What do you think?
Rate this book
Dragon Age Graphic Novels #1
[Dragon Age: Silent Grove Volume 1] [by: Chad Hardin]
Available in print for the first time, Dragon Age: The Silent Grove is the perfect introduction to BioWare's dark fantasy universe In this essential, canonical story from David Gaider, lead writer of the games, King Alistair, accompanied only by rogues Isabela and Varric, embarks on a quest deep inside the borders of Antiva - a nation of assassins Together, they will encounter a prison break, dragons, the mysterious Witch of the Wilds, and one of the greatest secrets in the history of the world!
Collects Dragon Age #1 - #6
Collects Dragon Age #1 - #6
Hardcover
First published January 1, 2012
31 people are currently reading
2360 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 197 reviews
January 17, 2018
I really didn’t think this story would work. The situation seemed like a real impossibility, so I’ve been avoiding this for years. In all honesty I just thought it sounded desperate, an attempt to rake in some more dollars on the back of a successful franchise. I mean why the king of Ferelden would be going on a quest with two lowly rogues, I couldn’t begin to guess at. But, then I began reading and I realised how well this story is put together, and how perfectly it slots into the dragon age universe. It’s great. It really is a good side story. I wish I’d read it sooner because Alistair is rather awesome in it; he is here in all his awkward glory.
Alistair has heard a surprising rumour: his farther, King Maric, is alive. This has surprised him greatly because for many years he has believed him dead; he went missing years before and left no word with anybody. The news has come from a most unlikely place too; it has come directly from Antiva, which is a country renowned for its assassination and treachery. If you’ve played the video games you’ll understand the significance of this, and will probably want to skip this paragraph of my review. Alistair farther disappeared thirteen years previously. His death meant that his young and inexperienced son was left on the throne. His most trusted general, and Maric’s best friend, Logain betrayed him and allowed him to be slaughtered by the monstrous darkspawn. Alistair (King Maric’s bastard) was forced to take the crown and unite the shattered lands with the help of the Warden. This is all in the past. Alistair is now King and is utterly shaken at the news.
So, he naturally wants to investigate the rumour personally; it’s far too sensitive to let anyone else do the dirty work. He wants his farther found. He doesn’t want to do it himself; he needs to, he has to. The king needs closure; he needs to put this behind him and move on with his reign. He has to find his farther. He may be dead or alive. It doesn’t matter. The details aren’t important. They just need an ending. I really do think this is a great story because it finally resolved one of the lingering questions I had about this series. I was also glad to see more of Alistair; he hasn’t seen the time of day since Origins.
I’m not particularly fond of either of his companions, but as a trio the characters do create an interesting dynamic. The humour is effective, and they work surprisingly well together. Alistair’s narrative is in perfect sync with his character; he is acting the part of King now, but the reluctant cynic still remains behind the mask. He is still the same joker, and he’s still a temper (mage hunter). And in this he has reached breaking point. He really won’t let anything stand in his way. This first instalment receives an appropriate ending that may seem a little out of character, but Alistair’s changing. He now has a kingdom to rule, and he’s a little pissed off with interfering witches. This is a fun comic.
Dragon Age Graphic Novel Trilogy
1. The Silent Grove- A cool four stars
2. Those Who Speak- A strong four stars
3. Until We Sleep - A bloody four stars
Alistair has heard a surprising rumour: his farther, King Maric, is alive. This has surprised him greatly because for many years he has believed him dead; he went missing years before and left no word with anybody. The news has come from a most unlikely place too; it has come directly from Antiva, which is a country renowned for its assassination and treachery. If you’ve played the video games you’ll understand the significance of this, and will probably want to skip this paragraph of my review. Alistair farther disappeared thirteen years previously. His death meant that his young and inexperienced son was left on the throne. His most trusted general, and Maric’s best friend, Logain betrayed him and allowed him to be slaughtered by the monstrous darkspawn. Alistair (King Maric’s bastard) was forced to take the crown and unite the shattered lands with the help of the Warden. This is all in the past. Alistair is now King and is utterly shaken at the news.
So, he naturally wants to investigate the rumour personally; it’s far too sensitive to let anyone else do the dirty work. He wants his farther found. He doesn’t want to do it himself; he needs to, he has to. The king needs closure; he needs to put this behind him and move on with his reign. He has to find his farther. He may be dead or alive. It doesn’t matter. The details aren’t important. They just need an ending. I really do think this is a great story because it finally resolved one of the lingering questions I had about this series. I was also glad to see more of Alistair; he hasn’t seen the time of day since Origins.
I’m not particularly fond of either of his companions, but as a trio the characters do create an interesting dynamic. The humour is effective, and they work surprisingly well together. Alistair’s narrative is in perfect sync with his character; he is acting the part of King now, but the reluctant cynic still remains behind the mask. He is still the same joker, and he’s still a temper (mage hunter). And in this he has reached breaking point. He really won’t let anything stand in his way. This first instalment receives an appropriate ending that may seem a little out of character, but Alistair’s changing. He now has a kingdom to rule, and he’s a little pissed off with interfering witches. This is a fun comic.
Dragon Age Graphic Novel Trilogy
1. The Silent Grove- A cool four stars
2. Those Who Speak- A strong four stars
3. Until We Sleep - A bloody four stars
March 7, 2021
Without the context of Dragon Age and Dragon Age 2, you may feel a bit lost. It's about Alistair from the first game searching for his father accompanied by Isabella and Varric from the second game. The story is by one of the game's writers but he doesn't completely understand that a comic book series should stand on its own and he needs to give a bit more background to the things that are happening.
December 21, 2014
Let me start this by saying that I will be reading most of the Dragon Age brand throughout the next year because the game series has destroyed my life/taken over my life. I am a huge fan who once spent 36 hours playing the game, fell asleep with the controller in my hand, then woke up and continued playing.
That being said, this comic was a bit of a disappointment. I felt at once both elated at seeing great characters from Origins and 2 meeting up, but anger when they didn't explain how they met, what they had been up to since their respected games ended, or took any chances. This short comic didn't pull punches, and the big reveal wasn't that big of a reveal.
I could not rate it down because I am still invested enough to care about where it is going, and I did like that the personalities of the character's stayed true during the dialog. However, I have to wag my finger at the confusing images. They were beautiful, yes, but they lacked movement. Usually in comics I can see more personality in the images, but these just didn't offer that as much as I would hope.
Don't read this if you are not obsessed with the game franchise...
That being said, this comic was a bit of a disappointment. I felt at once both elated at seeing great characters from Origins and 2 meeting up, but anger when they didn't explain how they met, what they had been up to since their respected games ended, or took any chances. This short comic didn't pull punches, and the big reveal wasn't that big of a reveal.
I could not rate it down because I am still invested enough to care about where it is going, and I did like that the personalities of the character's stayed true during the dialog. However, I have to wag my finger at the confusing images. They were beautiful, yes, but they lacked movement. Usually in comics I can see more personality in the images, but these just didn't offer that as much as I would hope.
Don't read this if you are not obsessed with the game franchise...
July 31, 2012
I requested this as my partner is quite obsessed with the game and although I haven't played it myself (I'm still in the throes of Fallout: New Vegas) I've always enjoyed watching him play this as the graphics, storyline and missions were all rather spectacular.
I was not disappointed by this graphic novel at all though I suspect if I had played the game I would have enjoyed and understood it a lot more.
The artwork was definitely a highlight for me, it was absolutely fantastic, and I will read the rest in this series based solely on the art. Storyline was also very good and consise, which, from the few(ish) other graphic novels I've read, I've come to the conclusion that this is by far one of the better written I have come across.
Although I only have the most basic of knowledge of the Dragon Age world, this graphic novel has more than persuaded me that I not only need to play the game but also to keep an eye on more releases by Gaider.
An advanced reader copy was kindly provided by the publisher through Netgalley.
I was not disappointed by this graphic novel at all though I suspect if I had played the game I would have enjoyed and understood it a lot more.
The artwork was definitely a highlight for me, it was absolutely fantastic, and I will read the rest in this series based solely on the art. Storyline was also very good and consise, which, from the few(ish) other graphic novels I've read, I've come to the conclusion that this is by far one of the better written I have come across.
