I'm based in CA and am setting up an LLC with a partner in NY to sell
a book we've co-authored.  Sales will be done online through an
affiliate of Amazon.com.

We'd like to form the LLC in NY since it seems cheaper, but CA says
we'd still be liable for the $800 fee/tax since I live in CA.

If setting up in NY:
Is there a legal way around this $800 CA fee and if not, what state is the
better choice to avoid double state taxation issues (and minimize
taxes overall)?

Thanks!  I'll tip for a thorough answer too.