Specialized makes women's MTB pretty small. You might want to look at the Mykta and the Jett in your price range. They do come in 26er and 29ers. I'm waiting for October when my LBS will have their sale to try to get rid of their 2012 and promote their 2013 bikes.
____________________________________

2012 Specialized Amira Elite, upgraded carbon handle bars, Jett saddle 143mm switched to 145mm 2012 Selle Italia Max SLR Gel Flow saddle

2011 Specialized Ariel Sport,suspension post,Serfas Rx Women's Microfiber saddle