From a young age, Modjeska's interest in performing was shaped by her brothers and by a tutor who introduced the family to the works of great writers.

[2] Prior to the publication of this book, she had written articles on Modjeska for The Polish Review, Indiana Slavic Studies and Theatre Journal.

Holmgren describes Chłapowski as a man who, after the political insurrections, began to reassess his purpose in life, and subsequently developed a keen appreciation of the theatre arts.

Over the next 8 years, Modjeska's fame ascended to that of a reigning star at the Warsaw Imperial Theatres, but she longed to develop into an international performer.

She and her husband settled in Southern California, purchasing land in Anaheim, on which they and their friends Henryk Sienkiewicz and Julian Sypniewski operated the co-op.

Modjeska died at Newport Beach, California on April 8, 1909, and her ashes were later interred in Kraków's Rakowicki Cemetery.

Holmgren concludes the biography with an examination of the Polish and American commemorations, and glimpses into historical documentations from Modjeska's tours.

H-Poland Book Review said, "Holmgren’s study is a truly transnational biography, elegantly written and immaculately researched.

"[1] Halina Filipowicz of the University of Wisconsin, commented on Wellesley Centers for Women, "The breadth of Holmgren’s research is impressive, as is her talent as a writer ... She proves a fine storyteller, recounting the actress’s life with verve, wit, and a sure eye for vivid detail".

[4] Kazimierz Braun reviewing in Modern Drama said, "This is an excellent and meticulously rendered book," and lauded Holmgren's skills at putting the narrative together.