Colorado Cyclist sells the Santa Cruz Juliana for $1499. It's dual suspension, XT/LX mix, Avid brakes, Tora fork, etc. It's basically a womens specific version of their very successful Superlight. I'm not sure it's 'entry level' but it's a real bargain. The frameset alone is probably worth $1000. Check it out:
http://www.coloradocyclist.com/product/item/SNAAKRGX