For concealed carry, try this baby:
Smith And Wesson Model 649 Five-Round .357MAG / .38+P
What's with all the love for S & W on this thread? I've got four Ruger revolvers, all of which I'll put up against S & W any day of the week!
[And Rugers cost a lot less, to boot. The Smith brand is really overpriced IMHO.]
In any event, I'll most definitely vote with those who recommend a revolver for Mrs. Domenad's self-defensive weapon: Just let her start practicing with a .22 and then work up to a .38 special, or to a .357 using .38 special rounds.
[Moreover, once she gets the hang of things, I bet you'll have trouble keeping her off the range! At least that's the story in my household!]