Hmm. I very much prefer Steemit's interface for reading. It's extremely pretty, it has proper hierarchies and separation between images and text. I think it's much clearer and comfortable for the eye and the mind. Of course, everyone perceives things differently and has different preferences, so I don't doubt that in your case, Steempeak has these qualities as well. Maybe we should make a statistical study in order to find out what things the majority prefers, and what behaviours are promoted on each interface so that we can plan improvements.

Steemit screenshots

Here are some things I love about Steemit, look at the way the paragraphs seem to flow properly. I'll append some images from Steempeak as well to compare.

Steempeak screenshots

Notice that the image is enormous and it takes much longer for the eye to meet the article. And when you can read the article, notice how much shorter the paragraphs seem due to the number of words per line. In my opinion, Steempeak is way more chaotic and less "pretty", less like a book, as you chose to compare. It feels more like a forum. You know those 4chan threads that are as long as your screen? Or those crazy forums that also make you turn your head from side to side while reading on a big screen. It's obviously much better on Steempeak than there, but it's what I think about, unmeasured wrapping, careless aesthetics. But then again, maybe people, in general, prefer that look... I can't judge for others.