At the moment it's a toss up between the Scott Contessa and the Saracen Kili Pro. My heart's almost set on a 29er although I'm test riding an ex-hire Lapierre with 26" wheels next week. I'd really love a shot on a VooDoo Bizango but there are none anywhere.
I tried two of the women-specific Specialized offerings and hated them. Both of them felt ponderous and upright, and wouldn't have been out of place with baskets on the front for shopping.
So for my budget of £500-700 it's probably got to be the Kili or the Contessa. Any thoughts?