• I want characters I can relate to.  I’ve only read about a small handful, so I’ll gladly settle for characters that are both odd and fleshed out.
• I want a setting I’ve never read about before.  I mostly read fantasy and science fiction because they take me to new places that present unique problems.
• I want clear prose.  Words can be poetic without being fluffy.
• I want an ending that that’s foreshadowed without being predictable.
• I want a new premise that stays with me for a long time.  This is another reason I mostly read science fiction and fantasy.
• I want to root for a character so badly that I shout advice to them while I read.
• I want literary techniques to be subtle enough that I don’t roll my eyes at them.
• I want as little romance as possible.
• I want to put down the story so desperate for more that I look up the author and read more of their works.

What do you want in a story?  Do you share some of my preferences?  Are there things on my list that you can’t stand?  Reblog with your personal list!