I'm keen to try the Melissa, but I haven't had a chance yet. However, I have tried the Coy, and while it wouldn't be my choice, I thought it rode really nicely. It's very predictable and forgiving. Probably the easiest board to ride that I've ever tried, but I wouldn't write it off as a beginner board. I'd call it classy insead
It just depends on how much confidence she has as a rider I guess. The Melissa sounds a bit more aggressive.