Cryptonomicon

This is the first Neal Stephenson novel I've read.  The book follows three threads, two set in World War II, that focus on a Marine and an academic recruited as a code breaker by the U.S. government. The third thread is set in the present time (published in 1999) featuring a computer whiz involved in a somewhat shady deal to create a data depository in a small Pacific island country that will be anonymous to its clients (a kind of digital Switzerland).  Moving through 1,130 pages, the stories converge in the jungle of the Philippines when what was lost becomes found.

Very intellectual thriller, with much detail on code breaking, including an appendix with explanation of how to use a very unique and (according to its creator) very secure encryption algorithm using two decks of cards.

Stephenson's novels include many generation of the same family, over long periods, plus one character who seems to appear throughout.  My next book, Quicksilver, the first volume in the Baroque Cycle, set in the 17th and 18th centuries. 

Very innovative and well written, with compelling characters.  I recommend the book, but some readers (me for one) will skim through some of the more highly technical parts.