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Hell's Eight #8
Luke's Cut
He's the last bachelor standing among the men of Hell's Eight, and he'll settle for nothing less than passion...
Unencumbered by wife or family, Luke Bellen is the obvious member of Hell's Eight to lead a treacherous trek across Comanche territory. But Luke suspects he will never know another minute's peace when photographer Josie Kinder joins the wagon train. Whip-smart Josie has a voluptuous figure, a sunny disposition and a knack for getting into dangerous scrapes in pursuit of the perfect shot. Luke thinks Josie's too young, too sweet to be despoiled by the rough life and hard-bitten land he loves.
But independent Josie won't let any man--however commanding--decide what's best for her. Beneath their playful banter is a powerful current of lust--pure, but not so simple. If only Luke weren't so damned proper, he'd see that the years between them don't matter a whit, not when a single touch can set them both ablaze. Josie's hell-bent on having it all, and that includes keeping Luke in the picture...unless the vengeful bandits on their trail find them first.
Unencumbered by wife or family, Luke Bellen is the obvious member of Hell's Eight to lead a treacherous trek across Comanche territory. But Luke suspects he will never know another minute's peace when photographer Josie Kinder joins the wagon train. Whip-smart Josie has a voluptuous figure, a sunny disposition and a knack for getting into dangerous scrapes in pursuit of the perfect shot. Luke thinks Josie's too young, too sweet to be despoiled by the rough life and hard-bitten land he loves.
But independent Josie won't let any man--however commanding--decide what's best for her. Beneath their playful banter is a powerful current of lust--pure, but not so simple. If only Luke weren't so damned proper, he'd see that the years between them don't matter a whit, not when a single touch can set them both ablaze. Josie's hell-bent on having it all, and that includes keeping Luke in the picture...unless the vengeful bandits on their trail find them first.
384 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published November 23, 2017
76 people are currently reading
1116 people want to read
About the author
Sarah McCarty
56 books1,068 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name.
(1)romance author
Sarah has traveled extensively throughout her life, living in other cultures, sometimes in areas where electricity was a concept awaiting fruition and a book was an extreme luxury. While she could easily adjust to the lack of electricity, living without the comfort of a good book was intolerable. To fill the void, she bought pencil and paper and sketched out her own story. In the process, Sarah discovered the joy of writing.
Sarah writes what she loves to read; fast paced stories with vivid dialogue, intense emotion and well developed characters. Her attention to detail in her stories has earned her multiple awards and a reserved spot on Keeper shelves everywhere.
Sarah writes for Ellora's Cave, Harlequin HQN, Harlequin SPICE, Berkley HEAT and Berkley SENSATION.
(1)romance author
Sarah has traveled extensively throughout her life, living in other cultures, sometimes in areas where electricity was a concept awaiting fruition and a book was an extreme luxury. While she could easily adjust to the lack of electricity, living without the comfort of a good book was intolerable. To fill the void, she bought pencil and paper and sketched out her own story. In the process, Sarah discovered the joy of writing.
Sarah writes what she loves to read; fast paced stories with vivid dialogue, intense emotion and well developed characters. Her attention to detail in her stories has earned her multiple awards and a reserved spot on Keeper shelves everywhere.
Sarah writes for Ellora's Cave, Harlequin HQN, Harlequin SPICE, Berkley HEAT and Berkley SENSATION.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
September 29, 2017
ARC received for review
It was good, but not as good as the first two books.
Luke, the last single man of the Hell's Eight, finally meets his darling, Josie. It was slow in parts and hot in others. Loved seeing some of the gang again, especially Sam & Bella.
Now I know this is the last member of Hell's Eight, but there was a story line started in this book that didn't reach it's conclusion...does that mean there's another book?
It was good, but not as good as the first two books.
Luke, the last single man of the Hell's Eight, finally meets his darling, Josie. It was slow in parts and hot in others. Loved seeing some of the gang again, especially Sam & Bella.
Now I know this is the last member of Hell's Eight, but there was a story line started in this book that didn't reach it's conclusion...does that mean there's another book?
November 27, 2017
Luke’s Cut is the eighth book in the Hell’s Eight series and it is a great addition to the erotic historical romance series. Luke Bellen is the last one who is still single and wonders if he is meant to settle down. He’s seen big changes at Hell’s Eight ranch and can’t put his finger on it but he’s looking for something more. What he can’t figure is why the pretty photographer has caught his eye. Josie Kinder is here to photograph her uncle’s wedding and is so contrary to Luke that every move she makes somehow aggravates him. She senses it too and wonders what she could have done to get under his skin. Things go from prickly to hot and sensuous when they are both trekking across Texas in Comanche territory, and Luke sees there is more to the woman and he likes it.
