I've read the entire series, and came to an understanding that it would differ from the show. It's just too expansive and intricate to play out page by page, or even book by book. So I watch it as a high-fantasy fan. That being said, the show is thoroughly engaging. I have no problem with the casting. The special effects are solid right along with the action sequences. Any comparison to LOR is way off base. Each kingdom is vastly different from one another, as you'll see if the seasons continue. The Children Of The Light, The Seanchan, and The Aiel have just scratched the surface. Even the Forsaken haven't truly stretched their legs yet. The Wheel Of Time is a marathon. As long as it continues to go in the direction it's going...it should be epic.