Glad you're here. I did almost the same thing. Bought a mtn bike first, added slick tires, and within a month realized I really wanted a road bike but was a little intimidated. Thankfully the LBS encouraged me to get a sports road bike (my Cannondale SR 800) which is a road bike with some comfort features (seat suspension, different handlebar positions, etc.). I am as happy as a lark so far, having put just over 200 miles on it since January.

I'm a newbie too at 49 and loving cycling. I'm 5 foot 6.5 so can't help you on smaller fits, but I hope you find what you're looking for real soon! Have fun.