Lady Arabella was only hoping for a little adventure when she persuaded her maid to take her place at a dinner party so she could explore Venice's famous Carnevale in defiance of her father's wishes, but then she came home to find her father murdered and her dream turned into a nightmare. To make matters worse, Arabella herself is accused of the crime and after a poor excuse for a trial she is condemned to the notorious prison of the Duke of Venice. Just as despair threatens to overtake her, salvation appears in the form of Nicolo Sorenzo, the handsome young nobleman who spanked her soundly and then brought her to a shameful climax the previous night at the Carnevale. With the aid of a powerful government official, Nicolo has arranged for Arabella's release from prison, but the official's help comes at a high price. In return for her freedom, Arabella will be required to pose for a series of scandalous paintings by Nicolo's mentor, a renowned artist. Each day, she will be stripped bare so that her helpless, virgin body may be teased unmercifully until she is left quivering with desire. Her wantonness will then be punished sternly, leaving Arabella with her cheeks blushing, her bottom burning, and her womanhood aching to be filled as her ordeal is captured on the artist's canvas. Before long, however, Nicolo has fallen in love with Arabella, and his need for her becomes irresistible. Can he unravel the mystery of her father's death and clear her name, or will his decision to claim her as his own cost them both their freedom or even their lives? Publisher's Note: The Duke's Prisoner includes spankings and sexual scenes. If such material offends you, please don't buy this book.