What's the old saying, opinions are like.... Well, you know what I mean. Myself, I don't go on what the different gun mags say, alone. For instance, Gun-Tests gave the Hi-Point C9, 9mm compact a high rating. I know many people who would have just the opposite to say. But I also worked with some guys who would agree with Gun-Tests mag, and they used the Hi-Point in the field, down in New Orleans. They didn't just carry it, they used it for target practice
Yes, I know, there are others who have owned Hi-Points in the past, who would swear at it, rather than by it. But you know what, you can find lots of firearms in that category.
I agree with weregunner to a degree, don't go with or against a specific brand because of what a single gun magazine says, or what a few individuals might say. Go find a gun store with a range that rents guns. Most of them will have something that you might like.
If that fails, check with your friends see if any of them have something you might want to try.