What is the term for a prose fiction that is longer than a short story but shorter than a novel?

The term for a prose fiction that is longer than a short story but shorter than a novel is indeed "novella." A novella typically ranges from about 20,000 to 40,000 words, which allows for more character development and plot complexity than a short story while remaining concise compared to a full-length novel. This form of fiction often focuses on a single theme or idea, providing a deeper exploration of characters or situations than what is generally found in shorter narratives. Understanding this classification helps in grasping the various forms of fiction and their characteristics, which can enhance one's reading and writing skills.