Before the band started their first headlining tour in late 2009, vocalist Maria Brink announced that they had begun writing songs for their upcoming third album to be released the following summer.

The album was completed in April and Brink announced the release date during an interview at the Revolver Golden God Awards.

Lyrically, Brink drew inspiration from her personal life, mostly the ending of her relationship with DevilDriver bassist Jon Miller.

A few weeks later, a new trailer was released featuring an extended clip of the song, a first look at the music video and also a glimpse of the album cover artwork.

On June 1, "The Gun Show" premiered on Sirius XM Radio Liquid Metal channel along with an interview with Brink.

The NewReview gave the album a 4 out of 5 and stated "The band have put out a monumental work that is utterly and completely enjoyable that sets the standard— and boy is it high.

"[17] The Boston Herald gave it a B+, calling Maria Brink's vocals "a roaring, emotional hellion and much more than just a pretty face.

[20] Chad Bower of About.com rated the album 3.5 of 5 stars, and said of Brinks vocals, "The transitions between singing and screaming seem smoother this time around.

"[21] Lenny Vowels of the 411mania.com gave A Star-Crossed Wasteland 7 out of 10 stars—"good" according to the 411 Legend—and summarized his review by saying: "As a whole, with this album, it seemed like In This Moment finally took the necessary steps towards becoming a bigger band in America.

[23][24] This was the highest chart position to date by the band, beating its 2008 predecessor which debuted at number 70 on the Billboard 200 with first-week sales of 8,000 copies.