I think for a first timer a revolver like a Smith and Wesson J Frame(short barrel two inch) or a Ruger LCR in 38 special(adequate power) would be a good start if you intend to conceal carry. Otherwise a three or four inch barrel in 38 special would be fine for home self defense. You can shoot soft recoiling loads and up the power later. Revolvers are 99.9% dependable. You can put them in a dry cool desk drawer for twenty years, never touch them, pick them up and fire them.
A 22lr revolver(same brands) would be good choice to learn with to develop good habits and shooting techniques. Buy both if you can. Go out and shoot regularly.
Eventually when you become more savvy about handling handguns, semi automatic pistols like Glocks(my first choice because of dependability), Smith and Wesson, Ruger, Beretta, Colt and Kahr all have good models to offer. The most popular pistol caliber is 9mm and 380 for self defense in conceal carry. The larger the caliber and brass shell casing the more knockdown power, and recoil.
Now if you have good help from a shooter whether it is a friend or shooting instructor, you could master a semi-automatic pistol with a bit of effort.
You might end up like me and wish you had eight arms like a octopus so you could shoot that many pistols or revolvers at one time. It is a lot of fun.
I really am learning a lot, thank you very much!