The first draws me in to read closer (the reduced contrast means I can’t read the title at a glance). The second is more contrasty so I can read it right away… so then the title itself draws me closer because it is intriguing. I prefer the first color in a simple “I like this color” sort of gut level (yes I used to be a book designer but I talk this way anyway) kind of way… but the second is just profoundly easier to read… even though I’m not exactly fond of the color.

My gut says go with the first. My optometrist says go with the second.