I've only read the first one, and found it full of mistakes, but I hear from other Disney fans who have read them all that the series overall is good. I requested the 2nd one from the library and will give it a shot. The plot was good, but the mistakes (like the take a train from the TTC to...
I think I read that the only real expensive ones are at the parks and the wedding pavillion. If you choose a gazebo somewhere on property (at a hotel patio, or maybe one of the mini golf places, it should be cheaper.
The last time we went (about 2 weeks ago), it was Mickey, Minnie and Goofy.
At 1:30 there is always a line, but after 3 we never have waited more than 5 min. or so. The line does move fast, even at 1:30.