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The Last Magus: A Clockwork Heart

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The Magus were the protectors of magic, armed with a magic caster’s power and a warrior’s strength. They were able to summon magical weapons from specialized caches they wore as armored pauldrons known as the Armory of Attlain. The Magus were legendary among the people of Attlain until a few decided they should lead the people instead of protecting them. The rebellion ended quickly from within their ranks, but the damage was done. The Magus were feared and outlawed except for those few who remained loyal to the crown and lived as adventurers. For generations, they had all but disappeared from the world.Marcus Gideon awoke at the crossroads outside the border town of Armändis. Lost, with no memory of his past life, he was stabbed through the heart and left for dead. His life was saved by a blacksmith’s kindness who replaced his damaged heart with a mechanical, magical miracle—a clockwork heart. The gears clicked, the motor spun, and his heart started beating again, powered by his own magical energy.Gideon was alive, but his savior was no ordinary blacksmith. Henry Botàn was a Magus, hiding out in Armändis to protect the weapons within his magical armory. The swords, spears, and other-worldly artifacts were potent, some cursed and even forbidden to wield. His responsibility was to protect these weapons from falling into the wrong hands, but he was old and past his prime. He needed an apprentice, and Marcus Gideon may be the one he waited for. As Gideon searches for clues to his past, he looks toward his future and his fate in Attlain as THE LAST MAGUS.

365 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 18, 2021

1 person is currently reading
41 people want to read

About the author

Mark Piggott

10 books66 followers
Mark Piggott, a native of Phillipsburg, N.J., enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1982, beginning a 23-year career.

He served on four aircraft carriers and various duty stations as a Navy Journalist before he attained the rank of Chief Petty Officer. He retired from active duty in 2006.

His first novel, Forever Avalon, was published in 2009, followed by his second novel, The Dark Tides, in 2014. The Outlander War: Book Three of the Forever Avalon series from Austin Macauley Publishing was released in 2020. In 2021, he published the start of a new steampunk fantasy series with The Last Magus: A Clockwork Heart from Lulu.com. At the end of 2021, Mark signed with Curious Corvid Publishing as one of their new authors for this small, independent publisher.

His novels have won a slew of awards over the past years. The Outlander War won second place for fantasy in the 2021 Firebird Book Awards, The Last Magus won first place for steampunk, and in 2022, Forever Avalon won second place for fantasy. Additionally, The Last Magus won the Grand Prize for Fiction in the 2022 Authors Marketing Guild Indie Book Awards.

His latest fantasy novella, The River of Souls, in collaboration with poet Ashley Valitutto, was published in 2022 through Curious Corvid Publishing. Coming in 2023, get ready to dive into a steampunk historical fiction, Corsair and the Sky Pirates and the next book in The Last Magus series, Dragonfire and Steel, and the fourth book in the Forever Avalon series, The Prometheus Engine!

He has a variety of short stories published, including two through The Publishing Room and through Curious Corvid Publishing in the Magpie Messenger and their upcoming anthology.

He and his wife, Georgiene, live in Alexandria, Virginia. They have three children.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
Profile Image for Helen Garraway.
Author 18 books314 followers
August 1, 2021
The Last Magus is the first book I have read from Mark Piggott, and I'm sure it won't be the last!

Piggott has created a rich world with strong characters, and an original magic system which is slowly revealed.

Gideon is a wonderful character, and adds a nice touch of mystery as we meet him regaining consciousness but not his memory, just in time to get stabbed though the heart. Fortunate for him he is rescued by an elderly man who is much more than he seems.

The story line keeps you hooked as Gideon strives to recover and to learn all that his mentor can teach him and his journey to follow his mentor's instructions after his death. The writer in me wishes Piggot showed us a bit more of the characters experiencing their emotions and reactions rather than telling us, but the reader in me can't wait to read more.

The armoury is pure magic, and I loved finding out about the 'characters' of the weapons that they call forth. The relationship between the wielder and the weapon was key for me, and I wish there was more of it!

