Release: January 23, 2026
Format: Ebook
Publisher: Back Alley Press
Source: Kindle
Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon
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Alas… his taxi ride might just be her last.
Sydney is already running late for her big gallery opening. Luckily, there’s a cab ready and waiting.
However, something feels a little… off.
The driver ignores her. There’s a rust-colored stain on the seat. And worse, it sounds like something heavy is shifting in the trunk.
As the night stretches on and the fare climbs higher, Sydney becomes less and less certain she’ll make it to her destination alive.
In fact, she begins to wonder if she was ever meant to arrive at all.
A gripping standalone psychological thriller with a jaw-dropping twist—perfect for fans of Freida McFadden, Daniel Hurst, and Kiersten Modglin.
About the author:
Jack Dane writes thrillers and psychological fiction set largely in New York City, where he lives. When he’s not writing, he enjoys visiting jazz clubs, taking long people-watching walks in the park, and exploring the city by night, AS a result,he often finds inspiration for his next book.
Get a FREE copy of his psychological thriller novella The Weekend Trip by visiting jackdanebooks.com.
The Meter is Running Review:
Claustrophobic Thriller in a NYC Cab
Jack Dane strips psychological suspense down to its essentials in this claustrophobic tale. With just three characters, one New York City taxi, and a steadily mounting sense of dread, he transforms an ordinary ride into something genuinely threatening.
What Works:
The confined setting proves remarkably effective. Dane turns a routine cab journey into a suffocating experience, using locked doors and the blur of city streets to heighten tension. As a result, the atmosphere feels tight and inescapable.
Moreover, the villain stands out as disturbingly believable. There are no theatrical monologues—just a grounded, unpredictable psychology that makes the character all the more unsettling.
Sydney’s predicament also creates authentic stakes. In particular, her emotional journey is handled with care and precision. Just when it seems there might be a chance of escape, the story takes another turn, closing off every possibility. Consequently, her isolation and uncertainty feel real, keeping the pages turning.
What Falls Short:
The story works perfectly at this length. However, longtime fans may finish it hoping Dane returns to full-length novels soon.
Verdict:
The Meter is Running is a sharp, efficient thriller that respects the reader’s time while delivering real impact. Ultimately, Dane’s craftsmanship shines in this confined setting, proving that strong suspense needs no embellishment.
Perfect for: Claustrophobic suspense, realistic villains, and a gripping one-sitting read.
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