A short novel, often referred to as a novella, is a brief work of fiction that typically ranges from 20,000 to 40,000 words. It combines elements of both short stories and full-length novels, allowing for a more in-depth exploration of characters and themes than a short story, while being more concise than a traditional novel. Short novels often focus on a single theme or event, providing a snapshot of a particular moment in time or a character's journey. They are popular in various literary genres and can be an effective way for authors to convey complex ideas in a shorter format.