it took a year to appeal and get an answer

why did they refuse it they didn't believe your relationship was genuine, becuase you had only known her a few months ??
and why didn't you just apply again ?

as for how long, depends how busy the embassy is.. days,weeks, months, who knows.. also the ECO is entitled to review any case that is older than six months and ask for resubmission of evidence

good luck thou..