The story picks up once he reaches the Basilon Magical academy and the world and the characters expand. I loved Lady Jacqueline and Wren and Guilfoy who turns into a useful ally at the academy!

Overall a wonderful tale and great characters that give us a very enjoyable read.
Profile Image for Andrew Burton.
3 reviews
October 28, 2025

Piggott has created a rich world with strong characters, and an original magic system which is slowly revealed.

The Last Magus is the first book I have read from Mark Piggott, and I'm sure it won't be the last!
It was so awesome
Profile Image for Jourdan. K..
20 reviews1 follower
December 1, 2025
★★★★★ The Last Magus by Mark Piggott is one of those rare books that doesn’t just tell a story it conjures an entire world, invites you in, and leaves you forever changed. From the first page, I was captivated by the richness of the magic, the depth of the characters, and the weight of the stakes. Mark’s talent for weaving mythology, suspense, and emotion together is simply masterful.

The main character’s journey fraught, vulnerable, hopeful felt real and raw. I found myself rooting for him, feeling his fears, mourning his losses, and celebrating his small victories like they mattered to my own heart. The world-building around magic, power, destiny it all felt so alive, so layered, and so beautifully crafted.

What really stayed with me is how Mark doesn’t shy away from darkness or difficulty, yet still finds space for hope, redemption, and growth. That balance made the highs more triumphant and the lows more honest. By the end, I felt like I had lived the journey with the characters, walked the trials, and sensed their pain but also their resilience.

This book is a testament to the power of storytelling. Mark Piggott didn’t just write a fantasy novel he invited me to believe in wonder again, to feel deeply, and to hope fiercely. I’m genuinely grateful for this work, and I already know I’ll follow wherever Mark’s imagination leads next.

Thank you, Mark, for sharing your gift and giving us an unforgettable journey.
Profile Image for Jennie Rosenblum.
1,293 reviews44 followers
September 2, 2021
Magic, Fantasy, and Steampunk all rolled into one very enjoyable adventure story. I have read other books by this author and he always pulls me in with incredible covers and beautifully laid out interiors of his books. When an author takes this much care, I’m already into the story before the first line. Oh, did I also mention that the main character has lost all memory of who he is or what his life was before we see him on that very first page?

Marcus Gideon is about to start a new life and what he has been thrown into would be a challenge to anyone. Luckily he has some excellent guides to help him through. A Magus, Goblin and Lady all have a guiding hand in helping Marcus reach a potential that can change not only his world but the worlds around him. The majority of the book is from Marcus’ perspective, and the small journal entries beginning the chapters help you see even more of what is going on, not only with his experiences, but also inside his mind.

This was a great story to escape into and while it is the first in the series, it is a fully formed and developed read. I look forward to finding out what is next for this Magus.
Profile Image for Mary Grace  Kroef.
Author 6 books48 followers
October 29, 2022
Gideon has lost the memory of his early years, but finds a new purpose while apprenticing to an old blacksmith. Henri Botàn the blacksmith teaches his apprentice far more then smithwork. A clockwork heart, magic, monsters, adventure, this book has them all.

The beginning of this story starts well and I really enjoyed it. I enjoyed Gideon's master and was sorry he plays such a short role in the book. Gideon himself is the typical hero figure. Handsome, talented, loyal, and reckless. I didn't love him but didn't dislike him either. I found the first half of the book stronger then the second half. The world is interesting and the magic/technology mix gives it a nice flair at times.

There is a bit of head popping the in book and that weekend it for me. I didn't feel the information it gave the reader access to was nessasary to move the story along.