I like the pairing of Luke with Josie because they were both were what the other needed. They may be opposites in many ways but they both have an artistic side of them and they both appreciated it in the other. He also saw a lusty, passionate in her that was dying to get out and he had no problem bringing it out in her. It might have been rocky in the beginning but she grew on him and he found out that she was stronger than he originally predicted. She’s an easterner and not use to the western ways and the harshness of life in the wilds of Texas. Somehow she showed gumption when faced with the bandits, a tornado and the Indians. What she just needed is a bit of soul searching to see what she wanted in life and if she could have it all. Thankfully Luke showed her it can be easy if you trust another with your heart.
It has been a pleasure reading this series and learning so much in the process. Sarah McCarty’s writing shows the reality of the west in the 1800’s and the conditions for women, all in a historical romance story. It was good to see the other characters from previous stories, and see the big changes happening especially for Sam and Bella. My only regret in this story is that there wasn’t an epilogue. I felt like it left me hanging there in the end. It would have been nice to see a glimpse in the future and how the Hell’s Eight men are doing with life and their loves.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
I like the pairing of Luke with Josie because they were both were what the other needed. They may be opposites in many ways but they both have an artistic side of them and they both appreciated it in the other. He also saw a lusty, passionate in her that was dying to get out and he had no problem bringing it out in her. It might have been rocky in the beginning but she grew on him and he found out that she was stronger than he originally predicted. She’s an easterner and not use to the western ways and the harshness of life in the wilds of Texas. Somehow she showed gumption when faced with the bandits, a tornado and the Indians. What she just needed is a bit of soul searching to see what she wanted in life and if she could have it all. Thankfully Luke showed her it can be easy if you trust another with your heart.
It has been a pleasure reading this series and learning so much in the process. Sarah McCarty’s writing shows the reality of the west in the 1800’s and the conditions for women, all in a historical romance story. It was good to see the other characters from previous stories, and see the big changes happening especially for Sam and Bella. My only regret in this story is that there wasn’t an epilogue. I felt like it left me hanging there in the end. It would have been nice to see a glimpse in the future and how the Hell’s Eight men are doing with life and their loves.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
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November 14, 2025Bored. If there is a connection between the MCs, I failed to see it. ☹️
November 27, 2017
Luke Bellen is the last bachelor of the infamous and dangerous Hell's Eight and seeing all the happily married couples around him has made him feel restless. Unlike his friends, he doesn't feel ready for settling down on the ranch, but that doesn't mean he doesn't feel a little lonely when he sees the closeness the other couples have. Josey Kinder has spent most her life for apologising for existing and doing her best to become invisible, however, heading into the rough and beautiful terrain of the West calls to the wilder side of herself that she keeps hidden. Luke also seems to be chasing the mouse out of her as he seems to simultaneously provokes and cares for her. However, as they travel together through dangerous territory Josey realised it isn't only her heart she is risking, but as bandits continue to pursue them, maybe her life as well.Three years! Three years I have been waiting for this book, in what I assume to be the final book in the Hell's Eight series, where we finally see the last lonely bachelor taking down by love. Was it worth the wait? Those long lonely three years? Honestly, I am not sure. I liked this book and as someone who doesn't like to leave things unfinished I am glad we now have a full and complete set of paired up Hell's Eight men. However, if I take that sense of tidiness and order away and look at the book in isolation...it was a good read but probably not worth waiting three years for.
Luke's Cut also felt strangely un-Sarah McCarty like, I am used to her red hot, erotic historical westerns, which is what I was expecting in this book. But, this book definitely dialled down on the sexiness scale, she didn't even have her customary anal sex (anyone who has read any amount of McCarty will know what I mean, I am pretty sure it happens in EVERY book she has written) and I missed it! Not necessarily the anal sex thing, but I loved how erotic these book were, so in comparison Luke's Cut felt a little Luke warm - haha did you see what I did there?
Sexiness aside, I did like the romance between Luke and Josey, there was some good back and forth between them and I enjoyed seeing Luke help bring Josey out of her shell. I also liked that Josey wasn't just a damsel in distress type, despite having no survival skills she some how managed to hold her own and keep Luke on his toes. Which, is exactly what Luke needed, unlike the others in Hell's Eight Luke doesn't want to settle down, he hasn't quenched his thirst for adventure yet and luckily neither has Josey, another reason why they are perfect for one another.
Luke's Cut although not my favourite book in the series, was a nice end to the Hell's Eight series. I am keeping my fingers crossed though and hoping that McCarty will start a new spin off series for the Montoya Ranch! That way I can still see my Hell's Eight honey bunnies AND see some more of the sexy Montoya men.
