Nada the Lily is unusual for a Victorian novel in that its entire cast of characters is South African and black. Parts of the story are closely based on actual historical events and on folktales recorded by Bishop Henry Callaway and others.

Nada the Lily is an historical novel by English writer H. Rider Haggard, published in 1892. It is said to be inspired by Haggard's time in South Africa (1875–1882). The novel tells the tale of the hero Umslopogaas, the illegitimate son of the great Zulu king and general Chaka, and his love for "the most beautiful of Zulu women", Nada the Lily.

Henry Rider Haggard (22 June 1856–14 May 1925) was an English writer of adventure novels set in exotic locations, predominantly Africa, and a founder of the Lost World literary genre. He was also involved in agricultural reform throughout the British Empire. His stories, situated at the lighter end of Victorian literature, continue to be popular and influential.