Stolen - Xbox Game (Retro Fam)

A+

This book is a good read for those who play the Dragon Age Origins video game. It's written by David Gaider who is JRR Tolkein of the Dragon Age universe. It takes place approximately 25 years before the events of Dragon Age Origins in the land of Ferelden. Prince Maric, the rightful ruler of Ferelden (think Medieval England), is struggling to regain the throne that was taken from his family the hated Orlesian conquerors (think France). Taking the English historical analogy/metaphor further, one can see Maric's adventures as being akin to those of Charles II/Bonnie Prince Charlie as they sought to regain their Stolen Thrones. Early in his adventures, Maric wins the allegiance of a fierce warrior named Loghain MacTir who proves critical to Maric's efforts.For the player of Dragon Age Origins, getting to know more about Loghain and his relationship to Maric adds something to the game as Loghain, still a national hero, is your primary antagonist for much of the game. One of the great strengths of the Dragon Age franchise is its wealth of three dimensional characters, including many of the villains. To this end, the story in Stolen Throne helps the player better understand what's going on in Loghain's head throughout the game (while not negating the need to ultimately defeat him).Definitely recommended for those who have played or are about to play Dragon Age Origins. Not likely to be of interest to those not interested in the video games.

Summary: Prince Maric watches his mother die, then flees for his life, embarking on a journey that starts out with the goal of survival and ends with the goal of recovering his mother's stolen throne.Random Comments:- Style (2.5/5 stars) - The writing style here is functional but a wee but clunky. (Not a very good sense of flow sometimes...)- Plot (3/5 stars) - I feel like I've heard the story a hundred times. Boy experiences tragedy. Boy runs for his life. Boy comes back to conquer his enemies.- Dragon Age tie-ins (4.5/5 stars) - Mostly done naturally. It feels like Maric and Rowen fit the world.- Plot twists (4/5 stars) - Some nice, refreshing shifts. I'll say no more to avoid spoilers.- Character Development (4.5/5 stars) - I think this is a strong point in the novel. Maric actually grows up from being almost completely useless to the king he needs to be for his people's sake.Conclusion: Decent game tie-in. If you're not a Dragon Age fan already, I don't see you being remotely interested, but for game fans, it's a nice filler between long waits between games.

The Dragon Age world is my absolute favorite fantasy world! And this book is no exception. I became so enthralled with everything, and to learn about the backstories of some of the characters, especially Loghain! To learn how he is the way he is, and why he did what he did; it’s just so interesting. You did a wonderful job, David! I hope you keep it going!

The descriptions of scenery in this book dazzled me, especially of the Deep Roads and darkspawn. I'm so glad I decided to read them.