Although I only have the most basic of knowledge of the Dragon Age world, this graphic novel has more than persuaded me that I not only need to play the game but also to keep an eye on more releases by Gaider.
An advanced reader copy was kindly provided by the publisher through Netgalley.
April 17, 2024
Okeyness.
King Alistair adventures with Isabela and Varric.
LOVED Dragon Age 2. Had a mild crush on Isabela and this comic gave me more of her. However, this was barely ok.
-----------------------------------------------
PERSONAL NOTE :
[2012] [82p] [Comics] [Not Recommendable]
-----------------------------------------------
★★☆☆☆ 1. The Silent Grove
★★☆☆☆ 2. Those Who Speak
★★★☆☆ 3. Until We Sleep
-----------------------------------------------
Bien.
Aventuras del Rey Alistair junto a Isabela y Varric.
AME Dragon Age 2. Tuve un pequeño enamoramiento con Isabela y este comic me dio más de ella. Sin embargo, esto apenas si estuvo bien.
-----------------------------------------------
NOTA PERSONAL :
[2012] [82p] [Comics] [No Recomendable]
-----------------------------------------------
King Alistair adventures with Isabela and Varric.
LOVED Dragon Age 2. Had a mild crush on Isabela and this comic gave me more of her. However, this was barely ok.
-----------------------------------------------
PERSONAL NOTE :
[2012] [82p] [Comics] [Not Recommendable]
-----------------------------------------------
★★☆☆☆ 1. The Silent Grove
★★☆☆☆ 2. Those Who Speak
★★★☆☆ 3. Until We Sleep
-----------------------------------------------
Bien.
Aventuras del Rey Alistair junto a Isabela y Varric.
AME Dragon Age 2. Tuve un pequeño enamoramiento con Isabela y este comic me dio más de ella. Sin embargo, esto apenas si estuvo bien.
-----------------------------------------------
NOTA PERSONAL :
[2012] [82p] [Comics] [No Recomendable]
-----------------------------------------------
May 15, 2012
In reviewing this graphic novel, I am fully aware that I will be revealing myself as a world-class geek! I am also aware that I'll be alienating a few readers here. However, I feel it's worth coming out of the nerdy closet just so I can be a bit of a video-game fangirl in my excitement over this!
I love the Dragon Age games. I like video games in general, and I have ever since I was a kid. I used to love watching my brother play games like Final Fantasy VII and Metal Gear Solid. I loved the stories and could forgive even the corniest dialogue!
Things have moved on a bit since Lara Croft's boobs were hexagonal and the voice actors of games like Resident Evil were so bad your ears would bleed. These days, there are some games which are like stepping inside a good book and becoming the main character! The Dragon Age games are like that, and because I love their stories, I'm guilty of having spent far too many hours playing them!
Unfortunately, DA3's release date is still being posted as “To Be Announced”. This means that fans like myself figured we were whole way away from being able to immerse ourselves in the world of Thedas again.
But, bless David Gaider's soul, Dragon Age has come to the printed page! I have the prequel novels on my Goodreads Wishlist, but could hardly believe my luck (or my eyes) when, while browsing NetGalley for the first time in a year, I saw this! A graphic novel following Alistair, Varric and Isabela on a whole new journey.
Alistair is the king of a land called Fereldan, and he is a character in Dragon Age: Origins. Isabela is a pirate hussy and Varic is a lovable dwarf and both appear as companions in Dragon Age 2. This GN takes place “almost a decade” after the Fifth Blight (the catastrophe that the first game is based around). In this book, Alistair is looking for his father, in search of answers to questions which have haunted him all his life.
Now, I'm a fan so while reading this I was able to sink quickly into the world depicted. I knew the voices and mannerisms of the characters like they were old friends! And yes, I know that's uber-geeky! However, while I read, I tried to imagine what it would be like for someone unfamiliar with this world to read about it. While I think the story had plenty going for it, I think the mentions of other in-game characters and events might leave a lot of readers floundering. But, that being said, I feel like these books are probably designed to appeal to the existing fan base.
The illustration was good, though I would have preferred Isabela and Alistaire to be more in-keeping with their game-selves as I feel Freed “uglied them up” somewhat. Varric was a little different, but cool.
Overall, I loved the opportunity to see some of my favourite characters kicking but and swashing some buckle again! I'm not sure how much scope there is for a series as there are so many different possible endings to both of the games (the first more than the second...) that it seems like there might be a few elephants in the room after a while. In my games, for example, Alistair married my character. In other people's games, he ran away and never became King of Fereldan at all. I guess reading this GN is like playing a sequel to a game and loading a default save. The decisions and outcomes of the prequel are just the most typical outcomes.
And yes, I know just how geeky that last paragraph made me sound. I may as well go ahead and give this a well-deserved four and a half stars! Then maybe I should go and watch reruns of Star Trek while trying to to learn how to write in Tolkien's elvish.
I love the Dragon Age games. I like video games in general, and I have ever since I was a kid. I used to love watching my brother play games like Final Fantasy VII and Metal Gear Solid. I loved the stories and could forgive even the corniest dialogue!
Things have moved on a bit since Lara Croft's boobs were hexagonal and the voice actors of games like Resident Evil were so bad your ears would bleed. These days, there are some games which are like stepping inside a good book and becoming the main character! The Dragon Age games are like that, and because I love their stories, I'm guilty of having spent far too many hours playing them!
Unfortunately, DA3's release date is still being posted as “To Be Announced”. This means that fans like myself figured we were whole way away from being able to immerse ourselves in the world of Thedas again.
But, bless David Gaider's soul, Dragon Age has come to the printed page! I have the prequel novels on my Goodreads Wishlist, but could hardly believe my luck (or my eyes) when, while browsing NetGalley for the first time in a year, I saw this! A graphic novel following Alistair, Varric and Isabela on a whole new journey.
Alistair is the king of a land called Fereldan, and he is a character in Dragon Age: Origins. Isabela is a pirate hussy and Varic is a lovable dwarf and both appear as companions in Dragon Age 2. This GN takes place “almost a decade” after the Fifth Blight (the catastrophe that the first game is based around). In this book, Alistair is looking for his father, in search of answers to questions which have haunted him all his life.
Now, I'm a fan so while reading this I was able to sink quickly into the world depicted. I knew the voices and mannerisms of the characters like they were old friends! And yes, I know that's uber-geeky! However, while I read, I tried to imagine what it would be like for someone unfamiliar with this world to read about it. While I think the story had plenty going for it, I think the mentions of other in-game characters and events might leave a lot of readers floundering. But, that being said, I feel like these books are probably designed to appeal to the existing fan base.
The illustration was good, though I would have preferred Isabela and Alistaire to be more in-keeping with their game-selves as I feel Freed “uglied them up” somewhat. Varric was a little different, but cool.
Overall, I loved the opportunity to see some of my favourite characters kicking but and swashing some buckle again! I'm not sure how much scope there is for a series as there are so many different possible endings to both of the games (the first more than the second...) that it seems like there might be a few elephants in the room after a while. In my games, for example, Alistair married my character. In other people's games, he ran away and never became King of Fereldan at all. I guess reading this GN is like playing a sequel to a game and loading a default save. The decisions and outcomes of the prequel are just the most typical outcomes.
And yes, I know just how geeky that last paragraph made me sound. I may as well go ahead and give this a well-deserved four and a half stars! Then maybe I should go and watch reruns of Star Trek while trying to to learn how to write in Tolkien's elvish.
April 15, 2020
Interesting. The plot and art were just fine and I loved meeting Yavana. What I didn't love was the whitewashing, the coloring was OFF. The writing was a little boring and Alistair didn't feel very Alistair-y (guess it's because he's got the morbs at the moment), but Varric and Isabela were spot on. Also didn't like the (verbal and literal) beating up on Isabela, she got more injuries than the others combined. At a certain point (in a very particular panel) it just seemed like someones fetish hm. It's a comic... so I know women are gonna be objectified unfortunately and I appreciate a sexy woman myself, but c'mon there's a limit. A more technical problem is the paneling. Some pages were really hard to figure out and that is a huge comics no-no.
