Go to a gun-shop and ask questions but do not be in a hurry to buy.
Go to a range and talk to them. Most will rent by the hour and provide instruction.
Find a buddy or two that are into pistols but be aware that they may have personal biases.
You will hear a lot about the 22 not being a defense gun but you did not say that was your goal.
OTOH, I started my wife off with a 357 Ruger GP loaded with 38's. You can get reasonably priced 38's although not as cheap as 22s.
Check out Ruger 22s. They are lots of fun.