So sorry for whatever happened. It sounds horrific. I know what you mean about getting a feeling. I'm definitely the same way. I feel like I can now spot an addict from a mile away. Same goes for lies. People laugh when I say I want to drug test and perform credit and background checks before even dating another man... but I'm dead serious. I don't understand how people take more precautions hiring a babysitter than they do engaging in a relationship with someone. That person is going to be in your children's lives MORE than a babysitter would! Okay, kinda went off subject there. Anyway, I'm so sorry for what you went through. But I think you'll find that "gut feeling" will come in handy. You DO need to protect yourself.
Big hugs.