So far, I'm into it, I love pretty much anything LOTR, and was disappointed with the hobbit personally.
This is not only the lore I enjoy (making of the rings) but so far they are telling a great story and showing us a fantastic world.
Not sure about the harfoots yet, they feel maybee "play like" but Galadriel and Elronds stories are incredibly enjoyable.
Dunno why the hate, I love the diverse cast too.
So far I'm at like a 8/10 in the series wanting to see more.