*ARC provided by publisher
Reviewed by Suzanne❤ ♡ Don't want to miss any of our posts? Subscribe to our blog by email! ♡ ❤
February 14, 2022
Alright. So like 5 years ago or whatever, I was ready to kill to read this book. Then my own damn life got in the way, shit happens, all that, and it got pushed aside, along with every other book on my TBR. Now, though, I’m settling in. Give me the sweet, sweet steaminess! I may not remember much about the earlier books in this series, since it’s been so sadly long, but I’m past caring about the little stuff. It’s cold outside, and I wanna be warm xD
Finished. First off I’ll mention the steam level in this one seemed a lot lower than what I remember the others in this series being. But, as it’s been a good 6 years at least since I read those others, maybe it’s just me? There were only two scene scenes if ya know what I mean, and both toward the end. They were good, sexy, sweet, but hot, so don’t get me wrong, and I especially liked the frank language, the lack of euphemisms, that was totes cool with me, because sometimes you just gotta take the purple shades off and go all in. I just remember the others in the series being much naughtier, maybe? I’m so not actually complaining though, because the story itself, the plot, the action (and let me go on a tangent for a sec and note there is no lack of action here! From a tornado, to bandits, to all sorts of other danger and high emotions, it kept me turning pages, and losing track of time.) and the development of the relationship between Josie and Luke, and all the other characters and happenings was most definitely the star attraction here. I liked both of them very much, and I could especially relate to Josie with the nervousness around people, trying to not be noticed, definitely avoid being the center of attention no matter what. The fact that she was a photographer was an awesome detail too. I enjoyed the descriptions of how the photos were made, technically, as well as her artistic vision for the photos. Not sure if I’ve ever had a photographer heroine before, so I really liked that, it was interesting and different. Luke, well, obviously I liked him. He was strong and dominant, but in a good way, not only physically looking out for her safety and well-being, but caring about how she would feel or react to his actions, letting her figure out how she wanted their relationship to grow instead of being forceful. He let her know straight up that he was interested in her, and then the ball was in her court so to say. They went good together, complimented each other in a fun way.
I also liked seeing some of the other Hell’s Eight guys again. As one who didn’t fully recall them, I rather appreciated the author sort of reintroducing them and their wives with a quick few sentences each in the beginning there as they were all gathered at Jarl and Hester’s wedding. It helped remind me a quick bit, like ah, yea, them! Like, ok, got it. Helped center me back into that world. Getting into this book also totally reminded me of how absolute freaking much I like this author’s style!! Like, I’m desperate for more, give me more! I’m so flipping psyched to see the long-awaited Scottish story, Graham, is out nowadays, like where have I been?! And another entry in the Promises series too! So def slapped them straight on the wish list and, oh yea, bumping the other ones I still needed in the Promises series up in level of urgency to acquire too. I need to catch up!
I’m happy to have finally read this book. It was worth the wait, and I feel like it almost came to me at a perfect time. It made me happy, and kind of excited to continue on this journey of getting back into reading and plugging through my long-neglected TBR. It’s been a long time coming, and as Jack Sparrow would say, bring me that horizon! Onward I go :D
Finished. First off I’ll mention the steam level in this one seemed a lot lower than what I remember the others in this series being. But, as it’s been a good 6 years at least since I read those others, maybe it’s just me? There were only two scene scenes if ya know what I mean, and both toward the end. They were good, sexy, sweet, but hot, so don’t get me wrong, and I especially liked the frank language, the lack of euphemisms, that was totes cool with me, because sometimes you just gotta take the purple shades off and go all in. I just remember the others in the series being much naughtier, maybe? I’m so not actually complaining though, because the story itself, the plot, the action (and let me go on a tangent for a sec and note there is no lack of action here! From a tornado, to bandits, to all sorts of other danger and high emotions, it kept me turning pages, and losing track of time.) and the development of the relationship between Josie and Luke, and all the other characters and happenings was most definitely the star attraction here. I liked both of them very much, and I could especially relate to Josie with the nervousness around people, trying to not be noticed, definitely avoid being the center of attention no matter what. The fact that she was a photographer was an awesome detail too. I enjoyed the descriptions of how the photos were made, technically, as well as her artistic vision for the photos. Not sure if I’ve ever had a photographer heroine before, so I really liked that, it was interesting and different. Luke, well, obviously I liked him. He was strong and dominant, but in a good way, not only physically looking out for her safety and well-being, but caring about how she would feel or react to his actions, letting her figure out how she wanted their relationship to grow instead of being forceful. He let her know straight up that he was interested in her, and then the ball was in her court so to say. They went good together, complimented each other in a fun way.
I also liked seeing some of the other Hell’s Eight guys again. As one who didn’t fully recall them, I rather appreciated the author sort of reintroducing them and their wives with a quick few sentences each in the beginning there as they were all gathered at Jarl and Hester’s wedding. It helped remind me a quick bit, like ah, yea, them! Like, ok, got it. Helped center me back into that world. Getting into this book also totally reminded me of how absolute freaking much I like this author’s style!! Like, I’m desperate for more, give me more! I’m so flipping psyched to see the long-awaited Scottish story, Graham, is out nowadays, like where have I been?! And another entry in the Promises series too! So def slapped them straight on the wish list and, oh yea, bumping the other ones I still needed in the Promises series up in level of urgency to acquire too. I need to catch up!
