She Came to Stay (1943), Beauvoir's first published work, revolves around the existentialist concept of the existence of others. The novel's epigraph by Hegel, "Every conscience seeks the death of the other," summarizes its main theme, the experience of otherness. The philosophical content of this novel at times overshadows the human dramatic interest.

She Came to Stay is the story of Pierre and Francoise who for years have lived in a harmonious, nonmarital relationship. They invite Xaviere, a girl from the provinces, to share their lives.

Xaviere wants to work in the theater.

Pierre, a director of some standing in Parisian theater circles, takes her under his wing. In the process, Pierre becomes sentimentally attracted to her, a fact which upsets his relationship with Francoise. Regardless of Francoise's efforts to be interested in Xaviere's welfare, she realizes in the end that she has fallen victim to jealousy...