This is slightly off topic - but can I ask "How recently did you complete your PPL?".
I get the vibe that you are aiming to do "the12 hours" within 12 months of completing your PPL - and, for various reasons, you do not need to.
Secondly - the "cheapest" way would be to forget the flying until you complete the written exams - no need to fly at all until you have 14 exam passes in your office desk drawer.
8 months off at your time of life (and position in the aviation food chain) won't make a bit of difference - it will just put you eight months further down the seniority list of any company you may end up at.
Seriously, take the break if you wish (or must) and then concentrate on the written exams. If you want the CHEAPEST way - then don't fly again (but my bet is that you will blow a few hundred on 'pleasure flights' during the next few months).
WRITTEN EXAMS next (assuming you already have a Class 1 medical - otherwise, medical next, then written exams).