I’m happy to have finally read this book. It was worth the wait, and I feel like it almost came to me at a perfect time. It made me happy, and kind of excited to continue on this journey of getting back into reading and plugging through my long-neglected TBR. It’s been a long time coming, and as Jack Sparrow would say, bring me that horizon! Onward I go :D
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December 2, 2017Received 4 stars @ RT Book Reviews
Miniseries: Hell's Eight book 8
Miniseries: Hell's Eight book 8
January 27, 2018
This wasn't as bad and as smexed up as some of the the others in the series to me and had a bit more substance and better editing than in the past.
February 3, 2021
That’s it, I’m definitely taking a book break.
The writing style deserves the rating but yeeesh! I keep looking for magic in Sarah McCarty ever since Promises Linger but I suppose I’ll never find another Asa MacIntyre ever again.
The borderline tstl heroine and plodding plotline (I mean that literally—the world’s most boring caravan journey) made me shake my tablet out of frustration. I dont understand the heroine’s damage nor the hero’s restlessness outside of the repetitive blanket statements of “I dont belong” 🙄🙄🙄.
ALSO, plot aside, there wasnt any of the pearl clutching content I came for! The novel is tagged erotica but it’s tame, not even CW channel-esque. What a total yawn-fest.
The writing style deserves the rating but yeeesh! I keep looking for magic in Sarah McCarty ever since Promises Linger but I suppose I’ll never find another Asa MacIntyre ever again.
The borderline tstl heroine and plodding plotline (I mean that literally—the world’s most boring caravan journey) made me shake my tablet out of frustration. I dont understand the heroine’s damage nor the hero’s restlessness outside of the repetitive blanket statements of “I dont belong” 🙄🙄🙄.
ALSO, plot aside, there wasnt any of the pearl clutching content I came for! The novel is tagged erotica but it’s tame, not even CW channel-esque. What a total yawn-fest.
November 5, 2017
Posted on Les Romantiques - Le forum du site
Reviewed by Fabiola
Review Copy from the Publisher
Luke’s Cut is the 8th and last volume in the Hell’s Eight series by Sarah McCarty. It’s a very peculiar series with some very dark volumes and other more light. Strangely (or not lol), my favorites are the lightest ones. Luke’s Cut is indeed the lightest volume and I think she concludes it perfectly.
The Hell’s Eight series is an addictive one I discovered with Sam and Bella’s story in Sam’s Creed, and I read it totally. The author succeeded perfectly in interesting the reader to her story and her universe.
The story takes place sometime after the end of Ace’s Wild (my review is here https://www.goodreads.com/review/show... ). At the end of this volume, I had more or less thought of another heroine for Luke and I said in my review “I hope I’m not mistaken. Because if it’s not her, I think I’ll be really disappointed.” Well, Luke’s heroine is totally different, and yet I’m not disappointed. LOL When I say the author is very talented, I don’t joke.
So we discover a new female character: Josie Kinder, for whom the hero has had a very strong attraction for sometimes now, to which he doesn’t want to yield. Luke Bellen saw all his friends get married in the course of the series, and he feels it’s time for him to think about what he likes doing: go on adventures. And why not find someone for himself? But before that, he has a last mission for the Hell’s Eight, protecting a convoy made of Tia, the woman all the hell’s Eight consider as a mother. And of course Josie will be part of this convoy.
Over the days, our heroes have more and more difficulty resisting to their attraction, however the love scenes arrive very late in the story. First because Josie is illegitimate, and she grew up with the idea she shouldn’t let her desires and dreams talk. Also, even if she has strong feelings for Luke, she dreams of freedom and doesn’t want someone to thwart this project. So she must make choices.
Luke as for him takes really quickly the decision to keep her, but he prefers to give her space, all the while never hesitating to relentlessly woo her to show her he wants her.
Luke and Josie make a beautiful couple with the same aspirations, but they don’t realise it straightaway. Their attraction is palpable in the book and the evolution of the love story is very beautiful.
As for the broached themes, the author tells us about photography while using technical vocabulary showing she’s done good researches. Sarah McCarty also tells us about the beginning of C-section, one of the biggest progress regarding birthing.
To conclude, Luke’s Cut is a volume to read. Fans will perhaps find it too light, but for me it was great like this.
Reviewed by Fabiola
Review Copy from the Publisher
Luke’s Cut is the 8th and last volume in the Hell’s Eight series by Sarah McCarty. It’s a very peculiar series with some very dark volumes and other more light. Strangely (or not lol), my favorites are the lightest ones. Luke’s Cut is indeed the lightest volume and I think she concludes it perfectly.
The Hell’s Eight series is an addictive one I discovered with Sam and Bella’s story in Sam’s Creed, and I read it totally. The author succeeded perfectly in interesting the reader to her story and her universe.
The story takes place sometime after the end of Ace’s Wild (my review is here https://www.goodreads.com/review/show... ). At the end of this volume, I had more or less thought of another heroine for Luke and I said in my review “I hope I’m not mistaken. Because if it’s not her, I think I’ll be really disappointed.” Well, Luke’s heroine is totally different, and yet I’m not disappointed. LOL When I say the author is very talented, I don’t joke.
