Both books were released prior to Origins as back story to Ferelden, and while not exactly award-winning, I really liked both novels. Both are written by David Gaider, the main writer for the games, so the Ferelden of the books is very true to the Ferelden of the game, even though there are a few inconsistencies and editing mistakes.
The Stolen Throne covers the rise of Maric following the murder of his mother, the Rebel Queen Moira during the Orlesian occupation that is referenced in the game. Maric is more than a bit dense, but it's a charming dumbness, much like Alistair is in the game. Rowan as a battle-maiden was very familiar to me, since my main character through the game was a noble woman and warrior as well. I don't think Rowan would have actually liked my Elissa personality-wise, though. I did like Katriel as a character, but more important than anything in the book is Loghain. There is so much in the book, overt and subtle, that gives insight to his actions in the game. Without writing specific spoilers, all I can say is it's possible to see why the Hero of River Dane would eventually betray his King and country the way he does in Ostagar.
The Calling has a bit of a different feel than Stolen Throne did; most of this is due to changes to Maric's personality since the first book, the almost-removal of Loghain from the book, and the addition of a young man that will eventually become our own Warden mentor, Duncan. Other new characters include various other Wardens who hope to rescue their former commander, who was captured by Darkspawn instead of dying in battle after he left to complete his Calling. "Why bother rescuing a dead man?" you ask? Well, turns out this former commander knows how to find the Old Gods who remain sleeping under Thedas. If the Darkspawn who captured him can get this information, they can find the Gods and begin the Blight.
In spite of not being as fond of some of the characters as I was of Rowan and Loghain, I think I liked The Calling better as an overall story. Not only do you get to see what makes Duncan into the man he is when we (briefly) know him, but more importantly this story leads directly into the plot of Awakening and features the Architect prominently.
Overall? Both very fun books, with a few tragic bits. I think of all the characters introduced in both books, I liked Kell from The Calling the best; one scene in particular with him and his mabari actually had me jaw-dropped and tearing up. Anyway, very worth the read if you liked Dragon Age at all. :)
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