Novel on top state (3,6)
I believe the answer is:
new jersey
'state' is the definition.
(I know that New Jersey is a American state)
'novel on top' is the wordplay.
'novel' becomes 'new' (similar in meaning).
'on top' becomes 'jersey' (item of clothing. I am not sure about the 'on' bit.).
'new'+'jersey'='NEW JERSEY'
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for new jersey that I've seen before include "what might be requirement for scruffy tramp" , "Newark's state" , "change of clothing" , "Coastal US state" , "Recently-purchased clothing" .)