3.5 stars. The writing is really good and imaginative and I can certainly see why lovers of epic fantasy hold this in such high regard. It is interesting and creative. But the characters are all a bit of a blur and though there was a lot going on I just didn't care enough to really be pumped up into the higher ratings. Enjoyable? Sure. Will it warrant a reread? Probably not. But I will be continuing on and I will read The Fellowship of the Ring, so clearly it was still worth my time and I can find value in it.