If she didn't get a chance to try the Bersa Thunder 380 let me know and she can shoot ours at Eagle Creek next weekend. If you really like pink then you can change the grips.
Add in another vote for the Bersa. I know several petite women who own and fire them without flinching. Recoil on them is quite mild.
Personally, I've never handled a rimfire autoloader that I'd trust with my life. Too many misfires and jams for my comfort. If set on rimfire, I'd consider a magnum revolver.