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Source: https://writers.stackexchange.com/q/908
License name: CC BY-SA 3.0
License URL: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/

I'm trying to figure out what genre the following is, if any. (I asked a similar question, but this is different now, and more detailed.)

- The story takes place in an imaginary world. It's more or less like our own mid-century world, except the countries, names, history, and geography are all made up. For example, some of the action takes place near the "River Shanga." As far as I know there is no such river. (So that makes it some type of fantasy, right?)

- The events take place in a rural area, mostly. A city is mentioned here and there, but it isn't the main setting.

- The story is pretty dark. The point of view is grim and pessimistic. There's a fair amount of action and violence, and it's integral to the story.

- The protagonist is not likable. You don't necessarily root for him or want to be like him.

- There are some elements of "thriller" type horror (as opposed to supernatural horror). I mean thriller like _Misery_ or _Cujo,_ not supernatural like _Carrie_ or _Salem's Lot._

I'm wondering what existing genre that is closest to? I'm thinking probably urban fantasy, but that's just a guess. I've never really read anything in that genre. (By the way, what are some great urban fantasy books I should read?)

What novels fit that description? Made-up world, but similar to the real world. It seems like there have to be some, but for some reason I can't think of any.

Original score: 9