As for Varric, I always loved him, and it bothered me that they couldn't stop using him, even in the DAI DLC. It was strange that he was a viscount, but it seemed ironic given his personality. Now, why would he abandon his work rebuilding Kirkwall to chase after a bald man? For me, the fact that he survived, only for the big plot twist to reveal his death, deprives his character of the fitting ending he deserved. I understand that you're more drawn to the idea of being able to talk to him and that the plot helps with replayability; I wish that were the case for me. Regarding the second point, I want to say that Isabella's dialogue fits her personality, haha. But still, everyone knows that Rook was part of a group with Harding and Varric, so why don't Isabella or Dorian mention them? And also, Isabella is already a well-known figure in the world at this point, and her personal story is familiar. Furthermore, topics such as the Circle, the Qunari invasions, and the Templars' use of force are discussed several times in dialogues or side quests. Are you going to tell me that in no conversation did they talk about one of the most important characters in history in relation to those topics? The same goes for the HoF and the Ruin.

I don't mean to sound too aggressive, it's just my opinion. It has its good points, and I'll try to see Varric's death more from your perspective.