7/10. To me, 8+ would qualify for "loved it".
I like Paul Verhoeven, and I root for him to make quality films. He doesn't always make a great flick, but he often has flashes of greatness. Total Recall & Robocop are required viewing for any sci-fi fan, but obviously not in the same filmmaking universe as Black Book. Basic Instinct was a very good murder mystery that comes closest in feel to BB -- its moral ambiguity and passion (both good and evil) are central themes.
Calling BB an epic is a stretch for me, unless you're just referring to the 2 1/2 hour running time. An epic is a movie that successfully captures viewers for the duration of a journey, while richly establishing characters. I thought the characters were rich and the acting superb, but the story let me down just a smidge.
I'd definitely recommend it for the non-squeamish, but I'm not buying it. Don't take my squeamish warning lightly! There are a few brutal scenes in here.