Seems like I'm complaining a lot, so why 3 stars at all? I love Dragon Age and this comic was fun despite my misgivings. Varric and Isabela have a great rapport (that hopefully Alistair gets in on in the next issues) and it's fun to see them all together on another adventure without the Warden or Hawke. The new things learned about Thedas from this issue alone are fascinating as well.
Seems like I'm complaining a lot, so why 3 stars at all? I love Dragon Age and this comic was fun despite my misgivings. Varric and Isabela have a great rapport (that hopefully Alistair gets in on in the next issues) and it's fun to see them all together on another adventure without the Warden or Hawke. The new things learned about Thedas from this issue alone are fascinating as well.
May 8, 2016
Being a fan of the game I have sourced alternative stories in between the games. This is a good little story with Alister and the grand storyteller himself, Varric. They are attempting to find out what happened to Alistairs father and throwing themselves into an adventure of their own. The story is interesting but for those outside the lore will struggle with the backstory. The story isn't grand and is basically setting up for bigger things. As a fan it covers some interesting ground.
May 4, 2012
Hold onto to your shield and bucklers! A graphic-novel with a clear plot & dialogue, I mean you will know each character & their intentions beginning to end. Colorful and dynamic art, I even jumped out of my skin when the serpent like dragon came onto the scene. This is too good to pass up, get it.
February 26, 2022
The art style isn't quite appealing, and it is not that much fun to read a storyline that conflicts with the world state you've created in the games. Overall, meh.
December 13, 2022
That was actually very good! I'm glad to see my favourite babies again. Alistair is so grumpy here. I get it. Isabela is a badass for sure. And Varric is his adorable usual self. Love them!
October 9, 2014
This review was first posted on Northern Plunder, if you want to see more reviews please click here.
I received a digital copy of this graphic novel from netgalley and whilst I had a few troubles as mentioned in other graphic novels read this way I didn't have so many this time because most of the font was large enough to not be over pixelated. Any how obviously I'm a fan of Dragon Age and even though I didn't complete the game (it's not my fault, I'm a hoarder, it's a disease!) I had played enough to let my inner nerd completely devour this book page by page and end up pretty wowed by it all. The art work is also beautiful and its a lovely touch that it was in colour - a lot these days go for a black and white theme so this was a refreshing change - especially because the colours were so bright and vibrant, even for the darker characters. This graphic novel follows King Alistair on a long and dangerous quest to find the answers of his fathers disappearance, I guess its also to find some inner peace as he's only King because there is no one else left, I loved this story as we got to see a few different settings each one more beautiful than the last, and of course a wonderful dragon that was breath taking. At 82 pages this book is a little on the short side for me BUT it is only part one, I hope to stick around for the sequel because its certainly set up a great adventure to follow with many questions that I want answered too!
Recommend? As with every graphic novel I review my answer is the same - Do you like graphic novels? Do you enjoy Dragon Age or simialr games? If yes, read it.
I received a digital copy of this graphic novel from netgalley and whilst I had a few troubles as mentioned in other graphic novels read this way I didn't have so many this time because most of the font was large enough to not be over pixelated. Any how obviously I'm a fan of Dragon Age and even though I didn't complete the game (it's not my fault, I'm a hoarder, it's a disease!) I had played enough to let my inner nerd completely devour this book page by page and end up pretty wowed by it all. The art work is also beautiful and its a lovely touch that it was in colour - a lot these days go for a black and white theme so this was a refreshing change - especially because the colours were so bright and vibrant, even for the darker characters. This graphic novel follows King Alistair on a long and dangerous quest to find the answers of his fathers disappearance, I guess its also to find some inner peace as he's only King because there is no one else left, I loved this story as we got to see a few different settings each one more beautiful than the last, and of course a wonderful dragon that was breath taking. At 82 pages this book is a little on the short side for me BUT it is only part one, I hope to stick around for the sequel because its certainly set up a great adventure to follow with many questions that I want answered too!
Recommend? As with every graphic novel I review my answer is the same - Do you like graphic novels? Do you enjoy Dragon Age or simialr games? If yes, read it.
July 26, 2012
My very first graphic novel review! Where do I begin? Dragon Age: The Silent Grove is set after the Fifth Blight (Dragon Age I) and follows Alistair, king of Fereldand (Dragon Age: Origins) and Isabela the pirate captain and Varric the ground dwarf from Dragon Age II. Alistair is forced to work with the two rogues in his quest to find his father, and the first step is to raid the archives of The Crows for information. This quickly sets him on the course of his adventure, where he chased by The Crows, runs into witches and dragons, and has to be rescued a few times by his companions.
This graphic novel is both dark and full of action, both qualities which are highlighted in the superb illustrations it features. The dialogue is clear and easy to follow, although some of the humour doesn't transfer across in print, like it does in the games. My favourite parts are easily the encounters with the Witch of the Wilds and her magnificent dragon (which looks damn scary!) - she is a feisty character who I ended up liking a little.
This print edition Dragon Age comics is a must have for fans of the game - hopefully it will tide us over until the release of Dragon Age III! You can preview it on the Dark Horse Comics site.
You can read more of my reviews at Speculating on SpecFic .
This graphic novel is both dark and full of action, both qualities which are highlighted in the superb illustrations it features. The dialogue is clear and easy to follow, although some of the humour doesn't transfer across in print, like it does in the games. My favourite parts are easily the encounters with the Witch of the Wilds and her magnificent dragon (which looks damn scary!) - she is a feisty character who I ended up liking a little.
This print edition Dragon Age comics is a must have for fans of the game - hopefully it will tide us over until the release of Dragon Age III! You can preview it on the Dark Horse Comics site.
You can read more of my reviews at Speculating on SpecFic .
December 27, 2014
This series makes a lot more sense if you've already played Dragon Age 2, rather than just Dragon Age. It features Alistair from the first game, but he is travelling with Isabella and Varric from the second game, so knowing them first makes it a lot more enjoyable. The story is fairly light; Alistair hires Isabela and Varric to help track down his father, missing for over a decade. There's a good bit of action and a lot of Varric and Isabela's character coming through, but ultimately the story doesn't travel very far. And Alistair's actions are kind of surprising. It's interesting, but not integral to the Dragon Age world.
July 4, 2016
So this was just pretty awful, wasn't it? What's pacing? This book has no idea. Everything just happens. The entire thing felt like summary, and I'm struggling to see how any of this makes sense in terms of game canon. Not just the obvious issue of Alistair not being king in some people's games. Even disregarding the issue of individual canon, this just doesn't make sense.
March 11, 2021
This was fine. I'm not great on Dragon Age lore, I've only played the games a little, so some of this was familiar, but not all. It's a pretty standard fantasy store, the art is good (which helps) and it's a quick enough pace. - I don't know, it's not bad, but I don't know that it's a great starting point for the uninitiated.
June 13, 2025
I enjoyed the story, but it does show fraying where too many people work together on a project. One such sign being is eye color of a character that appears in first game and is not correct to the game. Still, I did enjoy the story and how it was portrayed overall. The dramatic panels had the desired impact and it's just a fun read overall.
November 1, 2013
The best I can say about “The Silent Grove” is also the worst. Its decent. Its a safe comic, that doesn't take any risks and satisfies any “Dragon Age” fan without ever being or even trying to be anything more than average.
The art is good enough, shining especially in the details in the armors, Isabela's attire and Varric´s Bianca but with no moment of brilliance or any really amazing pages to stick in your mind.
The story deals with Alistair and Maric and has huge lore potential but things always seem by the numbers, tepid, with no real flair or charm. I found the script surprisingly flat, with Alistair in a perpetual brooding state of mind, without any of his famous humor. Isabela seemed to lack her wit and naughtiness and Varric... well Varric was just there with no real function in the plot and more as fan service than anything else. There are a few funny moments, some lines relating to the games and a few well drawn fights but it all seemed to lack energy and excitement.
Of course I still loved the comic but that´s because i´m a huge “Dragon Age” nut and just seeing Antiva makes giggle like a little girl. But even for fans I thought there was something almost unforgivable about “The Silent Grove” and it was its portrayal of the “Antivan Crows”. The most deadly assassins in all of Thedas are used as nothing more than cannon fodder and represented as incompetent fools, lowly henchman who pose little or no threat. This was just a horrible representation of something the games have been hyping as an organization more feared than even a powerful army.
