There are several .32 caliber types. The Taurus model 731 would fit the bill in that respect for a .32 H&R magnum. 6 shots at that.
There are 12 loads for the .32 magnum and the .32 S&W Long cataloged in the 2008 catalogs themselves.
Less recoil than a .38 Special and in the same league as some .38 Special loads and the .380 ACP.
There is also the .32ACP to consider. While not a great cartridge it does provide many with the means to defend themselves well. This is a mild cartridge to fire out of .32ACP pistols.
For that there are the Keltec P32, Beretta Tomcat, or if more velocity is desired for this cartridge, Taurus makes the PT132 that holds 10 rounds.
The slide and safties would be easy to operate,recoil neglegible, and have a decent cartridge for protection. Takedown is not hard for cleaning.
Women can learn the with pistol better in some ways over a revolver.
There are the .380 ACP pistols such as the Bersa Thunder .380 and the Taurus 138 Mil/pro that are economical and fire something better than the .32ACP.
However this is something the wife needs to be educated on. Having her take a NRA or accredited local course that exposes her to the many different types,brands,makes, and models of handguns would be a good starting point.
Whether one on one or a women's only class she can learn the basics and then make an informed choice of her own.
If she started out with .22lrf revolvers and pistols and then graduated up the line to the centerfires when ready,she'd be ready for the 'big leagues' if she so chose.
There are those for who the .22lrf will be the only cartridge they will be able to use. This is not a personal failing. Just a fact. It's either that or nothing for some.
This may not be the case for your wife. She may surprise herself and others. Many women shoot the big bores and love it.
www.womenandguns.com is another resource.
In my area there is the Heritage Foundation that has NRA courses once or several times a year for women only. They are also tied into NRA basic courses for one on one.There may well be such an organization in your area dedicated to this.Local gun clubs,ranges, and gun stores whould have access to this info.
Stepping aside and letting others mentor the wife may be wise. Had to do that with my wife and daughter. Less overall tensions or problems that way.
The wife shoots .22lrf bullseye and the daughter shoots bullseye and a CZ75 quite well.
Own Taurus revolvers models 65,66,85CH, and 94. Own a Taurus PT111 Mil/pro and a PT22.
Of the revolvers 3 are in the 20 year or over mark and are still doing sterling service. So is the younger one.
No troubles with the pistols either.
"Conventional wisdom" will say Tauri are junk. They are not. Contrary to popular belief "conventional wisdom" is not so wise after all.