Have you made a purchase yet? I'm curious to know which direction you went in. I was in your shoes about 4 months ago - A novice player, interested in Blues and Rock, and ready to make a purchase but somewhat overwelmed with the options available. Like you, I combed the in internet for advice, basically receiving the same advice you have received here (which is all good). In the end, I realized that there was no perfect answer so I went with a MIM Strat due to the price (thought it was a good value for what I was willing to pay at the time) and for what I percieved as the instruments versitility (so as my interests evolved the strat would still be a suitable instrument).
So far, I've been pleased with my purchase. It is fun to play and it allows me to experiment with many different sounds/tones as I practice. I just added my first pedal yesterday which gives me a new layer of sound to explore. I'm sure that I'll continue to branch out with different types of guitars as I become more proficient and I hone my style (I have early stages of GAS) but I'm sure that I'll keep the Strat in my collection for a long while to come so it was a good purchase for me.
Not particularly trying to sell you on the Strat but more just sharing my experience. I wish you well in your journey!