I will give you one word of advice. Do not stop playing, and most importantly enjoy yourself.
People here might go far as to tell you to drop shield completely if you want any kills, just don't listen to these people. They are extreme to their gameplay and do not understand why people want shields. Even if you can manually block. Do whatever you notice is making a difference, I'm new. I do this too, and it helps me a lot.
Backpedal and spam stab, it will work on idiots. Try to be unpredictable. Use all of your attack directions etc. Do not forget to nudge, but you must time it. Use your shield as a weapon, have atleast 5 Shield Skill. NO lower.
I recommend: Any norman shields, Kite Shield, Heavy Heater Shield.
But use whatever feels good to you, that's the most important part. Also be annoying, circle people with your shield up when your teammates are around. They will get confused and open their backs to a 2hander whom will probably 1hit them. If you want super agressive build, then you will just learn from experience like all things in life.
Try going for REACH in weapons. 1handers are usually short, reach will put you on a new level. You will have more stab power, more control, you will be able to sometimes right swing without any risk. Seriously, Long Arming Sword, Italian Sword and probably many others. Just use anything about 85 reach.