Malazan vs Wheel of Time

Hey guys, so I've read upto half of Eye of the World in WoT and am 25% done with House of Chains in MBotF. My experience with the WoT characters has been terrible, with the protagonists being bitches that need attitude readjustment and/or pussies that need to grow up. The few stronger characters are just assholes in that they refuse to connect with the heroes. By contrast, I loved the selfless determination shown by characters in MBotF, coupled with their intelligence and wit. I haven't been able to appreciate the WoT plot thus far as opposed to that of MBotF, but have been encouraged by a friend to read it until the end. What do you guys think I should do? How and when do things change? Also, sorry for the long post!