Well it sounds like you are having fun. Keep looking around that statue where the pit trap is to reveal a key. Level 6 is good for the upper monestary but I wouldn't recomend going past level 7 for the road you take out of the monastary, in fact level six works best. You may want to also explore around the top of the waterfall befor going upstairs also if you haven't done so.
I had a dwarf fighter useing ax and mace duel wield and it worked out great. you may need to use a hammer in your off hand and an ax or cleaver in the other. You will want to talk to the arms merchant about some special items for your dwarf if you are going to use axes throughout the game.
You want to get enchanted blade, and gaurdian angel for buff spells both are devine realms and can make a big difference in your combats. I think both are priest spells. Rest all in the water realm would be wise also. I don't want to give away too much but hit every button and turn every dial it is a great game and there are little treasures everywhere.
If you get stuck
www.flamestryke.com is a great site to get immediate help from.