Hey Mags,
I would have her check out a compact 9mm semi auto. They hold more rounds than a revolver and if you buy a quality gun, I don't think there's significant difference in reliability. If she is comfortable shooting that round, then look at the different brands and models available.
There are lots of quality brands out there, and I usually narrow the field buy only considering made in USA guns. (You have to look on the guns. I.e, the Springfield XR is made in Croatia.) Have her hold the different models to find the one that best fits her hand. Have her rack the slide back, to make sure it's not difficult for her to do that. If you think she may want a lazer sight at some point, look at a brand/model that LazerMax makes one of their concealed lazers for that model. Look at how many rounds each model.
You may have a gun range where she can rent the models that she is interested in and can shoot them side by side to make the final selection. Have her change the mag a couple of times to see that it is intuitive and comfortable for her.
If the 9mm is too much for her, I'd look at a .380 semi. Again, look at a compact model and a quality brand.
Most of the above is based on my assumption that she will eventually get a concealed permit to carry it in her purse. If that is not likely, you don't need a compact. A standard model will kick slightly less, and will hold more rounds.
Take some gun safety training, and put in the range time.
Go Blazers
