Every time I give a book 4 stars, I think, "I always give books 4 stars. Do I really think it's 4 stars?" Usually, I think, "Well, 4 stars means 'really liked it,' and since I really liked this book, it should have 4 stars." 
 So, 4 stars it is for The Keep. I couldn't decide for a while if I liked it or not, but as the story unfolded revealing deeper and deeper levels, I decided I definitely did. The story isn't what it appears to be on the surface. The imagery is vivid and haunting and the characters real and complex. I really would like to visit the hotel in the story.