope renders the memoir not just insightful but also profoundly moving.

[David Carriere · Rating 5 out of 5]

Here, Where Death Delights is an unflinching, beautifully rendered memoir that probes the thin, trembling line between loss and purpose. Mary Jumbelic writes with the precision of a forensic pathologist and the vulnerability of someone who has spent her entire life negotiating with grief. From her father’s sudden death to the cold reality of the autopsy suite, she reveals how death can become both a companion and a calling.

Her prose is vivid but never sensational; instead, she offers readers a compassionate, deeply human view of the work that happens behind morgue doors. Jumbelic’s reflections on trauma, meaning, and resilience elevate this memoir beyond professional recounting it becomes a meditation on what it means to truly witness the lives of others, even in their final moments. Riveting, intimate, and surprisingly hopeful, this book is a standout for readers of medical nonfiction and literary memoir alike.

[Kristy M Muraca · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read it completely in one sitting !!

I loved this book....so interested in your thinking Mary... I can compare to my own way of thinking . I loved reading your experiences . I was glued to the pages until the end .
I look forward to your co authoring of your next book in regard to Robert Neulander.
I followed it so closely, knew this man professionally as I am a retired nurse . But he was also my Gyn doctor. I am familiar with his story and life .
I look forward to reading your truths in regard to his brutal behavior and actions, in regard to his wife Leslie.
I admire your factual conclusions that I realize are very difficult to conclude .
Thank you for writing this book ,a truthful and inspiring insight into your personal world. You are such a brave lady !
You are blessed beyond measure with your family and friends.
With great admiration ~ Kristy Muraca

[Sheryl Lynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Here Where Death Delights” is a moving testimony to the author’s compassion and empathy. She transforms detailed encounters with death into a captivating true story by “speaking for the dead” to give families solace where only questions were. The memoir follows her life and career starting as a young girl first introduced to death by her fathers passing to her many years spent as a forensic pathologist, to time spent identifying remains at major world catastrophes - all the while balancing the technical aspects of her line of work with the emotional depth of her personal journey. Her skillful transformation between her professional experiences and poignant anecdotes invite the reader to appreciate both the delicacy and beauty of life. Such a wonderful read!

[Maryclaire · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love science, forensic studies, and books that prove the truth. Dr. Jumbelic's book covers the different times and experiences in her life and job until she retired. She is frank about her job as a medical examiner and that some days are difficult, but she is always determined to prove the truth. Dr. Jumbelic's descriptions of crime scenes and autopsies make you think you are part of her team. She has worked with DMORT, traveling the world to identify remains and comfort the families. Dr Jumbelic has worked in war zones, natural disasters, and 9-11. She writes with truthfulness, adventure, compassion, and humor. She has brought the attention of women working in Pathology as a medical examiner to a level that has inspired women and others to pursue the career.

[LindaDSW · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author is a former medical examiner for the county I live in so it was fascinating to read her view of her work. Not everyone will pick up a book about death. But they should. Each chapter was a different event in her life. Not only did she describe her work but also her reaction, her emotions, the families, and the effect on her family. The chapter on 9/11 was so emotional without her giving any description of the details of her work. Her compassion for the people, dead or alive, that she served was heartwarming. There were many days I couldn’t read more than one chapter at a time because the scenes were so heartbreaking and I needed to “recover”. I couldn’t imagine doing the work she did on a daily basis.

[Kennet Frehm]

Once I removed the virtual “Crime Scene” yellow tape from Mary Jumbelic’s novel “Here, Where Death Delights,” I couldn’t put it down. The book is a compilation of “Dr. J’s” forensic adventures. I learned a lot about this fascinating area of combined medicine and criminology. Mysteries, “Who Done Its” and scientific logic are infused into Mary’s writings. Her insights, logic and personal feelings as a woman, wife and mother flood the book with a sense of humanistic realism that is rarely expressed in this genre. A MUST Read!
Kenneth Frehm……………………………………………..Syracuse, N.Y.

[S B · Rating 5 out of 5]

I could not put this book down once I began reading. The author takes you through interesting forensic cases and adds a personal touch. She is a mother, wife, and medical examiner and blends all three into this interesting memoir that details her contributions to not only cases but general safety. She does this in the midst of her personal story of the loss of her mother, raising her children, and the medical challenges that pop up in her life between her children and herself. She is a strong woman who is an amazing example of balancing a demanding career with the support of her village.

[Marianne Breen · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was fascinating! I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. Reading this book reminded me of my former student from the early 80's who did her senior project week at the Cleveland MEs office. I would recommend it for anyone who is interested in learning about the care of those deceased where an autopsy is performed, mortuary science, and high school students interested in becoming a medical examiner. Great read!

[Ralph · Rating 5 out of 5]

Many previous reviewers have commented how engrossing this book is and how the experiences of Dr. Jumbelic bring the reader to the truly immersive reality of being a medical examiner. I heartily agree that it is hard to put down “Here, Where Death Delights”. Each death and its examination is a story in itself providing extraordinary details on the sensory (smells, textures, visual) effects of the autopsy process. Dr. Jumbelic is a remarkable writer who conveys these details in language that transports the reader to feeling as though they are standing by her side. Admittedly, those same details may be too much for some to bear.

Besides the description of these autopsies, Dr. Jumbelic interweaves her personal life. From her father’s death, medical emergencies involving both herself as well as her children, to more enjoyable, happy times bring a perspective of how life goes on.

I highly recommend this book. You may find some parts hard to get past but, regardless, you will come away with an understanding of the medical examiner profession and of the dedication that Dr. Jumbelic brought to her time in that profession.

[Diane Bedford-Murgia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Touching recount of a forensic pathologist throughout her career, touching on her life journey from high school to 911 to aftereffects of Katrina in LA to a foreign vacation adventure that almost turned into a life ending nightmare.
Did she survive? Yes, by divine intervention or something else.
"Control is an illusion. Life isn't over until it's over and it's not over yet".

Thank you Mary Jumbelic for allowing me to travel with you as I read your written word.

Certainly a worthy read!

[Kim Reed · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fascinating if Grisly

You have to expect a memoir by a retired forensic pathologist is going to be pretty gross, and this is. I skimmed the anatomical descriptions but the style of memoir which is more a series of moments than a straight narrative was fascinating. Jumbelic has lived an amazing life.

[victoria a vanik · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dr . Jumbelic gives us a fascinating look into the world of a forensic pathologist. She writes with intelligence and empathy and draws the reader into her world The stories and cases are so interesting and allow the reader to understand how the dead can still speak for themselves. I highly recommend this book

[Chuck Mullane · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a sensational book. A perfect mixture of words and facts all in one. The author brings you right to the crime scene where you not only feel the shock of what is documented but smell the smells but feel the anguish the victim went through. A sure read for those who like the unknown

[Lauren Thirer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn’t put this down, it was just captivating. Mary is a brilliant writer with so many fascinating stories to tell. I’ve recommended this book to nearly all my friends and family as a “must read!”

[Beth Bromberg · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mary details a very honest and captivating accounting of her career and personal life. She speaks from her heart and you can truly feel her emotions as she describes both her professional and personal experiences. I could not put the book down and was sorry when it ended.

[Shannon Luker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book - but not for everyone

This book is very well written. The subject and stories within are extremely interesting. I loved it, however, it’s not for those that are easily bothered by graphic details of accidents and death.

[Nicole Marie Mastropool · Rating 5 out of 5]

The journey of Mary is truly remarkable, as it is both gripping and raw. It is highly recommended for those seeking inspiration, and it is a testament to the inner strength of individuals to overcome obstacles and achieve greatness.