I bought these boots (in brown) in both size 9 and size 8.5, since I wear either size depending on the brand. The leather was quite different between the two pairs: the 9 was shiny and cheap-looking. Fortunately the 8.5 wasn't (and fit me).

Other cons: There are stitching issues (skipped stitches) on the straps, not really visible, but may get worse over time. Inside is where it's really sad: there's a cloth lining, with unravelling edges, that's glued in, with stitching that appears to be non-functional inasmuch as it runs off the edge of the lining in long parts along the zipper (in both pairs).

However, I'm happy to keep the size 8.5 because the leather is a rich (non-shiny) brown color, they don't make my feet look big, they fit my (skinny) calves really well, the heel has some height but is still comfortable, I like the toe & heel shape.

Measurements for sizes 8.5 and 9 both:
Shaft opening at top:  14 inches
Heel height: 2 inches exactly
Shaft height from arch:  15 inches (actually, 14-7/8 inches to be exact)