Having read some books that weren't quite worth the hype (looking at you, TFioS), I think I went into this book with relatively low expectations. I knew that Lord of the Rings has an almost cult-like following, and is a franchise that ranks among Star Wars and Harry Potter in terms of popularity. And, in all honesty, THIS is a book that lives up to the hype.
Tolkien's writing is drawn out and meandering, and it goes nowhere quickly. However, I feel like it pairs well with a story like this, as his style creates lush descriptions and impressive worldbuilding without really distracting the plot.
The plot is pretty slow throughout and even leaves you wondering why some parts were included, but it picks up at the end and everything is tied together nicely. All of Checkov's guns go off. 
My only real complaint with the book is the lack of characterization for some of the side characters. While I understand that the main cast is very large, It feels like we only ever got to know three or four main characters and a bunch from one-off scenes.