This is just the start of what promises, and has the potential, to be an epic quest and as a beginning I suppose it set up things rather nicely and made me hyped for the next volume. There´s nothing really wrong with it but there´s nothing really great either. For a hardcore fan, as I am, this is still highly recommended, especially if you've read David Gaider´s books and witnessed other adventures with King Maric. Its worth it for the lore alone and its a highly enjoyable quest. It just never really manages to achieve its potential.
The art is good enough, shining especially in the details in the armors, Isabela's attire and Varric´s Bianca but with no moment of brilliance or any really amazing pages to stick in your mind.
The story deals with Alistair and Maric and has huge lore potential but things always seem by the numbers, tepid, with no real flair or charm. I found the script surprisingly flat, with Alistair in a perpetual brooding state of mind, without any of his famous humor. Isabela seemed to lack her wit and naughtiness and Varric... well Varric was just there with no real function in the plot and more as fan service than anything else. There are a few funny moments, some lines relating to the games and a few well drawn fights but it all seemed to lack energy and excitement.
Of course I still loved the comic but that´s because i´m a huge “Dragon Age” nut and just seeing Antiva makes giggle like a little girl. But even for fans I thought there was something almost unforgivable about “The Silent Grove” and it was its portrayal of the “Antivan Crows”. The most deadly assassins in all of Thedas are used as nothing more than cannon fodder and represented as incompetent fools, lowly henchman who pose little or no threat. This was just a horrible representation of something the games have been hyping as an organization more feared than even a powerful army.
This is just the start of what promises, and has the potential, to be an epic quest and as a beginning I suppose it set up things rather nicely and made me hyped for the next volume. There´s nothing really wrong with it but there´s nothing really great either. For a hardcore fan, as I am, this is still highly recommended, especially if you've read David Gaider´s books and witnessed other adventures with King Maric. Its worth it for the lore alone and its a highly enjoyable quest. It just never really manages to achieve its potential.
June 14, 2012
The Silent Grove is graphic novel set in the Dragon Age universe, written by the same man who was the main writer of the games, David Gaider, along with Alexander Freed and Chad Hardin. If you've read this site at all, you know I loved Dragon Age: Origins and it's related content, and came around on Dragon Age 2 in the end. What's being reviewed here is the collection of six comics previously only available via the Dark Horse comics store.
The story follows Alistair, King of Ferelden in the continuity that exists for these comics and novels, as he searches for a secret hidden within Antiva. Along with Alistair are Isabela the pirate vixen, and Varric Tethras (with Bianca, of course). Unlikely companions for a king, as he himself points out, but his search is a personal one, not an official kingly one, so it fits. I like Varric and Isabela, so they work for me on that level as well.
Along the way you find out more about the Witches of the Wilds, dragons, and the power of blood. The plot lingers a bit too long in places, and it's tough to get the right sense of humor invoked - I don't think the same jokes work in print as they do when you hear Isabela's mocking tone or Varric's smooth delivery. Because of that, The Silent Grove feels more serious. Not a bad thing, as it's definitely got some serious plots, but if you're looking for party banter, there isn't much here. Alistair is a bit of a sourpuss here. The art style is dark and a bit too busy for my tastes, having grown up on the brighter comics of the 80s and 90s before they started going heavy on shading faces and looking more realistic.
All in all, it's a solid read if you are a fan of the Dragon Age universe, and enjoy comics. It helps if you like Alistair and want to know more about him. Bump it up to four stars if that's the case.
The story follows Alistair, King of Ferelden in the continuity that exists for these comics and novels, as he searches for a secret hidden within Antiva. Along with Alistair are Isabela the pirate vixen, and Varric Tethras (with Bianca, of course). Unlikely companions for a king, as he himself points out, but his search is a personal one, not an official kingly one, so it fits. I like Varric and Isabela, so they work for me on that level as well.
Along the way you find out more about the Witches of the Wilds, dragons, and the power of blood. The plot lingers a bit too long in places, and it's tough to get the right sense of humor invoked - I don't think the same jokes work in print as they do when you hear Isabela's mocking tone or Varric's smooth delivery. Because of that, The Silent Grove feels more serious. Not a bad thing, as it's definitely got some serious plots, but if you're looking for party banter, there isn't much here. Alistair is a bit of a sourpuss here. The art style is dark and a bit too busy for my tastes, having grown up on the brighter comics of the 80s and 90s before they started going heavy on shading faces and looking more realistic.
All in all, it's a solid read if you are a fan of the Dragon Age universe, and enjoy comics. It helps if you like Alistair and want to know more about him. Bump it up to four stars if that's the case.
July 23, 2014
I have to start off my review openly handing you the salt shaker, should you need a grain or two. I am not only a huge fan of Bioware and the writer (David Gaider), but of the specific characters chosen for this tale. This could have been the story of recently deceased Grey Warden Alistair riding a bog unicorn through the rainbow clouds of the Free Marches, en route to deliver Varric cake to the Anderfels, and I would have salivated.
That said - this was an incredible start to the continuation of Alistair's story.
Through "The Silent Grove," we join King Alistair (et al) as he begins his mission to find his presumably deceased father, Maric. He's joined forces with two of our favorite rogues, Isabela and Varric, who serve not only as advisors in his journey, but kick-butt allies. The three make a stellar party, as witticisms, gall, and pure power often combine well.
When reading this comic, it's important to see it as what clearly is - the extension of a story, possibly meant to fill the holes and time between Dragon Age II and the upcoming Dragon Age: Inquisition. Just about all of our known characters go missing sometime after the latter story concludes. Now we have at least a small idea of what they were up to!
More importantly, some mysteries get solved. For one, the importance of the one dubbed "the Old God Baby" is brought into a better life. The "Witch of the Wilds" is found in a new (and possibly mind-blowing) way, and we begin to better understand the fate of King Maric, the Savior.
The art style is cool and cutting, the writing is superb, and the story is one we need to hear. Check it out! Dragon Age fans will NOT be disappointed.
That said - this was an incredible start to the continuation of Alistair's story.
Through "The Silent Grove," we join King Alistair (et al) as he begins his mission to find his presumably deceased father, Maric. He's joined forces with two of our favorite rogues, Isabela and Varric, who serve not only as advisors in his journey, but kick-butt allies. The three make a stellar party, as witticisms, gall, and pure power often combine well.
When reading this comic, it's important to see it as what clearly is - the extension of a story, possibly meant to fill the holes and time between Dragon Age II and the upcoming Dragon Age: Inquisition. Just about all of our known characters go missing sometime after the latter story concludes. Now we have at least a small idea of what they were up to!
More importantly, some mysteries get solved. For one, the importance of the one dubbed "the Old God Baby" is brought into a better life. The "Witch of the Wilds" is found in a new (and possibly mind-blowing) way, and we begin to better understand the fate of King Maric, the Savior.
The art style is cool and cutting, the writing is superb, and the story is one we need to hear. Check it out! Dragon Age fans will NOT be disappointed.
February 16, 2014
I received a copy of this through netgalley to review. The story is written in part by David Gaider who was the main writer for both Dragon Age: Origins and Dragon Age II and I think that helped a lot with how much I liked this graphic novel. It also helps that I am a huge Alistair fan (yes, I know, not many of us out there) and the plot revolves around him, so we get to learn a little more about him.
I loved the witty banter between Isabela and Varric, that is one of my favorite parts about Dragon Age II. The jokes may not come across as smoothly as they do in the video games because its hard to get the right intonation and characteristics for the lines the first time reading them in my head, but it was still easy enough to imagine the characters saying those things. One of the things I was sad to see is that Alistair seems to have hardened in the ten years between DA:O's plot and this plot. It makes sense I suppose as he has been a king for ten years and has had to shoulder a lot more responsibility. Although Gaider does keep many of Alistairs signature characteristics (his insecurities etc.) the innocence and humor that I loved about him were a little scarce.
I will definitely be reading more in this series and I can't wait to see more of my favorite characters! Hopefully we will get to see how Alistair met Isabela (other than the brief encounter in DA II).
