"The Moon is a Harsh Mistress" is a science fiction novel written by Robert A. Heinlein and published in 1966. The story takes place in the future, on the Moon colony, where a group of rebels, led by the narrator, a computer expert, fight for independence from Earth's government. The novel explores themes of revolution, freedom, and the nature of government, and the characters are portrayed as complex and morally ambiguous. The novel is considered a classic of the science fiction genre, and is known for its inventive use of language and its portrayal of a diverse and believable cast of characters. The novel won the Hugo award for best novel in 1967, and is widely considered as one of Robert A. Heinlein's greatest works. It is noted for its libertarian political philosophy and its exploration of the concept of a free society.