So we discover a new female character: Josie Kinder, for whom the hero has had a very strong attraction for sometimes now, to which he doesn’t want to yield. Luke Bellen saw all his friends get married in the course of the series, and he feels it’s time for him to think about what he likes doing: go on adventures. And why not find someone for himself? But before that, he has a last mission for the Hell’s Eight, protecting a convoy made of Tia, the woman all the hell’s Eight consider as a mother. And of course Josie will be part of this convoy.
Over the days, our heroes have more and more difficulty resisting to their attraction, however the love scenes arrive very late in the story. First because Josie is illegitimate, and she grew up with the idea she shouldn’t let her desires and dreams talk. Also, even if she has strong feelings for Luke, she dreams of freedom and doesn’t want someone to thwart this project. So she must make choices.
Luke as for him takes really quickly the decision to keep her, but he prefers to give her space, all the while never hesitating to relentlessly woo her to show her he wants her.
Luke and Josie make a beautiful couple with the same aspirations, but they don’t realise it straightaway. Their attraction is palpable in the book and the evolution of the love story is very beautiful.
As for the broached themes, the author tells us about photography while using technical vocabulary showing she’s done good researches. Sarah McCarty also tells us about the beginning of C-section, one of the biggest progress regarding birthing.
To conclude, Luke’s Cut is a volume to read. Fans will perhaps find it too light, but for me it was great like this.
September 24, 2017
A final return to the Western Frontier with the last man of the Hell's Eight to finally find his woman.
Luke Bellen is feeling a bit nostalgic. Both for times past and a little envy that all of the men he went through hell with as children have all now found their mate and are settling down and starting families.
It's due to this he agrees to accompany the woman that took them in and raised them to the Montoya Ranch to help with the delivering of Sam and Bella first child. As this requires traveling through Comanche territory a team of men are needed for protection. So along with men Sam sent from the Ranch, Tia and her husband Ed, and the surprise addition of photographer Josey Kinder the wagon train sets off.
One thing I've always through this author does beautifully is her descriptions of the wild west and a realistic view of how tough it was living in those days. The group encounter a storm and tornado along the way and when you're out in the middle of the frontier there is no warning or even places to take shelter – you felt like you were experiencing it right along with the characters – intense and scary.
Luke and Josey (as with most of the Hell's 8 couples) couldn't be more different. That is another thing that has always set this series apart is how she can take two people from different walks of life – ethnicity, religion, tragic pasts – and make them work together.
I enjoyed this story and also getting to experience the birth (harrowing as it was) of Sam and Bella children.
My only hope as I finished this book – and its a big one – is that the author would do one more book bringing all the Hell's Eight back together or at least giving us an update on all 8 couples. We got a glimpse of a few through this book but I would love a wrap up book. It's been an incredible journey since first meeting Caine Allen and the men that make up Hell's Eight.
Luke Bellen is feeling a bit nostalgic. Both for times past and a little envy that all of the men he went through hell with as children have all now found their mate and are settling down and starting families.
It's due to this he agrees to accompany the woman that took them in and raised them to the Montoya Ranch to help with the delivering of Sam and Bella first child. As this requires traveling through Comanche territory a team of men are needed for protection. So along with men Sam sent from the Ranch, Tia and her husband Ed, and the surprise addition of photographer Josey Kinder the wagon train sets off.
One thing I've always through this author does beautifully is her descriptions of the wild west and a realistic view of how tough it was living in those days. The group encounter a storm and tornado along the way and when you're out in the middle of the frontier there is no warning or even places to take shelter – you felt like you were experiencing it right along with the characters – intense and scary.
Luke and Josey (as with most of the Hell's 8 couples) couldn't be more different. That is another thing that has always set this series apart is how she can take two people from different walks of life – ethnicity, religion, tragic pasts – and make them work together.
I enjoyed this story and also getting to experience the birth (harrowing as it was) of Sam and Bella children.
My only hope as I finished this book – and its a big one – is that the author would do one more book bringing all the Hell's Eight back together or at least giving us an update on all 8 couples. We got a glimpse of a few through this book but I would love a wrap up book. It's been an incredible journey since first meeting Caine Allen and the men that make up Hell's Eight.
October 22, 2017
As this one started out Luke was a bit melancholy, it seems like he was being left behind with all of his Hell's Eight mates finding their women. It didn't help that the a friend was getting married to a women he hoped would be his. I think Luke knew this woman wasn't for him, but he wanted what his friends had.
I wasn't sure about Josie at first, but as the book went on I really liked her. Loved how she kept Luke on his toes and he threw Josie off. When Josie could relax she had fun with Luke during some crazy events realizing that she could depend on Luke. Luke seemed to really like Josie and her unusual ways to look at things.
I loved that when push came to shove Josie chose the right thing and did so in a way that Luke was sure she was also choosing him.
I wasn't sure about Josie at first, but as the book went on I really liked her. Loved how she kept Luke on his toes and he threw Josie off. When Josie could relax she had fun with Luke during some crazy events realizing that she could depend on Luke. Luke seemed to really like Josie and her unusual ways to look at things.