I loved the witty banter between Isabela and Varric, that is one of my favorite parts about Dragon Age II. The jokes may not come across as smoothly as they do in the video games because its hard to get the right intonation and characteristics for the lines the first time reading them in my head, but it was still easy enough to imagine the characters saying those things. One of the things I was sad to see is that Alistair seems to have hardened in the ten years between DA:O's plot and this plot. It makes sense I suppose as he has been a king for ten years and has had to shoulder a lot more responsibility. Although Gaider does keep many of Alistairs signature characteristics (his insecurities etc.) the innocence and humor that I loved about him were a little scarce.
I will definitely be reading more in this series and I can't wait to see more of my favorite characters! Hopefully we will get to see how Alistair met Isabela (other than the brief encounter in DA II).
June 17, 2015
I had a thorough look through the graphic novel series whilst I was waiting for my boyfriend to return from hunting down some single-issue comics. The first thing I was hit by was the decision by the art team to make all of the female characters scantily clad. Whether this had anything to do with Gaider or not, I've no idea, but it made me put them all back on the shelf. Strong as they may be, I'm a bit weary of seeing female characters clad in what are effectively bikinis, jewelry and the occasional bit of flowing fabric. It's impractical as well as sexist, and completely deterred me from purchasing any of the comics.
It's equally a little annoying that BioWare seems to enjoy pushing for fans to make Alistair the King of Ferelden during Origins, even though he couldn't lead his way out of a wet paper bag because of his naivety. That there is a whole other issue in itself, and one which is more relevant to the game than the spin-off comic and novel series.
The gripes I have are simply personal, but I can't endorse these even with a good writer at the helm. Him being at the helm makes it all the more worrying, actually.
It's equally a little annoying that BioWare seems to enjoy pushing for fans to make Alistair the King of Ferelden during Origins, even though he couldn't lead his way out of a wet paper bag because of his naivety. That there is a whole other issue in itself, and one which is more relevant to the game than the spin-off comic and novel series.
The gripes I have are simply personal, but I can't endorse these even with a good writer at the helm. Him being at the helm makes it all the more worrying, actually.
January 18, 2024
honestly? hated it. the characters felt completely, deeply OOC, the whitewashing was rampant, the treatment of Isabela felt so bad, and it didn’t feel like there was any real… point. Maric’s story felt very done, and all this nonsense with the dragons makes no sense, honestly. Why would his bloodline have anything to do with that? Calenhad was just a guy. A cool guy, but a guy. Better have a half-decent explanation.
The only thing that bumps this up to a two star was the inclusion of Morrigan’s sister, Yavana, who FASCINATES me as a concept and I hated what happened. Ugh. I’ll keep reading but I can’t see much improvement happening.
The only thing that bumps this up to a two star was the inclusion of Morrigan’s sister, Yavana, who FASCINATES me as a concept and I hated what happened. Ugh. I’ll keep reading but I can’t see much improvement happening.
February 27, 2016
I enjoyed the artwork but not sure what the story is about at this moment
June 3, 2021
I liked the appearance of Yavana, but Alistair acts so out of character I can't stand it.
June 29, 2012
Shadowhawk reviews the graphic novel sequel to Bioware’s Dragon Age games, a new narrative penned by David Gaider and published by Dark Horse Comics.
“Quite a mystery thriller set in the world of Ferelden, Dragon Age – The Silent Grove offers a lot of intrigue, swordplay, double-crossing and subterfuge but does not quite go the whole distance.” ~The Founding Fields
Note: After writing the review I randomly found myself on the Dragon Age wiki and found that Ferelden isn’t the name of the world in the setting but one of the continents. The review inaccurately presumes that it is. Please ignore that misconception!
Just as with Matt Forbeck’s Magic: The Gathering comics, David Gaider’s Dragon Age – The Silent Grove exposed me to a setting that I had no previous experience with, but by the time I was done with it, I wanted to explore more and more. Its funny how things work out that way. I’d heard about the Dragon Age games for ages but had never had a chance to get acquainted with them. Seeing the collected six issues of The Silent Grove on NetGalley was therefore a great chance to take that first step.
I have to say, based on this first exposure, that I really like the setting of Dragon Age and the world of Ferelden. Conceptually and in terms of the atmosphere created by the writer and the various artists, I’m quite reminded of the Dragonlance novels by Tracy Hickman and Margaret Weis. The Dragonlance novels were my first real exposure to the wider world of speculative fiction, coming just ahead of me picking up my first Black Library novels. As such, I have a great fondness for those novels and for the world of Krynn which holds an endless fascination for me. Ferelden is every bit just as interesting as Krynn!
In terms of the narrative, The Silent Grove is written quite well with some really interesting characters. However, it doesn’t quite go that whole distance. Some of the twists and turns appear to be tacked on for the benefit of filling up the page requirement, and not necessarily because they were the demand of the narrative itself. As such, the graphic novel wasn’t as enjoyable as I thought it would be. Nevertheless there are a lot of factors that still made me want to go on and get to the end of the story to see how things play out.
You can find the full review over at The Founding Fields:
http://thefoundingfields.com/2012/06/...
Merged review:
Shadowhawk reviews the graphic novel sequel to Bioware’s Dragon Age games, a new narrative penned by David Gaider and published by Dark Horse Comics.
“Quite a mystery thriller set in the world of Ferelden, Dragon Age – The Silent Grove offers a lot of intrigue, swordplay, double-crossing and subterfuge but does not quite go the whole distance.” ~The Founding Fields
Note: After writing the review I randomly found myself on the Dragon Age wiki and found that Ferelden isn’t the name of the world in the setting but one of the continents. The review inaccurately presumes that it is. Please ignore that misconception!
Just as with Matt Forbeck’s Magic: The Gathering comics, David Gaider’s Dragon Age – The Silent Grove exposed me to a setting that I had no previous experience with, but by the time I was done with it, I wanted to explore more and more. Its funny how things work out that way. I’d heard about the Dragon Age games for ages but had never had a chance to get acquainted with them. Seeing the collected six issues of The Silent Grove on NetGalley was therefore a great chance to take that first step.
I have to say, based on this first exposure, that I really like the setting of Dragon Age and the world of Ferelden. Conceptually and in terms of the atmosphere created by the writer and the various artists, I’m quite reminded of the Dragonlance novels by Tracy Hickman and Margaret Weis. The Dragonlance novels were my first real exposure to the wider world of speculative fiction, coming just ahead of me picking up my first Black Library novels. As such, I have a great fondness for those novels and for the world of Krynn which holds an endless fascination for me. Ferelden is every bit just as interesting as Krynn!
In terms of the narrative, The Silent Grove is written quite well with some really interesting characters. However, it doesn’t quite go that whole distance. Some of the twists and turns appear to be tacked on for the benefit of filling up the page requirement, and not necessarily because they were the demand of the narrative itself. As such, the graphic novel wasn’t as enjoyable as I thought it would be. Nevertheless there are a lot of factors that still made me want to go on and get to the end of the story to see how things play out.
You can find the full review over at The Founding Fields:
http://thefoundingfields.com/2012/06/...
Merged review:
Shadowhawk reviews the graphic novel sequel to Bioware’s Dragon Age games, a new narrative penned by David Gaider and published by Dark Horse Comics.
“Quite a mystery thriller set in the world of Ferelden, Dragon Age – The Silent Grove offers a lot of intrigue, swordplay, double-crossing and subterfuge but does not quite go the whole distance.” ~The Founding Fields
Note: After writing the review I randomly found myself on the Dragon Age wiki and found that Ferelden isn’t the name of the world in the setting but one of the continents. The review inaccurately presumes that it is. Please ignore that misconception!
Just as with Matt Forbeck’s Magic: The Gathering comics, David Gaider’s Dragon Age – The Silent Grove exposed me to a setting that I had no previous experience with, but by the time I was done with it, I wanted to explore more and more. Its funny how things work out that way. I’d heard about the Dragon Age games for ages but had never had a chance to get acquainted with them. Seeing the collected six issues of The Silent Grove on NetGalley was therefore a great chance to take that first step.
I have to say, based on this first exposure, that I really like the setting of Dragon Age and the world of Ferelden. Conceptually and in terms of the atmosphere created by the writer and the various artists, I’m quite reminded of the Dragonlance novels by Tracy Hickman and Margaret Weis. The Dragonlance novels were my first real exposure to the wider world of speculative fiction, coming just ahead of me picking up my first Black Library novels. As such, I have a great fondness for those novels and for the world of Krynn which holds an endless fascination for me. Ferelden is every bit just as interesting as Krynn!
