I wouldn't call it a scam, but it's very cleverly worded and benefits from (or takes advantage of) impulsive or rushed buys. Things like "complete checkout" but not "and join" on the button for example. It's more a matter of ethics.
Asked the wife if she heard of the site and she recounted a tale similar to the OP, albeit not spanning 8 months, only 2-3. And as I had assumed, was able to get shoes for the months she was charged for before she cancelled...which is cool. But, again, it wasn't overly obvious to her either. And my wife is a smart (and CHEAP) woman who would notice an unobsured message that she'd be billed once a month.
Asked the wife if she heard of the site and she recounted a tale similar to the OP, albeit not spanning 8 months, only 2-3. And as I had assumed, was able to get shoes for the months she was charged for before she cancelled...which is cool. But, again, it wasn't overly obvious to her either. And my wife is a smart (and CHEAP) woman who would notice an unobsured message that she'd be billed once a month.