I'm just gonna quote this guy for you:
So you see it's not only me who's inept at this game. And go stuff that elitist attitude up your behind, I'm just trying to have fun here. I'm having my settings on easy but that doesn't matter since the shamans dont seem to be bosses. I can get past 1, maybe, with a few reloads. I must have gone the wrong skill build or something because the shamans kill me 4/5 times I fight them. I've tried a shit ton of builds and aspects. Am I fucked for not getting the dark elf in ch 5? Is there a way to escape without having to kill more than 1 shaman? I go where the camera pans to, you fuck, but there are more shamans in the way after going through the tunnel.
I am in no way an elitist, i would classify myself as above average at most. If you want elitist there is a guy who beat all the bosses without using tactics at the lowest level possible. But that's beside the point.
Not getting the dark elf should not matter at all. If anything the Shamans got a nerf overall since beta 1.0 , the latest version is 1.5.1(not sure if it's uploaded here yet).
I would suggest you use covenants that are resistant to rock (such as dirt devil and sia) and use attacks that rock is weak against(earth and lava).
Before breaking their shield, use Zazna's shield on yourself, and then break it, it just absorb the damage from it.
As for petrification, all you need to do is either : pilfer them using mella and they give you an item that removes it on use, or attack them 3 times (hit or miss) to get rid of it.
As for your build i personally prefer magic build since it's more versatile.
If you have the Cat Eye ring from chapter 5 shop, you should have it equipped, it should help you a little with their accuracy debuff.
P.s : i know you're frustrated and all but try to keep it civil, while i may have been passive agressive about your lack of skill, i did not start throwing swears in your direction.
Good luck.