Personally I only comment when I have something to say. I have read novels and translations where they didn't want pointless comments like 'thanks' or 'XP' (never done that one myself). As such it became a habit.
I also think time and place affect it as well. I rarely ever comment when reading...
I'm the same, but aside from reading the authors other novels, which I have yet to do, I can say I have no memory of reading anything else quite like this.
I think that is a large part of the charm. It feels unique and different. The way the author has approached the story and the characters...