NHibernate 3 Beginner's Guide examines all of the topics required to get a functional data-access layer implemented while writing the least amount of code possible, presenting options along the way to handle particular edge cases or situations as they arise. The book begins with an introduction to NHibernate 3 and then moves on to creating the development environment. It teaches you how to create a model, define a database schema, and map the model to the database, and then covers sessions and transactions. This is succeeded by testing, profiling and configuration, validation of data, and writing queries. Finally, we wrap up with notes on the common pitfalls that you should avoid.

This is a beginner’s guide with comprehensive step-by-step instructions. There are appropriate screenshots throughout the book and plenty of code, which is explained in a well-thought-out format. If you are a new or seasoned developer of .NET web or desktop applications who is looking for a better way to access database data, then this book is for you. It is a basic introduction to NHibernate, with enough information to get a solid foundation in using NHibernate. Some advanced concepts are presented where appropriate to enhance functionality or in situations where they are commonly used. Absolutely no knowledge of NHibernate is required to read this book.