Abstract: A reciprocating magnet engine has first and second magnet pairs (20A and 40A, 20B and 40B), first and second sections (15, 35), a continuous flux return plate (15G) and a core (15C) which have high relative magnetic permeabilities, an interrupting flux return plate (25) which has a high relative magnetic permeability but has a low relative magnetic permeability section (26) therein, a control shaft (27), an output drive shaft (50), and first and second drive assemblies (45). A small torque on the control shaft provides a large torque on the output drive shaft.