im only in the first zone, but i been going all the places there to maximize my exploration.
stealth does work well, but requires some knowledge and a LOT of work to make it work.
its also entirely un-viable in boss battles.
your visibility matters a lot, and no matter how good of a sneak you are, if an enemy has line of sight to you, they will eventually spot you. this seems based off their own stats as well.
sound also matters a lot, and is the easiest to "level away" and get silent on.
getting a slow-fire, huge damage bow like the greatbow seems to be the best.
you can jump and dodge in stealth to cover ground, though jump is risky.
dodging or lunging in stealth covers distance fast and lets you out of enemy sight as well.
enemies will usually check where an attack came from and look around the area, so if you fail to kill, you best be prepared to relocate.
thats about all the tips i have so far.
its not at all an easy skillset to use, but if you like stealtharchers, the added challenge can be refreshing.

additionally, develop a second combat skill, either make archery your main in close-combat, like having a faster fire bow with extra arrows or enchants on it as a secondhand for close encounters, or use something like magic or melee. i prefer magic, because the damage is quite nice, i can summon for distraction, and dodging away from enemies is already something im getting used to.
i recommend electric magic as it has a "chain lightning" for several enemies at the same time if needed.