This is a build queue I usually use
Cast inspiration on my own town first off, if possible sovereigns call too, or enchanted hammers.
As altar you can also try casting tutelage on your sovereign.
Start out with NO taxes and keep them there as long as possible
Pioneer
Merchant
Pioneer
Workshop, bell tower, logging camp, or study, whatever I feel I need - can also be a scout if I feel I need map coverage, although I usually either custom design a mix of militia/scout or a scout with the lowest cost possible.
Pioneer
From here on it all depends on the surroundings, grab as many shrines, clay quarries and grain boosting buildings in the vicinity.
I usually research civics right off the bat, to be able to rush buildings, and then focus on civics most up the way, grabbing "Leatherworking" and "Training" when I feel like I need some troop power.
I usually try to rush buildings with 1 turn left to build, on a lot of the low-turn buildings you can even gain money doing this. (Production will not carry over from one project to the next).
Something that can help a hard start is building a quick militia, if you need some troop power to beat the wild, either that or couple up your heroes in one stack, if its easy then split up your heroes and try getting your sovereign in a level lead, this will boost prestige to help your expansions grow faster.
Some turns into the game when you feel your main city is building quickly enough, try to get some troops on the field, hopefully fully equipped with leather armor, and spears (current version 0.952 this is my favourite).
Remember to use traits.
Sincerely
~ Kongdej