Stephenson is just very inconsistent. Some of his work is real treasure, some just meh. He's famous for building fascinating worlds, getting some action going,

Stephenson is just very inconsistent. Some of his work is real treasure, some just meh. He's famous for building fascinating worlds, getting some action going, but then not being able to deliver a satisfying ending (e.g. Snow Crash, Diamond Age). Anathem is for me his only well-rounded book where he delivers on all fronts.