Marlin makes some good lever guns in pistol cartridges, such as 44 mag or 357. They are good for home defense, deer, and are a kick to shoot. You can also shoot the lighter loads (44, 38 special) just like if you had a revolver. Lever action 44 mag is hard to beat when it comes to reliable home defense guns.
If you don't go lever, an AR would be my pick.