The most original part of the books is the magic of the Magus. The role of the Magus is marries old style chivalry to magic. I enjoyed the hints of memory handed Gideon  that foreshadows something coming in the future. All round a fun story.
Profile Image for Jennifer.
185 reviews5 followers
January 27, 2023
3.5 stars

My first book by this author, The Last Magus, is a fun story full of magic, friendship, and adventure. It certainly draws inspiration from a number of popular fantasies such as Star Wars, D&D, WoW, Harry Potter and others. I thought the characters were likeable, and there was plenty of action, but I agree with the other reviewers about the "head hopping". I didn't know the term for this before, but I found it jarring at times. There also seemed to be a lot of telling rather than showing.

The world-building was quite good, though, and I felt like we're just beginning to get a sense of some of the broader elements of Attlain such as the magic system and the political landscape that might come into play more in the second book.

I really loved the first half of the book: Meeting Gideon and Botán, and seeing their relationship develop, though I'd have to say my favorite part was Gideon and Bok. I wish that had been longer. Please let there be more Bok in the next book! And hopefully we'll uncover more of the secrets hidden in Gideon's past.
Profile Image for Lucy A. McLaren.
Author 5 books55 followers
August 5, 2022
I’ll be honest and say this book didn’t end up really being my cup of tea. Though I was intrigued at first to find out more about Gideon’s mysterious past, the story didn’t end up being about that.

There were elements I did enjoy such as Gideon and Botan’s relationship, and the unique magic armoury system was really intriguing and unique. Gideon himself was okay as a character, though I wasn’t necessarily as drawn to him as I’d like to have been (perhaps because we don’t really know much about him). I liked Bok so it was a shame he was only in the story for a short time.

There is head hopping throughout which is a writing technique I find very distracting. There were also switches between past and present tense.

The fact that this ended up being in a magical school felt odd to me. I imagined Gideon being in his thirties so him essentially hanging out with people in their late teens felt strange, especially with how certain relationships developed.

Basically, if you’re a fan of magic training and magic schools, this book is likely to appeal. There were certainly interesting elements but I am simply not a big fan of magic school storylines!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Luminita LaFlash.
Author 1 book38 followers
March 1, 2023
The cover of the book attracted me very much. The storyline was something that I had never read before. A fictional story with characters very well developed. Gideon, the main character, remained a mystery for most of the book, and part of the tale enveloped him and his life. But there is more to the story. Through a different character, the author pointed out the importance of meeting the right mentor in life. We can better survive if we find someone who can guide us through the unthinkable. Because of this story aspect, I found this book also educational. Lady Jacqueline, among others, was a beautiful and valuable addition to the story.

I rated the book a five because I found it to be a delightful read that transfers us to a world full of magic, but why don't you grab a copy and follow Gideon on his journey? Let your imagination flow. You won't be disappointed.
Profile Image for March D.
22 reviews8 followers
October 6, 2025
It’s been a while since a fantasy novel made me feel something real, but The Last Magus did. Marcus’s transformation after being saved by a blacksmith and given a clockwork heart hit me on an emotional level. The symbolism of a heart made of magic and machinery fits so perfectly with the story’s themes of identity and renewal. Mark Piggott builds his world slowly, but with purpose you can feel the history of the Magus order in every line. I liked that there’s mystery behind both Marcus’s past and Henry Botàn’s secrets. There’s action, sure, but it’s the emotional weight that carries the book. You start caring about what happens to these characters. It’s not flashy fantasy it’s the kind that sneaks up on you and makes you think. I’d absolutely recommend it to readers who enjoy stories about lost legacies and redemption.
21 reviews2 followers
October 20, 2025
The Last Magus is a spellbinding blend of fantasy, mystery, and redemption that will captivate readers from the first page. Mark Piggott crafts a world rich with lore, where magic and machinery intertwine in breathtaking harmony. The story of Marcus Gideon a man reborn with a clockwork heart and no memory of his past feels both epic and deeply personal. His journey from lost soul to potential savior under the mentorship of the secretive Magus, Henry Botàn, is filled with action, emotion, and wonder. Piggott’s world-building is vivid and immersive, his characters layered and compelling. Each twist reveals more about the tragic legacy of the Magus and Gideon’s mysterious destiny.

