Nightwind's Shadow — Cherime MacFarlane

To survive a world of mutant predators, people must band together, but Nightwind's and JoJo's people have chosen different paths. His family has reclaimed an old cliff dwelling, hers herd cattle and migrate. Their rules and ideologies are not compatible. While her people are prospering, his must scavenge farther to hunt exposing Nightwind to the ever-present danger of the rats.
JoJo's partner leaves her alone and defenseless, running for her life. The solitary hunter who sees her must choose. He can bring her back to the small hidden shelter he shares with his dog, Mouse, to take cover. Or he can leave her to her fate. If Nightwind allows her to see his find, the woman can never go home. The rats are coming. JoJo must become his shadow…or die.