I'm thinking of writing a guide for my alliance but here's some thoughts.
1. don't upgrade TC until you have maxed out troops and defence (and walls ideally)
2. don't upgrade economy buildings, this game is about raiding.
3. Do focus on attacking strategy and your style, if you picked British then use their unique troops (black watch rifles) as part of your troop mix.
4. Leave your TC outside walls for the occasional free shield.
5. When not in war, just use raiders for gathering loot, you will have more than you can spend.
6. spend crowns on extra house, builders are key to this game.
Will add more later