Bywater Books is pleased to offer this 50th Anniversary Edition of The Latecomer by trailblazing author and publishing pioneer, Sarah Aldridge.

Coming home from a summer spent in research in Europe, Philippa unexpectedly shares her stateroom with Kay, a stranger. Philippa, nearing forty, reserved, inexperienced in close human relationships, and Kay, eight years younger, lively, gregarious, agonizing over a frustrated love affair, spend five days during their stormy Atlantic crossing learning the key to each other's natures.

Philippa and Kay believe their arrival in New York harbor will end their brief friendship, but circumstance intervenes. They meet again in Washington, D.C., where Kay's lover's career has led to possible catastrophe for all involved. It is Philippa who must act as a mediator for Kay—hiding her growing feelings to protect Kay's best interests.

The Latecomer invites you into the world of Philippa and Kay, strangers who meet aboard a cruise ship and, despite very different lives and aspirations, find a surprising bond. Through political and romantic intrigue, they uncover the truth about themselves.