The problem is that discard is not a very viable option outside of Fellowship block. You can just run past it before it sets up, and because the deck is so big it will really clog your hand. I would suggest working with an initiative-based Shadow with
Desperate Defense of the Ring (
Orc Chaser, etc) and go in that direction.
Enduring Evil x3 or so is definitely necessary. I don't think three copies of
Thin and Stretched are though.
I don't think the Free Peoples are very strong either. Not enough companions, no protection for your
Preparations,
Endurance of Dwarves is a big "no-no," and I don't think that the Shadow side really cycles well enough for the free peoples side.
Just my general opinions. You'll get more details if I am particularly bored at work today or I like some other comments I see when I get home.
-wtk