hey skymortar,
I also just started and bought a ARF (Almost ready to Fly) trainer plane by thunder tiger, the Easy trainer 40. Im about 3/4 way through the build and there is more than I expected to put together. (Been building in free time on and off for about 5 days) I chose a larger engine ( the max possible for this plane) a O.S. 46 (7.45 CC) as this would be possible for later use in more advanced planes. As it is a trainer it does not appear 'Good looking' but is necessary to learn to fly. Should be enough to get you hooked from what I hear!

Boet