In addition to everything already suggested..... Axe is for cutting trees. The mace is the best all around weapon if you play solo. Learn to parry with the shield. It's fun. Learn dodge roll skill. You'll need it.
Make cultivator and farm. Learn all the possible potions and foods. There's stuff to find in the forest.
You should be able to take down a troll with 10 or fewer arrows with the fine bow. I just use wood arrows, but you can use anything you want. It just takes a little practice. It's not that hard to kill them. Don't worry about finding them. They'll find you and you will kill them.