Fans of The Witcher and Fullmetal Alchemist will love this novel’s mix of steampunk flair and magical intrigue. The Last Magus is a must read adventure that reignites the magic of heroic fantasy.
Profile Image for T.K. Toppin.
Author 28 books59 followers
August 6, 2021
This is the first time reading Mark Piggott's work, and I enjoyed it immensely. I fell into the world of Attlain, following the main character, Marcus Gideon, as he navigated his way through the story in a sort of "coming of age" way. That he has no memory of his past makes it even more intriguing, and I was eager to find out more. The world of Attlain is almost like an alternative Earth, but with magic and magical beings! The creative use of a "pauldron" that contained a multitude of enchanted weapons was incredible, and I was eager to find out more. Each of the characters were unique and had a fun banter as they engaged with one another -- and who wouldn't want to go to a school dedicated to magic! I look forward to reading more from this author.
Profile Image for lila hulls.
20 reviews5 followers
October 5, 2025
The Last Magus pulled me in from the first paragraph and refused to let go. The concept of a man reborn with a mechanical, magically powered heart is nothing short of brilliant! Marcus Gideon’s journey from amnesiac survivor to apprentice Magus is layered with emotion, mystery, and wonder. The world of Attlain feels alive rich in lore, danger, and forgotten magic. The author’s ability to merge fantasy, technology, and human struggle is simply mesmerizing. Every page crackles with energy, from the haunting legacy of the Magus Rebellion to the bond between Gideon and his mentor, Henry Botàn. It’s not just a story of magic it’s a story of destiny, identity, and rediscovering purpose. Absolutely unforgettable!
Profile Image for Daniel.
15 reviews7 followers
October 6, 2025
This book is like if Iron Man and Gandalf opened a repair shop. Marcus wakes up dead (yes, that’s a thing), gets a new clockwork heart from a mysterious blacksmith, and is immediately thrown into a mess of magic, rebellion, and moral lessons. Henry Botàn has the patience of a saint and the sarcasm of someone who’s seen things. The best part? The world actually feels functional magic has rules, gears have purpose, and every spell probably voids a warranty. Mark Piggott writes with this perfect mix of seriousness and absurdity. I laughed at the banter, got misty at the emotional bits, and kind of want my own Armory of Attlain now (minus the cursed part. I didn’t expect to enjoy it this much, but here we are. Someone get Marcus a maintenance manual and maybe a day off.
Profile Image for Hewit Mark.
15 reviews9 followers
October 6, 2025
Every time Dixie says you’re going to love this, my TBR pile cries a little louder. She’s been hyping The Last Magus like it’s a must read for fantasy fans, and I’ll be honest I’m curious. The whole premise sounds wild ancient magic warriors, cursed weapons, a guy who gets stabbed, then rebuilt with a magical heart. What kind of imagination even thinks of that? I read the blurb and now I can’t stop picturing this poor guy ticking like a pocket watch while fighting evil. Dixie says it’s got humor, heart (obviously), and epic world building, so I’m clearing my weekend. I’ve got tea, a blanket, and an unhealthy amount of curiosity. Haven’t started yet, but I can already tell this is going to be one of those I’ll just read one chapter
Profile Image for Vibes Reads.
124 reviews
October 13, 2025
The Last Magus by Mark Piggott is a mesmerizing tale that combines the soul of classic fantasy with the intrigue of steampunk adventure. The story follows Marcus Gideon, a man brought back from death with a clockwork heart, as he unravels the mystery of his lost past and discovers his place among the legendary Magus,warrior,mages once feared and revered across Attain. Piggott’s storytelling shines through vivid world-building, heartfelt emotion, and thrilling action. The mentor, apprentice bond between Gideon and Henry Botan adds depth and warmth, grounding the magic in humanity. This is a powerful, imaginative journey of destiny, redemption, and courage. An unforgettable fantasy that every adventure reader should experience!
Profile Image for Moona.
986 reviews75 followers
February 28, 2025
The Last Magus: A Clockwork Heart by Mark Piggott is a fantasy novel blending magic, adventure, and a touch of steampunk. The story follows Marcus Gideon, a man left for dead and resurrected with a clockwork heart, setting him on a path of rediscovery and power.

