Here's my 2 cents. I just got my first revolver (and handgun) in October. Since then I've shot or owned handguns by S&W (Model 29), Beretta, Sig, Ruger, Taurus, and Dan Wesson. I've settled on three guns which are what I now own, all Ruger SA's: a .357, a .44 Special, and a .45 Colt Convertible. I recommend going with a .44 Special. Once you get a .357, you'll probably soon want to try the bigger calibers. And they're a hoot to shoot. The .44 Special (mine is a Ruger blued 5 1/2 inch barrel) is extremely accurate (even more so than my .357). The report isn't so sharp and loud as the .357. It sends a nice chunk of lead toward the target....yeah, it's big but not too big. It's a fun and practical gun to own. Check one out if you can.
p.s. I just thought of something. I also got into reloading when I got these guns. I reload for the .44 Special. If you don't reload or want to, then ignore my recommendation. It's not worth going for the .44 Special if you don't reload. For a non-reloader the .357 is the way to go.
By the way, reloading is not that expensive or hard, and adds a big element of fun and pleasure to your shooting.