By Women Possessed: A Life of Eugene O'Neill

As new material became available through various archives, family members sharing old (and recently found) letters, and others who were more willing to share memories before it was too late, the Gelbs were able to complete this final volume (after 1962's O'Neill and 2000's O'Neill: Life with Monte Cristo) of their study of the life and career of Eugene O'Neill (1888–1953). They realized that they had not satisfactorily examined the impact that Ella O'Neill had on her son. O'Neill's search for a loving supportive mother is explored in his plays as a result of this new research. His drinking, which greatly affected his relationships as well as his writing, is also viewed through the lens of rediscovered information. In addition, this final volume expands on the earlier books of O'Neill's last years of ill health and the battles with his wife, Carlotta (who lived 17 years after his death while dealing with her own physical and psychological battles). Carlotta's diaries, locked away for many years, recently became accessible, allowing the Gelbs to form fresh insights into her life with and without the playwright.