I just don't get combat in this game

I talked to Benard and learned the master strike (which is just perfect parrying right?) But combat is really tough, even in a 1 on 1. The problem is that enemies are REALLY good at doing them to!

My main level is only 7 right now so I don't expect to be amazing or anything, but I can only get in at most one hit (which is blocked) before I get parried and take damage. I'm using a short sword and shield and learned a few combos, but I can't even try to use the combos before I'm taking damage from just simply swinging my sword.

Am I just too low of a level or is this how combat tends to be? Am I doomed for the rest of the game to be parried to death?