The world of Attlain is rich with lore, particularly around the Magus—once-revered magic warriors who fell from grace after a rebellion. As Marcus trains under a hidden Magus blacksmith, he learns about the lost art of wielding magical weapons, all while searching for answers about his past.

The novel promises action, mystery, and world-building filled with enchanted artifacts and forbidden knowledge.
Profile Image for Liora Ellington.
246 reviews20 followers
October 5, 2025
The Last Magus completely swept me away. The world of Attlain feels alive rich with forgotten legends, forbidden magic, and characters that leap off the page. Marcus Gideon’s journey from a man with no memory to a reborn warrior powered by a clockwork heart is both thrilling and deeply emotional. I loved the balance between steampunk invention and high fantasy lore, and the mentor apprentice bond between Gideon and Henry Botàn adds real heart to the story. Every chapter pulses with tension, discovery, and wonder. Perfect for fans of Brandon Sanderson or Patrick Rothfuss this is a world I can’t wait to return to!
Profile Image for Lauretta D.
23 reviews10 followers
October 6, 2025
As a lifelong fantasy reader, The Last Magus reignited everything I love about the genre. Mark Piggott has created an immersive world filled with ancient orders, forbidden weapons, and mysterious magic systems. The concept of the Armory of Attlain is brilliant so visual and unique. Marcus Gideon’s transformation and training under the aging Magus give classic mentor student vibes, but with a steampunk twist. The story balances epic battles and quiet reflection perfectly. It feels cinematic, yet deeply personal. I couldn’t help but imagine this as a movie or game world. Absolutely recommend for fans of Brandon Sanderson and Patrick Rothfuss.
Profile Image for Smith Ken.
8 reviews2 followers
October 16, 2025
The Last Magus” is a beacon of what fantasy storytelling can become again hopeful, redemptive, and full of second chances. Marcus Gideon’s journey from death to renewal through a clockwork heart feels like a symbol for everyone trying to find meaning after loss. I closed the final page feeling inspired, as though Attlain’s magic had touched me too.

If you’ve been searching for a fantasy that rekindles your belief in courage, forgiveness, and destiny, this is it. Piggott crafts a world that breathes with optimism even amid its shadows. Read it not just for the battles or sorcery, but for the hope that even the most broken heart mechanical or not can still beat with purpose.
Profile Image for RB Terry.
15 reviews1 follower
October 21, 2025
What impressed me most is how the book balances adventure with reflection. It’s not just about magical battles or legendary weapons (though those are thrilling) it’s about identity, loss, and finding strength in what’s been broken. The writing evokes that same sense of wonder I used to feel reading classic fantasy, yet it still feels modern sharp, cinematic, and emotionally grounded.