I loved that when push came to shove Josie chose the right thing and did so in a way that Luke was sure she was also choosing him.
October 26, 2017
The sweetest book in the series :-) Fans will be surprised.
I would have loved an epilogue with every one of the Hell's Eight men and their mate, their family and their friends.
I would have loved an epilogue with every one of the Hell's Eight men and their mate, their family and their friends.
December 5, 2017
3.5 Stars
Luke Bellen is the last bachelor of the infamous and dangerous Hell’s Eight and seeing all the happily married couples around him has made him feel restless. Unlike his friends, he doesn’t feel ready for settling down on the ranch, but that doesn’t mean he doesn’t feel a little lonely when he sees the closeness the other couples have. Josey Kinder has spent most her life for apologising for existing and doing her best to become invisible, however, heading into the rough and beautiful terrain of the West calls to the wilder side of herself that she keeps hidden. Luke also seems to be chasing the mouse out of her as he seems to simultaneously provokes and cares for her. However, as they travel together through dangerous territory Josey realised it isn’t only her heart she is risking, but as bandits continue to pursue them, maybe her life as well.
Three years! Three years I have been waiting for this book, in what I assume to be the final book in the Hell’s Eight series, where we finally see the last lonely bachelor taking down by love. Was it worth the wait? Those long lonely three years? Honestly, I am not sure. I liked this book and as someone who doesn’t like to leave things unfinished I am glad we now have a full and complete set of paired up Hell’s Eight men. However, if I take that sense of tidiness and order away and look at the book in isolation…it was a good read but probably not worth waiting three years for.
Luke’s Cut also felt strangely un-Sarah McCarty like, I am used to her red hot, erotic historical westerns, which is what I was expecting in this book. But, this book definitely dialled down on the sexiness scale, she didn’t even have her customary anal sex (anyone who has read any amount of McCarty will know what I mean, I am pretty sure it happens in EVERY book she has written) and I missed it! Not necessarily the anal sex thing, but I loved how erotic these book were, so in comparison Luke’s Cut felt a little Luke warm – haha did you see what I did there?
Sexiness aside, I did like the romance between Luke and Josey, there was some good back and forth between them and I enjoyed seeing Luke help bring Josey out of her shell. I also liked that Josey wasn’t just a damsel in distress type, despite having no survival skills she some how managed to hold her own and keep Luke on his toes. Which, is exactly what Luke needed, unlike the others in Hell’s Eight Luke doesn’t want to settle down, he hasn’t quenched his thirst for adventure yet and luckily neither has Josey, another reason why they are perfect for one another.
Luke’s Cut although not my favourite book in the series, was a nice end to the Hell’s Eight series. I am keeping my fingers crossed though and hoping that McCarty will start a new spin off series for the Montoya Ranch! That way I can still see my Hell’s Eight honey bunnies AND see some more of the sexy Montoya men.
December 8, 2017
Seems like she ran of of eroticism with this one. No way near as hot and steamy as the others. It was a disappointing ending to a series for me.
May 21, 2018
I absolutely loved Caine's Reckoning and it's strong successor, Sam's Creed. After that, the books started to go rapidly downhill. They felt formulaic and the larger story that tied them together soon was resolved without involving, in any substantial way, the last 4 men of Hell's Eight. For all intents and purposes, McCarty could have had Hell's Four and then started a different book series for the others. Where the earlier books introduced you to some degree to the next man in line for a book of his own, that didn't happen after Tracker's Sin. Tucker's Claim and Tracker's story, together with Caine and Sam's, introduced you to Shadow. But Shadow's Stand didn't introduce you to Caden in advance of Caden's Vow and we really weren't introduced to Ace in that book to lead into Ace's Wild. Ace's story did introduce Luke, but not in the same way as the first 4 books developed the men to follow.
Then add the bizarre and atrocious way that Ace's Wild decided to copy 50 Shades of Grey for some inexplicable reason that didn't jive with the way any of the other men were and made no sense to the world that had been previously built and you've got a messy, disappointing series. Not to mention one that noticeably and tragically stops including basically every character of color despite making a big deal about their inclusion at the beginning.
That being said, I do believe that Luke's Cut at least ended the series on a high note. While we don't get to revisit all of the couples the way we should in a finale and there wasn't nearly the level of intrigue, drama, danger, and sex that punctuated certainly the first 2 books (and to a certain extent the first 4), we do get a satisfying glimpse of the solid story building that made the beginning of this series so enthralling.
Then add the bizarre and atrocious way that Ace's Wild decided to copy 50 Shades of Grey for some inexplicable reason that didn't jive with the way any of the other men were and made no sense to the world that had been previously built and you've got a messy, disappointing series. Not to mention one that noticeably and tragically stops including basically every character of color despite making a big deal about their inclusion at the beginning.
