Yes this is not the lore of Tolkien and yes there are some changes to the lore, however I’m judging this has a show and has a show I’m enjoying myself. There is drama where there needs to be drama. Characters are starting to grow we know how they end, but it’s fun to go on the journey to see where they end up. It is a slow burn show which i love, but each episodes keeps me intrigued, pushing the plot forever and leaving me wanting more. So glad to be in middle earth again and can’t wait to see the next episodes