Brian McGreevy's early life was shaped by a unique family dynamic, as he grew up in a household shared by two ministers, amidst the industrial backdrop of the Pennsylvania Rust Belt. This unconventional upbringing laid the foundation for the creative and innovative path that was to come. McGreevy's academic trajectory took an unexpected turn when he left high school in the ninth grade, citing "creative differences" as the primary motivator for his decision. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of a journey that would ultimately lead him to the vibrant city of Austin, Texas, a destination that would prove to be a catalyst for his creative pursuits.
Brian McGreevy's entry into this new professional arena was marked by a significant achievement, as he was awarded the esteemed James Michener Fellowship in fiction and screenwriting at the University of Texas. This distinguished honor afforded him the perfect opportunity to refine his writing skills, and his primary thesis would eventually transform into the novel Hemlock Grove, which was published by FSG in 2012.