It is not possible to know what this dog has gone through 'till in its desperation it forced itself to your care.
It obviously needs serious behavioural treatment and the love which only You are giving her.
I think she protects you as best she can and is not socialized, never mind being tortured from the people she has escaped from.
You need a good Book on Dog behaviour (from the library so you won't have to buy) and read to understand what goes on in her tortured soul.
Keep her where she wants to be and keep her away from other people, untill you understand what is going on.
She is also frightened of being beat or kicked, until she learnes to trust.
She Loves you and will protect you from people she doesn't know.
Find her a place (in the house or in her favourite yard) and keep her fenced, till you know how to react and re train her to the loving dog that she can be
You might want to check this out, too:
http://dogwise.com/forums