seemed too long from saddle to handlebar

Sorry to ask, but was the saddle centered (or back or forward) - and how long a stem - or were the bars rolled forward?  On most bikes you have probably 6" of adjustability.

If she is after a freeride/downhill bike try the Norco B-Line 24" or Kona Stinky 24"?

Also Orange do a very small 5 - again you could fit 24" rims/wheels which would drop the standover.