A nice brief return to the Dragon Age universe. However not for new comers.
It's not much of a game on its own, and should really only be played by those that have played the actual game first. There is no real reason to go back to it after its done, I am not even sure you can. Most characters in your party are very boring compared to the original cast minus one funny drunk who coincidentally is from the original cast. Not as involving as the main game.
The good:
The level cap is raised. New abilities are added as well as skills. a chance to gain a lot more money. Level 7, 8, and 9 tier weapons. Boss fights are awesome with animations done well. Story is portrayed rather well making you want to stick around to the end. A fairly epic end game decision with a typical tentacle end boss fight. Its about 20 hrs of game play in a new land with new story, and you can even import your character from the other game.
Conclusion:
I would only buy it if you loved the game. If you are buying this as a stand alone disc to try it out spend the extra money and play the first disc. If you thought the first game was your run of the mill I would probably skip this. It doesn't add to much more, think of it as a big side quest with benefits and that was enough to warrants my play through. I am sure the story and new land will suck in the hardcore but new players and people who didn't make it to the end of the first one should avoid.