I am lusting for a Marlin 1894CP. I have the .44 Mag version and it is wonderful. However, most JM Marlins are priced out of my budget, so I might look at a Cimarron Arms 1892. I might even think about a Ruger 77/357 to tide me over. I currently have a couple of Winchester Trappers and a H&R Handi-Rifle Trapper.
Back to the OP's question, My wife is from rural Kansas, so a lever gun is very familiar to her, the AR not so much. When I am gone, I can leave her the Trapper and all is good. She loves to shoot my AR, but does not really want to invest the time to learn how to properly operate it. So in my situation, the lever gun works best.
I have no problem leaving her with a .357 rifle, she shoots it very well, and she is very comfortable with the platform. Happiness is bliss….