What It Takes to Get to Vegas is an arresting novel of desire and ambition set among the gyms and street fights of East L.A.'s boxing hopefuls. Growing up, Rita Zapata knows her destiny is not to be a good girl. In a neighborhood whose heroes are made under the bright lights of the boxing ring, Rita attaches herself to the circle of wanna-be fighters in hopes that she'll meet her ticket to something better. At eighteen, she's earned the title "Queen of the Street Fighters." Then she meets Billy, an enigmatic, passionate fighter from Mexico who begins systematically clawing his way to the top of the fighting heap. Their passionate connection gives Rita two things she's never had: a love that is real and respect in the neighborhood. From the alleys off Cesar Chavez Avenue to the carpeted suites of Caesars Palace, Rita learns exactly what it takes to get to Vegas, as Billy turns out to be the best thing that has ever happened to her - and the worst.