Any other atheists enjoy reading Middle Earth mythology as a pseudo substitute for religion?

The story of Middle Earth has so many great morals to teach. Comforting moments to enjoy. Guidance to offer during good and dark times. An all around deep mythology to enjoy. I find myself reading or watching middle Earth lore in times that I feel I need to be comforted. Middle Earth is truly a mythology all unto itself. With evil and benevolent gods. heroic deeds and the lure of evil. All entwined with the unspoken importance of humans. With fantastically simple but deep quotes

“I have found that it is the small everyday deed of ordinary folks that keep the darkness at bay. Small acts of kindness and love.”

As a man of science and an atheist I just can't get that from actual religion or even ancient mythology. I can't enjoy religion knowing I am meant to believe it's all real. Further, I can't be comforted by something that has caused some much pain, war and destruction in the real world. But after recently suffering the loss of a loved one, I do understand why religion remains popular.

I already loved Lord of the Rings. A massive fan. But it was through that loss I mentioned that I found a deep love and interest in the wider world history of Eä. Middle Earth can be surprisingly profound and oddly comforting. The ancient wars between good and evil gods and why. The story of how the balrogs came to be. Why the wizards were depowered and made to look old before coming to middle Earth. The unknown secret behind the 'gift of men.' Tom Bombadil etc. Eru and his creations are as deep and full of history as any real world religion or mythology. Woven by a more intricately themed, uncontradictory, and comprehensive yarn.

I find Middle Earth lore creates a masterful mythology without the burden of belief. Creating a welcoming mythos for all to enjoy. Are there any other atheist's here who feel similarly? Or possibly even those of faith?