The Year of Secret Assignments by Jaclyn Moriarty is an engaging tale of three girls from Ashbury High who become involved with three boys from the rival Brookfield High through a pen pal program. The program, intended to foster a spirit of harmony between the schools, quickly takes a turn as Cassie, Lydia, and Emily's initial letters lead to a series of unexpected events.

Their correspondence sets off a domino effect of secret missions, false alarms, lock picking, mistaken identities, and a rivalry that escalates into an all-out war between the schools. Amidst the chaos, there are moments of humor, friendship, and some really excellent kissing, making for a story that captures the essence of teenage life with both warmth and wit.