Some comments from the slush pile...

I interrupt the First Page Game for a very brief post...
We are now hard at work at Electric Spec on our upcoming Oct 31 issue! First, a "Thank You" to all the authors that have been submitting to us--without you, Electric Spec wouldn't exist. Second, after reading through slush, I have some advice...

As usual, I will try to convey it via a positive spin:

• Do give us an original plot. For example, evil murderers that get their just desserts or evil murderers that murder lots of people are a tough sell. If the muse is sending you murderers (!) give them an original twist.
  

• Do show us just what we need to understand your world. Please avoid info-dumping. This means your characters should rarely (never?) talk about things they all know. For example,
  "Gosh, those evil Baby-Eating Worms from planet Gooey have sure been eating a lot of babies, lately."
  
  "You're right, Stewie. And they especially like smart-ass male babies."
  
  "I know." or similar probably wouldn't sell. But, "Help! A worm is chomping on my foot!" or similar would be more effective.
  

• Do show us your story. Do include some dialog! Rarely (never?) do we buy a story with no dialog.
  

That's it for now. I'll post some more if I come across them.