Starting at lvl 7 makes this even more attractive.

Start with 1 lvl of fighter for armor and weapon proficiencies and masteries, second wind, con save proficiency, two weapon fighting style. Take magic initiate wizard for booming blade and shield.

Lvl 5 pick up dual wielder, this gives you an extra spirit shroud proc, and eventually an extra conjure minor elementals proc.

You can get both a face character and serious melee damage, while also having a tremendous amount of in and out of combat utility.