Perhaps more comments than answers, but:
Cross/interrupter levers are rated as having the same amount of travel as drop bar levers. But the actual lever is shorter than the average drop bar lever, so you may need to apply more hand force for the same amount of braking. Rarely a problem for people with average hands.

Braking from the hoods isn't really a priority in road bike (parts) design.
Best braking is had from the drops, which is where you're expected to be when you hit the high speeds, which is when you're expected to need the best braking. And high speeds is the priority for (most) road bike design.
If you're doing something that's "contrary" to the spirit of road bike design (like using it for urban, everyday, casual riding), you have to put up with some compromises.

There aren't that many options for those with smaller hands. Some drop bar levers come with wedges that can be installed to move the lever closer to the bar, which really is a so-so fix, as it also reduces the available travel.
The ideal solution would be where you could move the pivot point of the lever closer to the bar. That'd maintain (more of )the arc of travel while improving reach.