I know this thread was buried, but I've got a few more things to add.
I think I'll play Exile for awhile, since you get half the game(!) with the demo, which is pretty awesome. How much of Avernum do you get?
Also, about the Exile trilogy being $25: does it include the hint books for each, or is that extra?
I'll play Exile right now though, because hey, I've got half a game for free.
Thanks for all the help, everyone.