RE: Newbie needs advice on hand gun selection
For what you described I would first look at the various model 1911's on the market. They can get pricey real quick though.
I personally hate the grips of the glock and if you are looking for a slimmer feel then Glock sure as heck aint the gun for you. I have fairly good sized hands and most Glocks grips are way too large for me.
Others to look at are Springfield XD models, Smith and Wesson M&P's, Sig Sauer, H&K.