In terms of the narrative, The Silent Grove is written quite well with some really interesting characters. However, it doesn’t quite go that whole distance. Some of the twists and turns appear to be tacked on for the benefit of filling up the page requirement, and not necessarily because they were the demand of the narrative itself. As such, the graphic novel wasn’t as enjoyable as I thought it would be. Nevertheless there are a lot of factors that still made me want to go on and get to the end of the story to see how things play out.
You can find the full review over at The Founding Fields:
http://thefoundingfields.com/2012/06/...
Merged review:
Shadowhawk reviews the graphic novel sequel to Bioware’s Dragon Age games, a new narrative penned by David Gaider and published by Dark Horse Comics.
“Quite a mystery thriller set in the world of Ferelden, Dragon Age – The Silent Grove offers a lot of intrigue, swordplay, double-crossing and subterfuge but does not quite go the whole distance.” ~The Founding Fields
Note: After writing the review I randomly found myself on the Dragon Age wiki and found that Ferelden isn’t the name of the world in the setting but one of the continents. The review inaccurately presumes that it is. Please ignore that misconception!
Just as with Matt Forbeck’s Magic: The Gathering comics, David Gaider’s Dragon Age – The Silent Grove exposed me to a setting that I had no previous experience with, but by the time I was done with it, I wanted to explore more and more. Its funny how things work out that way. I’d heard about the Dragon Age games for ages but had never had a chance to get acquainted with them. Seeing the collected six issues of The Silent Grove on NetGalley was therefore a great chance to take that first step.
I have to say, based on this first exposure, that I really like the setting of Dragon Age and the world of Ferelden. Conceptually and in terms of the atmosphere created by the writer and the various artists, I’m quite reminded of the Dragonlance novels by Tracy Hickman and Margaret Weis. The Dragonlance novels were my first real exposure to the wider world of speculative fiction, coming just ahead of me picking up my first Black Library novels. As such, I have a great fondness for those novels and for the world of Krynn which holds an endless fascination for me. Ferelden is every bit just as interesting as Krynn!
In terms of the narrative, The Silent Grove is written quite well with some really interesting characters. However, it doesn’t quite go that whole distance. Some of the twists and turns appear to be tacked on for the benefit of filling up the page requirement, and not necessarily because they were the demand of the narrative itself. As such, the graphic novel wasn’t as enjoyable as I thought it would be. Nevertheless there are a lot of factors that still made me want to go on and get to the end of the story to see how things play out.
You can find the full review over at The Founding Fields:
http://thefoundingfields.com/2012/06/...
Merged review:
Shadowhawk reviews the graphic novel sequel to Bioware’s Dragon Age games, a new narrative penned by David Gaider and published by Dark Horse Comics.
“Quite a mystery thriller set in the world of Ferelden, Dragon Age – The Silent Grove offers a lot of intrigue, swordplay, double-crossing and subterfuge but does not quite go the whole distance.” ~The Founding Fields
Note: After writing the review I randomly found myself on the Dragon Age wiki and found that Ferelden isn’t the name of the world in the setting but one of the continents. The review inaccurately presumes that it is. Please ignore that misconception!
Just as with Matt Forbeck’s Magic: The Gathering comics, David Gaider’s Dragon Age – The Silent Grove exposed me to a setting that I had no previous experience with, but by the time I was done with it, I wanted to explore more and more. Its funny how things work out that way. I’d heard about the Dragon Age games for ages but had never had a chance to get acquainted with them. Seeing the collected six issues of The Silent Grove on NetGalley was therefore a great chance to take that first step.
I have to say, based on this first exposure, that I really like the setting of Dragon Age and the world of Ferelden. Conceptually and in terms of the atmosphere created by the writer and the various artists, I’m quite reminded of the Dragonlance novels by Tracy Hickman and Margaret Weis. The Dragonlance novels were my first real exposure to the wider world of speculative fiction, coming just ahead of me picking up my first Black Library novels. As such, I have a great fondness for those novels and for the world of Krynn which holds an endless fascination for me. Ferelden is every bit just as interesting as Krynn!
In terms of the narrative, The Silent Grove is written quite well with some really interesting characters. However, it doesn’t quite go that whole distance. Some of the twists and turns appear to be tacked on for the benefit of filling up the page requirement, and not necessarily because they were the demand of the narrative itself. As such, the graphic novel wasn’t as enjoyable as I thought it would be. Nevertheless there are a lot of factors that still made me want to go on and get to the end of the story to see how things play out.
You can find the full review over at The Founding Fields:
http://thefoundingfields.com/2012/06/...
Merged review:
Shadowhawk reviews the graphic novel sequel to Bioware’s Dragon Age games, a new narrative penned by David Gaider and published by Dark Horse Comics.
“Quite a mystery thriller set in the world of Ferelden, Dragon Age – The Silent Grove offers a lot of intrigue, swordplay, double-crossing and subterfuge but does not quite go the whole distance.” ~The Founding Fields
Note: After writing the review I randomly found myself on the Dragon Age wiki and found that Ferelden isn’t the name of the world in the setting but one of the continents. The review inaccurately presumes that it is. Please ignore that misconception!
Just as with Matt Forbeck’s Magic: The Gathering comics, David Gaider’s Dragon Age – The Silent Grove exposed me to a setting that I had no previous experience with, but by the time I was done with it, I wanted to explore more and more. Its funny how things work out that way. I’d heard about the Dragon Age games for ages but had never had a chance to get acquainted with them. Seeing the collected six issues of The Silent Grove on NetGalley was therefore a great chance to take that first step.
I have to say, based on this first exposure, that I really like the setting of Dragon Age and the world of Ferelden. Conceptually and in terms of the atmosphere created by the writer and the various artists, I’m quite reminded of the Dragonlance novels by Tracy Hickman and Margaret Weis. The Dragonlance novels were my first real exposure to the wider world of speculative fiction, coming just ahead of me picking up my first Black Library novels. As such, I have a great fondness for those novels and for the world of Krynn which holds an endless fascination for me. Ferelden is every bit just as interesting as Krynn!
In terms of the narrative, The Silent Grove is written quite well with some really interesting characters. However, it doesn’t quite go that whole distance. Some of the twists and turns appear to be tacked on for the benefit of filling up the page requirement, and not necessarily because they were the demand of the narrative itself. As such, the graphic novel wasn’t as enjoyable as I thought it would be. Nevertheless there are a lot of factors that still made me want to go on and get to the end of the story to see how things play out.
You can find the full review over at The Founding Fields:
http://thefoundingfields.com/2012/06/...
Merged review:
Shadowhawk reviews the graphic novel sequel to Bioware’s Dragon Age games, a new narrative penned by David Gaider and published by Dark Horse Comics.
“Quite a mystery thriller set in the world of Ferelden, Dragon Age – The Silent Grove offers a lot of intrigue, swordplay, double-crossing and subterfuge but does not quite go the whole distance.” ~The Founding Fields
Note: After writing the review I randomly found myself on the Dragon Age wiki and found that Ferelden isn’t the name of the world in the setting but one of the continents. The review inaccurately presumes that it is. Please ignore that misconception!
Just as with Matt Forbeck’s Magic: The Gathering comics, David Gaider’s Dragon Age – The Silent Grove exposed me to a setting that I had no previous experience with, but by the time I was done with it, I wanted to explore more and more. Its funny how things work out that way. I’d heard about the Dragon Age games for ages but had never had a chance to get acquainted with them. Seeing the collected six issues of The Silent Grove on NetGalley was therefore a great chance to take that first step.
I have to say, based on this first exposure, that I really like the setting of Dragon Age and the world of Ferelden. Conceptually and in terms of the atmosphere created by the writer and the various artists, I’m quite reminded of the Dragonlance novels by Tracy Hickman and Margaret Weis. The Dragonlance novels were my first real exposure to the wider world of speculative fiction, coming just ahead of me picking up my first Black Library novels. As such, I have a great fondness for those novels and for the world of Krynn which holds an endless fascination for me. Ferelden is every bit just as interesting as Krynn!
