Definitely more gripping that the FotR, with increased pace and more perils as the story goes. Every character is so well created by Tolkein and each part of the journey is engaging. I absolutely enjoyed reading how great Mithrandir aka Gandalf the great really is and how great the company is. Merry and Pippin, Frodo and Sam, all the four hobbits have a great journey to follow along including the remaining members of the company.

Now I can't wait to finish reading RotK before I write a complete review of the LotR!