The word 'genuine' is an antonym for 'fictional'. 'Genuine' means being truly what it is said to be, not false or made-up. So, when something is genuine, it's not fictional or pretend.
Fantasy. Fantasy often involves elements that are not based on real - world facts or experiences, which is the opposite of realistic fiction that tries to depict real - life situations.
Journal. Journals are often records of real - life events, thoughts, or research findings. In contrast, a novel is a made - up story. So journal can be seen as an antonym as it represents the real and the factual, opposite to the fictional nature of a novel.
The antonym for 'novel' could be 'traditional' or 'conventional'. Something novel is new and unique, while something traditional or conventional is established and familiar.
Surreal fiction. It often presents a world that is dream - like and illogical, completely different from the down - to - earth nature of realistic fiction.
Essay. Novels are long - form fictional works, while essays are usually shorter and non - fictional, often expressing an opinion or analyzing a topic based on real - life knowledge or research.