I wanted to post a bit of an update here..
Now do bear in mind that I am still in the euphoric stage of actually being able to play demanding games like this, and my LOTRO character is only at level 10... which further amplifies said "honeymoon" phase, but so far I am truly enjoying this game. It honestly does feel as though you are wandering around Middle Earth, the solo quests are surprisingly varied, and I have seen numerous instances of a subtle humour. I find the writing is well done and in keeping with the atmosphere of the book.
I have also been grouping with a friend who has made me some equipment, and she is showing me a lot of the ropes, which I truly appreciate. Of course, that has also influenced my positive impressions, playing with friends is a lot of fun.
Last night I was so completely immersed while exploring and questing in the Shire and Bree, that when the phone rang, it took a minute to register, even though it was right next to me...
If a game can do that to me, it is a big plus in my books!
So far then, I'm very happy to have purchased LOTRO.
Oh, and while I do not at all view this as paramount to any game, I can also say, for those who do value such things, LOTRO is very pretty.