Create memorable characters. Flat, reactive characters are boring. As an author, you'll want dynamic heroes and villains driven by deep motivations who gravely alter the world around them through their decisions. These characters propel the story forward with their passion rather than just being pulled through it by the author's hand.
Write in circles. A good plot is not simply Point A to Point B to Point C in a straight line of events. Writing in circles means you bring up an interesting detail or question, and then revisit or answer the question later in the story. Multiple circles give the plot depth and can literally "throw the reader for a loop."
Give each scene a climactic event. A climax doesn't have to be a thunderous explosion that brings with it the utter defeat of all bad guys. In fact, it can be something as simple as an important discovery, a new mystery, a plot twist or the introduction of a new character. To ensure your story doesn't get snagged on dull sections, make sure each scene is like a mini story, with an interesting beginning, middle and end.
Be careful how you structure scenes within the story. Like an architect building a skyscraper, you'll want to establish a strong foundation, erect an elegant series of floors and then cap it all off with an impressive rooftop. Ideally, each scene will provide something new and provoke the reader to learn more. If you succeed at this, your scenes will have a domino effect, pushing the reader into the heart of your climax.
Surprise the reader with a twist. Like a magician, much of writing involves the art of misdirection. Subtle clues should be left along the way so that when the mystery is revealed or the bad guy is exposed, the readers will smack themselves in the forehead and say, "Oh, I should've known that." Pay attention to what your left hand is doing while your right hand captivates the audience.
Be a giver of satisfaction. Readers don't want to invest hours of their time scanning hundreds of pages only to suffer disappointment. Make it clear in the beginning exactly what your hero wants, make it tough for her to achieve it and then grant her victory. If you followed Step 1, your readers will develop an emotional bond with the hero, sharing her joys and heartaches. Satisfy her hopes and you'll satisfy her fans.