In terms of the narrative, The Silent Grove is written quite well with some really interesting characters. However, it doesn’t quite go that whole distance. Some of the twists and turns appear to be tacked on for the benefit of filling up the page requirement, and not necessarily because they were the demand of the narrative itself. As such, the graphic novel wasn’t as enjoyable as I thought it would be. Nevertheless there are a lot of factors that still made me want to go on and get to the end of the story to see how things play out.
You can find the full review over at The Founding Fields:
http://thefoundingfields.com/2012/06/...
“Quite a mystery thriller set in the world of Ferelden, Dragon Age – The Silent Grove offers a lot of intrigue, swordplay, double-crossing and subterfuge but does not quite go the whole distance.” ~The Founding Fields
Note: After writing the review I randomly found myself on the Dragon Age wiki and found that Ferelden isn’t the name of the world in the setting but one of the continents. The review inaccurately presumes that it is. Please ignore that misconception!
Just as with Matt Forbeck’s Magic: The Gathering comics, David Gaider’s Dragon Age – The Silent Grove exposed me to a setting that I had no previous experience with, but by the time I was done with it, I wanted to explore more and more. Its funny how things work out that way. I’d heard about the Dragon Age games for ages but had never had a chance to get acquainted with them. Seeing the collected six issues of The Silent Grove on NetGalley was therefore a great chance to take that first step.
I have to say, based on this first exposure, that I really like the setting of Dragon Age and the world of Ferelden. Conceptually and in terms of the atmosphere created by the writer and the various artists, I’m quite reminded of the Dragonlance novels by Tracy Hickman and Margaret Weis. The Dragonlance novels were my first real exposure to the wider world of speculative fiction, coming just ahead of me picking up my first Black Library novels. As such, I have a great fondness for those novels and for the world of Krynn which holds an endless fascination for me. Ferelden is every bit just as interesting as Krynn!
In terms of the narrative, The Silent Grove is written quite well with some really interesting characters. However, it doesn’t quite go that whole distance. Some of the twists and turns appear to be tacked on for the benefit of filling up the page requirement, and not necessarily because they were the demand of the narrative itself. As such, the graphic novel wasn’t as enjoyable as I thought it would be. Nevertheless there are a lot of factors that still made me want to go on and get to the end of the story to see how things play out.
You can find the full review over at The Founding Fields:
http://thefoundingfields.com/2012/06/...
Merged review:
Shadowhawk reviews the graphic novel sequel to Bioware’s Dragon Age games, a new narrative penned by David Gaider and published by Dark Horse Comics.
“Quite a mystery thriller set in the world of Ferelden, Dragon Age – The Silent Grove offers a lot of intrigue, swordplay, double-crossing and subterfuge but does not quite go the whole distance.” ~The Founding Fields
Note: After writing the review I randomly found myself on the Dragon Age wiki and found that Ferelden isn’t the name of the world in the setting but one of the continents. The review inaccurately presumes that it is. Please ignore that misconception!
Just as with Matt Forbeck’s Magic: The Gathering comics, David Gaider’s Dragon Age – The Silent Grove exposed me to a setting that I had no previous experience with, but by the time I was done with it, I wanted to explore more and more. Its funny how things work out that way. I’d heard about the Dragon Age games for ages but had never had a chance to get acquainted with them. Seeing the collected six issues of The Silent Grove on NetGalley was therefore a great chance to take that first step.
I have to say, based on this first exposure, that I really like the setting of Dragon Age and the world of Ferelden. Conceptually and in terms of the atmosphere created by the writer and the various artists, I’m quite reminded of the Dragonlance novels by Tracy Hickman and Margaret Weis. The Dragonlance novels were my first real exposure to the wider world of speculative fiction, coming just ahead of me picking up my first Black Library novels. As such, I have a great fondness for those novels and for the world of Krynn which holds an endless fascination for me. Ferelden is every bit just as interesting as Krynn!
In terms of the narrative, The Silent Grove is written quite well with some really interesting characters. However, it doesn’t quite go that whole distance. Some of the twists and turns appear to be tacked on for the benefit of filling up the page requirement, and not necessarily because they were the demand of the narrative itself. As such, the graphic novel wasn’t as enjoyable as I thought it would be. Nevertheless there are a lot of factors that still made me want to go on and get to the end of the story to see how things play out.
You can find the full review over at The Founding Fields:
http://thefoundingfields.com/2012/06/...
Merged review:
Shadowhawk reviews the graphic novel sequel to Bioware’s Dragon Age games, a new narrative penned by David Gaider and published by Dark Horse Comics.
“Quite a mystery thriller set in the world of Ferelden, Dragon Age – The Silent Grove offers a lot of intrigue, swordplay, double-crossing and subterfuge but does not quite go the whole distance.” ~The Founding Fields
Note: After writing the review I randomly found myself on the Dragon Age wiki and found that Ferelden isn’t the name of the world in the setting but one of the continents. The review inaccurately presumes that it is. Please ignore that misconception!
Just as with Matt Forbeck’s Magic: The Gathering comics, David Gaider’s Dragon Age – The Silent Grove exposed me to a setting that I had no previous experience with, but by the time I was done with it, I wanted to explore more and more. Its funny how things work out that way. I’d heard about the Dragon Age games for ages but had never had a chance to get acquainted with them. Seeing the collected six issues of The Silent Grove on NetGalley was therefore a great chance to take that first step.
I have to say, based on this first exposure, that I really like the setting of Dragon Age and the world of Ferelden. Conceptually and in terms of the atmosphere created by the writer and the various artists, I’m quite reminded of the Dragonlance novels by Tracy Hickman and Margaret Weis. The Dragonlance novels were my first real exposure to the wider world of speculative fiction, coming just ahead of me picking up my first Black Library novels. As such, I have a great fondness for those novels and for the world of Krynn which holds an endless fascination for me. Ferelden is every bit just as interesting as Krynn!
In terms of the narrative, The Silent Grove is written quite well with some really interesting characters. However, it doesn’t quite go that whole distance. Some of the twists and turns appear to be tacked on for the benefit of filling up the page requirement, and not necessarily because they were the demand of the narrative itself. As such, the graphic novel wasn’t as enjoyable as I thought it would be. Nevertheless there are a lot of factors that still made me want to go on and get to the end of the story to see how things play out.
You can find the full review over at The Founding Fields:
http://thefoundingfields.com/2012/06/...
Merged review:
Shadowhawk reviews the graphic novel sequel to Bioware’s Dragon Age games, a new narrative penned by David Gaider and published by Dark Horse Comics.
“Quite a mystery thriller set in the world of Ferelden, Dragon Age – The Silent Grove offers a lot of intrigue, swordplay, double-crossing and subterfuge but does not quite go the whole distance.” ~The Founding Fields
Note: After writing the review I randomly found myself on the Dragon Age wiki and found that Ferelden isn’t the name of the world in the setting but one of the continents. The review inaccurately presumes that it is. Please ignore that misconception!
Just as with Matt Forbeck’s Magic: The Gathering comics, David Gaider’s Dragon Age – The Silent Grove exposed me to a setting that I had no previous experience with, but by the time I was done with it, I wanted to explore more and more. Its funny how things work out that way. I’d heard about the Dragon Age games for ages but had never had a chance to get acquainted with them. Seeing the collected six issues of The Silent Grove on NetGalley was therefore a great chance to take that first step.
I have to say, based on this first exposure, that I really like the setting of Dragon Age and the world of Ferelden. Conceptually and in terms of the atmosphere created by the writer and the various artists, I’m quite reminded of the Dragonlance novels by Tracy Hickman and Margaret Weis. The Dragonlance novels were my first real exposure to the wider world of speculative fiction, coming just ahead of me picking up my first Black Library novels. As such, I have a great fondness for those novels and for the world of Krynn which holds an endless fascination for me. Ferelden is every bit just as interesting as Krynn!
In terms of the narrative, The Silent Grove is written quite well with some really interesting characters. However, it doesn’t quite go that whole distance. Some of the twists and turns appear to be tacked on for the benefit of filling up the page requirement, and not necessarily because they were the demand of the narrative itself. As such, the graphic novel wasn’t as enjoyable as I thought it would be. Nevertheless there are a lot of factors that still made me want to go on and get to the end of the story to see how things play out.
