OP. Seriously don't even bother. You can barely kill anyone and the stealth mechanics are a joke. I've tried my hardest to grit my teeth and bare all of the mood killers I've experienced but I just can't do it any more. Waste of tiem even trying. Be a nice hero warrior that always says yes to everyone's demands like Bethesda want you to
You must not be playing stealth right, because if anything, stealth is very powerful in Skyrim. I have my sneak high enough, combined with muffle-enchanted boots and vampirism, and I can literally sneak in front of some characters in broad daylight.
Using a bow for the sneak attacks and making distraction shots can be utterly devastating, and you never have to worry about going toe-to-toe against some of the tougher creatures if you play it smart. Most things can typically be dead before they ever have a chance to find you.
Stick to the shadows and play to the strengths of your character.
As for best race, Bosmer or Khajit are traditionally the best choices, but I tend to go with a Breton so that I can balance it out better with some magic resistance and the magic skills. I soften up my targets with arrows if I don't outright kill them, and then I burn their stupid faces with fire from my hands. It is awesome.