While this is in many regards a very nice book, like all ToR books so far, it is rather lightweight and the "north" of Middle-Earth, which is such a rich, diverse and deep environment is flown over rather hurriedly. At approximately 2 pages of general description each, potentially fascinating regions such as the Coldfells, the Ettenmoors, Eregion or Angmar (and many others) are given a rather unfair treatment.

History is also skimmed over very quickly, which is very perplexing when you are dealing with the Dùnedain, Arnor and such loaded matters. Thus, as far as background, lore and information not specific to Rivendell are concerned, the book disappoints much and even then, had it stuck to Rivendell alone, so much more could have been written to give life to such a storied and powerfully evocative place.

It's quite paradoxical that if you want to play in the areas east of the Misty Mountains that the book is supposed to be about, you basically have to bring your own knowledge or do your own research from other sources. I would assume that the authors felt freer with Wilderland as it's sort of a terra incognita, and Eriador might have intimidated them. Unfortunate!

Other than that hefty disappointment to an avid Middle-Earth appreciator, the book does keep up with providing many gameplay aides, new mechanics, nice art, stats, quality writing and other such material to keep sessions and campaigns rich, gameplay-wise.

Certainly not a bad book at all, but definitely not a memorable one.

Great book all around. Custom game system, detailed words, illustrations, etc. A shining example in the fantasy genre.