a novel must have characterization, setting, CONFLICT, and resolution to make it feel complete for the reader

I just read a story where one of the people that you fell in love with died. I was broken hearted and felt cheated that the author tried to wrap up a beautiful story with a quick exit (brain cancer). No one lived happily ever after. Bah. I made myself a resolution that if I have any say, no one dies unless they are the worst of the worst.

So, this story will obviously have all those things including conflict. But, you'll get far warning and no surprise brain cancer. Did I mention she was keeping it a secret from the person she loved?