Very true. Then you get to Cryptonomicon - which is set in the same universe. I think it's the best audiobook I've ever listened to.

I found that Fall; or, Dodge in Hell wraps up the whole thing very nicely!

That novel really expands the scope of the whole alternate universe dramatically. He's an amazing writer.

EDIT: nice username! Is this where you got it?

Yes - started using the username on Slashdot back on the day after reading Cryptonomicon and have used it on various places over the years... :-)