That being said, I do believe that Luke's Cut at least ended the series on a high note. While we don't get to revisit all of the couples the way we should in a finale and there wasn't nearly the level of intrigue, drama, danger, and sex that punctuated certainly the first 2 books (and to a certain extent the first 4), we do get a satisfying glimpse of the solid story building that made the beginning of this series so enthralling.
Want to read
December 5, 2025This is my review of 1-7, all in audio. I wish this final one was also recorded!!!
Audio-Hell's Eight #1-7 1800s Texas Rangers-grew up together after all their families were murdered when they were children. As boys, they buried each other's parents then struggled to survive without starving. As they grew up, raised by the woman who took them in after they tried to steal food from her, they set out to avenge their families. That's how they got their reputation as Hell's Eight. Becoming Texas Rangers made them the law instead of outlaws.
This was a rough, but not false depiction of life for frontier women in the 1800s in Texas, so be prepared. Notice the Award for Caine's Reckoning--All About Romance (AAR) Annual Reader Poll for Best American History/Frontier Romance 2008
I enjoyed the series but was sorry that the last book, Luke's Cut wasn't published in audio. I would definitely have gotten it! One of the audio voices early in the series didn't suit the man to me so I started tweaking it with SmartAudioPlayer. I got it to sound like Sam Elliott!!! Same review added to each book.
Audio-Hell's Eight #1-7 1800s Texas Rangers-grew up together after all their families were murdered when they were children. As boys, they buried each other's parents then struggled to survive without starving. As they grew up, raised by the woman who took them in after they tried to steal food from her, they set out to avenge their families. That's how they got their reputation as Hell's Eight. Becoming Texas Rangers made them the law instead of outlaws.
This was a rough, but not false depiction of life for frontier women in the 1800s in Texas, so be prepared. Notice the Award for Caine's Reckoning--All About Romance (AAR) Annual Reader Poll for Best American History/Frontier Romance 2008
I enjoyed the series but was sorry that the last book, Luke's Cut wasn't published in audio. I would definitely have gotten it! One of the audio voices early in the series didn't suit the man to me so I started tweaking it with SmartAudioPlayer. I got it to sound like Sam Elliott!!! Same review added to each book.
November 17, 2017
I had waited for this book so long that of course I was going to be disappointed, but not so much. Luke and Josie the little photographer have chemistry between them, but in a way she too much bipolar to be believable. Anyway it's a good book because we got a glimpse of almost everybody from the Hell's eight and it was a good thing because so much time has passed since the first book. This will always be one of ma favorite western romance series.
Ho aspettato cosí tanto per questo libro, che ovviamente sapevo sarei andata incontro ad una delusione, ma non grandissima, se non fosse che Josie, pur avendo una buona chimica con Luke, era talmente bipolare da risultare poco credibile. Detto questo, il libro ha comunque fatto una rapida panoramica su quasi tutti i membri degli Hell's eight, ottima iniziativa da parte dell'autrice, se consideriamo quanto tempo é passato dal primo libro, che mi ha ricordato perché ho amato tanto questa serie, che rimarrà per sempre la mia saga western preferita.
THANKS NETGALLEY FOR THE PREVIEW!
Ho aspettato cosí tanto per questo libro, che ovviamente sapevo sarei andata incontro ad una delusione, ma non grandissima, se non fosse che Josie, pur avendo una buona chimica con Luke, era talmente bipolare da risultare poco credibile. Detto questo, il libro ha comunque fatto una rapida panoramica su quasi tutti i membri degli Hell's eight, ottima iniziativa da parte dell'autrice, se consideriamo quanto tempo é passato dal primo libro, che mi ha ricordato perché ho amato tanto questa serie, che rimarrà per sempre la mia saga western preferita.
THANKS NETGALLEY FOR THE PREVIEW!
October 8, 2017
Big Fan of Sarah McCarty and was wondering if she would get to Luke’s story and was definatly not disappointed with the wait. The strong, sexy men of Hell’s Eight never disappoint and Ms McCarty didn’t either. Loved Luke and Josey’s story and the way she brought in past characters to bring the book all together, not as great as the first two books of Hell’s Eight but was a great read and loved all of them in this series
Luke is not sure he will survive the trek he and the sexy photographer will be making to Rancho Montoya. She is going to drive him crazy, but the biggest problem is he can’t keep his hands off her.
Josey has had a rough life, but coming out West to photograph her Uncles wedding has given her passion and independence free reign. Only problem is the sexy, strong Luke is pulling her love crazy passion she is trying to control and prove she doesn’t need a man.
Luke is not sure he will survive the trek he and the sexy photographer will be making to Rancho Montoya. She is going to drive him crazy, but the biggest problem is he can’t keep his hands off her.
Josey has had a rough life, but coming out West to photograph her Uncles wedding has given her passion and independence free reign. Only problem is the sexy, strong Luke is pulling her love crazy passion she is trying to control and prove she doesn’t need a man.