You can find the full review over at The Founding Fields:
http://thefoundingfields.com/2012/06/...
Merged review:
Shadowhawk reviews the graphic novel sequel to Bioware’s Dragon Age games, a new narrative penned by David Gaider and published by Dark Horse Comics.
“Quite a mystery thriller set in the world of Ferelden, Dragon Age – The Silent Grove offers a lot of intrigue, swordplay, double-crossing and subterfuge but does not quite go the whole distance.” ~The Founding Fields
Note: After writing the review I randomly found myself on the Dragon Age wiki and found that Ferelden isn’t the name of the world in the setting but one of the continents. The review inaccurately presumes that it is. Please ignore that misconception!
Just as with Matt Forbeck’s Magic: The Gathering comics, David Gaider’s Dragon Age – The Silent Grove exposed me to a setting that I had no previous experience with, but by the time I was done with it, I wanted to explore more and more. Its funny how things work out that way. I’d heard about the Dragon Age games for ages but had never had a chance to get acquainted with them. Seeing the collected six issues of The Silent Grove on NetGalley was therefore a great chance to take that first step.
I have to say, based on this first exposure, that I really like the setting of Dragon Age and the world of Ferelden. Conceptually and in terms of the atmosphere created by the writer and the various artists, I’m quite reminded of the Dragonlance novels by Tracy Hickman and Margaret Weis. The Dragonlance novels were my first real exposure to the wider world of speculative fiction, coming just ahead of me picking up my first Black Library novels. As such, I have a great fondness for those novels and for the world of Krynn which holds an endless fascination for me. Ferelden is every bit just as interesting as Krynn!
In terms of the narrative, The Silent Grove is written quite well with some really interesting characters. However, it doesn’t quite go that whole distance. Some of the twists and turns appear to be tacked on for the benefit of filling up the page requirement, and not necessarily because they were the demand of the narrative itself. As such, the graphic novel wasn’t as enjoyable as I thought it would be. Nevertheless there are a lot of factors that still made me want to go on and get to the end of the story to see how things play out.
You can find the full review over at The Founding Fields:
http://thefoundingfields.com/2012/06/...
Merged review:
Shadowhawk reviews the graphic novel sequel to Bioware’s Dragon Age games, a new narrative penned by David Gaider and published by Dark Horse Comics.
“Quite a mystery thriller set in the world of Ferelden, Dragon Age – The Silent Grove offers a lot of intrigue, swordplay, double-crossing and subterfuge but does not quite go the whole distance.” ~The Founding Fields
Note: After writing the review I randomly found myself on the Dragon Age wiki and found that Ferelden isn’t the name of the world in the setting but one of the continents. The review inaccurately presumes that it is. Please ignore that misconception!
Just as with Matt Forbeck’s Magic: The Gathering comics, David Gaider’s Dragon Age – The Silent Grove exposed me to a setting that I had no previous experience with, but by the time I was done with it, I wanted to explore more and more. Its funny how things work out that way. I’d heard about the Dragon Age games for ages but had never had a chance to get acquainted with them. Seeing the collected six issues of The Silent Grove on NetGalley was therefore a great chance to take that first step.
I have to say, based on this first exposure, that I really like the setting of Dragon Age and the world of Ferelden. Conceptually and in terms of the atmosphere created by the writer and the various artists, I’m quite reminded of the Dragonlance novels by Tracy Hickman and Margaret Weis. The Dragonlance novels were my first real exposure to the wider world of speculative fiction, coming just ahead of me picking up my first Black Library novels. As such, I have a great fondness for those novels and for the world of Krynn which holds an endless fascination for me. Ferelden is every bit just as interesting as Krynn!
In terms of the narrative, The Silent Grove is written quite well with some really interesting characters. However, it doesn’t quite go that whole distance. Some of the twists and turns appear to be tacked on for the benefit of filling up the page requirement, and not necessarily because they were the demand of the narrative itself. As such, the graphic novel wasn’t as enjoyable as I thought it would be. Nevertheless there are a lot of factors that still made me want to go on and get to the end of the story to see how things play out.
You can find the full review over at The Founding Fields:
http://thefoundingfields.com/2012/06/...
Merged review:
Shadowhawk reviews the graphic novel sequel to Bioware’s Dragon Age games, a new narrative penned by David Gaider and published by Dark Horse Comics.
“Quite a mystery thriller set in the world of Ferelden, Dragon Age – The Silent Grove offers a lot of intrigue, swordplay, double-crossing and subterfuge but does not quite go the whole distance.” ~The Founding Fields
Note: After writing the review I randomly found myself on the Dragon Age wiki and found that Ferelden isn’t the name of the world in the setting but one of the continents. The review inaccurately presumes that it is. Please ignore that misconception!
Just as with Matt Forbeck’s Magic: The Gathering comics, David Gaider’s Dragon Age – The Silent Grove exposed me to a setting that I had no previous experience with, but by the time I was done with it, I wanted to explore more and more. Its funny how things work out that way. I’d heard about the Dragon Age games for ages but had never had a chance to get acquainted with them. Seeing the collected six issues of The Silent Grove on NetGalley was therefore a great chance to take that first step.
I have to say, based on this first exposure, that I really like the setting of Dragon Age and the world of Ferelden. Conceptually and in terms of the atmosphere created by the writer and the various artists, I’m quite reminded of the Dragonlance novels by Tracy Hickman and Margaret Weis. The Dragonlance novels were my first real exposure to the wider world of speculative fiction, coming just ahead of me picking up my first Black Library novels. As such, I have a great fondness for those novels and for the world of Krynn which holds an endless fascination for me. Ferelden is every bit just as interesting as Krynn!
In terms of the narrative, The Silent Grove is written quite well with some really interesting characters. However, it doesn’t quite go that whole distance. Some of the twists and turns appear to be tacked on for the benefit of filling up the page requirement, and not necessarily because they were the demand of the narrative itself. As such, the graphic novel wasn’t as enjoyable as I thought it would be. Nevertheless there are a lot of factors that still made me want to go on and get to the end of the story to see how things play out.
You can find the full review over at The Founding Fields:
http://thefoundingfields.com/2012/06/...
November 28, 2015
An extremely in-character and interesting adventure with brilliant artwork to match.
July 10, 2022
Che delusione questo fumetto. I personaggi out of character, citazioni di cose che nel Thedas non hanno senso di esistere/non fanno parte della cultura folklore (la battuta sulle streghe che volano sulle scope, ma quando MAI si è parlato di streghe come parte della cultura anche solo popolare nel Thedas? Era una cosa buttata lì, out of context), Alistair che resta un emerito idiota come prima nonostante qui abbia l'aria di un uomo serio (non fatemi ridere).
L'unica parte DAVVERO interessante era quella su Yavana e i draghi e GUESS WHAT
Veniamo letteralmente "cockblocked" dagli autori di Bioware nella scoperta di informazioni riguardante il Thedas e alla lunga, diamine, STANCA. Cos'hanno intenzione di fare? Darci un gigantesco info drop in DA Dreadwolf? Bioware listen to me: I'm fXcking TIRED.
L'unica parte DAVVERO interessante era quella su Yavana e i draghi e GUESS WHAT
Veniamo letteralmente "cockblocked" dagli autori di Bioware nella scoperta di informazioni riguardante il Thedas e alla lunga, diamine, STANCA. Cos'hanno intenzione di fare? Darci un gigantesco info drop in DA Dreadwolf? Bioware listen to me: I'm fXcking TIRED.
June 12, 2024
"And so the sturdy but out-of-practice dwarf raced to remedy his error... and did not entirely succeed"
82 sidor av en deprimerad men badass Alistair. Jag behövde mer Alistair i mitt liv, men jag vet inte om det var bra för mitt mentala välmående
82 sidor av en deprimerad men badass Alistair. Jag behövde mer Alistair i mitt liv, men jag vet inte om det var bra för mitt mentala välmående
March 21, 2021
The Silent Grove: 4 Stars
[6.36 - really great.]
Do I love this because I am obsessed with Alistair? Yes. Yes Indeed.
[6.36 - really great.]
Do I love this because I am obsessed with Alistair? Yes. Yes Indeed.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 197 reviews