Tips for playing Deande / Am I doing it wrong? / Is she underpowered?

I just recently sacrificed a baby to the devil dedicated quite a lot of time to unlocking Deande through playing The Heliophage on Advanced. After several failed expeditions with groups, I eventually managed to (somehow) solo it with Miko by means of lots of kiting, attack damage/life steal, and abundant care.

Unlocking Deande was a triumphant moment.

Though after playing a PvE - and later a PvP match with her, I am... underwhelmed. And a little disappointed. I can't determine whether I just need to practice with her or whether she's just not as viable as some of the other heroes.

It may be worth noting that I am a bit of a sucker for style over substance. I'm the kind-of nerdy gamer that will play a character who looks cool - even if there's a less flashy character that's a lot better in terms of numbers and skill talents.

My "melee go-to" right now is Phoebe. She's a brilliant duelist and can rip people to shreds with her attack speed. She has tonnes of abilities to help her engage and escape.

I feel like playing Deande has the potential to be just as brilliant, but she has a much sharper skill requirement. But I am just having trouble seeing whether all of that trouble is worth it.

Can anyone give me some insight? Suggestions? Thanks in advance!