Easy-Moderate RPG suggestion for a first timer

Hi all  :)

I'm interested in getting into some of the RPG's that are out for the DS.  However I'm a relative newbie to this genre having only played the original Red Pokemon on my Gameboy back in the day (which I really did enjoy).  I think I'm most worried about choosing a game which requires expert RPG skillz....which I hardly possess at this point....don't want to be so overwhelmed that I end up not really getting into the game.  BTW - I'm an adult female who enjoys games like, Phoenix Wright, Hotel Dusk, NSMB, Mario Kart, AC:WW, Tetris, Meteos ect. 

I do plan on picking up either Pearl/Diamond Pokemon when it comes out, but in the meantime what would be a good suggestion for a RPG newbie?   Thanks!

I, uh, third the suggestion for M&L: PiT. It's a really fun game that's easy to learn, but challenges you to master. It's a light-hearted RPG that's humorous with a great cast of characters and quirky story, though.

Also, like another said, if you enjoyed Pokemon Red, give Pokemon Diamond/Pearl a shot when they come out 4/22.

The GBA Pokemon games were HUGE compared to the original GB ones you played.. so the jump from the GB one to the DS will be a monumental leap. There's tons of new stuff, plus WiFi and voice chat will only add to the game's replay value. Plus, you'll be another person to play online with when I get it, ha.

FFIII is also another RPG on the DS, though it's a bit tough.. it's still a great, traditional RPG.

I appreciate the responses.  As I said in my original post, I fully intend on picking up a copy of Diamond/Pearl come April 22...done deal there LOL.   And I am excited to check out the progression of the Pokemon games since my time with Ye Olde Red (heh).

I will definitely look into M&L Partners in Time...thanks for that suggestion!  I am really curious about the new Puzzle Quest game since I'm fairly quick on the uptake with puzzle/logic games.....maybe the RPG elements of that game would be easing into the genre? 

Forgot about Children of Mana.. if you're into action-RPGs, that's a decent title to go with. It's nothing amazing (at least not compared to Secret of Mana), but it's still a fun diversion.

Another good action-RPG is Lunar Knights. Good story, interesting characters, RPG elements with lots of action.. all masterminded by Kojima, himself.

Forgot about Children of Mana.. if you're into action-RPGs, that's a decent title to go with. It's nothing amazing (at least not compared to Secret of Mana), but it's still a fun diversion.

Another good action-RPG is Lunar Knights. Good story, interesting characters, RPG elements with lots of action.. all masterminded by Kojima, himself.