Well, I've got a bit of a thing about revolvers too, as a peek in my safe would show. Lots of good recommendations here, but I'd suggest shooting a few and see what fits you. I have a few or so S&W...A model 17 a couple Model 14s, a couple 19s, a couple 27s, a 28, 29, 57, 629, just sold my 686....you get the picture. Also a Ruger GP100 SS 4.2" that started the whole thing which I can't sell and is a hoot, but it's taken a few thousands rounds to smooth it out. I spent a lot of time with a diamond file cleaning up the trigger and guard because of sharp edges, the finish wasn't great but is now, and they are a tank. But still.....and then I got a whole bunch of Colts (Pythons, Anaconda, King Cobras, Trooper which is in the mail, Police Positive)....so. If I was to suggest? Go with a model 19 K frame. You can shoot .38 or .357, put a custom grip on it you like, and the trigger is amazing. If you are planning on shooting strictly .38? Get a Model 14 (K38 Masterpiece). Next to my Custom Shop Tuned Python, it has the best trigger I've ever used....and it's not much behind the Colt.
Maybe take a road trip up to GP, you're not that far away. We can have a range day and you can try the whole works.....TC