Step into the gritty world of Backwater Crime—the indie publishing label of book designer Aaron Hilton and home to the Alternative Investigations crime thriller series.
Illustration by Daniel Cooney | Colors by Lisa Gonzales | Simone Rene as Leslie Crow
Click a Cover to View a Summary or Read a Sample
Our Books
“Aaron Hilton is Portland’s answer to Mickey Spillane.” — Chuck Caruso, Award-Winning Author of The Lawn Job
Available at Amazon
Meet the Writer and Designer
Photo by Rose O’Connor
Aaron Hilton is a crime fiction storyteller and the founder of Backwater Crime. With over a decade of experience in independent publishing, he specializes in contemporary book cover and book interior designs that are also a nod to the pulp fiction genre.
Aaron’s passion lies at the intersection of technology and human collaboration—fostering collaborative partnerships with fellow creatives. He recently published his fifth book, The Girl with the Deadly Figure, developing a polished novella with a local art model and other freelance artists who contributed to illustrating, coloring, and editing.
Known for being mild-mannered, patient, and professional, Aaron is always hopeful to take on complex, ambitious projects.
DM Aaron at arhwriter@yahoo.com if you’re interested in crime fiction writing or want to discuss indie publishing.
Drop a Line
If you're interested in working with Aaron Hilton on a book design, complete the form with a few details about your project. He’ll review your message and get back to you within 48 hours.
“Drop a pebble in the water: just a splash, and it is gone; but there's half-a-hundred ripples circling on and on and on... You've disturbed a mighty river just by dropping in a stone.” — Excerpt from Drop a Pebble in the Water by James W. Foley