found another guide https://www.tihie.com/divinity-original-sin-ee . seems like a pretty big change from most builds, but then EE did change the game a bit. Trying to use 3 of the builds from that one (2 for the companions), and a mage from another guide. https://gamefaqs.gamespot.com/pc/170514-divinity-original-sin-enhanced-edition/faqs/72764
Basically spending time trying to get a better feel for the game and anything else that would help. looking for a few more sites to help out. Part of the tricky part is HOW to play with the spells to get the best outcome. And it seems dual wands (and dual daggers) actually help with more AP, more important then having a shield.
Have played with crafting, and blacksmith, but making armor at the levels i'm at gives WORSE armor then what you can get find/buy. But I can't find a guide (so far) about what actual specs you get vs blacksmithing/crafting.