The Ex was not too interested in pistols - until she realized they were an 'accessory' and a good excuse to buy a new purse or 2 designed to carry a hidden pistol. I kid you not. A reason for a new purse? She's so there!
http://www.armedinheels.com
concealed-carry-purses/
My info is fairly old, as the ex beat it years ago and the Concealed Carry choices have improved. At that time I gave her a good Hi Standard .22 derringer, over-and-under. I got it from my Dad (and I wish I had it back because of that, but them's the breaks) You can make a case for carrying something w/more ammo and more 'bark - I won't argue BUT she weighed about 105 and the derringer was flat and tiny, about all we could hide on her at the time. Concealed holsters are better today, of course.
This particular pistol was very slim and it didn't weigh much. It was designed to be carried much and shot seldom. Frankly, NO FUN to fire often and I didn't think I could hit w/it past 15 feet - but at 5 feet I'd say it beats a sharp word and an angry look. Had there been more time we might have gone for a small Beretta tip-up in .22 - or one of the little Beretta 'Tomcats' in .32acp.
They made these in .22 magnum, but if you choose to go w/this little 2 shot, I do not recommend a .22 magnum for tiny hands - the magnums are more bark, by far, than the good old .22 long rifle. I know some fellows who carry a .22 magnum as a hide out' gun, and I assure you I don't want 'em shooting at me. Perhaps these are not manstoppers - but they ARE mankillers. - I don't want to get shot a couple of times by either one of 'em.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AmeVN1bIUN4