For lovers of richly imagined worlds and heartfelt hero’s journeys, The Last Magus is an absolute recommendation. It’s part steampunk, part epic fantasy, and entirely unforgettable. I can’t wait to see where Marcus Gideon’s path leads next.
Profile Image for Eleanor Seth.
17 reviews7 followers
October 5, 2025
The Last Magus is pure epic fantasy gold! The world of Attlain bursts with imagination forgotten magic, ancient rebellions, and steampunk touches that feel fresh and alive. Marcus Gideon’s rebirth with a mechanical heart is both tragic and inspiring. His bond with the old Magus, Henry Botàn, gives the story real emotional depth. The writing flows beautifully, painting vivid battles, quiet moments of reflection, and grand revelations. This isn’t just another fantasy book it feels like the start of a legend. I can’t wait to see where Gideon’s destiny as the last Magus leads next.
Profile Image for Athena Josie.
13 reviews9 followers
October 5, 2025
If you’re looking for your next immersive fantasy obsession, The Last Magus should be at the top of your list. It’s got everything rich lore, unforgettable characters, emotional stakes, and a world that feels alive. The writing is sharp and cinematic, with just the right balance of mystery and heart. I loved how the story ties the fate of one broken man to the lost legacy of an entire magical order. The author has built something special here a story that feels classic yet totally new. Highly recommended for fans of Brandon Sanderson or Patrick Rothfuss!
Profile Image for Melody Quinn.
16 reviews2 followers
October 5, 2025
If you’re a fan of authors like Brandon Sanderson, Brent Weeks, or Pierce Brown, you’ll love The Last Magus. It’s got that perfect mix of deep lore, flawed heroes, and pulse pounding action. Marcus Gideon’s mechanical heart is one of the most memorable fantasy concepts I’ve come across in years. The writing is cinematic yet emotional, the pacing never drags, and the world building rivals some of the biggest names in the genre. This feels like the start of something epic and I’m 100% here for it.
Profile Image for Anira Dane.
29 reviews3 followers
October 26, 2025
A thrilling fantasy that blends magic, mystery, and redemption, The Last Magus pulls readers into the rich world of Attlain, where power and consequence intertwine. Marcus Gideon’s rebirth through a clockwork heart is both symbolic and powerful, setting the stage for an epic journey of rediscovery. The lore of the Magus, once protectors and now outcasts, adds depth to an already captivating tale. With strong worldbuilding and emotional resonance, this story promises a new legend rising from the ashes of a fallen order. A must read for fans of magical adventure
Profile Image for Valentina Leah.
13 reviews1 follower
October 5, 2025
Wow, this was such a fun surprise! I picked up The Last Magus not knowing what to expect, and it completely drew me in. The story starts mysterious and just keeps getting better. I loved the idea of a magical mechanical heart and the mentor apprentice bond between Marcus and Henry. There’s enough mystery to keep you guessing, but also enough heart to make you care. Definitely one of those “just one more chapter” books that turn into finishing it in one sitting.
Profile Image for Avery Lily.
12 reviews
October 5, 2025
I went into The Last Magus not knowing what to expect and ended up completely obsessed! The story is so easy to follow even if you’re new to fantasy. Mark builds the world of Attlain with just the right amount of mystery and detail. Marcus Gideon’s journey from broken man to reborn hero is inspiring, and that clockwork heart idea is genius! I love how it mixes magic with machinery and emotion. By the end, I was rooting for Gideon like he was real. If this becomes a series, I’m all in!
Profile Image for Scarlett Lily.
8 reviews
October 5, 2025
This book wastes zero time throwing you into the action! From Marcus waking up at the crossroads to the first magical battle, The Last Magus moves fast and keeps your adrenaline up. The fight choreography feels cinematic, and the magical weapons are described so well I could practically see them shimmer. I love how the story balances action with introspection it’s exciting without losing heart. Totally binge worthy from start to finish!
Profile Image for Aria Madison.
11 reviews10 followers
October 5, 2025
Everyone in my fantasy book club LOVED The Last Magus! We couldn’t stop talking about the clockwork heart, the magical armory, and the mysterious past of the Magus order. Marcus Gideon quickly became a fan favorite for his mix of vulnerability and quiet strength. Some of us compared it to Mistborn or The Witcher but with a unique twist. It’s one of those stories that makes you wish you could live in its world. Definitely recommending this one to everyone I know!
Profile Image for Liane Ward.
21 reviews9 followers
October 6, 2025
Didn’t expect to love this one as much as I did. It starts fast, gets dark, then slowly builds into something pretty moving. Marcus’s story feels personal like you’re walking beside him trying to piece things together. The mentor student vibe with Henry was really touching, kind of reminded me of older fantasy classics but with a steampunk edge. The lore around the Magus order was fascinating. Hoping there’s a sequel, because the world still has so many secrets left to tell.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews

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