OP, has your wife shot the Shield yet? I love, love, love mine. I carry on body (AIWB) and can carry it all day without a problem. Took me several months (I've only been shooting for a few years, new gun owner summer 2013) to get used to the trigger, but I'm pretty good at self-defense distances (4-7 yards), which is what it's for. I'm actually more accurate with it than with my M&P 9FS.

I think I've got about 1600 rounds, maybe more through mine. Fits my hand very well. I know a lot of women who carry them. Recoil isn't very bad. Highly recommended. Have your wife rent one first before buying.