December 13, 2017
A different elemental layer of a book. Spicey, erotic, sweet, sexy, romantic, loving as well as harsh. From each element the story pulls you into a world of hard life that has love in all its forms. The one thing I can say about this author is she does not leave her readers disappointed.. Because the layers of the book totally kept my attention it was difficult for me to decide on a rating. The only fair thing I can do is give it five stars. This is a good read, one I will keep to reread. I so enjoyed the addition of a series that speaks on so many different levels. A truly talented author with a wonderful addition to her series. I was given this book in return for an honest review. Anna Swedenmom
December 5, 2017
Final edition to Hell's Eight series. Love this series and Luke's Cut did not disappoint. Lots of chemistry between Luke and Josie,adventure,hot alpha male, and what life was like in 1800's for the men and women. Josie is a typical woman of the times born out of wedlock,trying to not bring too much attention to herself but with a taste of adventure. Luke is a typical male,hard,resourceful,big heart,protective of his Hell's Eight family and knows what he wants and he wants Josie. On a trip to escort Tia and company to Sam's ranch they encounter trouble where they both realize who,what is important in their lives. Well written like only Sarah can do,kept me interested till ending.
December 7, 2017
I have read all of the Hell's Eight books. There was a long wait for this book to come out. I had trouble remembering what happened in the other books.
The book can be read without reading the other books. I enjoyed the story of Luke and Josie this book was interesting to read about Josie's choice of a career. Josie also had a hard life coming up just as Luke and the other eight boys.
I love Sarah McCarty's writting and would love to see more books from her.
The book can be read without reading the other books. I enjoyed the story of Luke and Josie this book was interesting to read about Josie's choice of a career. Josie also had a hard life coming up just as Luke and the other eight boys.
I love Sarah McCarty's writting and would love to see more books from her.
January 11, 2018
This is the final installment of the Hells Eight Series! Luke is the last to find love. I’m a huge fan of this series but I was expecting more considering the other books were so good. I though Luke character was lacking something that the other guys had. Joseph was like able but they didn’t have the chemistry I was hoping for. I’m glad the book was written and we have all of the men’s stories. I was just hoping that after all this time Luke would of wowed me like Sam or Tracker.
January 9, 2018
Love Luke and Josie...
I have always been a huge fan of Sarah McCarthy and her books. I loved them from book 1 to book 8. I hope more stories about Hell's Eight come out, they're all characters that are endearing to the heart in their own special way. Luke found his happiness just like his fellow Hell's Eight brothers. He found happiness and adventure with a woman who is he equal and other half of his soul.
I have always been a huge fan of Sarah McCarthy and her books. I loved them from book 1 to book 8. I hope more stories about Hell's Eight come out, they're all characters that are endearing to the heart in their own special way. Luke found his happiness just like his fellow Hell's Eight brothers. He found happiness and adventure with a woman who is he equal and other half of his soul.
February 12, 2018
It took a long time to b published, but the wait was worth it. I thoroughly enjoyed this last Hell Eight chapters. It tied all together. Several surprise, which I wish had not bee glossed over, but it was alright in the long run. If you have the Hell Eight I would recommend that you re-read them first so you have the details down. I did not re-read (too impatient) and I had to interrupt my reading to check some details in the previous books.
June 9, 2018
First, I'm a huge fan of the Hell's Eight series. Luke's story was a long time coming so I was very excited to start this one. Overall it's a sweet story, but it lacked the intensity of the previous books of the series. There were limited romantic moments and the book just didn't deliver the breathless excitement that I've come to expect from Mrs. McCarty. I was a little disappointed. This one does however check in with lots of characters from previous books.
January 15, 2021
More time is spent on developing the characters and their relationship than in past books and I loved it. There is less sex but I enjoyed their banter and the lack of toxic masculinity. The HEA at the end is sweet and realistic to Josie, the main character. The author didn't change her to make the ending conventional and I enjoyed that. So far this is my favorite out of the series. I'm reading them out of order. \(-.-)/
February 28, 2018
It was great to dive back into a Western setting, I have not read one of those in a while. Josie was a great heroine with a love of photography and a determination to explore and defy the societal standards for women at the time. I'm definitely interested to go back and read the rest of the series (I didn't realize this was the last book!)
March 6, 2018
I absolutely loved it! I have been looking forward to this last book in the series for a long time. I was hooked from the beginning and not disappointed. The push and pull between Luke and Josie was great. There were so many situations that kept me riveted to my seat. I just wanted to hide away so I could stay inside this book till I was done.
April 11, 2018
It took me a long time in between book 7 and this 8th offering, it was worth the wait for me as the read was not perfect but pretty good nonetheless. Too bad this series is now complete but what a cool spin-off it would be to follow the next generation of Hell's Eight when all the kids grow up that these men father.
One can dream!
One can dream!
April 22, 2018
I just loved this story. It has strong characters 'Luke and Josie. i laughed loud reading the dialogue between the Two heroes and I just loved her sass a,d his sens of humour. I loved how the author described her struggles to try to be transparent and hos it determined hos she react and his loyalty and charm. I began the serie backwardfrom the eighth opus. brillantly written
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