@VentiAmerikano That's what the publisher wanted at the time. They thought that was they only way to sell fantasy I guess. By the second book, it finds its own path. It definitely becomes much more than a LotR clone.
@kangorth Absolutely. The world building is top notch. So detailed and rich. The characters and their development are a treat to follow. Not to mention, the series has some of the most badass and epic scenes. The story starts off like a LOTR clone and finishes in a truly unique place.