What do you look for in a novel?

Question:

What do you look for in a novel?

What elements in a novel do you look for? Do you like happy-endings or are they too sappy? What do you consider crossing the line? Is predictability a good thing? What could more contemporary novels include to ensure a good book?

Please share all of the elements in a novel you like/dislike.

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: What do I look for in a novel?
1)a really good opening. I don't want to have to work to get interested in it.
2)characters that are well defined and vivid. Believable, even in an unbelievable plot. People i can relate to on some level.
3)a plot that really moves. I like fast paced. I'm not talking always action, just a plot that has no trouble carrying me along.
4)an ending that's fair and true to the story.
No, I don't need a happy ending, or even want one if that's not called for. I mean, I don't want the story twisted beyond belief at the end just to fit a happy ending in. Some happy endings are sappy. Some aren't. Just depends on the writing.
What more could contemporary writers include to make a good book? Well, for me it's what they can exclude. There are so many writers who will stop the action of a story just to include a lot of detail that I don't need. For instance, something will be happening, and all of a sudden, the writer decides to describe the sky and exactly what the clouds look like. I don't need all of that. I have a good imagination, and know how to use it. Give me enough to go on and stick to the action, is all I ask.
This is a very good question, by the way.