Quintessential Halfling, The

Unlike many of the other fantasy races, the halflings are not a composite from built from different mythologies, but spring from a small handful of clear sources. Halflings therefore have a rich, coherent background to draw from, but lack the varied breadth of others. The Quintessential Halfling attempts to rectify this by building on those sources and introducing new varieties and breeds of halfling. Every halfling adventurer, regardless of class, will find their place in this book. The naïve but determined adventurer, the beguiling trickster, the lethal assassin, the cryptic fortune teller, the master chef, the wise old crone, the undetectable thief – all these halfling archetypes and more can be found within these pages.

In this sourcebook, halfling players will find a veritable feast of new options and ideas for their characters. The book kicks off with character concepts, a set of ideas and suggestions for different types of halfling character, from the friendless black sheep to the faithful hero's sidekick, each with their own unique quirks and reasons for adventuring. A chapter of prestige classes explores new options and powers for higher-level characters, as well as delving into important positions in halfling culture like the Clan Matriarch or Clan Defender. New tricks let the halflings do what they do best, such as assimilating into cultures, confidence tricks, and cooking. New feats are included to support these tricks as well as giving new options for halflings in combat. Tools of the Halflings contains a host of new items crafted and used by the small folk.

The halflings are renowned for their ability to integrate into any society and thrive in any place. New subraces of the halfling are described in the chapter of the same name, from the chaotic waterborn to the eerie twistborn. Halfling magic and secrets are also revealed here for the first time. Finally, the true heart of the race – the halfling clans – are detailed and discussed, complete with rules for rising in influence and guiding a clan.