My last character, a felar warrior (17 int), perfected lore in 60-70 game hours, constantly spamming lore whenever I had free mana (with a few exceptions where I forgot to for a short time).

I don't think that is very extreme, but then I tend to play the same character for upwards of 200+ hours.

Actually, every one of my more recent (3rd age) non-spellcasting characters with lore has mastered it in about that same time. However, I vaguely recall one of my 2nd age arial thieves taking longer to master lore than 60-70 hours, which would lead me to believe that mastering lore has been made easier in the last five years were I able to trust my tired memory (I don't).

Anyway, think in terms of hours, not attempts. Lore isn't your ordinary skill.. its MUCH easier and more consistent to practice.