Wonderlust by B.L. Wilde is a thrilling ride through the realms of fantasy and romance, intertwining the elements of magic, intrigue, and passion with a dexterity that caters to the tastes of young and adult readers alike. This book, which marks the onset of a promising series, lays a strong foundation with its complex characters, vivid settings, and a storyline that promises to evolve with intensity and excitement in the successive books.

The story revolves around the protagonist, Sara, a young librarian from a small town whose life takes a dramatic turn when she discovers an ancient book buried in the dark corners of her library. The book is not merely a repository of knowledge but a portal to another world — a world that mirrors our own yet is steeped in the mysteries of magic and untold power. The author, B.L. Wilde, does a splendid job of crafting Sara's character, portraying her not just as a curious soul hungry for adventure but also as a resilient woman who faces her fears and challenges head-on.

As Sara delves deeper into this new world, she comes across Corin, an enigmatic figure with secrets of his own. Corin, a guardian of the realm she steps into, is bound by duty to protect his world’s mysteries but finds himself drawn to Sara with a force that both bewilders and excites him. The chemistry between Sara and Corin is palpable and one of the highlights of the book. Wilde manages to build their relationship with a mix of tenderness and tension, making their moments together a captivating read.

One of Wilde’s most commendable feats in Wonderlust is her ability to create a fantastical world that feels entirely believable and extraordinarily vivid. From the lush landscapes of the mystic realms to the dark underbelly of its political machinations, each aspect of the world is richly detailed, pulling the reader into an immersive experience. The dichotomy between the beauty of the land and the danger that lurks beneath its surface serves as a perfect metaphor for the characters’ internal conflicts and the choices they must face.

The narrative is well-paced, with just the right amount of thrill and suspense to keep the pages turning. However, it’s the emotional depth and the moral dilemmas that give this tale its flesh and blood. As Sara navigates through love, loyalty, and the pursuit of her own identity, she becomes a character that resonates with the reader, her struggles and victories echoing long after the last page is turned.

In terms of criticism, while Wonderlust offers a riveting plot, there are occasions where certain scenes, especially those that involve the deeper intricacies of the new world’s lore, may feel a tad rushed. A more gradual unveiling of the world’s complexity could perhaps enhance the reader's connection to the story. Additionally, some secondary characters come across as underdeveloped, leaving a bit of a gap in an otherwise intricate tapestry of interactions and relationships.

Furthermore, Wilde uses a series of twists that, mostly, hit the mark in terms of shock and relevance but occasionally verge on being predictable. This is only slightly detrimental to the narrative’s overall impact, though, as the main plot is robust and engaging enough to smooth over these smaller hitches.

Wonderlust is more than just a fantasy romance. It is a thought-provoking exploration of self-discovery and the quest for truth, wrapped in an exhilarating adventure that captivates and charms. B.L. Wilde’s prose is elegant yet accessible, making it a smooth and enjoyable read. As the curtain falls on the climax, Wilde masterfully sets the stage for a sequel, leaving the reader hungry for more of this enchanting universe.

All in all, Wonderlust is a stellar beginning to what promises to be an enthralling series. For fans of fantasy and romance alike, this book offers a perfect blend of both worlds—a magical escapade that promises to keep its audience bewitched from start to finish. B.L. Wilde’s work is commendable, and her potential as a storyteller in this genre shines brightly, marking her as an author to watch out for in the realms of fantasy literature.